C++ is an extension of the C programming language. This expanded version of C has features that allow for easier troubleshooting, more flexibility, and other benefits. C++ is popular for developers interested in programming graphical applications, which enable interaction with a user interface through icons instead of text—for instance, Apple’s iOS interface seen on an iPhone.
With user-centered design increasingly becoming the goal of development teams, C++ is important to learn for people interested in programming intuitive computer systems and electronic devices. C++ is also widely used for game and embedded-device programming, which is credited to its efficient memory usage.
According to Jeff Cogswell, author of “C++ Cookbook”, an eagerness to develop new C++ skills will get job seekers far in Programming—and with the language’s performance, reliability, and wide variety of applications, skilled C++ users are much sought-after. In the U.S., Software Engineers specializing in C++ can make $135,000 on average, depending on location and other factors.
Besides the obvious C++ Programmer title, there are various other roles where C++ knowledge is useful. Those roles include C++ Developer, C++ Engineer, Embedded Software Engineer, Video Engineer, Software Tester, UI Engineer, and others that are related.
C++ courses offered through Coursera equip learners with knowledge in creating large projects in C++; writing a program in the C++ language; understanding how C++ compares with other languages; debugging C++ code; implementing data structures as C++ classes; and more.
Lessons on C++ are taught by instructors from major tech names and universities, including University of California at Santa Cruz, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, and other institutions. Learners can enjoy exploring C++ with instructors specializing in Computer Science, Communications, Data, and other disciplines. Course content on C++ is delivered via video lectures, readings, quizzes, hands-on projects, and other types of assignments.
You need to have a familiarity with any other programming language and an understanding of some graph theory before starting to learn C++. You should also have experience in C programming as well as a basic understanding of object-oriented software and algorithms. Basic arithmetic skills are also a must.
People who are enthusiastic about programming and coding are best suited for roles in C++. They're interested in the information technology, engineering, design, quality control, management, or professional services industries, where C++ is often used. Those who excel at solving complex problems and have an interest in how computers work are also well suited for roles in C++. Often, individuals in C++ roles need leadership skills as well as the ability to collaborate and conduct research. People who thrive on keeping up with the newest advances in methodologies and technologies have essential qualities that make them well suited for roles in C++.
If you'd like to pursue a career—or advance in your current career—in software development, programming, or other computational fields, learning C++ is likely right for you. The same is true if you want to be a software engineer, embedded engineer, or programmer analyst. C++ also has important applications in the future of the astronomy, bioinformatics, and accounting and finance fields. If you've already mastered C and would like to learn a more object-oriented version of this language, learning C++ is a logical move for you. If you'd like to know how to create computer programs or develop software packages—including games, graphics and video editors, office applications, or operating systems—learning C++ is likely right for you. Furthermore, C++ is often a good place to start if you haven't learned a programming language yet since it helps you understand the essential elements of programming.