How to learn C++
Table of Contents
Learning C++ can be a valuable skill for aspiring developers or people looking to advance their programming skills. Learn what C++ is used for, explore its benefits and drawbacks, and discover the educational pathways you can take to learn it.
What is C++?
C++ is a programming language known for its efficiency and adaptability for large-scale applications. As a type of object-oriented programming language that bases design around objects, or blocks of data and code, C++ offers encapsulation and code reuse for complex projects.
- Game development: C++'s ability to manage memory and resources efficiently makes it an ideal choice for game developers to create eye-catching visual effects and realistic game mechanics.
- Machine learning: The high-performance capabilities of C++ allow it to handle the resource-heavy task of machine learning while providing optimized memory management.
- Web browser development: Modern web browsers use C++ to increase web browsing speed and offer cross-platform compatibility.
Companies that use C++
- Beacon Hill
- Capital One
- Motorola Solutions
- NASA
- NVIDIA
- Oracle
- Snap Inc.
- Tesla
- The Walt Disney Company
Pathways to learning C++
There are several ways to learn C++, but the pathway you choose should align with your career goals.
While teaching yourself or pursuing a certificate or bootcamp can save time, they may not provide the comprehensive education you need to meet your goals. Meanwhile, a degree can be a heftier cost and time investment, but its well-rounded curriculum could set you up for a solid programming career.
Explore the differences between C++ learning pathways.
Degree path
A bachelor's or master's degree in computer science or computer programming often covers C++. However, you'll also learn other in-demand programming languages, like Java or C#, which can be helpful if you want to expand your skill set.
If you have no experience in programming, a bachelor's degree is a good place to start. If you already work in a tech role and feel comfortable with basic programming, pursuing a master's degree could help you advance to higher-level positions, such as:
- Computer and information systems managers
- Database administrators
- Project managers
Bootcamp path
C++ bootcamps provide an intensive learning format, delivering courses over several weeks or months. Their goal is to prepare you for a job working with C++ through a rigorous curriculum and hands-on projects.
Consider your goals when choosing this route. Some bootcamps focus solely on C++, while others touch on C++ as part of a more general programming curriculum.
Additionally, be sure to explore financing options. Bootcamp providers sometimes have installment plans, job guarantees, or deferred tuition programs to help you afford their programs.
Certificate path
Some colleges and universities offer C++ certificates as a focused alternative to a degree. C++ certificates have just a few courses totaling about 15 credits. They cover C++ fundamentals and advanced techniques, like file processing and polymorphism.
If you plan to pursue additional education, look for a C++ certificate that transfers into another degree, like a master's in computer science.
Self-taught path
It may be possible to teach yourself C++ with books and online resources, like web-based and video tutorials, some of which are free. However, the material offered by free and low-cost resources can often be limited if you're looking for anything other than beginner training.
The International Organization for Standardization regularly revises C++ standards. Check that the resources you use are up to date to ensure you're learning the most current features and best practices.
Pros and cons of C++
Advantages of C++ | Disadvantages of C++ |
|---|---|
High performance due to precision control over system resources and fast execution | Memory unsafe language that can result in unintentionally accessing or reallocating memory, which is a potential security risk |
Vast set of libraries and frameworks, making it usable for various applications | Can be complex for beginners and intermediate programmers to learn |
Offers backward compatibility with C-style programming | Relies on manual memory management, which can be trickier to work with than automated memory management, known as garbage collection |
Should you learn C++?
According to Statista data from July 2024, C++ is one of the top 10 most used programming languages in the world.
Because C++ is so widely used, it can be beneficial to understand it thoroughly, whether you're a database administrator or game tester.
C++ allows numerous electronic devices to work, like smartphones and coffee machines, and helps power everything from vehicles to medical tools. As a result, familiarity with C++ can potentially broaden your job opportunities.
Start learning C++ on edX
If you're ready to start learning C++ — whether through a comprehensive degree program, an intensive bootcamp, or self-paced courses — explore options on edX.