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Learn Swift with online courses and programs

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly OS-based programming language, Swift is a great place to start. Its simple syntax reads much like high-level English, allowing developers to build dynamic projects quickly.

What is Swift?

Swift is an open-source coding language used to build apps for iOS, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Watch. It was created by Apple to give developers more freedom, control, and flexibility around their code, enabling them to work on complex projects with relative ease.

Developers who use Swift have the added benefit of built-in safety, which can help them avoid common mistakes and keep their code clean and secure. This also allows new developers to start building applications without having to worry about future issues.

Whether you’re a beginner programmer or you want to level up your skills for iOS development, learning Swift can lead to new professional opportunities. With edX, you can practice using the Swift compiler, package manager, and standard and core libraries as you prepare to start or advance your coding career.

Swift | Introduction Image Description

Swift course curriculum

While some experience with coding can be helpful when learning a new programming language, Swift’s beginner-friendliness makes it easy to jump right into building iOS apps. Courses that teach the fundamentals of iOS development may cover topics such as:

  • How to get started with app development and create your very first iOS app

  • How to utilize Apple developer tools to build your app

  • How to implement a range of features using the Swift programming language

  • How to distinguish well-written code from poorly-written code

  • How to follow programming best practices in Swift

From there, you might move on to coursework that allows you to gain hands-on practice using Swift and other app development tools to design and prototype your very own app. Curricula may also offer opportunities to share your finished app and gather feedback from real users.

Learning about how to use the Swift programming language can supplement your knowledge of web development and computer science. edX offers a variety of educational opportunities for learners interested in studying these topics, as well as a host of other disciplines. A boot camp can provide flexible hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education courses are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.

Explore jobs that use Swift

Thanks to its wide range of tools and libraries, Swift can be a useful tool for a variety of development professionals, including:

  • iOS developer: Can use Swift to create applications for Apple's iOS platform, including iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices.Footnote 1

  • Mobile application developer: Can use Swift and similar frameworks to develop cross-platform mobile applications.Footnote 2

  • User experience (UX) designer: Can use Swift to create interactive prototypes and understand the technical aspects of their design work.Footnote 3

  • Augmented reality (AR) developer: Can use Swift to build immersive and interactive AR experiences for Apple devices.Footnote 4

  • Full stack developer: Can use Swift for both front- and back-end coding when creating projects for Apple platforms.Footnote 5

While many of these roles exist within similar industries, employment qualifications for careers that may utilize the Swift programming language differ based on the position and employer. Some roles may require a higher level degree while others may only ask for a demonstration of skills that can be acquired in a coding boot camp, for example. Before deciding on which learning path will work best for you, research potential roles you hope to pursue and align your coursework with your professional aspirations.

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