Java was first introduced in 1995 when James Gosling and his team decided to create a general-purpose language for televisions. However, it was soon discovered that Java functionality extended beyond programming cable televisions to developing applications for web and smart devices.
Today, Java is the language of app developers and will likely continue to be for years to come. If you’re interested in a career in mobile development, you will want to master Java. With that, you may be wondering, “Is Java hard to learn?”. Thankfully, in this article, you’ll find all the information you need to transition into a professional Java developer.
What Is Java Used For?
Java is an open-source object oriented programming model that can be used to perform a lot of tasks in the distributed environment of the internet, because of how multi-featured the programming language is. Java is used for all of the purposes mentioned below.
- Mobile App Development. Java is preferred by most mobile developers for writing programs for mobile platforms, particularly the Android software platform. All Java applications have cross-functional compatibility. You only need to write a one-time code for your application on the Java virtual machine and it can be compiled to run on any development environment.
- Desktop GUI Applications Development. You can write Java programs and package them as executable files that can be run on any desktop environment. Java has a wide range of library technologies, and some can be implemented in creating desktop applications.
- Web Application Development. Java can be used to develop web servers, APIs, and web-based applications. Java is a popular programming language for web development because of the security and simple syntax features it provides. The Java framework used for web development is usually Spring because of how lightweight, testable, and adaptable it is.
- Cloud Computing. The Java programming language can also be used for cloud computing. This amazing language is known for its robustness, cross-platform functionality, security features, and compatibility with cloud platforms. This makes it ideal for developing microservices and cloud-based applications. Also, Java-based cloud applications can be run on different operating systems such as Android, iOS, Linux, and Windows systems.
- Big Data Analysis. Java is not only used by developers, it is used by data analysts, too. Java provides an array of open-source implementation tools for big data analysis. Java makes it easy for developers and analysts to group big datasets into smaller groups from which actionable insights can be extracted. Java also provides machine learning and data science frameworks such as Deeplearning4j, MLib, and Java-ML to facilitate the scaling of big data algorithms, complex ecosystems, and data structures.
How Hard Is Java to Learn?
The Java programming language is fairly easy to get started with because it is written in understandable syntax. However, it will be much easier still if you have a bit of experience with programming. If you have no programming experience, you might have a difficult time mastering the language, especially if you haven’t learned the Java frameworks.
However, with some effort, you can understand the concepts and properly learn to implement the basic syntax rules in your projects. Absolute beginners should get acquainted with concepts like model-view-controller, data types, and object oriented paradigm (OOP) before attempting to write Java code. To build professional skills in Java, you need an experienced teacher.
Is Java Harder Than Kotlin?
No, it’s not. Most students find Java easier to learn because the programming style is less functional than Kotlin. The Kotlin inference can be difficult for students with no experience in programming, whereas Java’s object oriented programming approach makes it a much easier language to attack.
In fact, the basic programming resources offered by Java can improve your Kotlin learning experience. You can also use Java source code and libraries in a Kotlin environment. However, in the long run, you’ll find Kotlin easier to master than Java. Mostly because, once you master its functional approach to programming, you’ll benefit from its structured type system.
Tips to Learn Java
- Join the Java community. If you want to develop your Java programming skills you have to interact steadily with Java professionals. Their insights will go a long way in helping you structure your learning and career path. Join forums where Java source codes are reviewed, project ideas are shared, templates are given, and job opportunities are made available. It might be hard to navigate these forums as a beginner, but they’ll definitely give you a solid foundation.
- Learn the basic concepts first. You can’t jump to the part where you implement Java codes. You have to first learn the basic terms and concepts of the language. Acquaint yourself with the syntax rules, functions, data types, Java classes, the OOP, and the various packages and frameworks used by Java developers.
- Stay updated on Java trends. Every day, new frameworks and libraries are being introduced to the language and new uses are being discovered. You should keep up with the trends of this language if you want to become a professional Java developer.
- Pick the right learning format for you. This is easily the most important part of learning Java. Not every learning format will be accessible to you or even suited to your learning style. There are the self-taught, certification, and degree pathways. Each path has its cost, schedule, and industry-recognition considerations.
- Practice writing Java codes as much as you can. Work on as many projects as you can. This is not the time to pick a Java niche. Build web and mobile applications, web servers, microservices, and, if you can, run analysis on datasets. Request code reviews from seasoned Java professionals. Work with code editors and validation tools to improve the quality of your code.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Java?
Properly learning the basic concepts and writing conventional Java programs can take anywhere between one week and one month. To confidently create functional apps with the language, you have to constantly practice for at least three to four months. If you keep up with building your Java portfolio, you could become a Java professional faster than you’d think.
On the other hand, mastering the language to the point of improving on its features and frameworks could take you years. However, this largely depends on your technical learning capacity and how well you’ve adopted the advanced programming mindset.
Where to Start Learning Java
There are several factors to consider when picking the right channels to learn Java. You should first evaluate your Java learning needs, before choosing a learning pathway. Some of the ways you can learn Java are detailed below.
Java Coding Bootcamps
If you’re hoping to quickly land a reputable developer job with your skills, coding bootcamps are your best option. Java coding bootcamps prepare students for tech careers by tailoring the curricula to suit the current market demands. You’ll work with cutting-edge technologies, experienced Java professionals, and career counselors while building your professional Java portfolio.
Java Online Courses
Java online courses are less expensive ways to learn Java technologies and programming. However, they are often more time-consuming. They are made to provide foundational knowledge, provide students with hands-on learning opportunities, and help them start building their Java portfolios.
Java Degree Programs
Computer science, computer engineering, and software engineering degree programs can help you properly learn Java. This pathway will give you a broad knowledge of Java and other programming languages. With an accredited degree, your career options are broader. Java degree programs ensure you build both theoretical and practical knowledge of the language.
Java Free Resources
There are some free Java resources that could help you build basic skills in Java programming. This pathway is ideal for tentative students who are yet to see a long-term future in the field or those who can’t afford professional training. If you fall into this category, your best option would be to join a Java forum, subscribe to a credible Java blog, and binge on relevant free Java courses.
Is It Hard to Get a Job with Java?
No, it’s not. In fact, it’s pretty easy to get a job with your Java skills. There is a wide range of job opportunities for Java professionals because of how popular and functional this language is. The only obstacle to securing a job with this skill is your own capabilities. If you’re not as sound in your practical knowledge or have an unimpressive portfolio, you might find it hard to convince a good-paying employer to hire you.
Jobs You Can Get with Java Skills
- Java Web Developer. Java web developers perform backend programming on web servers, APIs, and databases to facilitate the performance of websites. Java web developers manage website security and troubleshoot performance issues that may occur. Java Web Developers earn a high average salary of $107,334, according to ZipRecruiter.
- Java Android Developer. Java Android developers specialize in creating applications using Java source codes on Android development platforms for mobile devices that run on the Android operating system. As a Java Android developer, you can earn an average median salary as high as $105,453, according to the salary computations from ZipRecruiter.
- Java Full Stack Developer. Java full stack developers are professionals who are skilled in core Java, Java frameworks, and in the use of full stack tools for developing web-based applications. These professionals can build GUIs, web games, servers, and databases with Java programs. A Java full stack developer can earn an average annual salary as high as $119,892, according to ZipRecruiter.
- Java Programmer. Java programmers are professionals who write Java source codes for Java-based applications. These professionals understand core Java and can manage Java programs. They work with development teams to implement the codes in different projects. Java programmers earn an average median salary of $102,207, according to ZipRecruiter.
- Java Software Architect. A Java software architect is a professional who develops, integrates, and manages software architectural systems to facilitate the development of applications written in the Java program. They work with development teams and business owners to specify the long or short-term Java needs. Java architects earn an average annual salary of about $157,020, according to ZipRecruiter.
Is Java Worth Learning?
Yes, Java is worth learning if you’re an aspiring software developer, engineer, or data analyst who wants to specialize in a core multi-purpose programming language. As a Java developer, you can expect to enjoy long-term relevance in the industry as software developers are projected to experience 22 percent job growth, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Plus, learning Java makes it easy for you to learn other programming languages because of its basic programming resources. Also, Java professionals find it easy to get jobs in the industry because most applications and systems run on Java programs. To take advantage of these opportunities, you can enroll in a coding bootcamp to learn Java, today.
FAQ: Is Java Hard to Learn?
Learning Java is only hard when you have no technical background or you don’t take the proper steps to learn the language. Java syntax is a statically typed machine language that has broad features and frameworks and can be integrated into several platforms. This can make it difficult to grasp as a beginner.
Yes, you can, but don’t expect to become a professional within that span of time. In three months, you should be able to build averagely functional applications. You should be familiar with object oriented programming and some Java frameworks. If you want to become a Java professional, you have to dedicate years to practicing and learning.
Yes, you can build sufficient Java skills by learning the language yourself. However, it will take a longer time for you to make real progress in becoming an independent Java programmer. You’ll make lots and mistakes and hit stumbling blocks you could avoid if you were getting professional training.
No, it’s not. Most people find Python easier to learn than Java. Python is a friendlier and more accessible programming language because it was written in a dynamic syntax that is easy to interpret and manipulate. Whereas, Java comes with an object-oriented approach that requires the student to first understand programming logic before attempting the language. However, most developers find Java easier to troubleshoot than Python.
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