What skills can I learn in computer science courses on Coursera?

Computer science courses on Coursera can equip you with a broad set of skills essential for technological careers: Programming fundamentals in languages like Python , Java , and C++ Development of algorithms and data structures to solve complex problems Knowledge of computer architecture and systems Software engineering practices, including software development , testing, and maintenance Cybersecurity principles to protect systems and data Understanding of databases and data processing Web development techniques for creating dynamic websites

Do I need prior experience in computer science to start these courses?

Computer science courses on Coursera are suitable for all levels: Introductory courses require no prior experience and provide a foundation in the basics of computer science. Intermediate courses are available for those with some foundational knowledge who seek to deepen their understanding. Advanced courses cater to experienced professionals aiming to enhance specific skills or learn about the latest technological advancements.

What computer science certifications and credentials are available?

Coursera provides a range of credentials that demonstrate your expertise in computer science: Professional certificates that help you prepare for industry-recognized certifications. Specialized course certificates that focus on particular areas such as artificial intelligence or network security. Advanced degrees from top universities in fields like computer science and information technology.

What career opportunities are available with skills in computer science?

Acquiring skills in computer science through Coursera can lead to a variety of roles in the technology sector: Software Developer , designing and building software solutions Systems Analyst, optimizing and maintaining IT systems Network Administrator , ensuring reliable network operations Data Scientist , analyzing and interpreting complex datasets Cybersecurity Analyst , protecting information systems from cyber threats

Best Computer Science Courses & Certificates [2025]

Explore the Computer Science Course Catalog

Status: Free
Princeton University
Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose
Skills you'll gain: Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Performance Tuning, Data Structures, Java Programming, Java, Program Development, Computational Thinking, Computer Science, Algorithms, Animations, Debugging
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.3K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of London
Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
Skills you'll gain: Computer Science, Debugging, Development Environment, Computer Systems, Web Applications, Arithmetic, Javascript, Computer Networking, Computational Thinking, Theoretical Computer Science, Human Computer Interaction, Program Development, Hardware Architecture, Computer Graphics, Operating Systems, Cybersecurity, Computer Programming, General Mathematics, Systems Of Measurement, Problem Solving
Build toward a degree
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
1.5K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Fundamentals of Computing
Skills you'll gain: Computational Thinking, Event-Driven Programming, Algorithms, Combinatorics, Graph Theory, Programming Principles, Application Development, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Structures, Probability, Computer Programming, Bioinformatics, Interactive Design, Program Development, Big Data, Python Programming, Mathematical Software, Data Analysis, Theoretical Computer Science, Computer Science
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
4.1K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Accelerated Computer Science Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: C++ (Programming Language), Data Structures, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Object Oriented Design, Graph Theory, Development Environment, Engineering Software, Computer Programming, Software Engineering, Algorithms, Debugging, Program Development, Database Systems, Database Theory, Network Routing, Theoretical Computer Science, Data Storage
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
3.5K reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Princeton University
Computer Science: Algorithms, Theory, and Machines
Skills you'll gain: Theoretical Computer Science, Data Structures, Computer Science, Computer Architecture, Algorithms, Programming Principles, Computational Logic, Computational Thinking, Java Programming, Computer Hardware
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
708 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of London
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Skills you'll gain: Human Computer Interaction, Virtual Reality, Game Design, Full-Stack Web Development, React Native, Agile Software Development, Animations, Data Ethics, Git (Version Control System), Event-Driven Programming, Network Security, Web Applications, Data Science, Natural Language Processing, Unsupervised Learning, Combinatorics, Database Design, Web Development, Generative AI, Usability Testing
Earn a degree
Degree · 1 - 4 Years

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University of Toronto
Learn to Program: The Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: Programming Principles, Debugging, Software Documentation, Python Programming, Computer Programming, Program Development, Integrated Development Environments, Data Structures, File Management
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
6.7K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Pennsylvania
Computational Thinking for Problem Solving
Skills you'll gain: Computational Thinking, Algorithms, Pseudocode, Problem Solving, Python Programming, Data Structures, Computer Hardware, Computer Programming, Analysis, Debugging
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
IBM
Introduction to Software Engineering
Skills you'll gain: Software Development Life Cycle, Software Architecture, Software Design, Scrum (Software Development), Software Engineering, Software Design Patterns, Agile Methodology, Software Development, Programming Principles, Application Development, Cloud Development, Web Development, Back-End Web Development, Front-End Web Development, Computer Programming, Integrated Development Environments, Python Programming
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
3.5K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Duke University
Programming Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: Programming Principles, Algorithms, Pseudocode, Computational Thinking, Computer Programming, Data Structures, Problem Solving, Software Testing, Debugging
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
6.9K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Stanford University
Algorithms
Skills you'll gain: Data Structures, Graph Theory, Algorithms, Bioinformatics, Theoretical Computer Science, Network Model, Network Analysis, Computational Thinking, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Analysis, Network Routing, Probability, Operations Research, Design Strategies
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
5.9K reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Status: New AI skills
Google
Google Cybersecurity
Skills you'll gain: Threat Modeling, Network Security, Incident Response, Vulnerability Management, Computer Security Incident Management, Hardening, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Threat Management, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Network Protocols, Cloud Security, Vulnerability Assessments, Bash (Scripting Language), Debugging, Linux, Interviewing Skills, Python Programming, SQL
Build toward a degree
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
53K reviews
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months