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

Status: Free Trial
Akamai Technologies, Inc.
Managing Relational Databases
Skills you'll gain: SQL, Database Management, Relational Databases, Database Systems, Database Design, Database Theory, Data Manipulation, Query Languages, Data Management, Data Analysis
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
24 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica
Introdução ao Controle Moderno
Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Engineering Analysis, Systems Analysis, Matlab, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Simulation and Simulation Software, System Design and Implementation, Mathematical Modeling
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
51 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Project Development in Python
Skills you'll gain: DevOps, Agile Methodology, Docker (Software), Project Management, Needs Assessment, Prometheus (Software), Business Requirements, Project Planning, Jira (Software), Python Programming, Natural Language Processing, Portfolio Management, Communication, Professional Networking, Interviewing Skills
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
10 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of California San Diego
Learn to Teach Java
Skills you'll gain: Debugging, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Java, Programming Principles, Java Programming, Pedagogy, Program Development, Integrated Development Environments, Software Design, Computational Thinking, Computer Programming, Cultural Responsiveness, Test Case, Pseudocode, Algorithms, Data Structures
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
56 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Packt
Foundations of Data Analysis with Pandas and Python
Skills you'll gain: Data Import/Export, Pandas (Python Package), Pivot Tables And Charts, Jupyter, Microsoft Excel, Data Analysis, Data Manipulation, Python Programming, Data Structures, Integrated Development Environments, Development Environment, Software Installation, Object Oriented Programming (OOP)
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
19 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
The State University of New York
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) for Everyone
Skills you'll gain: Digital Assets, Blockchain, Market Liquidity, FinTech, Financial Market, Cryptography, Cryptographic Protocols, Financial Systems, Distributed Computing, Governance, Identity and Access Management, Market Data, Financial Regulation, Asset Management, Web Applications, Transaction Processing, Payment Systems, Financial Services, Emerging Technologies, Investments
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Codio
Getting Started with Generative AI APIs
Skills you'll gain: OpenAI, Large Language Modeling, Generative AI, ChatGPT, Prompt Engineering, Applied Machine Learning, Application Programming Interface (API), Natural Language Processing, Text Mining, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Performance Tuning
3.7
Rating, 3.7 out of 5 stars
23 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Packt
Building Autonomous AI Agents with LangGraph
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI Agents, Agentic systems, OpenAI, Artificial Intelligence, ChatGPT, Generative AI, Query Languages, User Interface (UI), Prompt Engineering, Large Language Modeling, Software Architecture, UI Components, Natural Language Processing, Python Programming, Human Machine Interfaces, Application Frameworks, Automation, Development Environment
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Procesamiento de Imágenes
Skills you'll gain: Image Analysis, Computer Vision, Computer Graphics, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Python Programming, Algorithms, Spatial Analysis, Linear Algebra
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
13 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
SAS
Predictive Modeling with Logistic Regression using SAS
Skills you'll gain: SAS (Software), Predictive Modeling, Statistical Modeling, Big Data, Regression Analysis, Data Analysis Software, Advanced Analytics, Statistical Machine Learning, Feature Engineering, Performance Analysis, Performance Measurement, Statistical Analysis, Data Manipulation, Data Cleansing
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
63 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
MathWorks
Introduction to Deep Learning for Computer Vision
Skills you'll gain: Computer Vision, Image Analysis, Matlab, Artificial Neural Networks, Deep Learning, Applied Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Predictive Modeling, Machine Learning Methods, Performance Tuning, Classification And Regression Tree (CART), Data Processing
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
9 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Coursera Project Network
Optimization of SQL query Tuning and Performance
Skills you'll gain: SQL, Query Languages, Database Design, Performance Tuning, Database Management, Database Development, Databases, Data Access
3.1
Rating, 3.1 out of 5 stars
29 reviews
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours