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Explore C# courses online

C# (“c sharp”) is a popular programming language, used to build websites, mobile apps, video games, and more. Having skills as a C# developer can open the door to many industries and jobs. Explore the edX guide on how to learn C# online.

What is C# (c sharp)?

C# (“c sharp”) is a general purpose, object-oriented, component-oriented programming language that is a hybrid of C and C++. C# was developed by Microsoft and is primarily used to create software components suitable for distributed environments.1 Microsoft's primary programming language, C# is a key skill needed by developers working with Microsoft tools.2 C# coding can also run on Linux, Android, and iOS devices.

What is C# used for? C# programming can be used to build interactive websites, mobile apps, video games, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), desktop applications and back-end services. Mobile games such as Pokémon Go and websites like Stack Overflow are built on C# (Unity and ASP.NET, respectively).3

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C# online course curriculum

There are numerous online C# courses and C# tutorials for programmers to learn at their own pace, ranging from foundational concepts to advanced skills.

For example, an introductory C# programming course will typically cover the “C sharp” language and the world of .NET programming. Designed for beginners, these types of classes set learners up for future programming language learning opportunities within computer science.

A more focused C# class on algorithms and data structures will expand a learner’s working knowledge of C# programming, providing a solid foundation in the use of data structures and algorithms, as well as algorithm implementation.

A longer C# program may include a course on object-oriented programming that builds upon working knowledge of C sharp and lambda expressions. Learners may focus on core object-oriented programming concepts, how to use classes and objects in a C# data types application, and resource management in C sharp and the .NET framework. Learners can also build a working knowledge of encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism.

Other C# online course offerings cover a wide range of topics to facilitate C# learning, including common language runtime (CLR), open source concepts, entity frameworks, visual studio, and more. These additional source code courses can help learners understand the role of C#, how it works with programs like Windows, and how to implement its features into programming tasks.

Discover C# jobs

Many industries have roles that use the C# programming language, including the gaming industry, financial institutions, national security agencies, and more. Being a C# programmer with proficiency in C programming language skills can open up the door to numerous career paths. Positions that may seek applicants with C# experience include:

  • Cloud developer
  • Software engineer
  • Mobile developer
  • Game developer
  • Machine learning engineer

How to become a C# developer

Because of C#’s longevity and popularity in the industry, there are many resources and classes available to educate interested learners about the programming language. There is no single path to becoming a C# developer. Consider your prior experience and explore the various offerings on edX and elsewhere to identify what you need to pursue a career as a C# programmer.

For example, online bachelor’s in computer and data science programs may include coursework covering algorithms, data structures, and programming languages. Online master’s in data science degree programs may build on that knowledge to teach learners data visualization, data management, machine learning, and user experience fundamentals. An online master’s in engineering will likely focus specifically on computer engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), and engineering management.

However, learners aren’t limited to traditional programs. To help a learner on their path to becoming a C# developer, many C# training programs will include lessons on working with classes, structure types, and variables.² Once they’ve mastered the basics, learners can dig deeper into the essential features of C#, discovering how to create better C# programs by using efficient algorithms and how to build better code by leveraging design patterns in C#.

Experienced C# developers suggest a good place to begin putting knowledge to practice is by learning how to make a console application.4 An example problem could be searching through a Windows directory and writing all filenames matching a given pattern to a text file. The next step is learning how to use databases, such as Entity Framework, followed by learning how to write automated tests, such as xUnit.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does it take to learn C#?

    The length of time will depend on each individual’s goals and time commitment. Some C# programming courses are self-paced, requiring an estimated three to four hours per week for six weeks, whereas a professional certificate program may take six months to complete. For those seeking a full degree, a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in a field such as computer science can take more than a year.

    What’s the difference between C# and C++?

    There are a number of differences between the two programming languages. C++ is a low-level language, while C# is a high-level object-oriented language. Whereas C++ includes very complex features, C# is considered somewhat easy because it has a well-defined hierarchy of classes. They also have different applications. C++ is typically used for console applications, while C# programming is used to develop mobile, Windows, and console applications.

    How difficult is it to learn C#?

    Learning any new skill can be challenging, and programming is no exception. However, C# is often considered to have a shallow learning curve. C# is an object-oriented language, which means that it uses classes and objects to structure data. This programming paradigm is ideal for beginners, since it allows you to reduce repetition in your code and better control how data is structured.

    What are the best C# courses?

    The best C# course is the one that fits your goals, budget and timeline. Whether you spend a few hours a week teaching yourself C# basics with a free online tutorial or you choose to learn C# as part of a full degree program, edX offers numerous options to further your education and grow your career as a C# developer.

    How is C# similar to Java?

    According to the TIOBE index, which measures the popularity of programming languages, C# and Java are two of the most popular languages. C# and Java are both object-oriented programming languages (built around objects as opposed to actions or data) heavily influenced by C++. Their syntax and features have a lot of similarities, although C# has more features because it is newer. While both languages depend on third-party frameworks and reusable components, Java has more frameworks than C# and is slightly more portable.

    Is pursuing C# online worth it?

    C# is one of the most popular programming languages which can open up employment opportunities for job seekers in this field. Learners trying to decide if pursuing C# online is worth it, should consider what their career goals are and what qualifications employers in the industry are, including on job listings.

    1. A Tour of C#. (2022). Microsoft Docs. Retrieved September 9, 2022.

    2. Become a C Sharp Developer. (2022). LinkedIn. Retrieved September 9, 2022.

    3. What is C#? . Retrieved September 9, 2022.

    4. How To Become A C# Developer. (2021). Oxford Computer Consultants. Retrieved September 9, 2022.