The Best Online Java Courses, Classes, and Training

Java is one of the most used programming languages for mobile, web, and desktop app programming. It’s used on different platforms and offers features like network-centric designing, dynamic coding, security, and platform-independent characteristics. If you want to become a web or app developer, there are plenty of Java online courses that can help you get started. 

What was the world like before we had Java software and Java online classes? While using your computer or device, you have probably seen the logo many times. The Java programming language is so ubiquitous that it can help make or break a business.

You can think of it as the oil that makes an engine run smoothly. It is the driving force behind many websites and apps that you encounter every day. If you want to learn more, explore the list of the best online Java courses below. Some of the courses introduced are paid while some Java courses are free.

What Is Java?

Java is a popular, object oriented programming language that was created in the mid-1990s and is used to develop a wide range of applications. It is designed so that once the code is compiled, it can run on all platforms that support Java without the need for recompilation. The syntax of Java shares similarities with C and C++.

In the 1990s, Java was created by Sun Microsystems, which is now known as Oracle. The software was first intended to be used for mobile devices. However, developers soon discovered that Java can be used for a lot more than was originally thought.

Java is a simple language known for its ease of use. Since Java involves a lot of data, it is also known for being secure. It is an object oriented programming language that is great for data management.

​​What Is Java Used For?

There are many Java programming courses available online. Aside from creating web applications, Java is used for many things in the digital landscape.

For one, Java plays an important role in embedded systems. Embedded systems are microchips that are used in music players, SIM cards, and more. The development of Java has also helped enhance scientific applications. All in all, Java’s many possible uses make it a field of study that any programming beginner should learn.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Attending an Online Java Course

Which Aspects of Java Would You Like to Learn?

Java is a very popular programming language because it has so many features and aspects. It is important to determine which single concept or aspect your want to focus on when embarking on your learning journey. Some courses offer complete coverage of all Java aspects and features, while others are more fine-tuned.

Some popular features of Java are that it is compatible with object oriented programming and advanced data structures. Additionally, it supports every object oriented programming concept, including encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism, and abstraction. It is the language of choice for many successful tech companies and software engineers.

Why Should You Learn Java?

You should learn Java first and foremost because most developers use it. If you’re learning to code, you should definitely familiarize yourself with this program. Without Java, web development would not be where it is today.

Java has many useful attributes. For instance, it has an automatic feature called memory management, which allows you to focus on programming while Java organizes your data for you. Learning Java is a great step to improving your programming skills.

Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn Java?

Yes, a Java coding bootcamp can help you learn Java. Java bootcamps combine hands-on training with theoretical instruction to fully prepare you for a developer job. A Java bootcamp’s online lessons give students a fast and convenient way to develop the specific knowledge and in-demand skills that they seek to learn.

The Best Online Java Courses: An Overview

Below, you’ll find a list of some of the best Java online courses, classes, and training programs available. When deciding which of the best online Java courses to choose from, it’s helpful to consider the course focus, price, length of time, and whether it includes a certificate. All of these variables should meet your personal or professional needs.

The Best Online Java Classes, Courses, or Training

There is a wide range of Java online courses available. Many online learning platforms provide online Java learning courses at little to no cost. This is beneficial for those who are facing economic hardship but still want to learn. Below we have highlighted the best Java courses, with topics ranging from Java 8 to an introduction to programming with Java. 

Introduction to Java | Cloud Academy

• Learning Format: Standalone course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Language statements, fields, loops, arrays, strings, object oriented principles

This Cloud Academy Learning Path will introduce you to Java 9 object oriented programming. As a first step, it introduces you to the basics of Java, including its core services, syntax, functions, and modules. Using object oriented principles and Java libraries, it then shows you how to write functions and applications. 

Key Takeaway: Students will learn how to address functions, syntax, and modules in as little as eight hours.

Learn Java | Codecademy

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training  
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Conditionals and control flow, object oriented Java, variables

This Java online course introduces students to basic Java programming concepts, such as object oriented programming, the syntax for defining classes, debugging, and creating two-dimensional arrays. The program is project-based, so students have ample opportunity to practice their new skills while developing their professional portfolios.

Key Takeaway: This interactive course allows students to apply what they learn to real-life projects. In this course, students participate in seven Java projects. 

Java Fundamentals | Codegym

• Learning Format: Full online training course that provides hands-on experience
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Java EE, Custom open source classes, object oriented design, client-side development, loops, arrays, conditionals, CSV files, desktop applications

For students interested in learning how to program, this website offers an exciting twist. By presenting the curriculum as quests, this program teaches students the fundamentals of Java. Java arrays, conditionals, loops, and other advanced topics will be covered. The level of these topics increases as the student progresses.

Key Takeaway: If you do not like a traditional learning experience, this website provides students with an alternative and fun method to learn Java programming.

Java Software Engineering | Devmountain

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Data structures, SQL, Git, basic applications

This 16-week course by Devmountain is designed to train students on how to use Java in software engineering. They learn about data structures, SQL, Git, computer science algorithms, the Spring Boot web framework, and the Java persistence API. Students who pass the course receive a certificate of completion and are ready to apply for entry-level software engineering roles.

Key Takeaway: This Java course is designed for students who are or aspire to become software engineers. Students will participate in a variety of hands-on projects, which can be added to their professional portfolios. 

Enterprise Java Software Development | Regis University

• Learning Format: Graduate certificate program
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Object oriented software construction, component-based software development, service-based software development, enterprise applications

This is a graduate certificate program, which means all participants must have already earned their bachelor’s degree to be eligible for enrollment. The curriculum includes different advanced concepts of Java enterprise API, JDBC, web services, and other related technologies. This program takes six to 12 months to complete, depending on the format you choose. 

Key Takeaway: If you’re a college graduate and you want to pursue a Java-related career without having to earn your master’s degree, this certificate program might be ideal for you. Additionally, if you aspire to become a software developer, a mobile developer, or an expert Java developer, this program will fully equip you.

Java Bootcamp | Software Guild

• Learning Format: Bootcamp program  
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: Basics of object oriented programming, intermediate Java programming, advanced Java programming

This program focuses on the basics of programming. It covers object oriented programming, arrays, Java syntax, and other object oriented concepts. Students learn to write and read file systems, format debates, and query in memory locations. The coursework also covers error handling, unit testing, streams, and Enims lambdas.

Through a hands-on learning approach, students explore common errors that may crop up in their applications. They also learn about dependency injections and practice mocking during unit testing. At the end of the program, students apply their new skills to building Java apps using client requirements.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Find Your Bootcamp Match

Key Takeaway: This bootcamp program incorporates many hands-on assignments to allow students to get programming practice as they learn. There’s also a preparatory course for beginners who need a little support before enrolling in this program.

Java Web Development | Treehouse

• Learning Format: Multiple Course Career Track
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: HTML, Lambdas, Git, Spark, SQL, debugging, functional programming, APIs, Spring framework

This is one of the best Java online classes available. It takes students on a journey to master the necessary development skills they need to obtain a Java-based development job. It utilizes workshops, tutorials, and hands-on learning to emphasize essential concepts of this popular programming language. Students will be able to independently create applications at the end of this Java online course.

Key Takeaway: Learn key coding, development, and server-side skills with thousands of hours of Java training online.

Java Specialization  | UCLA Extension

• Learning Format: Specialization program
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Java programming, Google Android Development, application  development

This specialization program consists of three courses. The first course acts as a refresher for basic to intermediate programming concepts, particularly in relation to Java. The second course covers more advanced concepts, such as building complex graphical user interfaces, executing SQL queries, and connecting to databases.

By the end of the program, students will know how to develop Java web services using Hibernate and Spring. They will also cover Javaserver and Java servlets and be able to build Android apps with the Android Studio development platform and SDK. This program requires students to have software development experience or knowledge prior to enrollment.

Key Takeaway: This specialization program is ideal for professionals who want to advance their skills or beginners who want to enter development careers. Program participants are required to take three 10-week courses in order to complete this specialization. 

Java Programming | UC San Diego Extension 

• Learning Format: Certificate program
• Level: Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: object oriented programming, object oriented design, fundamentals of Java programming, Core Java Programming, app development

This certificate program is designed for intermediate learners who already have foundational skills in Java. Students who wish to enroll in this course but don’t meet the admission requirements can take the introductory course offered by UCSD Extension. 

Throughout this program, students learn about distributed Java apps, Java networking with sockets, and Java security concurrent programming. They also learn about object creation, garbage collection, and execution with the Java virtual machine. At the end of the program, they work on real-world projects to master what they have learned.

Key Takeaway: This certificate program is for intermediate learners and is ideal for anyone who wants to pursue a career as a software developer, mobile application developer, software engineer, or any related profession.

Become a Java Programmer | Udacity 

• Learning Format: Nanodegree program
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Loops, arrays, conditionals, functions, debugging

This Java online course enhances your Java abilities and helps you learn the fundamental skills that Java developers need to design, code, test, and deploy cutting-edge Java applications. A Java newcomer with little or no Java experience who wants to set themselves up for success as a professional Java developer and deploy functional Java-based applications of their own is ideal for this course.

Key Takeaway: Get a nanodegree in three months through a short, comprehensive program. Upon successful completion of the program, a certificate is awarded.

Learn Java Programming – Beginner to Master | Udemy 

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training  
• Level: Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: Multithread programming, Java SE, GUI programming, database programming, Java Array,  multidimensional arrays

This Java online course focuses on Java SE and Java features. It simplifies the concepts of programming and explains each topic in depth for better understanding. The instructor uses real-life examples to help familiarize students with new object oriented programming concepts. After learning over sixty hours of material, the student will be prepared to become a Java programmer.

Key Takeaway: This course strives in teaching intermediate students how to expand their programming knowledge and improve their Java aptitude.

Java Programming for Complete Beginners | Udemy  

• Learning Format: Hands-on learning 
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: Introduction to Java, primitive data types and alternatives, conditionals, loops, Java programming generics 

This beginner course covers Java basics, Java collections, object oriented programming, multithreading, generics, file handling, functional program networking, and exception handling. It also teaches students to solve problems with programming and aims to transform complete beginners into career-ready Java experts.

Since it is a project-based course, learners work on puzzles and other hands-on exercises. They practice with Eclipse and JShell to work on code examples, exercises, and puzzles. It is excellent for people without any programming experience because it starts with the core Java fundamentals.

Java Programming Masterclass covering Java 11 & Java 17 | Udemy 

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training 
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Inner abstract classes, Java generics, control flow statements

This online course covers Java keywords, statements, operators, and expressions to provide you with a full picture of this programming language. Students learn about Java class, polymorphism, inheritance, and how to apply this to Java apps. 

In addition, the course covers object oriented programming and Java APIs used for building apps. When you enroll in this course, you have unlimited access to 80 hours of on-demand video, three articles, one downloadable resource, 52 coding exercises, and hands-on projects. Upon completing the course, you’ll earn a certificate of completion. 

Key Takeaway: If you’re looking for a flexible and interactive learning course, you should seriously consider this option. Udemy also frequently has major discounts on courses, which allows you to have lifetime access to high-quality content for a small price.

Certificate Program in Java Development | University of Massachusetts Lowell

• Learning Format: Certificate program  
• Level: Intermediate  
• Subjects Covered: Introduction to Java programming, introduction to Java web development, advanced Java programming 

This undergraduate certificate program consists of six courses, all of which must be taken within a five-year period. Four of the courses are required, and the other two are mandatory electives that you can choose from. As this is an intermediate program, all students are expected to have a functional understanding of Java or programming. 

Key Takeaway: This undergraduate certificate program trains students in advanced programming concepts and practices. By the end of the program, students can apply for entry-level Java developer positions. 

Java Tutorial | W3school

• Learning Format: Online hands-on tutorial
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Comma-separated value (CSV) files, server-side development, File IO, control statements, mobile development, and syntax

This comprehensive course will teach you everything you need to know about Java in depth. Every section of the course will take you through the basics of Java before moving on to more complex concepts. If you are an absolute beginner who wants to become a full-stack Java developer, then this course is perfect for you.

Key Takeaway: This is one of the best online Java courses available. It provides comprehensive knowledge through class videos and hands-on projects.

The Best Free Online Java Courses

You can find some of the best Java courses online for free. The same industry experts teach these courses and ensure they are of the same quality as paid courses. Each instructor uses a different teaching style to successfully teach this server-side language. Below we have outlined the best free online Java courses to help you start your journey.

Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization | Coursera

• Learning Format: Specialization program  
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: Programming principles, cryptography, data structures

This Java specialization program is offered by Coursera in collaboration with Duke University. It covers all of the core programming concepts and teaches students to solve real-world problems with programs they have written themselves. They get practical experience in debugging programs and designing algorithms.

The five courses in this program are project-based, which means students get plenty of opportunities to develop their portfolios. One of the projects involves the creation of a recommender engine, like that of Amazon or Netflix. They may also create interactive web pages, predictive text generators, and encryption programs. 

Key Takeaway: This specialization program allows students to create and contribute to a variety of hands-on projects, all of which can be added to their professional portfolios. Upon completion, students earn specialization and shareable course certificates issued by Duke University.

Introduction to Java Programming – Part 1 | edX

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training 
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Data abstraction using an object oriented framework, informal solutions in Java using an integrated development environment

This is the first course in a two-course series offered by edX in collaboration with The Hong Kong University Of Science and Technology. It covers the basics of Java structure and functions and prepares students for part two. Students’ learning is supported with graded assignments, edX support, unlimited access to the course materials, and other helpful resources. 

Key Takeaway: This course is ideal for beginners who are looking for an easy-to-follow introductory course. Upon completion, students are prepared for the second part of this two-course series and are awarded a shareable certificate.

Java Programming Fundamentals | edX 

• Learning Format: Full course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Java overview, Java garbage collection types, application development, object-oriented design

This online course is ideal for beginners who want to work as Java developers or simply build Java applications. Students gain an overview of Java concepts and learn to use functions, conditional statements, for loops, recursive algorithms, and object oriented programming to solve problems.

Some of the main subjects covered in the coursework include how to develop programs with loops and conditionals and how to write and run Java applications. Students learn the mechanisms of object oriented programming, including interfaces, classes, polymorphism, and inheritance.

Key Takeaway: This course is ideal for beginners who want a foundational understanding of what Java is and how it’s used. This course can also be audited for free.

Learn Java | learnjavaonline.org

• Learning Format: Full course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Writing Java syntax, creating variables, using methods and conditional statements, creating functions, basic applications

Java Programming Basics | Udacity

• Learning Format: Full course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Writing Java syntax, creating variables, using methods and conditional statements, creating functions, basic applications

This course teaches you the fundamentals of Java syntax, giving you a foundation to become a successful Java developer. The curriculum covers the creation of functions, conditional statements, and loops to solve problems and process information. Students also learn about variables and data types used to rack information.

Key Takeaway: Udacity offers one of the best free online learning platforms for tech courses. Within a short period of time, students are prepared to pursue the Android Basics Nanodegree program, which is offered by Udacity in collaboration with Google.

Java Course Certificates vs Certifications

Java certificate courses and Java certification courses are often confused with one another. Although they both offer benefits to students, they do it in different ways. Certificates are awarded after completing an associated course and providing proof of completion. Alternatively, Java certifications are earned through passing an associated exam and providing proof of eligibility for associated roles. 

Importance of Java Certifications

Java programming certifications are a means of proving that you are fully qualified for a role related to your certification. They’re also very reputable to potential employers. As a result, Java certifications enhance your candidacy, open up career opportunities, and can even increase your salary. 

Top Java Certifications

• Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer Certification. This Java certification course provides in-depth knowledge of Java functions, arrays, loops, and conditionals. It provides students with comprehensive training to be able to pass the Java SE 8 Programmer Certification exam.
• Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP). The OCPJP is a professional-level certification. This test validates the candidate’s knowledge of Java code development in Java SE 8. Those with professional Java experience are the best candidates for this Java certification.
• Oracle Certified Professional: Java SE 11 Developer. This professional certification is also suited for professionals with a deep understanding of Java SE 11. Students who embark on a course in preparation for this certification will learn objects, classes, exceptions, application development, and more.
• Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 7 Application Developer Certification. With this Java certification, candidates demonstrate their ability to create and deploy Java Enterprise Edition 7 applications. Software engineers, architects, and developers who use Java EE 7 at an intermediate to advanced level are ideal candidates for this certification.
• Oracle Certified Foundations Associate, Java Certification. This Java certification is ideal for new Java programmers just starting out in the field. It is an entry-level Java certification that enhances employability.

Online Java Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?

With the overwhelming number of online Java courses, classes, and training programs, it can be difficult to determine which Java program is right for you. Ultimately, it depends on your learning preferences and reasons for needing a Java course. Courses and training programs tend to offer the most hands-on training, while classes are typically more affordable and take less time.

How to Choose the Right Online Java Course, Class, or Training Program

Learning Format

Most program providers offer multiple learning options to students, some of which include fixed, flexible, and self-paced learning. If you have a busy schedule or can’t commit to a set schedule, self-paced learning options would be ideal for you. Alternatively, if you rely on structure and set deadlines, live sessions would be ideal. 

Peer Interaction

While remote learning offers a variety of benefits to learners, some students prefer programs that allocate time for live peer interactions. While some programs facilitate live interactions between students and may even involve collaborative assignments, others provide a discussion board or forum where students have more control over the extent of their peer interaction. 

Program Fee

Online Java programs vary in terms of cost. While some programs are provided for free, others can cost as much as thousands of dollars. When choosing which program is right for you, keep in mind that there are many reputable Java courses that don’t require a high fee. At the same time, many of the expensive programs provide a variety of payment options and assistance. 

Instructors

There is a different teaching style for every instructor. While some instructors prefer lectures and downloadable resources, others prefer hands-on experience. Research the teacher who will curate your online Java class before enrolling. There are several ways to find out about the instructor, including talking to students who have taken the course and searching Google.

If you come across negative reviews or reviews that don’t sit well with you, look for another course. Every student has a better learning experience with a good teacher.

Up-to-Date Curriculum

When reviewing different Java online classes, keep an eye out for updates. Instructors and online learning platforms that regularly update their courses typically provide better information to their students. Technology is constantly changing and evolving, so it is important to enroll in an online Java course that features cutting-edge techniques.

If the Java online course you are reviewing does not have a recent update or has never been updated, this is a bad sign. It may already be obsolete due to rapidly evolving technology. Opt for a different Java online course instead.

Why You Should Take Online Java Courses or Classes

You should take online Java programs because they allow you to conveniently and affordably develop or advance your programming skills. They allow students without any hands-on experience or knowledge to enroll, and by the end of the program, they’re fully prepared for a Java career. If you’re interested in pursuing a Java-related career, you should consider enrolling in an online Java course.

There are so many available resources online for learning the Java programming language. Taking at least one of these is essential if you want to seriously pursue a career in programming. Java is a versatile language and relatively more organized than some others.

Java is a revelation. It has revolutionized web development. With so many online resources available to you today, taking a Java course is an advisable next step toward starting your tech career.

Java Online Courses FAQ