There are many online computer science courses on the Internet. With so many businesses and communication tools going digital, there is a growing interest in computer science degrees. After all, a lot of the developments in the digital space are thanks to the many programmers of the world.
If you are looking to join their ranks, then online computer science courses may be for you. Read on to learn where you can find the best online computer courses with certificates.
What Is Computer Science?
When you research computer science, it can feel quite intimidating. However, learning computer science is the kind of challenge that motivates you to be better because there is a lot to learn.
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Everything you do on your computer or any digital device is possible thanks to years-long development. Computer programs you use to create documents or presentations in Microsoft Office were created thanks to computer science, just like the programs you use to play games or listen to music.
If you want to learn coding or software development to create such programs, then you can begin your journey in computer science by testing the waters through free online courses.
What You Can Gain From Computer Science
Taking up a computer science degree or computer science courses is the way to go if you want to learn about programming and coding. While these are the cores of computer science, there are also other disciplines within it such as machine learning and data management.
Being a computer scientist is beneficial because the computer and information sector is ever-growing. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for computer science will grow by as much as 15 percent in the next 10 years.
Accordingly, a computer scientist earns an average of $122,840 per year and much more for those who continue to expand their studies. To do so, you can either take a master’s degree or take an online computer science course with a certificate.
Can You Learn Computer Science Online?
Whether you are an incoming college student or looking to transition to take a computer science degree, there are online courses available to get you started. Some are free, while others are paid.
There are also online computer science courses with certificates that you can list in your job applications. Some of these programs can be directly linked to your LinkedIn account so the professional certificate is viewable on your profile.
Free Online Computer Science Courses
We all want free stuff, right? Luckily, the Internet is filled with free online computer science courses with certificates. Of course, anything free comes with doubt in terms of quality. However, these institutions are guaranteed to deliver some of the best free online computer courses.
Harvard University: CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science
Price: Free
Certificate: Yes, available if you pay $90.00
This is an introductory course for those who want to learn the art of programming and computer science. It is designed for majors and non-majors alike, so it is friendly to those who have no tech background at all.
CS50 promises to provide a better understanding of computer science and programming as you tackle different programming languages like C, Python, SQL, and JavaScript.
University of London: Introduction to Computer Programming
Price: Free
Certificate: Available
A more focused approach, this program is aimed at helping beginners write computer programs. The course is designed to introduce you to programming languages that are basic for running programs.
The course is available on Coursera and is the beginner level of a three-part Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Specialization program.
University of Edinburgh: Code Yourself! An Introduction to Programming
Price: Free
Certificate: Available
This course takes a slightly more specific approach using Scratch. The platform was created by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for visual programming language lessons.
Generally, this program is an introduction to the principles of computing. Even better, it will mold you to think like a software engineer. Some of the skills you will learn in this free course include algorithms, programming, and of course Scratch.
Paid Online Computer Science Courses
If you are aiming to take a paid program that will help you gain an advantage, there are many online courses for that. These programs focus much more on machine learning and data science. Certificates for completed programs will be provided.
Udemy: Computer Science 101 – Computer & Programming for Beginners
Price: $11.99
Basic concepts like computers, computer science, programming, and programming languages will be covered in this program. It has lecture videos and a collection of articles.
With 36 lecture videos, you will have a deeper understanding of how computers work. A good grasp of the basic concepts of science is also guaranteed.
MIT: Computational Thinking Using Python
Price: $135
Python is typically used among computer scientists. This program specifically aims to introduce you to the world of coding using Python. It is slightly more complex as it deals with complex algorithm problems.
Nonetheless, the program promises to help you appreciate computation. If you are into web development, this might be a good investment for you.
Georgia Tech: Introduction to Python Programming
Price: $356
A program by Georgia Tech, this option is geared toward learning computing through Python. It’s all about earning the skills to write codes, execute, and interpret them.
One of the things that makes this program more different than the others is its focus on object-oriented programming, or OOP. If you are into large data, then this is ideal because you are more free to manipulate the data.
Conclusion: Find Your Path with Computer Science Courses
So much of what we enjoy today is thanks to the wonders of computer science. Seemingly simple things like graphic design and social media, or more complicated stuff like cyber security, are made possible by these developments.
Here’s some career advice: If you are dreaming of creating the next big food delivery app or the most efficient car booking service, it is time to start honing your computer science and coding skills.
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