What is software architecture?

Software architecture describes a computing system or program's structure, as well as the decisions that are made about how software systems are organized and how structural elements are selected. It integrates elements like object-oriented analysis and design, web service, and representational state transfer (REST), to create software applications and systems that are flexible and reusable. There are five patterns in software architecture, including layered, event-driven, microkernel, microservices, and space-based.

What benefits will I gain if I learn software architecture?

Learning software architecture is essential for building systems that will last. You'll discover techniques for building software that's flexible and scalable all while making informed design decisions that allow you to execute safer, faster, better software and for less money. You'll receive training in programming, systems design and development operations, all of which allow you to progress in your career or enter a new industry. You'll get skills in software development and gain the ability to execute solutions and lead a team of software engineers.

What are typical careers that use software architecture?

Typically, software architects study software architecture. There's a fair amount of variance in the titles you'll see. Other job titles you might encounter include application architects, enterprise architects, solutions architects, and technical architects. For some, it's the next step in their careers after becoming a senior developer. For anyone who wants to enter the field directly, there are entry-level positions to get you started. Software architects commonly work in an office environment, although you may have remote work opportunities available to you as well. If this is a career you're interested in, expect to spend the majority of your work time sitting in front of a computer.

What kind of people are best suited for roles in software architecture?

People ideally suited for working in software architecture have a mixture of solid technical skills and leadership qualities because working in software architecture requires taking the technical lead on projects. While project managers deal with resources and scheduling, the software architect makes technical decisions, organizes the team, and contributes to planning activities around the architecture. Other traits that are useful to have include design skills, programming skills, and a background in or a good understanding of the software development process. Having knowledge of the business domain is also helpful since it provides insight into the requirements that will have to be considered to create solutions that best solve the problem.

What are the benefits of taking an online Software Architecture course?

Online Software Architecture courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Software Architecture skills. Choose from a wide range of Software Architecture courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

What Software Architecture courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Software Architecture, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here .

Top Software Architecture Courses - Learn Software Architecture Online

Explore the Software Architecture Course Catalog

University of Colorado Boulder
Software Architecture Patterns for Big Data
Skills you'll gain: Performance Testing, Scalability, Data Architecture, Software Architecture, Distributed Computing, Predictive Modeling, Load Balancing, Database Architecture and Administration, Application Performance Management, Database Systems, System Design and Implementation, Data Store
Build toward a degree
3.6
Rating, 3.6 out of 5 stars
28 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Alberta
Software Processes and Agile Practices
Skills you'll gain: Agile Methodology, Kanban Principles, Agile Software Development, Software Development Methodologies, Software Development Life Cycle, Scrum (Software Development), Waterfall Methodology
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
5.3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Duke University
Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Java, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Software Design, Data Structures, Debugging, Software Engineering, Cryptography, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Web Development, Programming Principles, Javascript, Encryption, Algorithms, Program Development, Web Design, Front-End Web Development, Statistical Analysis, Data Import/Export, Computer Programming
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
22K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
University of Colorado Boulder
Introduction to Embedded Systems Software and Development Environments
Skills you'll gain: Software Configuration Management, Embedded Software, Embedded Systems, Git (Version Control System), Version Control, System Programming, Build Tools, Software Development Tools, C (Programming Language), Development Environment, Code Review, Computer Architecture, Debugging, Command-Line Interface
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
630 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
IBM
Python for Data Science, AI & Development
Skills you'll gain: Jupyter, Automation, Web Scraping, Python Programming, Data Manipulation, Data Import/Export, Scripting, Data Structures, Data Processing, Data Collection, Application Programming Interface (API), Pandas (Python Package), Programming Principles, NumPy, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Computer Programming
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
41K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
IBM
DevOps, Cloud, and Agile Foundations
Skills you'll gain: Agile Software Development, Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Services, Agile Methodology, DevOps, Kanban Principles, Cloud Security, Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Platforms, Cloud Computing, Agile Project Management, Cloud-Native Computing, User Story, Cloud Storage, Sprint Retrospectives, Sprint Planning, Workflow Management, CI/CD, Test Driven Development (TDD), Scrum (Software Development)
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
12K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: From Nand to Tetris (Project-Centered Course)
Skills you'll gain: Computer Architecture, Hardware Architecture, Computer Engineering, Computer Hardware, Computational Logic, Systems Architecture, Computer Programming, System Design and Implementation, Program Development, Data Storage
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
3.7K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Macquarie University
Excel Skills for Business
Skills you'll gain: Microsoft Excel, Dashboard, Excel Formulas, Spreadsheet Software, Data Visualization, Excel Macros, Data Validation, Data Analysis Expressions (DAX), Data Cleansing, Data Modeling, Business Intelligence, Financial Modeling, Workflow Management, Data Management, Microsoft 365, Consolidation, Data Integrity, Data Entry, Business Reporting, Productivity Software
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
62K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
IBM
AI Foundations for Everyone
Skills you'll gain: ChatGPT, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, Data Ethics, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), OpenAI, IBM Cloud, Private Cloud, Data Loss Prevention, Deep Learning, WordPress, Artificial Neural Networks, Cloud Services, Application Deployment, Governance, Machine Learning, Business Transformation, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Software Development Tools, Image Analysis
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
25K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
IBM
IBM AI Foundations for Business
Skills you'll gain: Data Mining, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Data Ethics, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Big Data, Information Architecture, Strategic Decision-Making, Cloud Computing, Data Analysis, Data Science, Deep Learning, Digital Transformation, Data Strategy, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Artificial Neural Networks, Business Strategy, Business Process Automation, Technology Strategies, Business Logic
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
92K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Meta
Meta Front-End Developer
Skills you'll gain: Jest (JavaScript Testing Framework), Version Control, User Research, UI/UX Research, Usability Testing, Responsive Web Design, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Data Structures, Unix Commands, HTML and CSS, Git (Version Control System), Persona (User Experience), GitHub, Interaction Design, Bootstrap (Front-End Framework), React.js, Mobile Development, Front-End Web Development, Algorithms, Web Development Tools
Build toward a degree
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
22K reviews
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
University of Virginia Darden School Foundation
IBM & Darden Digital Strategy
Skills you'll gain: Strategic Thinking, Digital Transformation, Business Strategy, Cloud Computing Architecture, Competitive Analysis, Cloud Services, Business Transformation, Cloud Security, Cloud Infrastructure, Big Data, Cloud Platforms, Data Analysis, Statistical Analysis, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Data Ethics, Apache Hadoop, Product Lifecycle Management, Business Technologies
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
44K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months