Java Fundamentals from Udacity

What's inside

Syllabus

In this lesson, we'll cover some fundamentals—such as why you would want to learn Java, and what prerequisites you'll need to succeed in the course.

This lesson covers all the major building blocks we need to create a simple Java app, including keywords, variables, loops, methods, access modifiers, arrays, and Javadoc.

In this lesson, we'll learn about what an object is, what a class is, and how we can create (or instantiate) objects from classes.

In this lesson, we'll go deeper into objects and classes and learn about some of the advanced concepts of object-oriented programming, including inheritance and polymorphism.

We'll learn about some of the important class types provided by the Java API, including Exceptions, Enums, RegEx, Dates and Calendar, and advanced String features.

Working with multiple types can introduce some challenges. In this lesson we'll learn how two tools—generics and collections—can help us address these challenges and make our code type safe.

In this lesson we'll learn about maps, sets and queues. Each of these provides a uniquely powerful data structure that, when used correctly, can solve complex problems efficiently.

In this project, you will demonstrate your new Java skills by creating a fully functional hotel reservation app that will allow customers to check room availability and book a room.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a solid introduction to Java, covering essential concepts and tools

Instructor Jeff Phillips is recognized for his Java expertise

Prepares learners for a career in Java programming

Prerequisite knowledge of basic computer programming is expected

Teaches advanced concepts such as inheritance and polymorphism, which are highly relevant for object-oriented programming

Covers essential Java API classes, including Exceptions, Enums, and Dates, enhancing practical knowledge

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 Java Fundamentals with these activities:

Connect with Java Mentors

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Identify potential mentors who can provide guidance and support throughout your Java learning journey.

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Attend Java meetups or online forums
Reach out to erfahren Java developers
Set up regular meetings to discuss progress and seek advice

Review Head First Java

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Familiarize yourself with core Java principles and concepts covered throughout the course.

View Head First Java: A Brain-Friendly Guide on Amazon

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Read through the first three chapters
Work through the practice exercises
Summarize the key concepts in your own words

Java Tutorial Series

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Enhance your understanding of Java concepts with guided tutorials covering various aspects of the language.

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Select a tutorial series aligned with your learning goals
Watch the tutorials and take notes
Complete the practice exercises and quizzes

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Coding Challenges on LeetCode

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Solidify your understanding of Java syntax and problem-solving skills through coding exercises.

Browse courses on Java Programming

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Identify a topic area to focus on
Solve at least 10 coding challenges
Review solutions and discuss with peers

Join a Java Study Group

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Collaborate with peers to reinforce concepts, discuss course material, and engage in peer learning.

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Find a study group or create your own
Set regular meeting times
Review course material and discuss topics

Build a Simple Java Application

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Gain hands-on experience by designing and implementing a small-scale Java application.

Browse courses on Java Programming

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Identify a problem or task to solve
Design and plan the application architecture
Implement the application using Java
Test and debug the application

Contribute to Open-Source Java Projects

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Immerse yourself in the Java community by contributing to open-source projects and gaining practical experience.

Browse courses on Java

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Identify a Java project to contribute to
Understand the project's codebase and contribution guidelines
Fix bugs or implement new features

Career center

Learners who complete Java Fundamentals will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Java Developer

Java Developers are highly valued by companies seeking to develop robust, scalable, and high-performance software applications. This Java Fundamentals course provides a comprehensive training program, giving you the opportunity to master Java programming and become a sought-after developer. With its focus on foundational concepts, the course will help you build a solid understanding of Java, equipping you with the skills necessary to succeed as a professional Java Developer.

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Web Developer

Web Developers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites and web applications. With Java's versatility and popularity in web development, this Java Fundamentals course can be a valuable asset. The course covers essential concepts like loops, methods, and arrays, laying the groundwork for building dynamic and interactive web applications. By gaining proficiency in Java, you'll enhance your capabilities as a Web Developer and expand your career opportunities.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of software systems. This Java Fundamentals course can provide a solid foundation for aspiring Software Engineers. The course's emphasis on object-oriented programming principles, including inheritance and polymorphism, will help you grasp the core concepts of software design and development. By mastering Java's capabilities, you'll gain a competitive edge and increase your potential as a Software Engineer.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts play a crucial role in extracting insights from data. Java's powerful data structures and libraries, such as collections and maps, make it widely used in data analysis. This Java Fundamentals course will equip you with the skills to effectively process, analyze, and visualize data. By gaining proficiency in Java, you'll enhance your capabilities as a Data Analyst and qualify for a wider range of opportunities.

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Mobile Developer

Mobile Developers create mobile applications for smartphones and tablets. Java is a popular choice for Android app development, making this Java Fundamentals course relevant for aspiring Mobile Developers. The course covers essential concepts like arrays and generics, which are important for developing efficient and user-friendly mobile applications. By mastering Java, you'll increase your chances of success as a Mobile Developer and contribute to the growing mobile app industry.

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Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects design, manage, and maintain cloud computing systems. Java's platform independence and scalability make it a popular choice for cloud development. This Java Fundamentals course will provide a strong foundation for aspiring Cloud Architects. The course's emphasis on object-oriented programming and data structures will help you understand the principles of cloud computing and prepare you for the challenges of cloud architecture.

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Full-Stack Developer

Full Stack Developers possess skills in both front-end and back-end development. Java's versatility makes it an excellent choice for full stack development. This Java Fundamentals course will provide a comprehensive foundation for aspiring Full Stack Developers. The course covers a wide range of topics, from basic programming concepts to advanced object-oriented programming principles, equipping you with the abilities to work on both the front-end and back-end of web applications.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. Java's powerful data structures and libraries, such as maps and collections, make it a valuable tool for database management. This Java Fundamentals course can provide a strong foundation for aspiring Database Administrators. By gaining proficiency in Java, you'll enhance your capabilities in database design, optimization, and administration.

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Software Tester

Software Testers ensure the quality and reliability of software systems. Java's popularity in enterprise software development makes it important for Software Testers to have a solid understanding of the language. This Java Fundamentals course can provide a comprehensive introduction to Java, covering essential concepts like loops, methods, and arrays. By mastering Java, you'll increase your effectiveness as a Software Tester and contribute to the delivery of high-quality software.

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Project Manager

Project Managers oversee software development projects. While not directly involved in coding, a basic understanding of Java can be beneficial for Project Managers. This Java Fundamentals course provides a broad overview of Java, including its syntax, data types, and control structures. By gaining familiarity with Java, you'll be better equipped to communicate with developers and manage technical aspects of software projects.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts bridge the gap between business and technology. While Java programming is not a core requirement for Business Analysts, having a basic understanding of the language can be an advantage. This Java Fundamentals course provides a general introduction to Java, covering its key concepts and syntax. By gaining familiarity with Java, you'll be better positioned to understand technical requirements and contribute to the design and development of software solutions.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for software and technology products. A basic understanding of Java can be beneficial for Technical Writers who need to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences. This Java Fundamentals course provides a general introduction to Java, covering its syntax, data types, and control structures. By gaining familiarity with Java, you'll be better equipped to write clear and accurate technical documentation.

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IT Support Specialist

IT Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems. While not directly involved in development, a basic understanding of Java can be helpful for IT Support Specialists who need to troubleshoot software issues. This Java Fundamentals course provides a general introduction to Java, covering its key concepts and syntax. By gaining familiarity with Java, you'll be better equipped to diagnose and resolve software-related problems.

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Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts ensure the quality of software products. While not directly involved in coding, a basic understanding of Java can be beneficial for Quality Assurance Analysts who need to evaluate the technical aspects of software. This Java Fundamentals course provides a general introduction to Java, covering its key concepts and syntax. By gaining familiarity with Java, you'll be better equipped to understand test results and contribute to the development of high-quality software.

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Computer Operator

Computer Operators ensure the smooth operation of computer systems. While not directly involved in development, a basic understanding of Java can be helpful for Computer Operators who need to interact with software systems. This Java Fundamentals course provides a general introduction to Java, covering its key concepts and syntax. By gaining familiarity with Java, you'll be better equipped to perform system administration tasks and troubleshoot software issues.

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