• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Coursera
  • Online Degrees
  • Careers
  • Log In
  • Join for Free
    Coursera
    • Browse
    • Software Design

    Software Design Courses Online

    Learn software design for developing robust applications. Understand design patterns, object-oriented principles, and user-centered design.

    Skip to search results

    Filter by

    Subject
    Required
     *

    Language
    Required
     *

    The language used throughout the course, in both instruction and assessments.

    Learning Product
    Required
     *

    Level
    Required
     *

    Duration
    Required
     *

    Skills
    Required
     *

    Subtitles
    Required
     *

    Educator
    Required
     *

    Explore the Software Design Course Catalog

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Pennsylvania

      Business Analytics

      Skills you'll gain: People Analytics, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Human Capital, Business Analytics, Descriptive Analytics, Business Intelligence, Financial Data, Marketing Analytics, Analytics, Talent Management, Financial Analysis, Predictive Analytics, Human Resources Management and Planning, Peer Review, Business Analysis, Financial Statement Analysis, Financial Forecasting, Customer Insights, Workforce Planning, Demand Planning

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      18K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Michigan

      Python 3 Programming

      Skills you'll gain: Unified Modeling Language, JSON, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Software Design, Debugging, Object Oriented Design, Data Processing, Web Scraping, Unit Testing, Programming Principles, Data Import/Export, Restful API, Python Programming, Image Analysis, Data Manipulation, Jupyter, Maintainability, Data Structures, Software Engineering, File Management

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      23K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      G

      Google

      Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User

      Skills you'll gain: Package and Software Management, File Systems, Microsoft Windows, Desktop Support, Linux, Operating Systems, OS Process Management, Linux Administration, Remote Access Systems, System Monitoring, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Systems Administration, Technical Support and Services, File Management, Linux Commands, Software Installation, Identity and Access Management, Authorization (Computing), Virtualization

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      29K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of California, Davis

      Learn SQL Basics for Data Science

      Skills you'll gain: Data Governance, Presentations, SQL, Apache Spark, Distributed Computing, Descriptive Statistics, Data Lakes, Data Storytelling, Data Analysis, Peer Review, Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Quality, Data Pipelines, Databricks, Statistical Analysis, Database Design, Complex Problem Solving, Query Languages, Data Visualization, JSON

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      17K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      G

      Google

      Process Data from Dirty to Clean

      Skills you'll gain: Data Cleansing, Sampling (Statistics), Data Integrity, Data Quality, Data Validation, Sample Size Determination, Data Analysis, Data Manipulation, SQL, Data Transformation, Spreadsheet Software

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      18K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      IBM

      Generative AI for Data Scientists

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Generative AI, ChatGPT, Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Ethics, OpenAI, Feature Engineering, Predictive Modeling, Large Language Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Data Storytelling, Program Development, Data Modeling, Data Presentation, Predictive Analytics, Data Synthesis, Data Analysis, Data Cleansing, Data Visualization Software, Image Analysis

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      7K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      IBM

      IBM IT Support

      Skills you'll gain: Software Development Life Cycle, Computing Platforms, Cloud Computing Architecture, Technical Support, Technical Support and Services, Cloud Services, Peripheral Devices, Cybersecurity, Hardware Troubleshooting, IT Service Management, Cloud Security, Cloud Technologies, Cloud Infrastructure, Network Troubleshooting, Encryption, Data Storage, Professional Networking, Information Technology, Cloud Computing, Interviewing Skills

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      11K reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      IBM

      Generative AI for Data Analysts

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Generative AI, ChatGPT, Data Storytelling, OpenAI, Analytics, Data Analysis, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Dashboard, Large Language Modeling, Data Ethics, Artificial Intelligence, Program Development, Data Visualization Software, SQL, Python Programming, Query Languages, Content Creation, Image Analysis, Virtual Environment

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.9K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      Imperial College London

      Creative Thinking Tools for Success and Leadership

      Skills you'll gain: Creative Thinking, Brainstorming, Design Thinking, Ideation, Creativity, Creative Problem-Solving, Problem Solving, Cognitive flexibility, Innovation, Critical Thinking, Artificial Intelligence, Systems Thinking, Analysis

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      837 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)

      Introduction to Systems Engineering

      Skills you'll gain: Systems Engineering, Conceptual Design, Systems Design, Requirements Analysis, Systems Development Life Cycle, Requirements Elicitation, Systems Architecture, Systems Integration, Engineering Design Process, System Design and Implementation, Concept Of Operations, Configuration Management, Prototyping, System Requirements, Design Reviews, Verification And Validation

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      809 reviews

      Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      IBM

      Generative AI for Product Managers

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Generative AI, ChatGPT, Commercialization, Product Management, Product Lifecycle Management, Stakeholder Communications, OpenAI, Technical Product Management, Artificial Intelligence, Customer experience improvement, Team Building, Return On Investment, Product Development, New Product Development, Product Strategy, Microsoft Copilot, Large Language Modeling, Technical Communication, Image Analysis

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.9K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      IBM

      Generative AI for Data Engineers

      Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Generative AI, ChatGPT, Database Design, Data Pipelines, Query Languages, Extract, Transform, Load, OpenAI, Snowflake Schema, Star Schema, Data Warehousing, Data Ethics, Data Infrastructure, Data Architecture, Data Mining, Large Language Modeling, Data Synthesis, Artificial Intelligence, Program Development, Image Analysis

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.8K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Software Design learners also search

    Software
    Software Development
    Software Engineering
    C
    Software Project Management
    Software Engineering Projects
    Development
    C Programming
    1…161718…734

    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular software design courses

    • Business Analytics: University of Pennsylvania
    • Python 3 Programming: University of Michigan
    • Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User: Google
    • Learn SQL Basics for Data Science: University of California, Davis
    • Process Data from Dirty to Clean: Google
    • Generative AI for Data Scientists: IBM
    • IBM IT Support: IBM
    • Generative AI for Data Analysts: IBM
    • Creative Thinking Tools for Success and Leadership: Imperial College London
    • Introduction to Systems Engineering: UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)

    Skills you can learn in Software Development

    Programming Language (34)
    Google (25)
    Computer Program (21)
    Software Testing (21)
    Web (19)
    Google Cloud Platform (18)
    Application Programming Interfaces (17)
    Data Structure (16)
    Problem Solving (14)
    Object-oriented Programming (13)
    Kubernetes (10)
    List & Label (10)

    Frequently Asked Questions about Software Design

    Software design is the process of creating a plan to guide the development of a software solution based on an assessment of user requirements determined through research and testing. It is a very important phase of the software development lifecycle, as software design provides the foundation for subsequent coding and implementation by programmers and software engineers.

    The software design process may encompass many aspects including planning for software architecture, design of user interfaces and other visual elements, and the selection of software design patterns and other components. Application security is another critical consideration for software design, and implementing secure practices as early as possible in the software development lifecycle can help ensure that the final product provides adequate protections for business and customer data.‎

    An understanding of software design principles can be a terrific asset for a career in software development, as it provides an overarching view of the entire software development lifecycle. In some ways, you can think of the software designer as the architect whose vision directs the work of a team of engineers and construction workers. According to Glassdoor, software designers in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of $92,046 - significantly more than software programmers, whose average salary according to Glassdoor is $76,526.‎

    Certainly. Taking online courses on Coursera has become an incredibly popular way for students from around the world to learn about a wide range of computer science topics, including software design. Top-ranked schools like the University of Alberta, the University of Colorado, and the University of Minnesota offer individual courses as well as Specializations spanning multiple courses covering software design and related topics such as application security and software design patterns. And, since you can view lessons and complete coursework on a flexible schedule, you can build these valuable, job-ready skills regardless of whether you’re a student or a mid-career professional looking to upgrade your skill set.‎

    The skills and experience you might want to acquire before starting to learn software design would include practical knowledge and work experience in all kinds of software development work, from websites to apps to network maintenance and more. You may already have skills or experience in designing, developing, and installing software for enterprise information systems via an internship or job role.‎

    Some of the common career paths for someone in software design might include starting out in junior roles in web design and development, and possibly moving into creative director roles for gaming systems (if on the creative side), or software analysis manager, if more geared to the operational side of the business. Software design workers could also possibly branch off into deeply analytical roles like computer science engineer, or information research scientist, depending on the company and industry.‎

    The kind of people best suited for roles in software design are computer science enthusiasts, who love programming and are excited about creating new software possibilities. These people are often creative, focused, and cerebral individuals who know programming languages such as Java, SQL, and Python. These languages are important to know as a software designer’s work may include developing software projects and programs for external clients or internal company usage. They might also write code, create charts and diagrams to represent the software, and may even supervise a team of programmers.‎

    Learning software design may be right for you if you love design challenges, love working with new software tools, and are interested in building a lucrative career in software design. You may be able to earn a good income in software design, as jobs for software developers are expected to rise by over 20% in the next decade, according to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you find passion in work that involves designing computer systems, projecting network capabilities, and determining performance interfaces, then learning software design may be a good step in the right direction.‎

    Online Software Design courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Software Design skills. Choose from a wide range of Software Design courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

    When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Software Design, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

    Other topics to explore

    Arts and Humanities
    338 courses
    Business
    1095 courses
    Computer Science
    668 courses
    Data Science
    425 courses
    Information Technology
    145 courses
    Health
    471 courses
    Math and Logic
    70 courses
    Personal Development
    137 courses
    Physical Science and Engineering
    413 courses
    Social Sciences
    401 courses
    Language Learning
    150 courses

    Coursera Footer

    Technical Skills

    • ChatGPT
    • Coding
    • Computer Science
    • Cybersecurity
    • DevOps
    • Ethical Hacking
    • Generative AI
    • Java Programming
    • Python
    • Web Development

    Analytical Skills

    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Big Data
    • Business Analysis
    • Data Analytics
    • Data Science
    • Financial Modeling
    • Machine Learning
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft Power BI
    • SQL

    Business Skills

    • Accounting
    • Digital Marketing
    • E-commerce
    • Finance
    • Google
    • Graphic Design
    • IBM
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Social Media Marketing

    Career Resources

    • Essential IT Certifications
    • High-Income Skills to Learn
    • How to Get a PMP Certification
    • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
    • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
    • Popular Data Analytics Certifications
    • What Does a Data Analyst Do?
    • Career Development Resources
    • Career Aptitude Test
    • Share your Coursera Learning Story

    Coursera

    • About
    • What We Offer
    • Leadership
    • Careers
    • Catalog
    • Coursera Plus
    • Professional Certificates
    • MasterTrack® Certificates
    • Degrees
    • For Enterprise
    • For Government
    • For Campus
    • Become a Partner
    • Social Impact
    • Free Courses
    • ECTS Credit Recommendations

    Community

    • Learners
    • Partners
    • Beta Testers
    • Blog
    • The Coursera Podcast
    • Tech Blog
    • Teaching Center

    More

    • Press
    • Investors
    • Terms
    • Privacy
    • Help
    • Accessibility
    • Contact
    • Articles
    • Directory
    • Affiliates
    • Modern Slavery Statement
    • Do Not Sell/Share
    Learn Anywhere
    Download on the App Store
    Get it on Google Play
    Logo of Certified B Corporation
    © 2025 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
    • Coursera Facebook
    • Coursera Linkedin
    • Coursera Twitter
    • Coursera YouTube
    • Coursera Instagram
    • Coursera TikTok