9 Places You Can Learn How to Code (for Free)
You can:
- Use HTML to fine-tune some wonky text paragraphs. Even the smallest bit of HTML knowledge can be helpful when dealing with finicky content management systems.
- Communicate better with your company's programmers. Maybe you don't need to be a programming pro yourself, but having basic code literacy will help you relate to the coders in your workplace and better understand how and why bugs occur.
- Optimize and test landing pages. Basic HTML and CSS are key if you want to optimize and test your landing pages. And trust me--you definitely want to be doing those things!
- Cut down on IT managers. While you'll likely still need some head IT honchos, more coders means less workout for the IT team.
- Empower creators. Understanding code opens up huge opportunities to create original, unique content, whether in the form of websites or through app development.
1. MIT open courseware
MIT offers free course content available for you to browse through at your leisure. Choose from courses such as:
- Introduction to Programming in Java
- Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
- Practical Programming in C
2. Code Academy
Code Academy is a well-known first stop for those looking to begin their coding education.
Students can choose from several different track courses, focusing on:
- JavaScript
- PHP
- Python
- jQuery
- Ruby
- HTML + CSS
3. Khan Academy
One of the original free online coding resources, Khan Academy has come a long way. With easy-to-follow course sections with step-by-step video tutorials, Khan Academy is a great place to get started with your coding career.
4. HTML5 Rocks
HTML5 Rocks is a Google project, with Google pro contributors bringing you the latest updates, resource guides, and slide decks for all things HTML5.
The language tends to be higher level, so it's probably more suited to those with some previous experience. However, ambitious newbies are still welcome.
5. Coursera
The king of online education, Coursera offers free classes from dozens of universities across the country, with a healthy smattering of coding classes for those with the desire to learn.
6. Udemy
Udemy offers a ton of great video courses on everything from personal improvement to computer programming. Most of the in-depth courses come with a cost, but there are often discounts and 50 percent coupons floating around the Web that can bring down prices.
There are also plenty of free courses which are well suited for beginners. Give them a shot!
7. Udacity
Udacity is another great source to jumpstart your coding cognition. You can pay for their guided courses, which include a personal coach to help you develop your skills and lead you in the right direction, or browse their courseware materials pro bono.
8. Google University Consortium
If you want to learn code, why not look to the king of the internet for help? Google'sUniversity Consortium offers free courses on:
- mobile/android development
- web development
- programming languages
The materials tend to be catered for more intermediate to advanced users, although there is a smattering of content for beginners too.
9. edX
edX offers tons of MOOCs, including courses on programming.
Current upcoming programming classes include:
These courses start soon, so sign up now!
