How to learn C programming?

Whether you’re learning C programming for software development, systems programming, or academic purposes, having a clear goal can guide your learning. Consistent practice with coding and debugging is critical. Join communities like Stack Overflow or Reddit's r/C_Programming to ask questions and share knowledge. Work on real projects such as creating small programs. Introduction to C and C++ Specialization by Duke University on is a great starting resource.

What are the best C programming courses on Coursera?

Top options include C Programming for Beginners from Duke University and C Programming for Everybody from the University of Michigan . These courses cover everything from basic syntax to advanced topics like pointers, memory management, and data structures .

Can I learn C programming for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many C programming courses offer a free audit option, allowing learners to access video lessons and reading materials at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a C programming course?

You’ll learn how to write C code, understand control structures (like loops and conditionals), use functions, work with arrays and strings, and manage memory with pointers. Some courses also cover debugging and testing C programs.

Do I need coding experience to start learning C programming?

Not at all. Many courses are designed for beginners and introduce C concepts step by step. However, some familiarity with basic programming logic can be helpful, especially if you want to move on to more advanced topics or other programming languages.

"Can Coursera’s C programming courses help me in my career? "

Yes. C programming is fundamental in areas like embedded systems , game development , and operating systems. Coursera courses can help you build job-ready skills, strengthen your programming foundation, and prepare for roles that require low-level programming expertise.

Top C Programming Courses - Learn C Programming Online

Find the Best C Programming Course for Your Goals

Coursera Project Network
Data Science Coding Challenge: Loan Default Prediction
Skills you'll gain: Applied Machine Learning, Jupyter, Data Processing, Predictive Modeling, Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, Data Manipulation, Data Science, Python Programming
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
92 reviews
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Status: Free Trial
LearnQuest
Spring Data Repositories
Skills you'll gain: Spring Framework, Hibernate (Java), Object-Relational Mapping, Transaction Processing, Databases, Java, Restful API, Data Access, Web Services, Middleware
3.9
Rating, 3.9 out of 5 stars
47 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Davis
Data Manipulation in JavaScript
Skills you'll gain: Ajax, Javascript and jQuery, Data Validation, JSON, Javascript, Event-Driven Programming, Web Development Tools, Application Programming Interface (API), Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Maintainability, Debugging
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
69 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Google Cloud
Cloud SQL for MySQL: Qwik Start
Skills you'll gain: MySQL, Database Administration, Google Cloud Platform, Cloud Hosting, Database Management, Cloud Management, SQL
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
49 reviews
Beginner · Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Advanced Python Development Techniques
Skills you'll gain: Data Structures, Generative AI, Test Driven Development (TDD), Integration Testing, Python Programming, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Cloud Applications, Serverless Computing, Cloud Computing, Microsoft Azure, Algorithms, Software Documentation, Software Development Tools, Maintainability, Code Review, Software Development, Technical Documentation, Application Deployment
3.8
Rating, 3.8 out of 5 stars
6 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
LearnQuest
iOS App Store & In-App Purchases
Skills you'll gain: Apple iOS, iOS Development, Transaction Processing, Software As A Service, Mobile Development, User Interface (UI), UI Components, Payment Systems, User Experience
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
88 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
EDUCBA
Web Application Development with ASP.NET Core
Skills you'll gain: ASP.NET, Restful API, Object-Relational Mapping, Web Applications, User Accounts, Data Integrity, Single Sign-On (SSO), Application Programming Interface (API), Authentications, Back-End Web Development, Performance Tuning, Authorization (Computing), Relational Databases, Identity and Access Management, Data Validation, Model View Controller, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Security, Middleware
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
33 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Davis
Interactivity with JavaScript and jQuery
Skills you'll gain: Javascript and jQuery, jQuery, Scripting, Scripting Languages, Javascript, UI Components, Web Development Tools, Game Design, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Event-Driven Programming, Animations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
64 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Packt
Python for Finance: Investment Fundamentals & Data Analytics
Skills you'll gain: Regression Analysis, Risk Analysis, Portfolio Management, Financial Analysis, Risk Management, Financial Modeling, Statistical Analysis, Data Visualization, Investment Management, Simulations, Financial Forecasting, Python Programming, Matplotlib, Pandas (Python Package), Jupyter, NumPy, Data Manipulation
Intermediate · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Maryland, College Park
Agile Project Management
Skills you'll gain: User Story, Sprint Planning, Prioritization, Brainstorming, Conflict Management, Agile Project Management, Scaled Agile Framework, Program Management, Backlogs, Innovation, Agile Software Development, Team Motivation, Sprint Retrospectives, Ideation, Solution Design, Agile Methodology, Project Portfolio Management, Empowerment, Discussion Facilitation, Agile Product Development
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
10 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
MathWorks
Machine Learning for Computer Vision
Skills you'll gain: Computer Vision, Image Analysis, Matlab, Applied Machine Learning, Machine Learning, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Data Validation, Performance Testing
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
23 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Epic Games
Game Development and Prototyping
Skills you'll gain: Game Design, Video Game Development, Prototyping, Unreal Engine, Animation and Game Design, System Design and Implementation, Creativity, User Interface (UI), Artificial Intelligence
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
12 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks