Real-time Operating Systems courses can help you learn task scheduling, resource management, interrupt handling, and system performance optimization. You can build skills in designing efficient algorithms, debugging real-time applications, and ensuring system reliability under time constraints. Many courses introduce tools like FreeRTOS, VxWorks, and QNX, that support implementing real-time applications in embedded systems and IoT devices.

Skills you'll gain: Operating System Administration, Cloud Computing, Linux Commands, Linux Administration, Linux Servers, Cloud Security, Operating Systems, Windows PowerShell, Windows Servers, File Systems, System Software, Mac OS, Command-Line Interface, Active Directory, Computer Systems, Virtual Machines, Firewall, Virtualization, Containerization, User Accounts
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Real-Time Operating Systems, Embedded Systems, Reliability, Software Systems, Performance Tuning, Embedded Software, Control Systems, Hardware Architecture, Systems Architecture, Software Design, Debugging, Software Architecture, Verification And Validation, Hardware Design, System Design and Implementation, Linux, System Programming, Code Review, Systems Engineering, Real Time Data
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Skills you'll gain: File Systems, Operating Systems, OS Process Management, C (Programming Language), System Programming, Unix, Virtualization, Data Integrity, Debugging, File I/O, Linux, Performance Tuning, Distributed Computing, Data Storage, Command-Line Interface, Virtual Machines, Data Security, Computer Hardware, Scalability, Data Structures
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani
Skills you'll gain: Operating Systems, OS Process Management, System Programming, File Systems, Unix Commands, Command-Line Interface, System Monitoring, System Design and Implementation, Performance Tuning, Package and Software Management, File Management, Algorithms, Cloud Platforms, Security Controls, User Accounts, Debugging
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Skills you'll gain: Embedded Software, C (Programming Language), Embedded Systems, Debugging, Peripheral Devices, Integrated Development Environments, Computer Programming Tools, Development Environment, System Programming, Electronics, Software Development Tools, Hardware Architecture, Data Structures, Electronic Hardware, Microarchitecture, Programming Principles, Performance Tuning, Computer Architecture, Control Systems, Computer Programming
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Real-Time Operating Systems, Embedded Systems, Software Systems, Hardware Architecture, System Programming, Real Time Data, Operating Systems, Linux, OS Process Management, System Design and Implementation, System Requirements, Service Management, Service Design
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Apache Kafka, Data Transformation, Real Time Data, Fraud detection, Data Pipelines, Data Manipulation, Apache Spark, PySpark, Performance Tuning, Grafana, Disaster Recovery, Data Architecture, Prometheus (Software), Data Integrity, Data Processing, Data Governance, Scalability, Event-Driven Programming, System Monitoring, Docker (Software)
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Illinois Tech
Skills you'll gain: Open Source Technology, Linux, Package and Software Management, Shell Script, Linux Administration, Ubuntu, Linux Commands, Microsoft Windows, Unix Shell, Windows PowerShell, User Accounts, Bash (Scripting Language), Command-Line Interface, Systems Administration, Unix, Operating Systems, Scripting, Control Panels, Windows Servers, Security Management
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Peripheral Devices, Computer Hardware, System Configuration, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Computer Systems, Virtual Machines, Operating Systems, USB, Hardware Troubleshooting, Computing Platforms, Linux, Software Installation, Technical Support, Mac OS, Computer Architecture, File Systems, Network Infrastructure, Data Storage, User Accounts, Disaster Recovery
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

28DIGITAL
Skills you'll gain: Real-Time Operating Systems, Embedded Systems, Embedded Software, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, C (Programming Language), System Design and Implementation, OS Process Management, System Requirements, Computer Architecture, Algorithms
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Software Configuration Management, Embedded Software, Embedded Systems, Git (Version Control System), Version Control, Build Tools, Software Development Tools, C (Programming Language), Development Environment, Software Technical Review, Software Design, Hardware Architecture, Computer Architecture, Debugging
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Operating System Administration, Package and Software Management, File Systems, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Operating Systems, OS Process Management, Linux Administration, Remote Access Systems, System Monitoring, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Systems Administration, Technical Support and Services, File Management, Software Installation, Virtualization
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Real-time operating systems (RTOS) are specialized operating systems designed to serve real-time applications that process data as it comes in, typically without any buffering delays. This is crucial in environments where timing is critical, such as in embedded systems, robotics, telecommunications, and automotive applications. The importance of RTOS lies in its ability to guarantee that specific tasks are completed within a defined time frame, ensuring reliability and performance in mission-critical applications.
Careers in real-time operating systems can be diverse and rewarding. Positions may include embedded systems engineer, software developer, systems architect, and firmware engineer. These roles often require a blend of software development skills and an understanding of hardware interactions. Additionally, industries such as aerospace, automotive, and telecommunications frequently seek professionals with expertise in RTOS to enhance their product offerings and ensure system reliability.
To work effectively with real-time operating systems, you should develop a solid foundation in programming languages such as C or C++. Understanding concepts like task scheduling, interrupt handling, and resource management is also essential. Familiarity with hardware architecture and embedded systems design will further enhance your skill set. Additionally, knowledge of debugging tools and techniques specific to real-time systems can significantly improve your effectiveness in this field.
Some of the best online courses for real-time operating systems include the Real-Time Embedded Systems Specialization, which provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices involved. Other valuable resources include the Introduction to Operating Systems Specialization, which covers foundational concepts that are applicable to real-time systems.
Yes. You can start learning real-time operating systems on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in real-time operating systems, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn real-time operating systems, start by exploring foundational courses in operating systems and embedded systems. Engage with practical projects that allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Participating in forums and study groups can also enhance your understanding. Consider enrolling in specialized courses like the Real-Time Embedded Systems Specialization to deepen your expertise.
Typical topics covered in real-time operating systems courses include task scheduling algorithms, inter-process communication, resource management, and real-time system design principles. Courses may also explore specific RTOS implementations and their applications in various industries, providing learners with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
For training and upskilling employees in real-time operating systems, the Real-Time Embedded Systems Specialization is particularly beneficial. It offers a structured approach to learning essential concepts and skills, making it suitable for workforce development. Additionally, courses focusing on foundational operating systems knowledge can help employees build a strong base for further specialization.