As technology advances and expands, many services and products are transitioning to applications for faster and more convenient operation. As a result, app developers are in high demand. In this article, you’ll learn about some of the best online app development courses, classes, and training programs that can facilitate entry or advancement within this field.
What Is App Development?
App development is the process of designing, creating, overseeing, upgrading, and maintaining software applications and programs. App development applies to commercial software for public users or private clients. Some application developers work independently, while others work in software houses, mobile app development companies, or game development firms.
Why Online App Development Courses Are Important for Professional Development
Online app development courses allow you to gain industry skills that can be used for career entrance into or advancement within this popular field. They cover current field information and equip you with the most up-to-date development techniques. They also allow you to access valuable online resources and network with other professionals in the industry.
Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn App Development?
A coding bootcamp is an excellent way to learn app development. Bootcamps are notorious for quickly and effectively preparing students for the demands of the tech industry. Their curricula follow field trends and stay updated to provide high-quality instruction. They also tend to use a hands-on learning approach, which allows students to build their portfolios while learning.
Overview: The Best Online App Development Courses, Classes, or Training
There is an overwhelming amount of courses in app development, which can make finding the right one a difficult process. The table below can help narrow down your options as it outlines some of the best online app development courses, classes, and training programs.
| Provider | Course | Price | Length | Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alison | Advanced Programming in iOS11 and Swift 4 | Free | 5 Hours | Yes |
| Codecademy | Learn React Native | $15.99 per month | 7 Hours | No |
| Code with Mosh | The Ultimate React Native Series | $39 | 12 Hours | Yes |
| Coursera | Android App Development | Free and paid options | 5 Months | Yes, in the paid option |
| Coursera | iOS Development for Creative Entrepreneurs Specialization | Free and paid options | 7 Months | Yes, in the paid option |
| Developer Bootcamp | Mobile Application Developer Bootcamp | $2,400 | 70 Hours | No |
| Devmountain | iOS Development | $7,900 | 16 Weeks | No |
| edX | Mobile App Development with Swift | $500 | 6 Months | Yes |
| LinkedIn Learning | Power Apps: Building Data-Driven Apps |
$19.99 per month | 2 Hours | Yes |
| Mammoth Interactive | Complete Web & App Development with Machine Learning For All | $500 | 125 Hours | Yes |
| Ray Wenderlich | Flutter Fundamentals | $19.99 per month | 1 Hour and 46 minutes | No |
| The Tech Academy | Mobile App Developer Bootcamp | $9,540 | 18 Weeks | No |
| Treehouse | Build a Simple Android App with Kotlin | $25 per month | 3 Hours | Yes |
| Udemy | Android App Development Masterclass using Kotlin | $84.99 | 62 Hours | Yes |
| Udemy | The Complete iOS App Development Bootcamp | $89.99 | 60 Hours and 25 minutes | Yes |
In Detail: The Best Online App Development Classes, Courses, or Training
Advanced Programming in iOS11 and Swift 4 | Alison
- Learning Format: Full course
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Core data, basics of machine learning, hands-on programming in iOS11, Swift 4
This course focuses on advancing students’ iOS development skills to build cleaner and more complex iOS and macOS applications. Students will learn how to use Core Data for saving, modifying, tracking, and filtering data within iOS applications. They will also master HTTP networking. Upon successful completion, students earn a course certificate.
Key Takeaway: This course focuses on advanced concepts that can be applied to iOS app development. Participants should have basic programming knowledge and practical experience in app development prior to enrollment.
Learn React Native | Codecademy
- Learning Format: Full course
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: React Native, multiplatform app development
This course teaches you how to build mobile applications with JavaScripting and React. Codecademy requires students to have some web development experience to be eligible for enrollment. By the end of the program, students will be able to develop apps that can run on multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, and the web.
Key Takeaway: This intermediate course focuses on building cross-platform apps with JavaScripting and React through 18 lectures, demo codes, reading assignments, and programming activities.
The Ultimate React Native Series | Code with Mosh
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Android architecture, programming fundamentals, java essentials, object oriented programming, views and controllers, data persistence, internship project
This course is designed for intermediate learners who have a solid understanding of fundamental React concepts and modern JavaScript features. Throughout the course, students learn how to develop mobile apps with React, write clean code, and build reusable components.
Key Takeaway: This course is ideal for intermediate learners or current app developers who are looking to upskill.
Android App Development | Coursera
- Learning Format: Specialization program
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Java for Android, intents, activities, broadcast receivers, engineering maintainable Android apps
This five-course specialization program is offered by Coursera in collaboration with Vanderbilt University. It’s specifically focused on how to use the Java programming language to program core features and classes of Android apps. Through a progression of taught skills, students will end the program by creating their own Android apps.
Key Takeaway: This program includes five courses that can be taken independently of each other or consecutively earn the specialization certificate. Upon successful completion of each course, students earn a shareable certificate.
iOS Development for Creative Entrepreneurs Specialization | Coursera
- Learning Format: Specialization program
- Level: Beginner/Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Objective-C app development, networking and security in iOS applications, iOS user interface design, Swift
The six-course specialization program is offered by Coursera in collaboration with University of California, Irvine. It aims to develop students’ skills in iOS app development and includes a concentration in Objective-C and Swift. The capstone project requires students to design a transreality game. Upon completion, students earn specialization and course certificates.
Key Takeaway: This specialization program prepares beginners for careers in app development. Students can also audit the courses for free, but will not have access to graded assignments and exams, nor will they receive the shareable certificates.
Mobile Application Developer Bootcamp | Developer Bootcamp
- Learning Format: Bootcamp program
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Developing mobile Android apps, testing, Xcode, iOS app life cycle, Swift, software design
This bootcamp utilizes hands-on projects to develop students’ mobile application development skills. Instruction is delivered through lectures that are paired with lab work and is focused on using Xcode to build iOS apps and IDE to develop Android apps. Students can enroll in the introductory C programming course for free, as long it’s immediately before this program.
Key Takeaway: This two-course program is ideal for students who prefer tactile learning, as 50 percent of the program involves hands-on activities.
iOS Development | Devmountain
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: iOS, Objective-C app development, Swift, Github, Xcode, architecture
Throughout this excellent course offered by Devmountain, students develop skills in Objective-C, Swift, Github, and Xcode, and are required to collaborate with peers on iOS app development projects. Students need to fill out an online form, consult with an admissions counselor, and undergo a technical skill assessment to qualify for this course.
Key Takeaway: This program is especially ideal for students who want to become iOS developers. Upon completing the course, students are provided with career services.
Mobile App Development with Swift | edX
- Learning Format: Professional certificate program
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: App development tools, app design, Swift programming, iOS app building, augmented reality,
This professional certificate program is offered by edX in collaboration with Curtin University. Throughout the three-course program, students learn basic Swift programming to build a basic app, and utilize development tools to add features and debug the app. Upon completion, students earn course and professional certificates.
Key Takeaway: This professional certificate program is ideal for students who don’t have any app development or programming experience but are looking to quickly and effectively pursue it as a career.
Power Apps: Building Data-Driven Apps | LinkedIn Learning
- Learning Format: Class
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Microsoft Power Apps, Excel, business intelligence (BI), design principles, data analysis, templates, app packages
This class is designed to train students in using Microsoft Power Apps for convenient and effective app development. The curriculum covers setting up Excel tables, saving files, connecting data, screens, adjusting design and layouts of screens, adding functionalities, adding complex solutions, and sharing the app on mobile devices.
Key Takeaway: Students in this class focus on creating and customizing designs to be user-friendly and data-driven using Microsoft Power Apps.
Complete Web & App Development with Machine Learning For All | Mammoth Interactive
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner/Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: JavaScript web development, iOS and Android app development JavaScript, React, Vue.js, SwiftUI, AdobeXD, Android Studio, CoreML framework
This immersive course follows a thorough curriculum to cultivate and solidify students’ app development skills. This course is divided into five levels, including web development, UI/UX, Apple development, Android development, and machine learning. Students will complete a project at the end of each level to ensure comprehension.
Key Takeaway: Mammoth Interactive provides students with a project-based learning experience to give them plenty of opportunities to practice the skills they learn. These projects can be added to your professional portfolio.
Flutter Fundamentals | Ray Wenderlich
- Learning Format: Full course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Flutter, dart programming, UI widgets, animations, debugging, VS codes
This online program is ideal for students who want to learn Flutter development using Dart. Students learn about variables, data types, operators, arrow syntax, constructors, class inheritance, and a variety of other related topics. Students will apply everything they’ve learned to develop an app in Flutter.
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Key Takeaway: This hands-on course is especially ideal for students who want to develop Flutter app development and Dart programming skills.. It also functions as an excellent refresher for professional app developers.
Mobile App Developer Bootcamp | The Tech Academy
- Learning Format: Bootcamp program
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Advanced JavaScript, software development, HTML, CSS, SQL, project management
This bootcamp is focused on JavaScript programming for app development. It provides over 700 hours of content, including a live mobile development project. It covers a range of subjects relevant for iOS and Android app development and is designed to prepare students for the workplace. It also provides a bonus course that prepares you for employment.
Key Takeaway: This course focuses on iOS and Android app development, which is accommodating to the majority of current and aspiring app developers.
Build a Simple Android App with Kotlin | Treehouse
- Learning Format: Full course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Android Studio, Android SDK, screen layouts, basic Android programming, testing, debugging basics
This course is designed for beginners who want to learn to develop Android apps using Kotlin. Throughout the course, you’ll learn about basic Android programming concepts and architecture, and will follow step-by-step instructions to create your own working application. The projects included in this program can be added to your professional portfolio.
Key Takeaway: This self-paced course is ideal for students who want to pursue Android app development, particularly with Kotlin. Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a course certificate.
Android App Development Masterclass using Kotlin | Udemy
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Microsoft Power Apps, Excel, business intelligence (BI), data analysis, templates, app packages
This course equips students with core app development and Kotlin skills to build their own Android applications. It includes 62 hours of on-demand video, 18 articles, two downloadable resources, lifetime access to learning materials, and a certificate of completion. By the end of this course, students are prepared to apply for entry-level Android app development jobs.
Key Takeaway: This course is ideal for students who are pursuing careers in Android app development. Students earn a certificate of completion that can be used to enhance their resumes and LinkedIn profiles.
The Complete iOS App Development Bootcamp | Udemy
- Learning Format: Bootcamp program
- Level: Beginners
- Subjects Covered: Swift 5.1, iOS 13 apps, Xcode, Swift programming basics, ARKit, iOS development
This is one of the most comprehensive programs available online. It includes unlimited access to more than 60 hours of on-demand video, 113 articles, 12 downloadable learning resources, hands-on projects, and a certificate of completion. This program covers core iOS development concepts and progresses to teaching you how to build your own iOS app with machine learning.
Key Takeaway: This bootcamp program is especially ideal for students who want to pursue iOS app development. It includes real-world projects that can be added to your professional portfolio.
Online App Development Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?
There are no wrong app development program options, only options that aren’t right for you. When choosing which program is best suited to your needs and preferences, it’s important to consider the program provider, price, length of time, and certificate options. Your reasons for pursuing an app development program also play a vital role in which option is best for you.
How to Choose the Right Online App Development Course, Class, or Training Program
Duration
Online app development courses vary in terms of duration. If you’re enrolling in a course for a professional obligation, you might prefer a short-term program. Alternatively, if you’re seeking entrance into the app development field, you’ll want to find an in-depth program, which often requires a longer time commitment.
Curriculum
Program curricula vary extensively. When deciding which program is right for you, it’s important to examine the subjects that are included. Additionally, it’s important that the curriculum is appropriate for your learning level. While some programs are designed for complete beginners, others require prior experience.
Career Services
Most online courses and training programs include a variety of career services that are meant to help program graduates find immediate employment. If you’re pursuing an app development course to begin a related career, it’s helpful to filter your search based on the career services provided through the program.
App Development Course Certificates vs Certifications
App development course certificates and certifications serve very different purposes. Certificates are earned through completing the related course and function as proof of course completion. On the other hand, certifications are earned through passing a related exam and function as proof of eligibility for the intended role or field.
Importance of App Development Certifications
App development certifications prove that you’re fully qualified for the associated position. They’re widely acknowledged and valued by industry employers, which increases the importance of earning one. Pursuing a certification is also an effective way to advance your current app development career and qualify for more job opportunities.
Why You Should Take Online App Development Courses or Classes
Online app development courses are focused on developing students’ real-world skills and experience. They help to increase your marketability, and function as an affordable and convenient education path. Whether you’re interested in pursuing or advancing your app development career, online courses provide an effective way to do so.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
