Where to Find the Best Online Java Courses, Classes, and Training

Java is one of the most popular programming languages used 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 online Java courses that can help you get started. 

What was the world like before we had Java software and Java courses? 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 Java courses below.

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 known for its ease of use and simple language. 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 using Java to create web applications, Java has a lot of other functions 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.

Why Online Java Courses Are Important for Professional Development

Java is a cross-platform language, and this is one of the most important reasons to be trained in it. It lets you build apps that can be deployed on different types of devices, is excellent for building enterprise-level apps, and is the best language for the Internet of Things. Online Java courses can help you become a more competitive candidate in the tech world.

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?

A coding bootcamp can help you learn Java. Bootcamps combine hands-on training with theoretical instruction to fully prepare you for the workplace. They also offer students a quick and affordable way to develop the specific knowledge and in-demand skills that they seek to learn.

Overview: The Best Online Java Courses, Classes, or Training

Below you’ll find a list of some of the best online Java courses, classes, and training programs available. When deciding which option is best for you, 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. 

Provider	Course	Price	Length	Certificate
Codecademy	Learn Java	$15.99 per month	25 Hours	Yes
Coursera	Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization	Free and paid options	5 Months	Yes, for a fee
DevMountain	Java Software Engineering	$7,900	16 Weeks	Yes
edX	Introduction to Java Programming – Part 1	$99	5 Weeks	Yes
edX	Java Programming Fundamentals	$49	5 Weeks	Yes
Regis University	Enterprise Java Software Development	$845 per credit hour	6 to 12 Months	Yes
Software Guild	Java Bootcamp	$10,000	12 Weeks	Yes
Tech Academy	Java and Android Developer Bootcamp	$7,950	15 Weeks	Yes
UCLA Extension	Java Specialization	$2,985	7 Months	Yes
UC San Diego Extension	Java Programming	$2,875	1 Year	Yes
Udacity	Java Programming Basics	Free	6 Weeks	No
Udemy	Java Programming for Complete Beginners	$129.99	31 Hours	Yes
Udemy	Java Programming Masterclass covering Java 11 & Java 17	$84.99	80 Hours	Yes
University of Massachusetts Lowell	Certificate Program in Java Development	$380.00 per credit	1 Year	Yes
University of Washington	Certificate in Java Programming	$3,825	8 Months	Yes

In Detail: The Best Online Java Classes, Courses, or Training

Luckily, there are plenty of options for the best online Java courses that are just a click away. Some require payment in order to receive a certificate, but other free online java courses will provide you with a certificate for free.

Learn Java | Codecademy 

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

This 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 Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization | Coursera 

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

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.

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 is designed to train students how to use Java in software engineering. They learn about data structures, SQL, Git, computer science algorithms, Spring Boot web framework, and 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. 

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

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. 

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, mobile developer, or 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.

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 and Android Developer Bootcamp | Tech Academy

• Learning Format: Bootcamp program 
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: Algorithm theory, Java design principles, Internet design and operation, basic machine architecture

This bootcamp program is immersive and covers five in-demand programming languages including Java, CSS, HTML, SQL, and JavaScript. Students learn about databases and how they are used, as well as topics like basic Java syntax, object-oriented programming, and MVC design patterns. 

Key Takeaway: This bootcamp covers all of the basic concepts of Java and Android development. It’s an ideal program for students who are interested in pursuing Java or Android careers.

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 servlet and be able to build android apps with 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.

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 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.

Key Takeaway: This course combines theoretical lectures with a plethora of hands-on activities, puzzles, and projects. It’s an ideal course for anyone who needs to quickly and thoroughly learn Java for a career-related reason. 

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. 

Certificate in Java Programming | University of Washington

• Learning Format: Certificate program 
• Level: Advanced
• Subjects Covered: Object-oriented programming in Java, application programming in Java, advanced features of Java

To enroll in this certificate program, you need to have at least two years of experience in a procedural or object-oriented language. Students in the program take three courses that cover Java fundamentals, API introduction, and advanced features of Java. Students learn about app deployment and testing, as well as the development of Java programs with standard tools.

Key Takeaway: This eight-month certificate program is held fully online through live sessions. Program applicants should be intermediate learners with foundational Java or programming experience. Upon completion, students earn an undergraduate certificate.

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

With the overwhelming amount 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 set, 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. 

Java Course Certificates vs Certifications

Java certificates and certifications 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 provide proof of completion. Alternatively, certifications are earned through passing an associated exam and provide proof of eligibility for associated roles. 

Importance of Java Certifications

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

Why You Should Take Online Java Courses or Classes

Online Java programs 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.

The Java program is an evolution in itself. 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.