8 Coursera Computer Science Courses, Specializations and Degree Programs

Computer science skills — like programming and information technology — are valuable additions to any resume. In today’s technology and data-driven world, employers are always searching for candidates who possess practical computer science skills. These Coursera computer science courses, specializations and degree programs can help prepare recent graduates for the workforce or help mid-career professionals make a job pivot.

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Coursera computer science courses

Coursera courses are flexible and 100% online. They include a variety of modules and take several weeks to complete. Courses can be taken on their own to earn a course certificate or as part of a specialization or degree program. Most courses can be audited for free, but there is a fee to earn the certificate.

1. Learn to Program: The Fundamentals 

(University of Toronto)

This computer science course is designed to teach students fundamental programming skills. This 7-week course takes about 25 hours to complete.

2. Programming Languages, Part A

(University of Washington)

This computer science course is designed for students with some prior programming experience. The purpose of this course is to teach students a variety of programming languages, as well as skills to learn new ones. This course emphasizes functional programming. This 5-week course takes about 30 hours to complete.

3. Programming for Everybody (Getting Started With Python)

(University of Michigan)

This course is part of the Python for Everybody specialization. This course is designed for students with moderate computer experience. Students will learn the basics of Python 3. This 7-week course takes about 19 hours to complete.

Coursera computer science specializations

A Coursera specialization is a series of courses (anywhere from three to 10+ courses) that help students master a specific subject. In addition to a specialization certificate, students receive a certificate upon completion of individual courses within a specialization. Specializations partner with industry leaders and include a hands-on capstone project.

1. Python for Everybody

(University of Michigan)

This computer science and software development specialization is designed to teach students fundamental programming concepts. This specialization includes 5 courses and takes about 8 months to complete.

2. Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals

(Duke University)

This computer science specialization is designed to be an introduction to Java. Students will gain practical software engineering skills. This specialization includes 5 courses and takes about 5 months to complete.

Coursera computer science degree programs

Course degree programs are 100% online, flexible and affordable (with the cost of tuition less than on-campus options and financial aid available). These programs offer a variety of master’s and bachelor’s degrees from top universities.

1. Master of Computer and Information Technology

(University of Pennsylvania)

This online computer science degree program is designed for non-Computer Science majors who desire to learn more about computer and information technology. This online degree program includes 10 courses and takes 16-40 months to complete. 

2. Bachelor of Computer Science

(University of London)

This online computer science degree program is designed for students looking to gain computing skills. Students will specialize in 1 of 7 topics, including AI, data science, and web development, create a portfolio, and build valuable skills. This online degree program includes 23 modules and takes 3-6 years to complete. 

3. Master of Computer Science

(Arizona State University)

This online computer science degree program is designed to teach students a variety of topics and provide hands-on learning opportunities. This online degree program includes 10 courses and takes 18-36 months to complete.