Learn Java: The Best Courses and Resources

If you have any knowledge of computer programming and coding, then you have definitely heard of Java. Most successful tech entrepreneurs and IT professionals start out by learning Java.

This language is commonly used in innovation and design, and its contributions span a multitude of industries, including video gaming and finance.

Mega companies like Google, Goldman Sachs, and eBay make heavy use of Java, so taking Java courses can open you up to many career opportunities. Java has also been a key player in major technological developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. 

To master this code, you must have strong mathematical, problem-solving, and writing skills. Although the programming language was released in 1995, it has remained relevant by evolving in its complexity and applications. 

Today, the coding software is still widely used by app and product designers. So, it is important to learn Java if you want a career in software development.

Keep reading to find out how you can learn this popular programming language. We will take a look at the best online courses available, and the steps you can take to start your Java programming career. 

What Is Java?

Java is a highly-regarded programming language that is used for application and software design and development. It is a class-based language, which means the objects in a given software are organized based on their classifications. It is known for being simple, secure, and high-performing. 

The software is used in developing web and mobile applications, and graphical user interfaces, as distinct from user experience. Java-based software also allows us to shop online, and is the key to data suggestion software that helps us quickly fill out online forms.

But Java software also has uses outside of the web. Its applications extend to software used in washing machines, air conditioners, and television.

There are four primary platforms for this programming language, including the normal platform, standard edition, enterprise edition, and micro edition. These platforms differ based on what kind of system the developed software will be applied to. To develop Java code, you must complete five stages: edit, compile, load, verify, and execute.

A notable advantage of Java is that it allows you to write a command only once, then implement it across an entire system. 

With the use of this general-purpose language increasing, it’s a good idea to learn it if you want to land one of the best jobs in tech. 

What Jobs Use Java Skills?

There are many job opportunities for a Java master, including as a front-end or backend developer. This programming language is among the top five most used, so learning it can lead to employment in many industries. Below are some jobs that use Java coding skills. 

• Backend developer. Back-end developers are in charge of the behind-the-scenes systems of a website or software. They design and maintain the code used in user interfaces. As a backend developer, you must know how to use Java to program the basics of a system. 
  
  

This includes understanding databases and using APIs. A back-end developer must write the code that allows a database and browser to communicate.

• Full-stack developer. As a full-stack developer, you will be expected to develop client-side and server-side applications. You will use code, including Java, to write code for the front-end, APIs, and backend. 
  
  

• Mobile application developer. As a mobile app developer, you will build successful applications for your organization. You will create, plan, design, and test applications for desktops and phones, particularly those that run on Android. 
  
  

• Artificial intelligence. AI professionals develop programs that enhance machine learning. For this, they must be proficient in automating and customizing systems. 
  
  

Many AI professionals use Java virtual machines to achieve optimum performance and results, and to improve an application’s data recognition abilities. 

Steps to Learn Java

Learning Java requires that you understand computer programming, which can be complicated. Luckily, Java is one of the easiest programming languages to learn. It will be very easy for you to grasp Java concepts if you have a background in computer science. Below is a step-by-step guide to learning Java starting from zero.

 

1. Learn Java Basics

To begin, you must first understand the basics. The internet is full of resources and Java tutorials to get you started.

When seeking courses, choose those that offer practical experience so you can improve your skills. It is very important to understand the fundamentals of this language before you can move on to writing more advanced code.

2. Enroll in Advanced Java Programming Courses

Now that you know the ins and outs of Java, you can enroll in a more advanced Java course. The class you choose will depend on your career goals and interests.

If you want to become a software engineer, you can enroll in normal Java programming courses. Or, if you want to work in AI, you should take courses on how Java can be applied in that field. You can start to learn coding by enrolling in the best coding bootcamps of 2023.

3. Practice

This is the most important step. You have to practice what you’ve learned in order to master it. Use free online open-platform resources to practice writing command lines, syntax, and algorithms using Java. IBM’s Java Card OpenPlatform is one possible resource for you to try out. 

4. Join a Java Programmer Community

You may choose to take this step before enrolling in any courses. But having background knowledge of the language will help you communicate with other community members.

In these networks, you can find tips and tricks to improve your Java coding. The groups are also a good place to find job opportunities and Java events. 

5. Get Java Certified

Getting certified is crucial, as it will prove your skills and qualifications. Getting Java certified will increase your chances of landing your dream job. Be sure to choose the certification program most closely related to your job. One option is Oracle’s Java Training and Certification Course. 

6. Apply for Jobs

Now it is time to apply for internships and jobs in Java. There are many career opportunities in which you can apply your Java knowledge while continuing to improve. 

The Best Courses to Learn Java

There are many amazing online courses you can use to learn Java. Amid the pandemic, online learning is more popular than ever, and it is a great way to master this programming language. Below are some of the best online Java courses for you to choose from.

Object-Oriented Programming in Java Specialization

• Provider: Coursera
• Cost: Free 
• Prerequisite: Basic computer programming skills 
• Time: About 5 months
  
  

This Java course offered via Duke University and the University of California, San Diego is intended for beginners interested in object-oriented programming (OOP). The course will teach you everything about OOP, including algorithms, problem-solving, and Hash tables. 

You will also learn about general Java programming, data structures, algorithms, and logic programming. You will learn the Java development environments Blue and Eclipse. The course is meant for those seeking a career in software development, and you can pay for a certificate of completion to include on your resume.

Java Explorer

• Provider: Oracle University
• Cost: Free
• Prerequisite: Java basics
• Time: Self-paced
  
  

We highly recommend this free course offered by Oracle University. In this course, you will learn how to program using Java SE8, SE11, and EE7. 

The course will cover how to design applications using the JAR file format, and test code snippets. By the end, you will know how to develop interfaces using Java server faces, server pages, and servlets. This course is particularly useful if you plan to later take an Oracle certification exam. 

Learn Java

• Provider: Codecademy
• Cost: Free
• Prerequisite: Basic computer skills 
• Time: Self-paced 
  
  

This is an excellent course for learning the fundamentals of Java. This includes studying variables, object-oriented programming basics, and loops. You can choose to sign up for the pro version of this course to get a certificate and receive help creating your portfolio.

Java Development Environments and Tooling

• Provider: Pluralsight 
• Cost: 10 days free
• Prerequisite: None
• Time: Self-paced
  
  

In this multi-course program offered by Pluralsight, you will get a broad understanding of Java, including advanced concepts. For example, you will learn how to set up a development environment, and how to use the Eclipse platform. You will also learn about building tools with Java using the Maven fundamentals. 

Professional Certificate in Introduction to Java Programming

• Provider: EdX
• Cost: $402.30
• Prerequisite: None
• Time: 4 months
  
  

This certification course offered by EdX is a great introduction to Java. In it, you will learn an array of Java concepts, such as how to develop programs using loops, conditionals, and recursion. The course will also teach you about APIs and general object-oriented programming methods. 

Why Learn Java? 

You should learn Java because it is one of the most popular programming languages. It is used worldwide in a multitude of industries. Becoming a Java expert can lead to a successful, well-paid career in software development.

You should also consider learning the language because it is versatile, and makes use of powerful development and API tools. Thus, learning this language can have many major benefits.