Application Security courses can help you learn secure coding practices, threat modeling, vulnerability assessment, and incident response strategies. You can build skills in risk analysis, secure software development lifecycle (SDLC) integration, and penetration testing techniques. Many courses introduce tools like OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, and static analysis tools, showing how these resources are used to identify and mitigate security risks in applications.

Skills you'll gain: Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Secure Coding, Application Security, Security Testing, DevSecOps, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Scanning, Continuous Monitoring, Vulnerability Assessments, Application Performance Management, System Monitoring, Development Environment, Data Security, Software Development Life Cycle
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Starweaver
Skills you'll gain: Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Debugging, DevSecOps, Penetration Testing, Security Testing, Application Security, Continuous Monitoring, Software Testing, Development Testing, Cybersecurity, Vulnerability Assessments, Threat Modeling, Test Automation, Secure Coding, Code Review, Vulnerability Management, Technical Communication
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Microsoft
Skills you'll gain: Secure Coding, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Authentications, Authorization (Computing), Microsoft Copilot, Application Security, Data Validation, Web Applications, Security Controls, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Security, Data Integrity, Encryption
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Malware Protection, Endpoint Security, Mobile Security, Cloud Security, Application Security, Cloud Deployment, Cloud Computing, Threat Detection, Cybersecurity, Information Systems Security, Virtualization, Virtual Machines, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Encryption
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Colorado System
Skills you'll gain: Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM), Amazon Web Services, Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud, Cloud Computing, Malware Protection, Threat Modeling, Cloud Security, Load Balancing, Security Engineering, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Identity and Access Management, Network Security, Information Systems Security, Cybersecurity, Encryption, Geographic Information Systems
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado System
Skills you'll gain: Database Design, Software Design, Application Security, Vulnerability Assessments, Unified Modeling Language, Unit Testing, Threat Modeling, Usability Testing, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs), Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Software Architecture, Secure Coding, Object Oriented Design, Software Design Patterns, Database Management, Security Software, Systems Design, Software Development Life Cycle, Technical Design
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Vulnerability Scanning, Proxy Servers, Security Testing, Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Assessments, Brute-force attacks, Web Scraping
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Starweaver
Skills you'll gain: Threat Modeling, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Secure Coding, DevSecOps, Application Security, Cloud Security, Security Controls, Security Testing, Containerization, Software Development, CI/CD, Cybersecurity, Vulnerability Management, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), Supply Chain, Dependency Analysis
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Amazon Web Services
Skills you'll gain: Amazon Bedrock, AI Security, Prompt Engineering, Generative AI, Computer Security, Secure Coding, Security Engineering, Hardening, Application Security, Cyber Engineering, Responsible AI, Security Testing, Threat Modeling, Security Controls
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Cybersecurity, Network Security, Cloud Security, Application Security, OSI Models, Cryptography, Encryption, Endpoint Security, Firewall, Malware Protection, Wireless Networks, Network Protocols, Public Key Infrastructure, Data Integrity, Virtualization
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Skills you'll gain: Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), SonarQube, DevSecOps, Jenkins, Software Development Life Cycle, CI/CD, Application Security, Secure Coding, Continuous Integration, DevOps, Continuous Delivery, Code Review, Vulnerability Scanning, Vulnerability Assessments, Security Awareness, Dependency Analysis, Compliance Management, Automation
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Skills you'll gain: AI Security, Application Security, Secure Coding, DevSecOps, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Scanning, Vulnerability Assessments, AI Personalization, Continuous Integration, Open Source Technology, PyTorch (Machine Learning Library), MLOps (Machine Learning Operations), Dependency Analysis, Analysis, Program Implementation, Supply Chain
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Application security refers to the measures and practices designed to protect applications from threats throughout their lifecycle. This includes securing applications during development, deployment, and maintenance. The importance of application security cannot be overstated; as cyber threats become more sophisticated, ensuring the security of applications is crucial to protect sensitive data and maintain user trust. Vulnerabilities in applications can lead to data breaches, financial loss, and damage to an organization's reputation.
A career in application security can lead to various roles, including Application Security Analyst, Security Engineer, DevSecOps Engineer, and Software Developer with a focus on security. These positions are essential in organizations that prioritize cybersecurity, as they work to identify and mitigate risks associated with application vulnerabilities. With the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, pursuing a career in application security can be a rewarding choice.
To excel in application security, you should develop a range of skills, including knowledge of secure coding practices, familiarity with security testing tools, and an understanding of common vulnerabilities such as SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS). Additionally, skills in threat modeling, risk assessment, and compliance with security standards are valuable. Proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript can also enhance your capabilities in this field.
Some of the best online courses for application security include Application Security for Developers and DevOps Professionals and Web Application Security. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for securing applications. Additionally, specialized courses like Cloud Application Security can help you understand security in cloud environments.
Yes. You can start learning application security on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in application security, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
Learning application security involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Start by taking foundational courses that cover the basics of application security. Engage in hands-on projects or labs to apply what you've learned. Participating in online forums or communities can also provide insights and support from peers. As you progress, consider pursuing advanced courses or certifications to deepen your expertise.
Typical topics covered in application security courses include secure coding practices, threat modeling, security testing methodologies, and compliance with security standards. Courses may also address specific vulnerabilities, such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, and explore tools and techniques for identifying and mitigating these risks. Understanding the security implications of different software architectures and deployment environments is also crucial.
For training and upskilling employees in application security, courses like Application Security Program Ignition Guide and Cyber Security: Application of AI can be particularly beneficial. These courses provide insights into building effective application security programs and leveraging AI for security purposes, making them suitable for organizations looking to enhance their workforce's capabilities.