We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Developing AR/VR/MR/XR Apps with WebXR, Unity & Unreal

Michael Nebeling

Michael Nebeling

This third course in the XR for Everybody specialization is geared toward the technical development of XR experiences. The course provides learners with a more technical mental model of XR technologies and the tools to approach XR development with confidence. It walks through the stages of development for both VR and AR projects, introducing the main XR development platforms as well as the key methods and tools. This third course also helps learners infer advanced XR requirements from physical/digital prototypes and teaches them how to differentiate major technical concerns, estimate development costs, and plan research necessary to advance XR.

Read more

This third course in the XR for Everybody specialization is geared toward the technical development of XR experiences. The course provides learners with a more technical mental model of XR technologies and the tools to approach XR development with confidence. It walks through the stages of development for both VR and AR projects, introducing the main XR development platforms as well as the key methods and tools. This third course also helps learners infer advanced XR requirements from physical/digital prototypes and teaches them how to differentiate major technical concerns, estimate development costs, and plan research necessary to advance XR.

This course also has an honors track that guides learners in the implementation of 3D, VR, and AR scenes in WebXR using A-Frame and in Unity, and helps them generate a development plan with clear milestones and deliverables.

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

XR Development Approaches

This first module will cover three main approaches to XR development: WebXR, Unity, and Unreal. Each approach requires different development tools, programming languages, and technical skills. They also differ in the fidelity and quality that can be achieved and in how many devices and users can be reached with each. In addition to getting a fundamental overview of XR development platforms and tools, a main goal this week is to make the jump from 2D to 3D: many of our learners will be familiar with web and mobile development, but 3D development is quite different. In the honors track, I will guide you through the creation of your first 3D scene using WebXR, Unity, or Unreal. I will also provide first steps instructions in each of them, allowing you to analyze and compare before choosing your approach and tools.

Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores theory and techniques highly relevant to XR industry

Teaches advanced techniques in XR, which are not covered in many other courses

Offers an honors track, which provides additional guidance and hands-on learning opportunities

Uses a variety of media, including videos, readings, and discussions, to enhance learning

Covers unique perspectives and ideas in XR, which may add color to other topics and subjects

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Foundational xr development with webxr emphasis

According to students, this course offers a solid and comprehensive introduction to XR development, covering WebXR, Unity, and Unreal. Learners frequently praise the instructor's clear explanations and enthusiasm, making complex 3D concepts accessible, especially for those new to the field. The course provides a strong foundation for aspiring XR developers and is particularly noted for its hands-on WebXR and A-Frame demonstrations. While generally well-received for beginners, some feedback indicates that the depth for Unity and Unreal might be insufficient for intermediate learners, as the practical examples lean heavily towards WebXR. Recent updates suggest an ongoing effort to keep content relevant.

Content has been updated, addressing past concerns.

"The updated content on WebXR frameworks... was incredibly helpful."

"Some parts felt outdated, especially the older Unity content... but recent updates have improved this."

"I'm glad to see recent course material reflecting the evolving XR landscape."

Strong practical WebXR content and helpful labs.

"The updated content on WebXR frameworks, especially A-Frame, was incredibly helpful."

"The hands-on labs in the honors track truly solidify understanding."

"The WebXR examples were particularly useful for rapid prototyping, which I appreciated."

Instructor provides clear, enthusiastic, and expert guidance.

"The instructor's enthusiasm and clear explanations make complex topics accessible."

"Absolutely loved this course! The instructor is fantastic and clearly an expert."

"The instructor has a clear passion for the subject, making the learning engaging."

Excellent for newcomers to XR and 3D development.

"This course is perfect for beginners looking to understand the XR ecosystem."

"I had no prior experience with 3D development, but now I feel confident in tackling basic VR/AR projects."

"It's a really solid course for getting started with XR development, providing a great starting point."

May be too introductory for experienced developers.

"The course provides a decent overview, but it felt a bit too introductory for someone with some prior game dev experience."

"It's good, but lacks the depth needed for intermediate learners."

"If you're looking for an in-depth Unity or Unreal bootcamp, this isn't it; it's more of a broad overview."

Limited practical depth for Unity and Unreal.

"While it gives a good overview of all three, I felt that the Unity and Unreal sections could have been more in-depth."

"I was hoping for more advanced Unity/Unreal integration and deeper dives into performance optimization."

"Most of the practical examples lean heavily on WebXR/A-Frame, which wasn't my primary focus for Unity/Unreal."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Developing AR/VR/MR/XR Apps with WebXR, Unity & Unreal with these activities:

Review 3D rendering software

Show steps

3D rendering is a key skill required to build XR applications.

Show steps

Identify which 3D rendering software to use for your XR project.
Download and install the 3D rendering software.
Complete introductory tutorials on the software.
Experiment with the software by creating simple 3D objects.

Build a simple VR scene

Show steps

Build a simple VR scene to apply what you've learned about VR development.

Browse courses on VR

Show steps

Choose a VR platform and development environment.
Create a new VR project.
Design the layout and objects of your VR scene.
Add interactivity and navigation to your VR scene.
Test and iterate on your VR scene.

Follow tutorials on creating AR experiences

Show steps

Following tutorials will help you develop the skills needed to build AR experiences.

Browse courses on AR

Show steps

Identify online tutorials that align with your interests.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
Experiment with the code and concepts presented in the tutorials.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Join a study group for XR development

Show steps

Joining a study group will provide opportunities to collaborate and learn.

Browse courses on XR

Show steps

Identify or form a study group with other students.
Establish regular meeting times.
Discuss course materials and XR development concepts.
Work on projects together.

Create a presentation on XR technology trends

Show steps

Create a presentation on XR technology trends to synthesize your understanding.

Browse courses on XR

Show steps

Research the latest trends in XR technology.
Develop an outline for your presentation.
Create visual aids and slides for your presentation.
Rehearse and practice delivering your presentation.
Present your findings to a group.

Attend a workshop on XR user experience design

Show steps

Attending a workshop will augment your understanding of XR user experience design.

Browse courses on XR

Show steps

Find an upcoming workshop on XR user experience design.
Register for the workshop.
Attend the workshop and actively participate.
Apply the knowledge and skills gained in the workshop to your XR projects.

Participate in an XR development competition

Show steps

Participate in an XR development competition to test and showcase your skills.

Browse courses on XR

Show steps

Find an XR development competition to participate in.
Form a team.
Develop an XR project.
Submit your project to the competition.
Attend the competition and present your project.

Career center

Learners who complete Developing AR/VR/MR/XR Apps with WebXR, Unity & Unreal will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

XR Developer

XR Developers primarily work with virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). However, many XR Developers are expected to develop for all three mediums in the near future. They use their knowledge of programming, design, and XR devices to develop experiences for users. Some XR Developers work as engineers and designers, and some work in a combined role as an XR Engineer-Designer. This course may be helpful for a career as an XR Developer because it provides learners with a more technical mental model of XR technologies and the tools to approach XR development with confidence.

See salaries and explore the career path for XR Developer

AR/VR/MR/XR Engineer

AR/VR/MR/XR Engineers design, develop, and maintain augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), and extended reality (XR) software and hardware. This course may be useful for a career as an AR/VR/MR/XR Engineer as it provides learners with a more technical mental model of XR technologies and the tools to approach XR development with confidence.

See salaries and explore the career path for AR/VR/MR/XR Engineer

Web Developer

Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites and web applications. They use a variety of programming languages and technologies to create websites and web applications that are both functional and visually appealing. This course may be helpful for a career as a Web Developer because it helps learners gain experience with WebXR, a technology that allows for the development of immersive web experiences in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Game Developer

Game Developers design, develop, and maintain video games. They use a variety of programming languages and technologies to create video games that are both fun and challenging. This course may be helpful for a career as a Game Developer because it introduces learners to the basics of XR development, which is becoming increasingly important in the gaming industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Developer

UX Designer

UX Designers research, design, and evaluate the user experience of websites, web applications, and other digital products. They use a variety of methods to understand the needs of users and create products that are both usable and enjoyable. This course may be helpful for a career as a UX Designer because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the design of digital products.

See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make better decisions. They use a variety of programming languages and technologies to wrangle, clean, and analyze data. This course may be helpful for a career as a Data Scientist because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the collection and analysis of data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Product Manager

Product Managers plan, develop, and launch new products. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and marketers, to bring new products to market. This course may be helpful for a career as a Product Manager because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the development of new products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They use a variety of programming languages and technologies to create software that is both functional and efficient. This course may be helpful for a career as a Software Engineer because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the development of software systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists research, design, and develop computer systems and applications. They use a variety of programming languages and technologies to create new and innovative ways to solve problems. This course may be helpful for a career as a Computer Scientist because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the development of new computer systems and applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Information Technology (IT) Manager

IT Managers plan, implement, and manage information technology systems. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including employees, customers, and vendors, to ensure that IT systems meet the needs of the organization. This course may be helpful for a career as an IT Manager because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the management of IT systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology (IT) Manager

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to help businesses solve complex problems. They use a variety of data analysis techniques to identify problems and develop solutions. This course may be helpful for a career as an Operations Research Analyst because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the collection and analysis of data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make better decisions. They use a variety of statistical techniques to identify patterns and trends in data. This course may be helpful for a career as a Statistician because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the collection and analysis of data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. They use a variety of writing and editing skills to create documentation that is both clear and concise. This course may be helpful for a career as a Technical Writer because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the development of technical documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Teacher

Teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects. They use a variety of teaching methods to help students learn and grow. This course may be helpful for a career as a Teacher because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the delivery of instruction.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers develop and implement educational programs and materials. They use a variety of instructional design principles and techniques to create programs that are both effective and engaging. This course may be helpful for a career as an Instructional Designer because it provides learners with experience with XR technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in the development of educational programs and materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Developing AR/VR/MR/XR Apps with WebXR, Unity & Unreal.

Cover image

Cover image

Hands-On Artificial Intelligence with Unreal Engine

Save

Targets Unreal Engine, another well-known game engine, and its capabilities in VR development. It offers practical projects and guidance on creating VR experiences using blueprints and C++.

Hands-On Artificial Intelligence with Unreal Engine

Hands-On Artificial Intelligence with Unreal Engine

Cover image

Cover image

Augmented Reality

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of AR technology, covering its principles, techniques, and applications. It offers a solid foundation for understanding the field and exploring its potential.

Augmented Reality: Principles and Practice...

Augmented Reality: Principles and Practice...

Cover image

Cover image

Virtual Reality Technology

Save

Covers the fundamentals of VR technology, including hardware, software, applications, and human factors. It offers a broad perspective on the field and its impact on various industries.

Virtual Reality Technology

Virtual Reality Technology

Cover image

Cover image

Save

Offers a comprehensive overview of the field of VR, including its history, theory, and best practices. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the design and development of VR experiences.

The Vr Book: Human-centered Design for Virtual...

The VR Book: Human-Centered Design for Virtual...

Cover image

Cover image

Virtual & Augmented Reality For Dummies

Save

Offers an accessible introduction to XR, covering both AR and VR technologies. It provides a high-level overview of the field and its various applications, making it a great starting point for beginners.

Virtual & Augmented Reality For Dummies (For...

Virtual & Augmented Reality For Dummies (For...

Cover image

Cover image

Practical Augmented Reality

Save

Explores the field of mixed reality, which combines the real and virtual worlds to create new and immersive experiences. It covers the history, theory, and best practices of mixed reality design and development.

Practical Augmented Reality: A Guide to the...

Practical Augmented Reality: A Guide to the...

Cover image

Cover image

Experience on Demand: What Virtual Reality Is, How...

Save

Explores the psychology of VR, providing readers with a deeper understanding of how VR impacts our perception, cognition, and behavior.

Experience on Demand: What Virtual Reality Is, How...

Experience on Demand: What Virtual Reality Is, How...

Cover image

Cover image

The Great Awakening

Save

Provides a comprehensive history of VR, from its early beginnings to its current state. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the development of XR.

The Great Awakening: Defeating the Globalists and...

The Great Awakening: Defeating the Globalists and...

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Copy Link

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.

Effort

4-7 hours of work for 4 weeks, including the honors track exercises

Level

Intermediate

Via

Coursera

Institution

University of Michigan

Instructor

Michael Nebeling

Language

English

Transcripts

Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی

This course belongs to a collection called Extended Reality for Everybody. It's comprised of three courses:

User Experience & Interaction Design for AR/VR/MR/XR
Intro to AR/VR/MR/XR: Technologies, Applications & Issues
Developing AR/VR/MR/XR Apps with WebXR, Unity & Unreal (viewing)

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores theory and techniques highly relevant to XR industry

Teaches advanced techniques in XR, which are not covered in many other courses

Offers an honors track, which provides additional guidance and hands-on learning opportunities

Uses a variety of media, including videos, readings, and discussions, to enhance learning

Covers unique perspectives and ideas in XR, which may add color to other topics and subjects

Share this

Share to help others discover this course.

Link

Begin learning today

Enroll now to gain full access to Developing AR/VR/MR/XR Apps with WebXR, Unity & Unreal.

Enroll now Enroll in this course

Save for later

Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.

Save

Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser