About this Program
When software developers need different software systems to “talk” to one another and exchange data, they often implement a set of rules known as an API, or application programming interface. Because every API is unique and complex, API documentation is a vital “instruction manual” to guide this work.
In this one-course specialization, you’ll discover what it takes to write clear, accurate API documentation. Gain a competitive edge as you learn how to create documentation that multitasks — that helps guide human software engineers, as well as train the AI tools used to speed up the API documentation process. You’ll learn best practices for documenting API endpoints, authentication, security protocols, and usage workflows. Plus, you’ll explore the ethical use of AI to support your own technical writing and build your readiness to prepare modern API documentation for today’s software industry.
Designed For
Technical writers, software developers, and professionals in related roles who want to build skills in API documentation and prepare for AI-driven change in the industry.
See Requirements
Admission Requirements
To apply, you must have ONE of the following:
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about seven to nine hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have advanced English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the C1 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 a recent operating system
- Administrator privileges and 100GB of free disk space to install required software
- High-speed internet connection
- Dual monitors or a wide monitor (recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.
Skills You'll Gain
- API security and authorization
- API testing and test tools
- Application deployment
- Docs-as-code workflow
- Markdown
- Postman API platform
- REST API architecture
- Technical documentation
- Technical writing
- Usability testing
Get Real-World Experience
- Get practice using industry-standard tools such as OpenAPI Specification (OAS), Swagger UI, Markdown and Postman
- Develop a professional API documentation project in a docs-as-code scenario
- Build a GitHub-based portfolio to showcase your skills
EARN A DIGITAL BADGE
After successfully completing this program, you can claim a digital achievement badge that can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges.
Career Stats
13%
Projected growth in U.S. demand for technical documentation skills (2025–27)
9%
Projected growth in U.S. demand for API design skills (2025–27)
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.