13 Best Computer Science Courses & Training Programs Online To Take In 2023
Embark on a journey to master the fascinating world of computer science with our expertly curated list of the 13 best courses, designed to cater to various interests and skill levels, and elevate your knowledge and career prospects in this revolutionary field.
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Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of computer science, but don't know where to start? Look no further, as we have meticulously researched 693 popular computer science courses from various providers, featuring a whopping 18,852,213 enrolled students who left 749,773 ratings and reviews. Our expert team thoroughly evaluated and cherry-picked the best courses based on rating, reviews, enrollments, learner satisfaction, valuable and engaging content, comprehensive curriculum, release date, affordability, and our own extensive experience and expertise.
In this article, we present you with the 13 Best Computer Science Courses that cater to a range of interests and skill levels. Whether you're looking to master machine learning, dive into the fundamentals of programming, or explore the intricate world of computational thinking, we've got you covered! So, if you're eager to take your first step into this remarkable discipline or expand your existing knowledge, let's jump right in and discover the ideal computer science course that will unlock your true potential.
This course offers a comprehensive understanding of computer networking, encompassing everything from the essential principles of modern networking technologies and protocols to an overview of the cloud, practical applications, and effective network troubleshooting methods. With its focus on computer science knowledge and skills related to networking, the content is designed to be both engaging and informative for students looking to expand their understanding of this vital subject area.
Upon completing this course, students will be equipped to describe computer networks using a five-layer model, understand all standard protocols associated with TCP/IP communications, grasp powerful network troubleshooting tools and techniques, learn network services such as DNS and DHCP that help make computer networks run efficiently, and gain an understanding of cloud computing, everything as a service, and cloud storage. The knowledge and skills acquired in this course will provide an excellent foundation for further learning in the field of computer networking and related technologies.
User review:
Great course and a great instructor! One of the tests didn't want to load on Firefox, but loaded properly on Chrome. There have been a few technical difficulties in this and the first course with some loading of material, but if you're having trouble there is a solution to be found on the message boards. I haven't found the issues to be too troubling when I refer to the boards to work them out.
The course instructor is very engaging and the delivery of material is excellent. Some have mentioned the material moves quickly. A tip I would offer is to not just watch the videos straight through and expect to get it. Transcripts are available to read through, or I've found pausing and replaying to take notes while I watch to be considerably helpful. The tests are finicky in that minor spelling errors will give you a wrong answer. Since testing yourself is one of the best ways to solidify material, I didn't find taking retakes for this reason too frustrating, it was just an opportunity to get the material better ingrained. [1]... Read More
Amanda C
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This course is ideal for individuals looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of computer networking, from essential principles and modern technologies to practical applications and network troubleshooting methods.
This course delves into the fascinating world of machine learning, a branch of computer science that focuses on creating decision-making algorithms using data. Machine learning distinguishes itself from other computer-guided methodologies because it thrives on prediction, and it has been successfully implemented in various applications such as postal handwriting readers, speech recognition, movie recommendation systems, and spam detection.
Throughout this course, you will become proficient in popular machine learning algorithms, principal component analysis, and regularization, all while building your very own movie recommendation system. You will explore training data and learn how to use it to find potentially predictive connections. As you construct your recommendation system, you will learn how to train algorithms on this data, predict the outcome for future datasets, and avoid overtraining through techniques like cross-validation. Mastering these skills will provide you with a solid foundation in machine learning.
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This course is ideal for those who want to become proficient in popular machine learning algorithms and their practical applications, such as building a movie recommendation system.
This comprehensive course is designed for a wide variety of students, including those in the sciences, engineering, arts, social sciences, and humanities, since the essential foundations of modern education have shifted to include computing. The goal of this course is to introduce programming in a scientific context, providing a strong foundation for understanding the undeniable impact of computer science on today's world. Covering the first half of the book, "Computer Science: An Interdisciplinary Approach," this course focuses on building students' expertise in programming, with the second half being covered in the follow-up course, "Computer Science: Algorithms, Theory, and Machines."
Throughout the course, students are exposed to various programming elements such as variables, conditionals, loops, arrays, and I/O. As they progress, key concepts like recursion, modular programming, and code reuse are also introduced through a focus on functions. To provide a modern perspective, the course delves into object-oriented programming using the Java programming language. Although proficiency in Java is a goal, the primary emphasis is placed on developing crucial problem-solving skills that are widely applicable in today's computing environments. The course is available entirely for free, without the issuance of a certificate upon completion.
User review:
This course is incredibly rewarding, intellectually as well as practically. Teaching algorithms and explaining how they relate to the pharmacy industry or to physics is very enriching.
If you aim to get 100 pct. in all programming exercises you should expect to go way past the eight hours recommended for most assignments. At least this was true in my case. At one stretch I used an entire week to get through the assignments. Having a master's from a competitive economics programme in mathematical finance I can easily say that this course was up there with respect to a proper challenge. I am happy to have problems which, like these, are not trivial nor immediately solvable.
The autograding of the assignments is unbelievably well made. I learnt a lot from type checking to style checking, and although I don't yet feel fluent in Java, at least I now have a much deeper appreciation for compiled languages. I would recommend this to any first timer in Java like myself.
I bought the book for this course. That was not necessary for anything but curiousity. [2]... Read More
William G
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This course is ideal for anyone looking to gain a strong foundation in programming within a scientific context, emphasizing problem-solving skills and a modern understanding of the impacts of computer science in various fields.
This introductory course in computer science focuses on using computation to better understand real-world phenomena. Designed for students with some prior programming experience in Python and a basic knowledge of computational complexity, the course delves into various topics in computational problem-solving. Participants can expect to spend a significant amount of time writing programs to implement the concepts covered in the course, such as simulating a robot vacuum cleaning a room or modeling population dynamics of viruses replicating and drug treatments in a patient's body.
The course covers a wide range of topics, including advanced programming in Python 3, the Knapsack problem, graphs and graph optimization, dynamic programming, plotting with the pylab package, random walks, probability, distributions, Monte Carlo simulations, curve fitting, and statistical fallacies. By teaching these essential computation concepts and techniques, the course aims to equip students with a solid foundation in computational thinking and data science, allowing them to effectively tackle complex real-world problems using computation tools and methods.
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This course excels at teaching essential computation concepts and equipping students with a solid foundation in computational thinking and data science, enabling them to effectively tackle complex real-world problems using computation tools and methods.
This self-paced course offers an introduction to computer science, aimed at individuals with no prior experience in the field. It aims to demystify the seemingly complicated nature of computers by breaking them down into a few simple patterns that anyone can understand. Through a hands-on approach, participants will learn the essentials of computer science, which is invaluable knowledge for anyone using computers today.
Throughout the course, learners will have the opportunity to play with and experiment with short segments of computer code, helping them grasp the power and limitations of computers. All exercises and tasks are designed to be completed within a web browser, so there is no need to download or install any additional software. In addition to coding, the course covers general background knowledge on computers, including hardware, software, and the internet. This course is accessible and suitable for anyone who can use a web browser and does not require any previous computer science experience.
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This course is the best for individuals who want to gain an introduction and understanding of essential computer science concepts without any prior experience in the field.
This comprehensive program offers an introduction to computer science for business professionals, specifically tailored to meet the needs of managers, product managers, founders, and decision-makers from various industries. Unlike traditional computer science courses which emphasize mastering low-level concepts and implementation details, this course adopts a top-down approach, focusing on the understanding of high-level concepts and the design decisions associated with them. It covers essential topics such as computational thinking, programming languages, internet technologies, web development, technology stacks, and cloud computing, enabling participants to make informed technological decisions even without having prior experience as a technologist.
Upon completing the course, participants will gain a first-hand appreciation of how these technologies work and develop increased confidence in making decisions that involve technology-related factors. This course offers a unique opportunity for business professionals to obtain a strong foundation in computer science concepts without delving too deep into technical details. By mastering the fundamental principles of technology and the internet, participants will be better-equipped to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape and make advantageous decisions for their organizations.
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This course is ideal for business professionals, offering a solid foundation in computer science concepts without getting too deep into technical details, enabling informed technological decision-making in various industries.
This comprehensive course serves as an introduction to technology for those who may not yet consider themselves well-versed in computer science. The curriculum is designed with the everyday user in mind, focusing on building a foundational understanding of how different technologies work under the hood and providing essential troubleshooting skills to navigate through any issues that arise. By covering a diverse range of topics such as hardware, the Internet, multimedia, security, programming, and web development, this course not only enhances your current abilities but also prepares you for continuously advancing technology.
With an emphasis on empowering students to use technology effectively and troubleshoot problems when they arise, this course helps bridge the existing knowledge gap in computer science. Engaging lectures delve into the workings of various technologies, providing learners with a solid foundation for understanding the capabilities and limitations of modern tools. As a result of completing this course, you will be better-equipped to handle today's technology as well as adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the technological world, ultimately making you a more proficient and versatile user of technology in various aspects of your life.
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This course is ideal for those seeking to gain a solid foundation in various aspects of technology, such as hardware, the Internet, multimedia, security, programming, and web development, while also learning essential troubleshooting skills.
This course delves into the vital role that mathematical thinking plays in computer science, encompassing areas such as algorithms, bioinformatics, computer graphics, data science, and machine learning. By exploring key tools used in discrete mathematics – including induction, recursion, logic, invariants, examples, and optimality – students will gain the ability to address typical programming questions. These questions concern topics such as the certainty of a solution's existence, verifying the optimal answer computation in a program, and ensuring that objects meet specific requirements.
Adopting a practical, hands-on approach, the course offers a multitude of interactive puzzles designed to encourage learners to invent essential ideas and concepts independently. These challenging yet engaging exercises are mobile-friendly, making them easily accessible for students on the go. A background in basic math (e.g., understanding squares and adding fractions), common sense, and curiosity are assumed to participate effectively in this course. Additionally, a fundamental knowledge of programming is necessary, as some quizzes involve coding in Python.
User review:
The team presented the concepts in a fun and easy ways to learn. They usually start off with a puzzle exercise so that we are better prepared to understand the concepts in the subsequent lessons. Some of the lessons need intermediate mathematics and programming experience. The instructors are also very responsive in the discussions forums. Whatever the shortcomings, they are not significant. For e.g., sometimes it was difficult to understand their accent but this can be overcome by using closed captions. There were some technical difficulties with tools that the instructors remedied pretty quickly. Overall, an excellent course on the subject. Thank you. [3]... Read More
Anand R
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This course is ideal for those who want to gain a deep understanding of mathematical thinking applied to various areas of computer science, such as algorithms, bioinformatics, and machine learning. By exploring key tools in discrete mathematics, students will be better equipped to address typical programming questions and develop effective problem-solving skills.
This course aims to introduce the broader discipline of computer science to individuals who have a basic understanding of Java programming. It covers the second half of the book Computer Science: An Interdisciplinary Approach and focuses on demystifying computation and building awareness about the substantial intellectual underpinnings and rich history of the field of computer science.
Throughout the course, learners will be introduced to classic algorithms and scientific techniques for evaluating performance in the context of modern applications. The course also discusses classic theoretical models, addressing fundamental questions about computation, such as computability, universality, and intractability. Additionally, topics such as machine architecture, machine-language programming, logic design, and the development of a full CPU design from the ground up will be explored. The course emphasizes the relationships between applications programming, the theory of computation, real computers, and the field's history and evolution, highlighting the contributions of notable figures such as Boole, Shannon, Turing, and von Neumann. All features of this course are available for free, and no certificate will be offered upon completion.
User review:
I've taken this course as one of few useful classes available on Coursera via AT&T continued education program. This course certainly allowed me to refresh memory on many philosophical CS topics and even learn something new.
The idea of teaching programming from the lowest-level possible and the introduction of TOY-8 assembly with !!!cpu schematics!!! is a very good idea. Gradual transition from mathematical concepts to physical hardware is what makes this course unique.
This class is not about programming. This class is not about algorithms. It it a good CS 101 introductory course. It is for somebody who already knows math, logic, basic electronics and basic programming to give a taste on what CS is about. Or for somebody like me to refresh memory on rarely used topics.
For introductory course it is too heavy-weight in my opinion. The goal of covering everything from Turing Machine to actual hardware is too ambitious and requires much more than 10 weeks to cover. [4]... Read More
DENIS K
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This course is excellent for individuals seeking to delve into classic algorithms, the theory of computation, and machine architecture, while also exploring the rich history and intellectual underpinnings of computer science.
This comprehensive course offers an introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming specifically designed for high school students. Developed by Harvard University, it adheres to the College Board's AP Computer Science Principles curriculum framework, providing students with a solid foundation in the field. Through this course, students will develop their ability to think algorithmically and solve problems efficiently.
The course covers essential topics such as abstraction, algorithms, data structures, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web development. Students will be exposed to various programming languages, including C, PHP, and JavaScript, as well as SQL, CSS, and HTML. The problem sets featured in the course are inspired by real-world domains such as biology, cryptography, finance, forensics, and gaming. High school students may receive AP credit for this course upon approval from their school and by taking the College Board's end-of-year exam. Additionally, students who complete the course requirements can earn a verified certificate from HarvardX.
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This course is ideal for high school students preparing for the AP Computer Science Principles Exam, as it provides a solid foundation in essential computer science topics and programming languages.
This engaging and fast-paced course offers an excellent introduction to the fascinating world of computer science, through the lens of Python programming. Designed for beginners with no prior programming experience, this course delves into various aspects of computer science, such as data representation, algorithm design, and the overall impact of technology on our lives. By learning Python - a popular and versatile programming language - students can practically apply the computer science concepts they learn throughout the course.
With a focus on both low-level and high-level concepts, the course aims to provide a holistic understanding of computer science, while making it enjoyable and accessible for all. No background knowledge in programming is needed, as the course will teach all the necessary skills from scratch. A solid foundation in algebra will be helpful but not mandatory, as students dive into the intricacies of computer science and develop a passion for the field. So, if you are ready to embark on an exciting journey exploring the world of computer science and Python programming, this course is the perfect starting point.
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This course is best for those who are new to programming and want to dive into computer science through learning Python, a popular and versatile programming language. It provides a holistic understanding of computer science including data representation, algorithm design, and the impact of technology on our lives, while making it enjoyable and accessible for all.
This computer science course is designed to provide learners with the essential mathematical foundations needed to excel in various aspects of the field, ranging from business to visual digital arts, music, and games. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to numerical and computational tools that are invaluable for problem-solving and modeling at any stage. Topics covered include binary and other number bases, tools for understanding sequences of numbers, coordinate-based numerical representations of space, and the study of how quantities change through functions and their graphs. The course utilizes real-life problems and computational tasks for students to practice using these tools, with examples ranging from sending secret messages to designing computer graphics.
For those wishing to broaden their understanding even further, there is the option to join the BSc Computer Science degree, where they can complete the comprehensive module 'Numerical Mathematics.' The goal of the course is to equip students with a strong mathematical background, enabling them to successfully tackle the various challenges in computer science and adapt their skills to a diverse range of situations and applications.
User review:
VERY VERY VERY Detailed class. The professor is very intense and makes you practice a lot to reinforce learning and has so many outside resources to supplement learning. She also encourages communication among class members which is cute. She is very passionate. This is the closest I have come to a real college class on Coursera, talking from actual college experience. [5]... Read More
Sergio F C C
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This course excels at providing the essential mathematical foundations necessary for various aspects of computer science, ranging from business applications to visual digital arts, music, and games. Students will gain exposure to numerical and computational problem-solving tools, diving into topics like binary number systems, coordinate-based numerical representations, and functions and their graphs.
If you're looking to learn the theory that makes great programmers, this course is perfect for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of computer science theory. Master the Theory to Becoming a Good Programmer, from understanding binary number systems and Big O notation to exploring data structures such as arrays, trees, and graphs. The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying concepts that drive programming, enabling students to apply these techniques and skills across multiple programming languages.
Programming is all about problem-solving - being able to analyze a problem and develop a solution that a computer can execute. This course delves into computer science theory, a crucial aspect that separates great programmers from average ones. By focusing on the analysis process, students learn the techniques and knowledge required to design efficient and sustainable code. So, if you want to take your programming skills to the next level and set yourself apart from the competition, this Computer Science 101 course is perfect for you.
User review:
This course was absolutely fantastic. I was already fairly comfortable with programming, but had previously struggled with mathematics and was a bit nervous to approach the topic of computer science and algorithm analysis, but the instructor does a great job of explaining the fundamentals and illustrating them in a way that neither feels watered down or overwhelming.
While I was originally expecting to learn about the actual structure and makeup of the computer's components, I soon realized that this purely theoretical course would be absolutely essential for me to have a frame of reference for whatever I decide to learn next.
This course has actually made me interested in mathematics and has given me a better understanding of how to think about programming in general, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who dabbles in anything related to computing. [6]... Read More
Joseph Stameus
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This course is ideal for those looking to learn the fundamentals of computer science theory to become great programmers and apply the concepts across multiple programming languages. Focusing on problem-solving and the analysis process, students learn the techniques and knowledge required to design efficient and sustainable code.
Choosing the best computer science course can be overwhelming, given the vast array of options available. However, by focusing on your personal learning objectives, you can narrow down the choices and find the most suitable course for your career and personal development. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following essential factors:
Scope of the course: Ensure that the course content aligns with your objectives, whether it's gaining a deeper understanding of computer networking, mastering machine learning, or becoming proficient in programming concepts.
Practical applications: Opt for a course that not only teaches theoretical concepts but also offers real-world examples and hands-on experiences to develop practical skills.
Pedagogy: Choose a course that employs a learner-friendly teaching approach, providing clear explanations of complex concepts and encouraging active participation in learning activities.
Instructor expertise: Look for courses taught by knowledgeable instructors with relevant industry experience, ensuring high-quality education and invaluable insights.
Flexibility: Consider online courses that offer flexible learning schedules and self-paced study to accommodate your busy lifestyle without sacrificing the quality of education.
Course reviews: Take the time to read reviews from previous students, as this can provide insights into the effectiveness of the course content, teaching methods, and instructor expertise.
Additional resources: Courses that provide supplementary materials, such as lecture slides, study guides, and practice exercises, can enhance your understanding of the subject matter and help solidify your learning.
By carefully evaluating these factors in the context of your personal learning objectives, you'll be well-equipped to select the computer science course best suited to your needs and aspirations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of computer science offers a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for individuals seeking to expand their horizons, advance their careers, or simply delve deeper into an area of personal interest. Our extensive list of courses showcases a dynamic range of subjects, providing learners with access to comprehensive, high-quality resources that promise to provide a strong foundation in computer networking, machine learning, programming concepts, computational thinking, and more.
Don't hesitate; take the next step toward your personal and professional development today! The right course is out there waiting for you, ready to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your chosen discipline. Remember, mastery of computer science can unlock incredible potential - from revolutionizing the business world to understanding complex algorithms and machines. If you're eager to learn, the power to achieve greatness lies within you. So go ahead, explore these exceptional computer science courses and begin your journey to success.
How much does a computer science course cost?
The cost of computer science courses depends on the platform and whether or not you want a certificate. They can range from free without a certificate to a subscription model at $33.25/month annually or $59/month monthly on Coursera, and one-time fees from $16.99 to $199 on other platforms like edX and Udemy. Some courses also offer a 7-day free trial.
How long do computer science courses take?
The duration of computer science courses varies depending on the content and depth of the course. Typical course durations range from 20 hours to over 200 hours, and they can be self-paced or scheduled over several weeks or months.
Which online platform is best for learning computer science?
The best online platform for learning computer science depends on your specific needs, interests, and learning style. Coursera, edX, and Udemy are all popular platforms that offer a variety of computer science courses taught by experts from top institutions. It's recommended to explore the courses and reviews on each platform to find the one that fits your requirements best.
