Introduction
C++ is a diverse high-performance programming language. C++ is the most widely used programming language implemented in the system and software development, game development, and high-performance applications. Additionally, it is known for its rich features- object-oriented programming and memory management, and these features have provided C++ with a lifetime guarantee of remaining a popular programming language all over the world. The **Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course on edX gives the learner mastery over foundational concepts related to C++ while also offering hands-on experience in writing, compiling, and debugging programs. New programmers or seasoned coders looking to expand their capabilities will find this a useful entry point into C++ development.
Course Learning Outcomes
The primary goals and objectives of the Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course are to
In the course, we learned the fundamental syntax, structure, and functions of the C++ programming language.
Master Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Class participants will learn the mastery of object-oriented programming, a key concept in C++ that allows reusable and modular code.
Develop Problem-Solving Skills: The course is on logical thinking and the problem-solving of issues by using C++. Learners will understand the ability to break down complex tasks into simpler ones.
Learn Memory Management: Students will learn how to manage memory efficiently within C++. This is one of the most essential skills once the low-level programming and performance-critical applications are dealt with.
After Advanced C++: The student will be adequately prepared for greater depth in the curriculum and the subject of C++.
Course Details
| Course Detail | Information |
| Course Name | Microsoft: Introduction to C++ |
| Platform | edX |
| Institution | Microsoft |
| Instructors | Kate Gregory, James McNillies, Garry O Brien |
| Level | Introductory |
| Key Features | Videos, Quizzes, and Projects |
| Duration | 4 weeks 3-5 hours per week |
| Topics Required | Introduction to C++, C++ fundamentals and functions, Advanced C++ concepts taught. |
| Prerequisites | None |
| Language | English |
| Certificate | Yes only for paid users |
| Enrollment | Yes with price starting at Rs 8311 |
Who this Course is for
This course is suitable for all types of learners, including:
– Beginners: People who have little or no background in programming and want to start from the beginning with C++.
–Future Software Developers: Those interested in making a profession out of software development, game programming, or system programming and would like to use C++ as the primary language.
–Computer Science Students: Someone looking to supplement their education with lab studies in C++.
– Career changers who are transitioning to become software developers and wish to acquire a skills’ set in one of the most widely used programming languages.
– Developers with experience using other programming languages who wish to add C++ to their repertoire of skills.
Course Structure
The Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course on edX is divided into several modules, each focusing on different aspects of C++ programming:
1. Introduction to C++ and Development Environment:
Overview of C++, its history, and its applications.
Setting up a C++ development environment (Visual Studio Code or Visual Studio).
2. Basic Syntax and Control Flow:
Learn C++ syntax, variables, data types, and operators.
Understand control flow structures, including if statements, loops, and switch cases.
3. Functions and Modular Programming:
They cover function definitions, parameter passing, and return types.
Modular programming as well as the breaking of code into reusable modules.
4. Learning about OOPS concepts: like classes, objects, and functions.
5. Memory Management and Pointers: Their introduction and dynamic memory allocation in C++ using pointers.
Best Practices to Avoid Memory Leaks and Optimize Performance.
6. Exception Handling:
Run-time Error Handling with Exceptions, the `try-catch` Blocks, and Error Management.
7. Final Project: Building a C++ Application
Based on their skill level, learners will do a hands-on project: building a fully functional application in C++ from scratch.
Important Topics Covered
Throughout the course, the student will thus be trained in relevant main areas of study, namely:
– Basic C++ syntax and program structure
– Variables, data types, control structures
– Functions; modular programming
– Object-oriented programming concepts
– Memory management, pointers
– Exception handling
– Development of a full C++ project
Instructors and Their Background
The Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course is taught by Gerry O Brien, Kate Gregory, and James M . Microsoft professional instructors with an intense background in software development and practicing C++ programming. Guest lecturers from real-world professionals within the tech industry enable students to dive deeper into the world of C++ applications. Instructors:
Microsoft Software Engineers: With massive amounts of experience in system-level programming, application development, and practicing C++ programming.
Experts in C++: Years of high-performance computing, game development, and system programming with C++.
Course Schedule and Weeks
This course takes usually 4 weeks to finish with 3-5 hours of daily learning. Here is a weekly study plan.
-Weeks 1-2 Introduction to C++, Simple Syntax, and Control Flow Constructs
Weeks 3-4 Functions, Modular Programming, and Introduction to OOP
Weeks 5-6 Memory Management, Pointers, and Exception Handling
Weeks 7-8: Final Project Development/Review and Evaluation
Certifications
Once learners complete the course, they will receive a verified certificate from edX and Microsoft. This certificate is acknowledged by employers and can even be shared on professional platforms like LinkedIn. The certificate certifies that a learner has gained expertise in programming with C++ and hence is of great value to job seekers and professionals looking to enhance their career.
Price
Since the course is free and sits on edX’s audit track, all the learners can get access to all of the material without receiving a certificate. Those who want to receive verified certification will have to pay about **Rs 8311**. Financial aid can be received for those who qualify, which makes it open to more people.
Career Impact
The Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course provides foundational skills that open up a wide range of job possibilities, such as:
– C++- Based Developer: Develop software projects with C++ language for the development of high-performance scalable applications.
– Junior Game Developer: A majority of game engines, like Unreal Engine, use C++ as their core language, so proficiency in C++ is important in game development.
– System Programmer: C++ is for system-level programming, like developing an OS and embedded systems.
– Backend Developer C+:+ is used on the server side for high-performance, low-latency applications.
This course further delves into more advanced, complicated areas of C++ through deeper learning and certifications such as Certified Professional Programmer (CPP) or Certified Senior Programmer (CSP) issued by the C++ Institute to propel career growth.
How to Enroll for this course?
Registering for the Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course on edX is straightforward:
1. Visit the edX website and search for the “Microsoft: Introduction to C++” course.
2. Click the “Enroll Now” button.
3. Choose to audit the course for free or pay for the verified track to obtain a certificate.
4. You will be required to finish all sign-up procedures if you do not have an edX account to create one.
5. Once you join, you can access the course content and learn at your own pace.
Pros and Cons of this course
Pros:
- Flexible learning The course is very flexible so there is no time limit.
- Hands-On Projects: For the Final Project, learners will get to build a workable C++ application
- Microsoft Certification: Microsoft also puts its seal on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- It includes the basic and the in-betweens related to C++ programming languages.
Cons:
- Cost for Certification: The course is free audited. The verified certificate must, however, be paid for
- Problem for Absolute Newbie: For absolute beginners, C++ can be hard to learn.
FAQ’S
1.Should we have any experience with this course?
No experience is required as everything is taught from the basics.
2. How long will it take to complete the Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course?
Generally, it takes approximately 6-8 weeks with a time commitment estimated at abo hours a week.
3. What kinds of projects will I do in class?
You will build a real-world, working C++ application by the end of this course. You’ll apply the skills you learn about object-oriented programming and memory management to help you complete your work on projects.
4. Is there financial aid available for this course?
Yes, financial aid is available to learners who qualify. Learners can apply for financial aid directly on edX.
5. Do you provide a certificate for this course?
The certificate is available only for paid users not for free users.
Conclusion
The edX Microsoft: Introduction to C++ course is an excellent learning opportunity for individuals keen on developing a sound foundation in C++ programming. Rich with content and hands-on projects supported by Microsoft, the course is the right way for learners to face real-world programming issues. New or not so new at coding, you’ll get the right pathway to mastering one of the most powerful and versatile programming languages. Apply now and start on your road to becoming a proficient C++ programmer!
