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.

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Find the Best C Programming Course for Your Goals

Status: Free Trial
Google Cloud
Innovating with Google Cloud Artificial Intelligence - 日本語版
Skills you'll gain: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Google Cloud Platform, Artificial Intelligence, Data Ethics, Data Quality, Machine Learning, Cloud API, Business Intelligence, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Application Programming Interface (API), Predictive Analytics
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Meta
Proyecto final sobre la aplicación para iOS
Skills you'll gain: Swift Programming, Apple iOS, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, User Interface (UI), Apple Xcode, Mobile Development, User Experience, Application Development, Wireframing, Git (Version Control System), Application Deployment
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free
Google Cloud
Workload Manager Validation for SQL Server
Skills you'll gain: Microsoft SQL Servers, SQL, Database Management, Google Cloud Platform, System Configuration, Performance Testing
Intermediate · Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Status: Free Trial
Meta
التعامل مع البيانات في Android
Skills you'll gain: Restful API, Android Development, Kotlin, API Design, Android Studio, Mobile Development, JSON, Database Management, Database Application, Databases, Web Applications, SQL
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Packt
Advanced Full Stack Development and SwiftUI Basics
Skills you'll gain: Node.JS, Back-End Web Development, User Accounts, Server Side, Swift Programming, Full-Stack Web Development, Data Security, Apple iOS, Authentications, API Gateway, Mobile Development, Real Time Data, User Interface (UI), Application Development, JSON, Data Modeling, Debugging
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Board Infinity
Building iOS Applications with UIKit and SwiftUI
Skills you'll gain: Apple iOS, Apple Xcode, Swift Programming, Mobile Development, Model View Controller, User Interface (UI), UI Components, User Interface (UI) Design, Application Development, Storyboarding
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Packt
Introduction to AJAX and Mini-Projects
Skills you'll gain: Ajax, Server Side, Web Applications, Javascript, JSON, Node.JS, PHP (Scripting Language), Restful API, Extensible Markup Language (XML), Application Programming Interface (API), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), User Interface (UI)
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Northeastern University
Comprehensive UX and Responsive Web Design
Skills you'll gain: Web Design and Development, Responsive Web Design, HTML and CSS, Front-End Web Development, Web Development Tools, React.js, User Interface (UI), Javascript, Web Servers, Semantic Web, Command-Line Interface
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
H2O.ai
H2O GPTe Learning Path
Skills you'll gain: Large Language Modeling, Generative AI, Web Applications, Artificial Intelligence, Data Processing, Prompt Engineering, Agentic systems, Information Architecture, Application Programming Interface (API), Automation, Data Analysis
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Packt
The Ultimate Swagger Tools Course: Build OpenAPI with Ease
Skills you'll gain: API Design, Collaborative Software, Application Programming Interface (API), Restful API, Software Development Tools, Web Services, Test Tools, Software Documentation, Mockups, Software Versioning, Server Side
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Packt
Blender to Unreal Engine 5 — 3D Props - Medieval Market
Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, Unreal Engine, Computer Graphics, Video Game Development, Computer Graphic Techniques, Animation and Game Design, Graphical Tools
Beginner · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Universidades Anáhuac
Deep Learning: Del Concepto a la Práctica
Skills you'll gain: Artificial Neural Networks, Keras (Neural Network Library), Deep Learning, Applied Machine Learning, Tensorflow, Image Analysis, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Artificial Intelligence, Python Programming
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks