About this Course
In software engineering, a software design pattern is a general, reusable solution to a commonly occurring problem. Knowing how to apply design patterns can help you build software that’s fast, extensible and scalable.
In this course, we’ll start with an introduction to code design patterns — such as Factory, Singleton and Adapter — and the SOLID design principles used to build extensible designs efficiently. We’ll explore common system design components such as databases, caching and different kinds of architectural patterns, and then dive deeper into the techniques used to scale software systems like database sharding, distributed transactions, load balancing and asynchronous communication. By the end of the course, you’ll be familiar with the critical aspects of software architecture.
Because this course is for experienced programmers, it doesn’t teach any programming. It is language-agnostic, but coursework is in Python or C#.
▸ Related Article: How to Become a Software Developer
DESIGNED FOR
Those with experience coding in a common programming language — like Python, C#, C++, Java — and who are looking to move into computer science or software development.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must have ONE of the following:
- Completed Foundations of Programming (Python)
- Combination of:
- Basic programming knowledge: Understanding of fundamental programming concepts and syntax in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, Java, C#).
- Familiarity with development tools: Experience with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems (e.g., Git), and basic debugging tools.
- Basic understanding of the software development lifecycle (SDLC): Awareness of the phases of software development, from requirements gathering to deployment.
- Mathematical foundations: Solid grasp of basic mathematics, particularly in areas relevant to programming and algorithm design such as logic, algebra and potentially discrete math.
- Problem-solving skills: Ability to break down complex problems into manageable tasks.
TIME COMMITMENT
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about six to 10 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
- Access to a computer with:
- Recent operating system (Windows 10 or later/Mac OS X 10.7.4 or later) and web browser
- Administrator privileges to install software
- High-speed internet connection
- Headset and webcam (recommended)
Completing the Course
To successfully complete this course, you must fulfill the requirements outlined by your instructor.
▸ Explore More: Looking to build your software skills? Take a look at our new Software Algorithms & Data Structures course.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
- Ways to apply software design principles and design patterns to build components of a software application
- Define the high-level structure of a software system and the principles of its design
- Experience with the latest specialized design paradigms
- How and when to choose between relational and non-relational databases
- Techniques for answering and solving common system design interview problems
GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
- Design an individual software component
- Build the architecture of a larger software system that includes the interactions between multiple components