How to learn C programming?

Whether you’re learning C programming for software development, systems programming, or academic purposes, having a clear goal can guide your learning. Consistent practice with coding and debugging is critical. Join communities like Stack Overflow or Reddit's r/C_Programming to ask questions and share knowledge. Work on real projects such as creating small programs. Introduction to C and C++ Specialization by Duke University on is a great starting resource.

What are the best C programming courses on Coursera?

Top options include C Programming for Beginners from Duke University and C Programming for Everybody from the University of Michigan . These courses cover everything from basic syntax to advanced topics like pointers, memory management, and data structures .

Can I take free C programming courses on Coursera?

Yes. You can start learning C programming on Coursera for free in two ways: Preview the first module of many C programming courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available). Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial. If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in C programming, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a C programming course?

You’ll learn how to write C code, understand control structures (like loops and conditionals), use functions, work with arrays and strings, and manage memory with pointers. Some courses also cover debugging and testing C programs.

Do I need coding experience to start learning C programming?

Not at all. Many courses are designed for beginners and introduce C concepts step by step. However, some familiarity with basic programming logic can be helpful, especially if you want to move on to more advanced topics or other programming languages.

Can Coursera’s C programming courses help me in my career?

Yes. C programming is fundamental in areas like embedded systems , game development , and operating systems. Coursera courses can help you build job-ready skills, strengthen your programming foundation, and prepare for roles that require low-level programming expertise.

Top C Programming Courses - Learn C Programming Online

Find the Best C Programming Course for Your Goals

Coursera Project Network
Introduction to HTML
Skills you'll gain: Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Front-End Web Development, Web Design and Development, Web Development, Web Development Tools, Web Applications, Web Content, Integrated Development Environments
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
2.2K reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Create Your First Python Program From UST
Skills you'll gain: Python Programming, Command-Line Interface, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Scripting, Scripting Languages, Development Environment
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
3K reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Status: Free
Coursera Project Network
Data Structures with C: Upgrade a Rocket Display Module
Skills you'll gain: Embedded Systems, C (Programming Language), Embedded Software, Data Structures, Program Development, Data Management, Data Storage Technologies, Software Development
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Getting Started with R
Skills you'll gain: Data Import/Export, Package and Software Management, R Programming, Data Structures, Data Literacy, Software Installation, Data Analysis Software, Data Analysis, Data Science
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
383 reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Introduction to Python
Skills you'll gain: Data Science, Web Development, Python Programming, Programming Principles, Artificial Intelligence, Computational Thinking, Computer Programming, Application Development, Scientific Visualization
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
2.2K reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Create a Supermarket app using Java OOP
Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Java, Java Programming, Software Design, Software Testing, Application Development
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
111 reviews
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

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Duke University
Object-Oriented Programming in Python
Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Object Oriented Design, Programming Principles, Python Programming, Computer Programming, Software Engineering
3.8
Rating, 3.8 out of 5 stars
20 reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Status: Free
Microsoft
Build a computer vision app with Azure Cognitive Services
Skills you'll gain: Application Programming Interface (API), Microsoft Azure, Computer Vision, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), User Accounts, Image Analysis, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Solutions, Cloud Computing, Software Development
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
344 reviews
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Introduction to C++ Programming: Build a Calculator
Skills you'll gain: Program Development, C and C++, C++ (Programming Language), Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Computer Programming, Development Environment, Software Development, Computer Science
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
58 reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Build a Full Website using WordPress
Skills you'll gain: WordPress, Content Management Systems, Web Content, Web Design and Development, Web Design, Web Development, Blogs, Content Development and Management, Social Media, Marketing, Design, Computer Science
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
4.2K reviews
Advanced · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Get started with Jira
Skills you'll gain: Workflow Management, Jira (Software), Product Roadmaps, Backlogs, Kanban Principles, Project Coordination, Agile Software Development, Agile Methodology, Issue Tracking, Agile Project Management, Project Management Software, Work Order
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
986 reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Prompt Engineering with GPT: Programming for Custom Content
Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Generative AI, OpenAI, ChatGPT, Large Language Modeling, Python Programming, Application Programming Interface (API), Application Development, Machine Learning, Software Engineering
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
60 reviews
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours