Best Online C++ Courses and Programs
C++ is among the most popular languages for new coders to learn, powering many of the world’s most prominent applications. Explore C++ courses on edX today.
Developed in 1979 by Danish computer scientist Bjarne Stroustrup, C++ is an essential programming language used to develop operating systems, applications, financial trading systems, and video games. In an increasingly digital world, learning a popular programming language can help you launch or advance your career.
Explore the benefits of online C++ courses through edX and sign up for a class today.
Benefits of learning C++
C++ is a general-purpose programming language (GPL) that prioritizes efficiency and performance. It's commonly used to build software infrastructure as its code and objects are easily reusable. Because of the language's memory capabilities, programmers also use it to develop video games, embedded systems, and operating systems.
Many people learn C++ because it's widely applicable across programs like Linux, Windows, and macOS. Other benefits include:
- Flexibility: While C++ isn't the fastest programming language available, it also isn't the slowest. Developing a program with C++ doesn't require many resources. Therefore, many consider it one of the most dynamic programming languages, combining relative speed with flexibility.
- Compatibility: C++ is a popular language to learn because of its widespread use across various applications. It's often used to develop new systems from the ground up. For example, smart devices and other consumer electronics with network access are often created with C++.
- Control: As a low-level language, C++ is often the foundation for high-level languages like Python, C#, and Java. Its memory access can help you better understand coding at all levels and make more pinpointed changes to your projects.
- Relevance: Learning C++ can better position you to learn other programming languages down the line because many languages share the C++ coding syntax.
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C++ vs. Python
It's a common debate for aspiring programmers: Should you learn Python or C++? The right programming language for you depends on your goals and existing knowledge. According to a 2024 IEEE Spectrum report, C++ is the fourth most popular programming language, making it a valuable skill to learn.
Generally, C++ is best for programmers who want more customization options, speed, and memory management, whereas Python is simpler and easier to learn for web- and AI-based projects. As you decide which programming language to learn, consider the following factors:
| Feature | C++ | Python |
|---|---|---|
| Use cases | Operating systems, embedded software, game engines, and real-time applications | Data science tasks, web-based applications, AI, and machine learning |
| Execution speed | Very fast (compiled to machine code) | Slower (uses an interpreter) |
| Development speed | Slower (requires more setup, can come across as verbose for beginners) | Faster (flexible and concise) |
| Memory management | Manual with more control | Automatic with less control |
| Ease of learning | More complex to learn | Less complex to learn |
| Error handling | Compile-time checking | Runtime checking |
| Community and libraries | Robust for system-level tools | Large ecosystem for all domains |
How to get started in C++
1. Find the right C++ course or certificate for you
You can begin your C++ journey by assessing your goals. Depending on your career and project objectives, you may not want to invest in a full degree program yet.
Computer programming and engineering courses allow you to bolster your skills at home on your own schedule. While the time it takes to complete a course varies depending on the type, students generally finish in 5–8 weeks. You can audit edX courses for free and upgrade your access for $50–$150.
A professional certificate program comprises multiple classes that cover C++ skills and culminate in a certificate. Certificate programs, such as IBM's C++ Programming Essentials through edX, take around six months to complete and cost $300–$500.
2. Join a C++ community
Because C++ is open-source, many programmers join framework communities like the C++ Alliance to share their code. These communities allow you to discover and implement reusable code and objects. C++ courses offered through edX utilize discussion boards where you can ask questions and share tips while networking with other learners.
3. Practice C++
The C++ Committee releases an update every three years — practice can help you stay current with each iteration of the language. You should also continually practice C++ because, like spoken languages, repetition breeds familiarity. Users often discover new ways to use C++ and develop new theories by writing and editing code daily.
Once you're comfortable with initial coding exercises like “Hello, World!", you can begin developing projects on your own instead of testing pre-written code.
How long does it take to learn C++
With diligent daily practice, learning basic C++ may only take a few months of coursework. If your goal is to become an expert coder, consider pursuing a degree in computer programming or computer science.
Becoming a C++ expert can take years of training, practice, and exploration. Because it's open-source, C++ is constantly evolving. Coders can learn frameworks, called libraries, that support many functions. Each library takes time to learn and offers endless opportunities to grow your C++ skills.
Timeline for learning C++
Timeline for learning C++
Jobs that use C++
Browse some jobs that require coding knowledge below, with 2024 salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Software developers
Software developers use C++ to build high-performance systems for video games, design applications, and embedded systems for biotechnology, like medical devices.
- Median annual earnings: $131,450
- Job outlook (2024–34): +15%
Web developers
Web developers use C++ to create backend systems and servers for websites. This involves memory manipulation and scalability for large-scale applications.
- Median annual salary: $95,380
- Job outlook (2024–34): +7%
Computer programmers
Computer programmers use C++ to create software, operating systems, and applications for organizations and individuals.
- Median annual salary: $98,670
- Job outlook (2024–34): -6%
Your next steps on edX
Are you ready to take your computer science and software engineering career to the next level? Learning C++ can qualify you for exciting new opportunities. Your next steps may include:
- Researching coding languages to determine which is the best for your goals.
- Finding online resources like communities and courses to help you learn the language.
- Signing up for an online C++ course through edX to learn to code from some top experts.
Last updated October 24, 2025
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