Learn C++: The Best Courses and Resources

Learning to code is one of the most popular ways to enter the tech world. With just a few lines of writing, a programmer can switch the functions of a program or operating system. This gives talented programmers considerable power—and it can also be a lot of fun.

Coding helps you learn how programs run and how game development works. Some of the most famous video games use C++. This programming language has a direct role in creating popular game engines: the CryEngine, Frostbite, Unity, and Unreal Engine.

If you’re interested in programming or video game development, C++ is a great tool to have on your belt. Here’s all about the language and how to learn C++.

What Is C++?

C++ is an object-oriented programming language. Computer scientist Bjarne Stroustrup created it in 1986, nearly 40 years ago. Like most innovators in modern history, Stroustrup wanted to simplify a difficult task. He streamlined programming by developing C++ for UNIX systems. 

C++ is a versatile language. It can also help users optimize memory management for ideal, high performance. It’s one of the top programming languages in the world, and it’s incredibly useful to learn.

What Jobs Use C++ Skills?

Many jobs require C++ skills, particularly developers. Many computer science and tech careers have high-paying job opportunities. Below are some of the most common jobs you can get when you learn C++.

• Video game developer. Along with graphic design, video game development is becoming a popular and lucrative job. Those just starting out in video game development will put their C++ skills to the test. Combining creativity with innovation, game development is a great way to use C++.
  
  
• Software developer. Software development is vital to a number of different industries. You could work on everything from video games to computer programs that assist banks, accounting firms, and more. 
  
  
• Web Designer. If you’re in touch with your creative side, you could use C++ to become a web designer. Every website you see—including this one—has code on the back end. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10 percent of web designers and developers can earn up to $142,000.
  
  
• Computer and Information Systems Managers. This is perhaps one of the most valuable careers to pursue with in-depth C++ knowledge. Computer and information systems managers help institutions and various businesses run virtual databases. This can range from security to IT systems. 
  
  

Steps to Learn C++

Learning a programming language on your own is daunting. You should make a plan and set goals for yourself, so you can learn C++ in the best way possible. These crucial steps will ease the process and will help you start learning quicker.

1. Learn Programming Concepts

If you aren’t familiar with programming languages or different functions, you need to learn the basic concepts. This goes beyond learning how to code. Learning programming concepts means that you comprehend the bigger picture. 

Programming knowledge can help you understand how coding works. You should be familiar with syntax, standard libraries, data structures, data types, and more. You should also learn how programming languages have changed the world of computing. 

2. Learn to Program

Think of this step as putting together a toolkit for object-oriented programming. You’ll see C++ courses below, but you should always consult supplemental materials too. Books are great resources for C++, as well as coding bootcamps. C++ bootcamps can help you specify your craft.

If you aren’t familiar with programming at all, these are some great options. If you have a basic background in coding, learning C++ may prove to be more comfortable. There are both paid and free ways to learn to code, so you can find what works best for you.

3. Take Online Courses in C++

Taking a C++ course might be the best way to learn. The age of the internet is a great time to pursue programming, regardless of the language. Classes can transform you from rookie to expert in a matter of weeks. This is especially the case with coding bootcamps. You can read more below to find the best online C++ courses.

4. Practice C++

Practicing any activity can enhance your skills, and the same goes for coding in C++. You should dedicate ten to fifteen hours a week to master this programming language. There are dozens of resources, both online and offline, that can help you.

The more you practice, the better you’ll be at C++. Soon you’ll be able to code with confidence.

5. Experiment and Create

What is the use of coding if you don’t apply your knowledge? Experimenting with C++ can not only help you learn the fundamentals but get a great job in your field. 

There are various projects and exercises available online for you to experiment with. Many courses and coding boot camps also provide C++ resources. There is always room to improve, from capstone projects to personal goals.

The Best Courses to Learn C++

Taking a C++ course can give you the confidence to master the craft. These range from free purses to paid subscription services. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you want to polish your skills, there’s a C++ course out there for you. 

C++ Tutorial for Complete Beginners

What better place to learn C++ than a beginner’s tutorial? This Udemy course takes absolute beginners and transforms them into well-rounded computer programmers. You will learn all about C++ syntax, loops, vectors, data structures, and more. 

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to create powerful programs with C++. This is a great, free option for new coders.

Unreal Engine C++ Developer: Learn C++ and Make Video Games

Unreal Engine is one of the most famous video game engines in the world. They’ve created games like Gears of War, Borderlands, BioShock, and Batman: Arkham Asylum. This course covers the ways C++ and the Unreal Engine can help game developers create their own projects. 

You’ll learn about terrain tools, vehicle physics, and artificial intelligence. This course is best for people who already have a basic grasp of programming and computers.

Codecademy – Learn C++

Codecademy is a great coding boot camp that introduces rookie coders to C++. This course introduces some history as well as beginner programming concepts. The idea here is to prepare the student for more advanced classes and C++ courses.


With this course, you’ll practice C++ skills by creating a Harry Potter sorting hat. With over 45,000 online learners, Codecademy is a great place to learn programming concepts. 

C++ For Programmers

What sets this Udacity course apart from others is that you can earn a certificate. A coding certificate can help you open doors to job opportunities. If a hiring manager sees a C++ certificate, they know you’re not messing around with your skills. 

This course provides programmers with a crash course in C++. It’s self-paced and takes most people around three weeks to complete. These industry pros, including some tips from Bjarne Stroustrup himself, will open up a world of coding possibilities.

Learn C++ Programming – Beginner to Advance – Deep Dive in C++

This course requires no previous coding experience and has a fantastic structure to its curriculum. Students learn the basics of C++, all the way to advanced programming concepts. 

You will learn the intricacies of object-oriented programming, and you’ll develop an app as a capstone project. You’ll learn about arrays, strings, pointers, and conditional statements. There are over thirty hours of great material here, with no programming experience required.

 

C++ Essential Training – LinkedIn Learning 

LinkedIn Learning, through the Lynda platform, is becoming one of the best places to learn various topics. This is an intermediate course, so you should have some experience with C++ and other object-oriented programming languages.

Instructor Bill Weinman takes you through the more advanced concepts of C++ training, like the C++ Standard Library, STL, and setting up Xcode. Although the course is meant for intermediate learners, it’s pretty straightforward. 

C++ For C Programmers, Part A

Coursera offers this great free course from computer science professor Ira Pohl. For those who have completed beginner courses, this is a great way to enhance your C++ training. You can even pay extra to earn a certificate.

This is the first class in a series of C++ training courses. Divided into four modules, C++ for C Programmers covers everything you need to know to advance your career and knowledge. You’ll learn about everything from return 0 to advanced algorithms and graph theory.

 

Learn C++ from Scratch

Brought to you by Educative, this detailed course contains 74 lessons. Like most beginner courses, students learn the “hello world” program, followed by essential C++ skills. 

You’ll learn about data structures and functions, and will actively experiment in other C++ training activities. You will also take some quizzes and exams to test your knowledge all along the way. 

Learn C++ by Creating

This course takes a more hands-on approach to learning to code. One of the key ways to succeed with C++ is by creating and experimenting. This course can teach you how to apply the skills you already have.

The creators of this course believe that it’s crucial for students to make things to understand C++ on a fundamental level. You’ll learn valuable C++ skills and have yet another item for your resume.

Why Learn C++?

Learning C++ as a beginner programmer can be tricky, but it is by no means impossible. C++ is easier if you already know some programming languages, and you can take courses based on your experience level. C++ is a useful skill for any developer.

Think of C++ like learning Latin. Once someone is fluent in Latin, they have a better chance to learn and understand other languages with the same roots. Once you know C++ and its syntax, learning other programming concepts is much simpler.

If you follow our steps to learn C++, you’ll become an expert in no time. With proactive studying, experimentation, and practice, you can use C++ to land some of the best jobs in tech.