Thinking about diving into the world of coding but hesitant to spend money before you know it’s for you? Or maybe you’re already familiar with some programming languages and want to explore others without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! Computer science and learning to code can be explored risk-free thanks to a wealth of online resources.
While professional-level coding skills might eventually require more intensive, paid education, the fundamentals of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and much more are readily available for free.
Is it Really Possible to Learn Programming for Free?
Absolutely! While it will require your time and dedication, learning to program for free online is entirely achievable. You can learn at your own pace, in the comfort of your home, and without any financial commitment.
The demand for skilled engineers is higher than ever, and the internet has responded with a massive increase in online learning opportunities. This surge has empowered individuals to learn new coding skills and programming languages, even using it as a pathway to career changes. You can join this movement and start your programming journey today!
Below, you’ll discover over 100 free online coding classes and resources tailored to various learning styles, commitment levels, skill levels, and career aspirations. Explore the options and begin learning to program for free right now!
Table of Contents:
Jumpstart Your Coding Journey with a FREE Coding Camp!
What You’ll Learn:
- ✅ HTML & CSS
- ✅ JavaScript
- ✅ User Experience Design
- ✅ Python—the Powerhouse for AI 🤖
- ✅ Guidance to Find Your Ideal Tech Career Path!
26 Free Online Programming Classes and Programs
1. Skillcrush
Skillcrush’s Free Coding Camp provides a beginner-friendly and engaging introduction to tech and digital careers. This online program simplifies coding concepts, allowing you to try writing code and determine if programming is the right path for you. In just minutes per day, you’ll learn HTML and CSS and grasp the basics of UX design with Camp Skillcrush.
Visit Skillcrush’s Free Coding Camp
2. Codecademy
Codecademy is a well-known online learning platform offering both paid and a substantial number of free programming classes. You can explore various programming languages including Python, Java, JavaScript, Ruby, SQL, C++, HTML, and CSS, all without any cost.
Free Programming Classes to Begin With:
- Introduction to HTML: Learn the basics of structuring web content.
- Build a Website: Master both HTML and CSS to create your own website.
Related: Is Codecademy Right for Learning to Code?
3. freeCodeCamp
freeCodeCamp is a non-profit organization dedicated to making programming education accessible to everyone. They offer free online coding classes and certifications in areas like responsive web design, data visualization, machine learning, and more. With over 30,000 hours of free content, it’s a comprehensive resource for anyone wanting to Learn Programming For Free.
For those serious about code or interested in data science, freeCodeCamp offers advanced, free certifications:
- Data Analysis with Python Certification
- Data Visualization Certification
- JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures Certification
- Machine Learning with Python Certification
- Scientific Computing with Python Certification
These certifications, each requiring around 300 hours of study, are completely free.
Related: freeCodeCamp Review: Is it a Good Way to Learn Code?
4. web.dev by Google
web.dev is a Google initiative providing free, open-source coding lessons and tutorials. Primarily focused on web development, these resources cover widely applicable skills in the tech industry.
Free Tech and Coding Tutorials:
- HTML and CSS: Build the foundation of web pages.
- JavaScript: Add interactivity and dynamic features to websites.
- Accessibility: Learn to create inclusive and accessible web experiences.
- Responsive Design: Master techniques for websites that adapt to different devices.
5. w3schools
w3schools is a long-standing free online learning platform focused on coding and web development. It’s one of the oldest and most trusted resources for learning to program online.
Free w3schools Courses to Start With:
- HTML + CSS: Learn to structure and style web content.
- JavaScript: Explore the fundamentals of JavaScript programming.
- SQL: Understand databases and data management.
6. Khan Academy
Khan Academy, renowned for its K-12 education, also provides a vast array of FREE online educational tools, including comprehensive free programming classes.
Free Coding Classes at Khan Academy:
- Intro to JS: Drawing & Animation: Learn JavaScript through creative projects.
- Intro to HTML/CSS: Making Webpages: Build your first webpages with HTML and CSS.
- Intro to SQL: Querying and Managing Data: Get started with database management using SQL.
7. Udemy
Udemy is a large online learning marketplace with over 130,000 courses, including more than 2,000 coding-related classes for all skill levels. While Udemy offers paid courses, it also has numerous free programming classes, including introductory “Tech 101” style courses ideal for beginners.
Free Coding Classes to Explore:
- Git & GitHub Crash Course: Learn version control essentials.
- Visual Studio Code: Master a popular code editor.
- Build a Quiz App with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript: Create a project to apply your skills.
Related: Udemy Review: Is It a Good Platform to Learn Code?
8. Code.org
Code.org, similar to Khan Academy, is a non-profit dedicated to encouraging everyone, especially students, to learn programming online. Don’t be misled by its focus on school-aged learners; their resources are excellent for coding beginners of any age.
Note: Beyond K-12 lessons, Code.org offers resources for free JavaScript and Python courses, including data querying and management.
9. Codewars
Codewars adds a unique, gamified approach to free programming classes with a martial arts theme. Solve coding challenges known as “katas” to earn ranks and progress towards becoming a proficient coder. Codewars offers a diverse range of programming languages to learn.
Free Computer Programming Courses in Languages Like:
- Python
- SQL
- PHP
- Ruby
- JavaScript
- And many more!
This wide selection allows you to choose your learning path based on your interests.
10. General Assembly Dash
General Assembly Dash is the free learning platform from General Assembly, a well-regarded paid coding school. Dash offers free, interactive courses covering the basics of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript with the same high-quality approach as GA’s paid programs. Consider it a free coding bootcamp taster, and a fantastic starting point to learn programming for free.
Related: General Assembly Review: Is it Worth it to Learn to Code?
11. codeconquest
codeconquest is a comprehensive, free platform for learning to code, offering tutorials and reviews of premium coding sites. It’s more text-based than some resources, which is ideal for those who learn best through reading.
Free Coding Tutorials For:
- HTML
- CSS
- Ruby
- jQuery
12. Udacity
Udacity is an online coding school founded by former Stanford University instructors. They offer a mix of paid and free classes, with around 200 of their coding classes, known as “nanodegrees,” available for free.
Free Coding Classes to Try First:
- Intro to HTML and CSS: Build your first web pages.
- Intro to Python Programming: Start learning Python fundamentals.
- Version Control with Git: Learn essential collaboration skills (approximately four weeks to complete).
13. Tuts+
Tuts+ is an extensive online tutorial library with over 20,000 free tutorials, thousands of which are dedicated to coding and tech topics. Tutorials range from Modern JavaScript Fundamentals to building a CMS with Laravel, covering a wide range of subjects.
Tutorials to Help You Learn to Code:
- Figma Quick Start Guide: Learn the basics of UI design tool Figma.
- Vue.js Tutorial: Beginner to Front-End Developer: Start your journey with Vue.js.
- How to Use the Figma to Webflow Plugin: Integrate design and development workflows.
- UI Design for Beginners: Learn the fundamentals of user interface design.
14. The Odin Project
The Odin Project is a free, open-source coding curriculum ideal for absolute beginners who want to learn programming online. It offers full-stack courses in Ruby and JavaScript, as well as an introduction to frameworks.
[Beginner’s Tips for Learning How to Code & Adopting a Developer’s Mindset]
Video: 6 Secrets Every Awesome Web Developer Knows
Before you dive headfirst into free coding classes, it’s important to understand how to learn effectively and adopt a developer’s mindset.
15. Upskill
Upskill offers a library of coding classes, and their Essential Web Development Course is free forever with email signup. This course covers full-stack web development using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Ruby on Rails.
16. Hackr.io
Hackr.io is a meta-resource that compiles lists of top programming courses and tutorials from across the web. Use their search engine and upvoting system to find highly-rated courses on various technologies, from jQuery to Angular to Java to C#.
17. Microsoft Virtual Academy
Microsoft Virtual Academy is a free resource for learning Microsoft technologies like Azure and .NET. They provide certifications and personalized learning paths based on your tech career interests.
Free Coding Classes at Microsoft Virtual Academy:
- Fundamentals of Generative AI: Explore the basics of artificial intelligence.
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Learn cloud computing with Azure.
- Introduction to Prompt Engineering: Understand how to interact with AI models.
Visit Microsoft Virtual Academy
18. Edabit
Edabit offers a unique, gamified approach to learning code, similar to DuoLingo for tech skills. Instead of passive learning, you learn by actively coding. While most courses are paid, their JavaScript tutorial is completely free.
19. LaunchSchool’s Open Book Shelf
LaunchSchool, an online software development education platform, offers their Open Book Shelf with free access to books supporting their courses. Some books require prior knowledge to be fully useful, but others are helpful for beginners or to supplement other free resources.
20. MDN Web Docs
MDN Web Docs, formerly Mozilla Developer Network, is a powerful learning platform for developers since 2005. Search for answers to web development questions or explore their Tutorials page for guided learning.
Free Tech and Coding Tutorials:
- Introduction to HTML: Learn the basics of HTML structure.
- CSS Basics: Understand fundamental CSS styling concepts.
- JavaScript First Steps: Begin your JavaScript programming journey.
Visit Mozilla Developer Network’s Tutorials
21. After Hours Programming
After Hours Programming is a free resource with modules on HTML, CSS, mySQL, graphic design, usability, SEO, and more. It provides a broader perspective on web development and its role in larger business operations.
Extra General Coding Courses & Tutorials
3 Free College and University Programming Programs
Looking for a college-like learning experience without the tuition fees? These university-level, self-taught programming resources are excellent for lifelong learners.
27. Coursera
Coursera hosts content from top universities, offering over 100 programming classes. It’s a great place to start learning to code. Coursera classes are free to audit, with a fee for formal coursework and certifications.
Start with this free coding course from Duke University: Programming Foundations with JavaScript, HTML, and CSS
28. EdX
EdX is another university-backed platform with content from institutions like Harvard and MIT. Like Coursera, many EdX classes are free to audit, including courses on programming languages and basic web development technologies.
Free Online Coding Classes to Explore:
- CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science (Harvard University): A foundational computer science course.
- Introduction to Python for Data Science – Microsoft: Learn Python for data analysis.
- Introduction to Java Programming (University of California, Irvine): Get started with Java programming.
- Web Programming Fundamentals (University of California, Berkeley): Learn the basics of web programming.
29. MIT OpenCourseWare
MIT OpenCourseWare is an MIT initiative to publish all educational materials from their courses online for free. This includes numerous introductory programming and tech classes for beginners.
Coding Classes to Get Started:
- Introduction to Programming in Java: Learn Java from MIT.
- Introduction to Computer Science and Programming in Python: Explore Python with MIT.
- Introduction to Computational Thinking and Data Science: Develop computational thinking skills.
13 Free HTML and CSS Classes and Tutorials
HTML and CSS are fundamental skills for anyone in tech. Luckily, they are also among the easiest programming languages to learn. You can start building projects and even earn money using just HTML and CSS in a short amount of time.
30. MarkSheet
MarkSheet is a free, semi-guided HTML & CSS tutorial, not just a collection of courses. It includes dozens of lessons covering HTML5, CSS3, and advanced SaaS material for taking your websites to the next level.
31. Codecademy: Introduction to HTML
Codecademy offers free courses on various coding topics, including a dedicated intro to HTML. It’s the perfect starting point for learning to code.
Visit Codecademy’s HTML course
32. Codecademy: Learn CSS
Codecademy also provides a free guide to CSS, another fundamental web development skill. Their free CSS course is a must-have resource.
33. HTML.com
HTML.com offers a free HTML tutorial designed for absolute beginners. If you want to learn programming for free, starting with HTML is a great choice.
34. Learn-HTML.org
Learn-HTML.org is an online resource providing step-by-step tutorials and interactive exercises focused on teaching HTML. Specifically designed for beginners, it covers essential HTML basics, tags, attributes, and best practices for creating web pages.
35. HTML Dog
HTML Dog hosts free HTML tutorials, along with examples of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in action, plus common website building techniques.
Extra HTML and CSS Tutorials
Pro-tip: Learning CSS is essential if you are serious about learning to code online for web development.
11 Free JavaScript Courses and Tutorials
JavaScript is one of the most popular programming languages and a crucial skill if you want to work as a front-end developer. It’s often the first language recommended for aspiring web developers.
43. LearnJS
Learn-JS.org offers a series of JavaScript tutorials for both complete beginners and experienced programmers.
44. MDN JavaScript
MDN, from the creators of Firefox, hosts a free JavaScript tutorial section as part of their Web Docs series.
Visit the Mozilla Developer Network’s JavaScript tutorials
45. Nodeschool.io
Nodeschool.io is a platform with open-source workshops on Node.js that you can complete online. Start with the basics and explore their core workshops.
46. JavaScript.com
JavaScript.com provides a free, personalized tutorial to quickly get you started with the basics of JavaScript.
47. JavaScript for Cats
JavaScript for Cats is a whimsical yet effective JavaScript tutorial written from a cat’s perspective – perfect for cat lovers who want to learn programming!
48. Microsoft Channel 9: JavaScript Fundamentals and Development for Absolute Beginners
Microsoft’s Channel 9 is a community site offering video discussions, podcasts, and this free JavaScript course for beginners.
Extra JavaScript Courses & Tutorials
Related: Learn JavaScript for Free Online: Your 2024 Guide
5 Free JavaScript Libraries and Frameworks Courses
Once you’re comfortable with JavaScript, learning JavaScript frameworks and libraries makes coding easier and faster. Investing time in these tools allows you to write more efficient code and build complex projects more quickly.
3 Free Version Control Tutorials
Version control is a system for code collaboration. Tools like Git and GitHub enable multiple developers to work on shared code repositories, track changes, identify errors, and revert to previous versions. Learning version control is essential for any programmer.
59. Git Immersion
Git Immersion is a free walkthrough covering Git fundamentals, from installation to using graphical clients for easier interaction.
60. Try Git
Try Git provides resources to get comfortable with Git and GitHub. Access their handbook, cheat sheets, and tutorials to get started with version control.
61. GitHub Learning Lab
GitHub Learning Lab offers numerous lessons created by the GitHub community, covering topics like getting started with GitHub, Markdown, GitHub Pages, project uploads, and more!
2 Free Command Line Lessons
Beyond programming languages, understanding industry-standard tools is crucial for programmers. The command line is a text-based interface for interacting directly with your computer, essential for many programming tasks.
62. Django Girls Introduction to the Command-Line Interface
Django Girls, known for free Python and Django workshops, offers a free command line tutorial for Windows, OS X, and Linux. A YouTube video tutorial is also available.
Visit Django Girl’s Command Line Tutorial
63. Command Line Power User
Command Line Power User provides a free tutorial for developers to become more efficient with the command line once you’ve grasped the basics.
8 Free Online Python Courses and Tutorials
Python is a versatile language essential for game development, software engineering, data science, and more. It’s a highly recommended language to learn for aspiring programmers.
64. Learnpython.org
Learnpython.org offers free Python basics tutorials, exercises, and examples covering fundamental Python concepts, making it easy to learn one of today’s most in-demand programming languages.
65. Python-Guide.Org: Hitchhiker’s Guide to Python
Python-guide.org presents the Hitchhiker’s Guide to Python, a comprehensive free resource for learning Python, named humorously after the famous book series.
66. Real Python: Learn Python Programming By Example
Real Python offers example-based Python tutorials, articles, video courses, and quizzes covering beginner to advanced levels. Their platform is designed to help you truly learn Python programming.
Extra Python Classes & Tutorials
[BONUS PYTHON GUIDE] Skillcrush offers a Python course, and while it’s not free, we provide in-depth free resources like this guide on how to learn Python.
3 Free Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Resources
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the tech industry. Learning AI basics can keep you ahead. For those interested in the science and math behind machine learning, these free courses are a great starting point.
72. AI for Everyone from DeepLearning.AI
AI for Everyone, taught by AI expert Andrew Ng, provides a free, non-technical overview of AI. It’s designed for everyone to understand AI concepts and its capabilities.
73. Google AI
Google AI offers free machine learning training. Even tech beginners can get started with their tutorials, guides, and resources organized by skill level.
Free Google AI Courses to Start With:
- Introduction to Machine Learning: Begin your machine learning journey.
- Machine Learning Crash Course with TensorFlow APIs: Learn machine learning with Google’s TensorFlow.
74. Machine Learning Mastery
Machine Learning Mastery is for developers looking to delve into machine learning. It offers quick-start guides and in-depth tutorials to help you learn machine learning concepts and techniques.
Visit Machine Learning Mastery
Want more AI learning resources? Check out our roundup of 40+ FREE Online AI Courses For Everyone
2 Free Online Data Science Courses and Tutorials
You don’t always need a computer science degree for tech roles. For data science, free resources can help you get started. A solid coding bootcamp education can also be a great entry point.
75. Springboard
Springboard offers various online courses in data analysis, data science, and engineering.
Free Data Science Courses from Springboard:
- Data Analysis With Python, SQL, and R: Learn key data analysis tools.
76. Elite Data Science
Elite Data Science specializes in helping students start data science careers. Their introductory crash course is completely free to get you started.
Related: Data Science 101: What It Is, What Data Scientists Do, and Real World Examples
2 Free User Experience (UX) Courses and Tutorials
User experience (UX) is critical for web design. If you’re interested in UX, start with these free resources.
77. The Encyclopedia of Human-Computer Interaction
The Encyclopedia of Human-Computer Interaction is a comprehensive collection of textbooks covering human-computer interaction, from websites to everyday objects.
Visit The Encyclopedia of Human-Computer Interaction
78. UXPin: Free UX Books
UXPin offers free UX-related books on topics like prototyping, wireframing, mockups, and more, providing a broad overview of UX principles and practices.
Related: UI/UX: The Ultimate Guide to User Interface and User Experience
9 Free Ruby and Ruby on Rails Courses and Tutorials
Ruby on Rails is a powerful server-side web application framework used widely in tech. Explore these free programming courses perfect for beginners interested in web development with Ruby.
79. Ruby on Rails Tutorial: Learn Web Development with Rails
If you prefer book-based learning, the free digital version of Ruby on Rails Tutorial — Learn Web Development With Rails by Michael Hartl is an excellent resource.
80. Learn Ruby the Hard Way
Learn Ruby the Hard Way is a free online book focusing on essential programming skills for beginners: reading, writing, attention to detail, and spotting differences, all through learning Ruby.
81. Ruby Koans
Ruby Koans uses the format of Zen koans to teach Ruby, appealing to those who enjoy a more philosophical approach to learning programming.
Extra Ruby and Rails Classes & Tutorials
[BONUS RUBY ON RAILS GUIDE] Unsure about Ruby on Rails? Our beginner’s guide to Ruby on Rails can help you understand if it’s the right language for you.
Pssst. For those serious about Ruby, Skillcrush founder Adda shares tips on how to get hired as a Ruby developer.
7 Free PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) Classes and Tutorials
PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) is a widely used open-source scripting language for web development. Explore these free programming courses to learn PHP.
88. PHP The Right Way
PHP The Right Way provides free tutorials focused on teaching PHP best practices and modern techniques.
89. Killer PHP
Killer PHP offers free PHP lessons geared towards “non-nerds” for over a decade, making it an accessible resource for those new to programming.
Extra PHP Classes & Tutorials
6 Free Mobile App Development Courses and Tutorials
Mobile app development is highly relevant in today’s tech landscape. Learn mobile app development for free with these in-browser coding courses and start creating your own apps.
95. Android Documentation for App Developers
Android Documentation for App Developers from Google provides essential best practices and guides for developing Android mobile apps.
Visit Android Developer Guides
96. Apple: Start Developing iOS Apps (Swift)
Apple’s tutorials and documentation guide you in developing apps for iPads and iPhones using Swift.
Extra Android & iOS Classes & Tutorials
5 Free WordPress Courses and Tutorials
WordPress powers a significant portion of the internet. Learning WordPress is highly valuable for anyone considering a career in tech. These free WordPress courses and tutorials are perfect for beginners.
101. WordPress.com Learn
WordPress.com Learn offers tutorials directly from the WordPress team to help you level up your WordPress skills.
WordPress Beginner Courses:
- Create Your Site: Learn to build your first WordPress site.
- Intro to Blogging: Get started with blogging on WordPress.
- Intro to SEO: Understand basic SEO for WordPress websites.
102. WordPress.tv
WordPress.tv is a central hub for WordPress content, including WordCamps, tutorials, interviews, and talks covering WordPress development and design, from beginner to advanced levels.
Extra WordPress Classes & Tutorials
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