All Pathways
Certified pathway · Beginner

Software Foundations

Build a strong foundation in programming and computer science. Learn Python, JavaScript, data structures, and algorithmic thinking - essential skills for any tech career.

8 courses53+ hours~18 weeksVerified certificate

Courses are free • $66.67 for the full pathway

What's Included

  • 8 courses, free to open
  • Capstone project
  • Verified certificate
  • Progress tracking
Career outcome

Where it leads

Develop a strong programming foundation with Python, JavaScript, and core CS concepts like data structures and algorithms.

Skills

Skills you'll gain

PythonJavaScriptObject-Oriented ProgrammingTesting & DebuggingProblem SolvingClean Code
Curriculum

Courses, then a capstone

  1. 1

    Terminal Fundamentals

    Learn the Linux command line from scratch. Navigate files, create directories, and master essential commands.

    Free to open
    3 hours5 modules
  2. 2

    Python Fundamentals

    Learn Python from scratch. Perfect for complete beginners with no programming experience.

    Free to open
    10 hours5 modules
  3. 3

    Python Clean Code & Functions

    Master clean code principles: functions, validation, refactoring, and documentation.

    Free to open
    8 hours6 modules
  4. 4

    Python Object-Oriented Programming

    Master OOP: classes, objects, methods, composition, and inheritance.

    Free to open
    10 hours6 modules
  5. 5

    JavaScript Fundamentals

    Learn the core concepts of JavaScript programming. Master variables, control flow, functions, and data structures to build a strong programming foundation.

    Free to open
    4 hours3 modules
  6. 6

    Git Fundamentals

    Master version control with Git. Track changes, create commits, work with branches, and understand the Git workflow.

    Free to open
    3 hours4 modules
  7. 7

    Python Testing & Debugging

    Master debugging, testing, and writing robust Python code.

    Free to open
    7 hours6 modules
  8. 8

    Python Automation & File Handling

    Automate data tasks: parse CSV, clean data, generate reports, export JSON.

    Optional
    8 hours6 modules

  9. Capstone Project

    Locked

    Build a useful command-line application that demonstrates your programming fundamentals.

    ~15 hoursReviewed by mentor

    Complete all required courses to unlock

  10. Pathway Certificate

    Complete all required courses and the capstone project to earn your verified certificate. Share it on LinkedIn and add it to your portfolio.

    Verifiable onlineLinkedIn shareablePDF download
Questions

Before you enroll

Are the courses really free?
Every course in this pathway is free to open and learn with a free account. Enrolling in the pathway is a one-time payment: it adds the structured path, progress tracking, the capstone project and the verified pathway certificate.
How long do I have access?
Once enrolled, you have lifetime access to the pathway content. Take as long as you need to complete the courses and capstone project.
What if I can't afford the pathway?
Learners in Haiti get the EdLight Haiti Scholarship, 85% off the list price, applied automatically, and many other countries get regional pricing. You always see the list price, your discount and what you pay before checkout. If you still need assistance, contact us.
Is the certificate recognized by employers?
Our certificates are verifiable online and demonstrate practical skills. Many employers value skill-based credentials, especially when paired with capstone projects that showcase real work.