Software testing courses can help you learn test planning, test case design, automated testing, and performance testing. You can build skills in identifying bugs, writing effective test scripts, and using various testing methodologies. Many courses introduce tools like Selenium for automation, JUnit for unit testing, and JIRA for issue tracking, showing how these skills apply in real-world software development environments.

University of Minnesota
Skills you'll gain: Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Cucumber (Software), Software Testing, Selenium (Software), Gherkin (Scripting Language), JUnit, Verification And Validation, Test Automation, Unit Testing, Security Testing, Regression Testing, Test Case, Testability, Behavior-Driven Development, Code Coverage, Performance Testing, Development Testing, Test Planning, Acceptance Testing, Software Quality Assurance
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Leeds
Skills you'll gain: Test Case, Software Testing, Software Quality Assurance, Quality Assurance, Verification And Validation, Acceptance Testing, System Testing, Unit Testing, Functional Testing, Usability Testing, Integration Testing, Performance Testing, Software Development Life Cycle, Software Development
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Release Management, Application Deployment, Test Planning, CI/CD, Software Quality Assurance, Performance Testing, Software Development Life Cycle, Software Testing, Maintainability, Risk Management, Test Driven Development (TDD), Data Validation, Behavior-Driven Development, Product Lifecycle Management, Systems Analysis, Systems Thinking, Business Process Automation, Data Modeling, Process Flow Diagrams, Digital Transformation
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Minnesota
Skills you'll gain: Software Testing, JUnit, Verification And Validation, Unit Testing, Test Case, Test Automation, Development Testing, Test Planning, Code Coverage, Software Quality Assurance, Functional Testing, Testability, Integration Testing, Test Data, Issue Tracking
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Board Infinity
Skills you'll gain: Test Planning, Test Tools, Software Testing, Configuration Management, Test Case, Integration Testing, System Testing, Test Automation, Software Development Life Cycle, Acceptance Testing, Software Technical Review, Code Review, Unit Testing, Functional Testing, Regression Testing, Software Quality Assurance, Risk Management, Risk Management Framework, Verification And Validation, Usability Testing
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: Test Planning, Test Tools, Software Testing, Test Case, Software Quality Assurance, User Acceptance Testing (UAT), Quality Assurance, Agile Methodology, Risk Management Framework, Technical Communication
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Software Documentation, Test Automation, Generative AI, Software Testing, Vulnerability Scanning, Vulnerability Assessments, Test Case, Security Testing, Secure Coding, Full-Stack Web Development, Technical Documentation, Natural Language Processing
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Skills you'll gain: Software Quality Assurance, Quality Assurance, Test Automation, Test Tools, Acceptance Testing, Agile Software Development, Test Case, Software Testing, Continuous Integration, User Acceptance Testing (UAT), Agile Methodology, User Story, Automation, Analysis, Collaboration
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Test Driven Development (TDD), Gherkin (Scripting Language), Code Coverage, Behavior-Driven Development, Software Testing, Unit Testing, Test Automation, Test Case, Test Data, Integration Testing, Restful API, Microservices
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: Selenium (Software), Test Automation, Debugging, Scripting, Automation, Web Scraping, Software Testing, Web Development Tools, Test Case, Browser Compatibility, Test Data
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Code Coverage, Embedded Software, Real-Time Operating Systems, Performance Testing, System Testing, Software Testing, User Acceptance Testing (UAT), Verification And Validation, Embedded Systems, Scenario Testing, Acceptance Testing, Test Tools, Test Execution Engine, Unit Testing, Test Case, Test Planning, Integration Testing, Simulations, System Requirements, Real Time Data
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Skills you'll gain: Jest (JavaScript Testing Framework), User Acceptance Testing (UAT), Cucumber (Software), Postman API Platform, Software Testing, Behavior-Driven Development, Test Tools, Selenium (Software), Test Driven Development (TDD), Unit Testing, Acceptance Testing, Performance Testing, Functional Testing, Test Automation, Usability Testing, Application Programming Interface (API), User Interface (UI), Test Case, API Design, Javascript
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Software testing is the process of evaluating and verifying that a software application or system meets specified requirements and functions correctly. It is crucial because it helps identify bugs and issues before the software is released to users, ensuring a higher quality product. Effective software testing can lead to improved user satisfaction, reduced maintenance costs, and a more reliable application, ultimately contributing to the success of a software project.
In the field of software testing, various job roles are available, including Software Tester, Quality Assurance Analyst, Test Engineer, Automation Tester, and Software Quality Engineer. These positions often involve designing test plans, executing tests, and collaborating with development teams to ensure software quality. As organizations increasingly prioritize software quality, opportunities in this field continue to grow, making it a viable career path for those interested in technology.
To succeed in software testing, several key skills are essential. These include analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with testing methodologies, tools, and programming languages can also enhance your effectiveness. Additionally, understanding software development processes and having strong communication skills are important, as testers often work closely with developers and stakeholders to ensure quality outcomes.
There are numerous online courses available for those interested in software testing. Some highly regarded options include the Software Testing Fundamentals for ISTQB Exams Prep Specialization and the Software Quality Assurance and Testing Specialization. These courses cover a range of topics, from foundational principles to advanced testing techniques, catering to various skill levels.
Yes. You can start learning software testing on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in software testing, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn software testing, start by exploring online courses that cover the basics and gradually progress to more advanced topics. Engaging in hands-on practice through projects or simulations can reinforce your learning. Additionally, joining online communities or forums can provide support and insights from experienced professionals in the field, enhancing your understanding and skills.
Typical topics covered in software testing courses include testing methodologies, test case design, automation testing, performance testing, and security testing. Courses may also address specific tools and frameworks used in the industry, as well as best practices for effective testing. This comprehensive approach ensures that learners gain a well-rounded understanding of software testing.
For training and upskilling employees in software testing, the Software Testing and Automation Specialization is an excellent choice. This specialization focuses on both manual and automated testing techniques, equipping teams with the skills needed to ensure software quality in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.