Top Online Coding Courses
If you’re looking to learn how to code or improve your coding and programming skills, there are a vast number of online coding and programming courses available, ranging from introductory to more advanced levels.
Online courses offer you the flexibility to study at your own pace and you can rewatch lectures and take quizzes to ensure that you are understanding the material. In addition, most online courses offer a certificate of completion, which can be a great way to showcase your newly acquired skills and can help boost your resume!
This article will discuss some of the top online coding and programming courses available and provide tips on how to choose the right one for you.
So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced coder, there’s sure to be an online course that’s perfect for you!
Table of Contents
What you can expect from an online coding course
An online coding course can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful coder or programmer.
You can learn how to write, debug, and troubleshoot code. You can also learn about different programming languages and how to choose the right one for your project. The great thing about online coding courses is that they usually include coding problems and projects you can complete for real world experience.
Most online coding courses will start with the basics of coding, such as setting up your coding environment and basic syntax . From there, you’ll move on to learning how to use a coding language and can move on to more complex problems and coding languages.
Some online coding courses will also teach you how to use popular content management systems (CMS) like WordPress and Joomla for web development. With these skills, you’ll be able to create dynamic websites that are easy to update and maintain.
Coding has become an in-demand skill, especially since it’s easy to learn online. There are plenty of resources and forums where you can get help with your coding homework assignments from knowledgeable experts!
The different types of online coding & programming courses available
There are a number of different types of online coding and programming courses which run from basic to advanced – some very standard (entry-level) and others targeted to certain industries.
In general, most online computer programming courses can be classified by the language being taught, the eventual application of the knowledge or by the specific systems being taught.
The world of coding is a vast one which can be broken down into separate areas that include coding languages, software engineering and data science.
Depending on your goals, you’ll want to enrol in different courses, but a good starting point would be to begin with an introduction to coding / programming courses.
Here are some of the most popular types of coding courses:
- Web Development
- Mobile Development
- Data Science
- Cyber Security
- Game Development
37 top online coding & programming courses for you
No matter what your goals are, there’s an online coding course that can help you achieve them. Not sure which online coding course is right for you? We’ve put together some of the top online coding courses and programming courses below from basic to advanced courses.
These courses come from top-rated providers and can help you master popular programming languages like Java, Python, and HTML/CSS and move on to more advanced coding and programming courses that can teach you software engineering, data science and algorithms.
Top online introduction to coding / programming courses
Starting with an introduction to coding or programming course will provide you with the foundation for building your coding skills. There are a number of great online courses that can introduce you to the basics of coding.
We’ve collected some of the top online introductory coding courses on platforms like Codecademy, Udemy, Udacity and Coursera. These courses offer comprehensive coverage of various programming languages, with bite-sized lessons that make learning coding easy and fun.
Below are some of the top online introduction to coding / programming courses that you can take.
Codecademy
You will get a solid foundation in key programming concepts such as variables, functions, and control flow. Learning these concepts will set you up for success in any programming language that you choose to learn.
This course will give you an introduction to the world of code and basic concepts. You will understand programming by getting an overview of computer science, web development and data science as well as other popular languages like Javascript and Python.
By the end, you’ll know whether Data Science, Computer Science or Web Development is right for you.
One of the best ways to start coding is by building websites. Whether you want to tweak your business’s site, hone your web development skills, or learn to collaborate with developers, this skill course will help you get there.
Udemy
Introduction to Programming for Beginners
This course provides the core knowledge to begin programming in any language.
It uses the JavaScript programming language to explore the core syntax of a programming language, and show you how to write and execute programs.
Coding for Beginners 1: You Can Learn to Code!
This course is perfect for students who are thinking about learning a specific coding language but don’t want to get dropped in at the deep end. This course has been specifically designed as a generic, foundation-level course, to introduce you to many of the common coding concepts that you’ll go on to use in whichever programming language you choose to learn next.
Learn Programming – An Introduction For Non-Programmers
Learn how to write your own computer programs. This course is a stepping stone into the world of programming and will help unlock the mysteries of programming. This course includes a step-by-step look at the fundamental building blocks found in almost all programming languages.
Udacity
Learn the basics of programming through HTML, CSS, Python, and JavaScript. Get extensive practice with hands-on exercises and projects that demonstrate your grasp of coding fundamentals, and build confidence in your ability to think and problem-solve like a programmer.
This course will give you an introduction to the fundamentals of programming languages. Key concepts include how to specify and process valid strings, sentences and program structures.
Intro to Programming Nanodegree Preview
This program is perfect for beginners – learn the basics of programming through HTML, CSS, and Python.
Coursera
Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Specialisation
This course covers topics ranging from basic computing principles to the mathematical foundations required for computer science.
Introduction to Programming with Python and Java Specialisation
This course starts out by teaching basic concepts in Python and ramps up to more complex subjects such as object-oriented programming and data structures in Java.
Coding for Everyone: C and C++ Specialisation
This course is intended for all programming enthusiasts, as well as beginners, computer and other scientists, and artificial intelligence enthusiasts seeking to develop their programming skills in the foundational languages of C and C++.
Upskillist
Online Coding & Technology Course
Learn the basics of front-end web development online, using coding techniques and explore innovative technologies of the 21st century.
Online Python Programming Course
This online python programming course will take you from a beginner Python programmer to an intermediate and advanced Python programmer.
In this online web development certification course, you will learn how to build websites and web applications from scratch with complete training in front-end and back-end setup and coding.
–
These introductory courses are great for complete beginners who want to learn coding or even for intermediate and experienced programmers who are wanting to learn a new language.
Ready to move on to more advanced courses? Let’s take a look at the top introduction to software engineering online courses below.
Top introduction to Software Engineering online courses
When it comes to software engineering, there are a few key concepts that you need to wrap your head around before you can really start coding. However, once you have a good understanding of these concepts, the actual process of coding can be quite simple and straightforward.
These top introductory courses to software engineering are designed for beginners and will give you a strong foundation on which to build your coding skills.
Udemy
Software Engineering 101: Plan and Execute Better Software
This course was designed to be a standalone course. This means it can be taken with or without knowledge of computer programming. It is both a great course to get started with, and a great course for that next step in your career.
SOLID Principles: Introducing Software Architecture & Design
Gain mastery over SOLID Principles and write clean and well-designed code in Object Oriented Languages like Java.
UML and Object-Oriented Design Foundations
Explore the fundamental concepts behind modern, object-oriented software design best practices. Learn how to work with UML to approach software development more efficiently
EdX
Software Development Fundamentals
Learn the fundamentals of object-oriented programming in Java, as well as best practices of modern software development.
Programming for the Web with JavaScript
Learn how to develop dynamic, interactive, and data-driven web apps using JavaScript.
Computer Science Essentials for Software Development
Learn essential computer science concepts for software development ranging from the fundamentals of object-oriented programming to using efficient algorithms to design high-quality software.
Data Structures and Software Design
Learn how to select, apply, and analyse the most appropriate data representations in your code and design high-quality software that is easy to understand and modify.
Coursera
Applied Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialisation
Build the foundation of your career in Software. Develop hands-on experience with Git, GitHub, Linux, and Python, and learn the fundamentals of Software Engineering.
IBM Full Stack Software Developer Professional Certificate
Kickstart your journey in application development. Master Cloud Native and Full Stack Development using hands-on projects involving HTML, JavaScript, Node.js, Python, Django, Containers, Microservices and more.
Software Engineering Specialisation
Master techniques and skills to plan, design, implement, test, and maintain software systems.
IT Academy
Software Development (Programming)
The Software Development (Programming) course covers the 3 most crucial programming languages: C#, Python and Java. This course includes Software Fundamentals (MTA), Database Fundamentals (MTA), MCSA, MCSA Web App Development, MCSA Database Query, C#, Microsoft Azure, Python, Software Testing and Java Programming courses.
The Full Stack Developer (Front-end and Back-end) course covers MTA Fundamentals, HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, jQuery, JsRender, Python, AngularJS, NodeJS, NoSQL, MySQL, Express and MongoDB.
The Web Developer course covers Mobile APP Development and Web Development. The Web Developer course includes Software & Database Fundamentals, HTML5, CSS3 & JavaScript, C#, Database Querying and Python courses.
Top Data Science, Algorithms and Advanced Software Engineering online courses
When you’re ready to take on more advanced online coding and programming courses that include Data Science, Algorithms and Advanced Software Engineering – we recommend these top online courses below.
Udemy
Data Science A-Z™: Real-Life Data Science Exercises Included
Learn Data Science step by step through real analytics examples. Data Mining, Modelling, Tableau Visualisation and much more.
Mastering Data Structures & Algorithms using C and C++
Learn, Analyse and Implement Data Structure using C and C++. Learn Recursion and Sorting.
Advanced Python: Build 10 Advanced OOP Applications
Master Python from the inside out and learn how to build any Python program with ease using Python classes and OOP
Udacity
Data Structures and Algorithms
Get hands-on practice with over 100 data structures and algorithm exercises and technical mentor support when needed to help prepare you for interviews and on-the-job scenarios.
Coursera
This course covers the concepts and tools you’ll need throughout the entire data science pipeline, from asking the right kinds of questions to making inferences and publishing results
This course covers the essential information that every serious programmer needs to know about algorithms and data structures, with an emphasis on applications and scientific performance analysis of Java implementations. Part I covers elementary data structures, sorting, and searching algorithms. Part II focuses on graph- and string-processing algorithms.
Introduction to Test Driven Development (TDD)
This course provides a detailed overview of test-driven development (TDD). You’ll learn about TDD and its complement, behaviour-driven development (BDD): TDD tests individual units of code while BDD tests how these units work together.
Stellenbosch University in partnership with HyperionDev
This comprehensive data science Bootcamp (fully online course) teaches you Python, the essentials of probability and statistics for data analysis and visualisation, data science libraries such as NumPy, pandas, scikit-learn, and the fundamental concepts of machine learning.
Getsmarter/UCT
This UCT online short course is delivered in collaboration with online education provider GetSmarter and includes the perfect introduction to the basics of data science and the various machine learning models in Python.
–
Whether you want to become a web developer, or software engineer or simply hone your coding skills, these online courses can help.
How to choose the right online coding course for you
Choosing the right coding course depends on your goals and what you want to use coding to achieve- decide what it is you want to learn or apply then start with the basics.
Other factors to consider when making your decision are your experience and the level of difficulty, the programming languages taught, and the duration of the course.
Consider your level of experience with coding and programming
First, consider your level of experience. If you’re a complete beginner, look for a course that covers the basics and builds up from there. On the other hand, if you’re already familiar with some coding concepts, look for a course that will challenge you and help you take your skills to the next level.
Decide on the programming language you want to learn
Next, think about what kind of programming language you want to learn. Some courses focus on specific languages while others cover multiple languages. Choose a course that teaches the language or languages you’re interested in so you can get the most out of your learning experience.
How to choose the right online coding course for you
Finally, the duration of an online coding course can vary widely, from a few weeks to several months. Shorter courses may provide a broad overview of coding languages and concepts, while longer courses will dive deeper into specific programming languages and topics.
Consider how much time you have to commit to the course when selecting the right program for you.
When choosing an online coding course, also be sure to find one that is taught by an experienced instructor and has positive reviews from past students. You’ll want to choose a course that is updated regularly so that you can stay up to date with the latest trends in web development.
How to get the most out of your online coding course
It can be difficult to know what to expect when you first start learning to code. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your online coding course.
Start with the basics and theory
Before you start diving into the more complex aspects of coding, it’s important to make sure you have a solid understanding of the basics.
This means getting comfortable with things like variables, data types, and control flow. You can find plenty of resources to help you with this online, including tutorials, blog posts, and even YouTube videos. Odds are if you are struggling with it, someone has posted the answer online!
Apply what you learn / practice
Don’t be afraid to practice. One of the best ways to learn coding is to simply start practicing. Write code as often as you can, and experiment with different things to see what works and what doesn’t. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at coding.
Learn slowly / take your time
Learning to code takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t understand something right away, or if you make a mistake. With time and practice, you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
Don't be afraid to ask questions
If you’re ever unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask your instructor or another student for help. Coding can be confusing at times, but there’s always someone who can help you through it.
Have fun while coding
When you’re first starting out, it can be helpful to use some proven learning techniques to help you retain information and coding concepts better. Some popular techniques include:
- Spaced repetition: This technique involves breaking up your study sessions into smaller chunks and spacing them out over time. This way, you’ll have a better chance of remembering what you’ve learned.
- Practice testing: A great way to see how well you understand something is to test yourself on it. You can do this by writing code snippets or taking online quizzes.
- Elaborative questioning: Asking yourself questions about what you’re learning can also help you better understand and remember the material. Try to come up with your own questions, and then find the answers to them.
Coding can be enjoyable! Don’t forget to take breaks when you need them, and try to find projects that interest you.
Resources for further learning
If you have the time and are looking for more advanced courses or a teaching format where you get to interact with tutors and have more accountability, there are coding bootcamps that offer short-term intensive coding programs. These bootcamps typically cover languages like JavaScript, SQL, and Python, along with modules on current industry software, tools, and techniques.
Want to work toward a higher qualification or a software engineering degree? Take a look at our list of Universities in South Africa that offer different levels of qualifications including the Information Engineering BSc at Wits University, the Computer Engineering BEng at the University of Pretoria and the Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) at UNISA.
Funding your coding studies in South Africa.
Computer coding and programming skills are in high demand and if you enjoy coding, can provide an opportunity filled career path whether you want to become a full-stack developer or simply want to learn how to code for a specific purpose to upskill and improve your skill set.
Most of the courses that we covered in this post are very affordable, however you may need to pay extra for certificates. You may also want to take your studies further with a coding bootcamp or study further at a university or technikon.
If you need assistance with funding, we can help! FundiConnect offers student financing that covers a range of costs associated with studying. If you need a little financial help to achieve your education goals we are here to help! Find out more about the types of financial assistance FundiConnect offers and try our loan calculator to learn more.
