Everyone relies on at least one software application to get things done at the workplace, home, or even socially. Software testers are a significant part of launching successful software because they make sure it’s free from bugs or issues. Defect management, automation tools, and integration testing are all vital skills that software testers should learn.
You can explore software testing through bootcamps, individual courses, and massive open online courses. In addition, software testing is an excellent skill to add to your resume as a software engineer, developer, or tech professional. Read below for a comprehensive list of the best online software testing courses to help you find the right path.
Software testing courses allow you to work on the latest technology. When someone creates computer software, such as a software engineer, they want to ensure the software functions properly for all of its users. To do this, technology undergoes extensive software testing. Some companies are designed to test various types of software, from computer applications to video games.
There are opportunities for people all over the world to become a software tester. If you have an analytical mind, then software testing may be the right career for you. Check out our guide below on the best software testing courses available.
What Is Software Testing?
Software testing is the process of checking whether software reaches its goals and meets industry standards. Software testing, or software quality assurance testing, applies to a software product or application. Industry experts implement software testing to eliminate or reduce bugs, improve software performance, and reduce maintenance costs.
There are different types of software testing, including acceptance testing, performance testing, functional testing, and usability testing. All these tests cover different areas of a software application or product to ensure functionality. Software testers use manual or automated tools to examine all the software properties before the software is launched.
Software testing is the process of verifying a system’s operations. It is a significant part of software development. Through testing, people identify any errors, gaps, or missing data. There are several types of testing. They are typically divided into two categories, which are functional and non-functional testing.
Functional Testing
Functional testing is the process of verifying that the software is doing what is expected. This means that the software acts in the way the creator wants. Functional testing has several types, including the following:
- Unit Testing
- Interface Testing
- Integration Testing
- System Testing
- Regression Testing
- Sanity Testing
- Smoke Testing
Non-Functional Testing
Non-functional testing is the process of examining and verifying customer expectations are being met by the software. This type of testing may fall under the purview of a quality assurance engineer to make sure users have the best experience. This type of testing typically includes the following:
- Performance Testing
- Stress Testing
- Volume Testing
- Endurance Testing
- Security Testing
- Usability Testing
Manual vs Automatic Software Testing
Manual Software Testing
Manual testing is the process of testing software by hand. This means physically using the software. Some manual testers use the software as intended, acting as a user, to see what errors occur during normal operations.
Other testers specifically seek out issues in the software and stress test certain aspects of it. This is to ensure the software cannot be broken or that certain actions won’t lead to a crash or glitch in the software.
Automatic Software Testing
Automatic testing the process of using an automation tool to test software. This process uses test scripts to generate results automatically. While this process is effective, it may not replicate some user actions when it comes to software.
There are also different types of automatic and manual software testing. Throughout your courses, you’ll come to learn about each type of testing and how it applies as a career.
Why Online Software Testing Courses Are Important for Professional Development
Software testing courses are important for a wide range of reasons. First, software testing professionals are in high demand as more individuals and organizations continue to develop software. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth rate for software testers is 22 percent between 2020 and 2030.
The BLS also reports that the average software tester earns $110,140 per year, which is much higher than average. With an online course, you’ll learn the extra skills you need to enter this field. Furthermore, online learning gives you the flexibility to find an entry-level or mid-level position as you continue training.
Online courses are flexible and accommodating. They allow you to study remotely and have flexible learning options to fit with your schedule. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you can always find a software testing course that aligns with your goals. Bootcamps, online course providers, and other higher learning institutions develop courses for everyone.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Software Testing?
One of the best benefits of software testing as a career is that you do not need a formal education. You can learn software testing at home without needing a degree. If you have no background in technology, it could take several months to a year to learn software testing.
However, the amount of time it takes mostly depends on how much time you spend studying and learning. If you want to increase your chances of finding a career, earn your certification from a program or course. These online courses take a few days to months to complete.
Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn Software Testing?
Yes, a coding bootcamp is a great place to learn software testing. Bootcamps offer career-specific courses, meaning the curriculum will focus more on the fundamentals of software testing. In addition, you will gain advanced software testing skills, such as programming, software testing techniques, automation, and web and mobile technologies.
Coding bootcamps are short term and less expensive compared to other learning platforms. Therefore, you will spend less time and money gaining enough experience to land a career in software testing. In addition, the best software testing bootcamps encourage students to develop theoretical and practical experience.
Attending an online coding bootcamp will allow you to learn from anywhere. Bootcamps also offer career services to help students prepare for the professional sector. You will learn to write a powerful resume, apply for jobs, prepare for interviews, and build a brand. Most bootcamps partner with tech companies to provide job placement assistance to students upon graduation.
Overview: The Best Online Software Testing Courses, Classes, or Training
Due to the high demand for software testers, more people are looking for online courses, classes, or training programs for professional development. However, to benefit from these programs, you must choose the best software testing online course for you. Here is a list of software testing courses that will prepare you for a career in the software testing field.
| Provider | Course | Price | Length | Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alison | Diploma in Software Testing | Free | 10 – 15 hours | Yes, for a fee |
| Careerist | QA Automation Testing Online Course | $899 – $5,999 | 15 weeks | No |
| Clarusway | Cloud for Testers | $999 | 8 weeks | No |
| Code Factory | Automated Software Tester | $5,200 | 10 weeks | No |
| Coveros | Software Tester Certification Foundation Level – ISTQB CTFL | $2,195 | 5 days | Yes |
| Coursera | Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate | $39 per month | 8 months | Yes |
| CPrime | Software Tester Certification Boot Camp | $2,045 | 3 days | Yes |
| Devmountain | Software Quality Assurance and Testing Bootcamp | $4,900 – $7,500 | 6 weeks | Yes |
| edX | Professional Certificate in Automated Software Testing | $358 | 3 months | Yes |
| QAllaborate | API Testing and Its Automation | $1,000 | 2 – 5 weeks | No |
| Technosoft Academy | QA Automation with Selenium Boot Camp | $5,000 | 18 weeks | No |
| Test Pro | QA Automation Bootcamp | N/A | 10 weeks | No |
| Udacity | Software Testing | Free | 1 month | No |
| Udemy | Robot Framework Test Automation – Level 2 | $89.99 | 5 hours | Yes |
| Udemy | Selenium WebDriver with Java – Basics to Advanced+Frameworks | $109.99 | 54 hours | Yes |
In Detail: The Best Online Software Testing Classes, Courses, or Training
Diploma in Software Testing | Alison
- Learning Format: Online class
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Object-oriented testing, mutation testing, introduction to testing levels, basic concepts in testing and unit testing
This is a short class that covers the overview of software testing concepts before delving deeper. You will learn different testing types, techniques, and tools. Other outcomes include identifying ways to reduce bugs, distinguishing different testing types and functions, and explaining data flow testing. This class is free, but you will have to pay if you want a diploma.
Key Takeaway: This is a free and short software testing course, making it cost-effective and time-saving.
QA Automation Testing Online Course | Careerist
- Learning Format: Online training
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Automation QA foundations, algorithm fundamentals, advanced skills of automation QA
This 10-week bootcamp holds two instructor-led sessions every week, on Sundays and Thursdays. Students explore various subjects over 20 lessons, which include two free lessons. After completing this course, you can work as an automation professional or in other related careers. You will also receive one-on-one mentoring to help you transition into this career.
Key Takeaway: This intermediate-level course is a great choice if you already know software testing and want to expand your scope.
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Cloud for Testers | Clarusway
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Network essentials, Linux, databases and RDS, API Gateway, Cloudwatch
This is a comprehensive course that includes 100 hours of in-class learning sessions. Students also spend over 20 hours in Career Management Services. The activities include resume building, life coaching sessions, interview prep, and LinkedIn sessions. However, this course is only available to professionals and people experienced in GitHub/Git and Java.
Key Takeaway: This course is for professional QA testers who want to upskill to take advantage of the growing opportunities in cloud computing.
Automated Software Tester | Code Factory
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Software development cycle, test procedure, basics of test automation, static testing, test automation architecture
This course is designed for students seeking to understand coding fundamentals and how they relate to software testing. You will learn many programming languages like Python, JavaScript, C#, GIT, HTML, and CSS. Students also explore different test automation techniques and learn how to conduct automated testing using Selenium and Tosca.
Key Takeaway: This intensive course has high job placement rates and an intensive curriculum to help you get ready for a job.
Software Tester Certification Foundation Level – ISTQB CTFL | Coveros
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Fundamentals of testing, static testing, test techniques, testing throughout the software development lifecycle
Coveros is known for its unique software testing classes that are offered on a rolling basis. Students spend five days understanding the fundamentals of software testing before sitting for a significant certification exam. This program is an accredited training course that prepares you for the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Certified Tester – Foundation Level (CTFL) exam.
Key Takeaway: The course fee includes certification exam voucher, peer interaction, course access, and other learning basics.
Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate | Coursera
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Automation, Python programming, troubleshooting and debugging, version control, basic Python data structures
Google developed this course to cater to IT professionals and industry newbies. You will learn to program with Python, manage IT resources, and evaluate IT problems when developing software. You must devote at least five hours a week to complete this self-paced course within eight months.
Key Takeaway: If you want industry-standard software testing training, you should enroll in this course from Google.
Software Tester Certification Boot Camp | CPrime
- Learning Format: Online training
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Testing throughout the software lifecycle, fundamentals of testing, tool support for testing, static techniques
This class is perfect for professionals like software testers, test managers, test leads, or developers. It is a certification course that prepares students for the ISTQB CTFL certification. You can pursue a short-term class to remind yourself about software testing fundamentals before sitting for the exam.
Key Takeaway: This is an advanced course for professionals seeking certification, so make sure you know your stuff before you start.
Software Quality Assurance and Testing Bootcamp | Devmountain
- Learning Format: Online bootcamp
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Test automation, QA theory, agile testing, manual testing, JavaScript
This full-time course from Devmountain is perfect for beginners looking to pursue entry-level software testing careers. You will learn how to perform test writing, test automation, API testing, and unit testing. You will also understand the essential characteristics of a software tester and prepare for a career in the field. Furthermore, you will develop an app as part of your course.
Key Takeaway: You can get hands-on training in software testing with this top bootcamp.
Professional Certificate in Automated Software Testing | edX
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Unit testing, coverage criteria, design for testability
This is a two-course program that offers a professional certificate focused on QA fundamentals. It is a self-paced learning program that requires you to devote at least five hours a week to study. The course explores boundary testing, test adequacy, code coverage, design for testability, and test code.
Key Takeaway: This course from edX the Delft University of Technology will teach beginners everything they need to know about automated software testing.
API Testing and Its Automation | QAllaborate
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Client/server architecture, automation of testing API, introduction to tools like Postman, RestConsole, RestAssured
This course covers everything from XML, RestAPI, using POST and JSON, and other API fundamentals. You will learn from a lead engineer, complete daily assignments, and gain hands-on experience from real start-up environments. You will also learn how to interpret various web APIs and use industry-approved tools like RestConsole.
Key Takeaway: This is an excellent course for API professionals with Java knowledge.
QA Automation with Selenium Boot Camp | Technosoft Academy
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Intro to SDLC and testing fundamentals, manual testing and bug reporting in JIRA, agile methodology and implementation, continuous integration setup
The course equips you with the skills to develop full stack test automation frameworks and tools. In addition, you will gain programming knowledge and keep up with modern tools for software testing. At the end of the course, you must also complete an end-to-end project using everything you’ve learned.
Key Takeaway: The course includes hours of instructor-led learning, homework, and project work to help you become a seasoned software tester.
QA Automation Bootcamp | Test Pro
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Java Core, version control (GIT), advanced techniques, Selenium Grid, BDD with Cucumber
Test Pro’s QA Automation Bootcamp is an excellent program that aims to boost your expertise in software testing with test automation. You will attend one-hour online sessions for a week, with help from mentors and experienced instructors. You’ll have to contact Test Pro directly to learn more about pricing options.
Key Takeaway: This intermediate-level bootcamp is a great way to elevate your skills.
Software Testing | Udacity
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Random testing, code coverage, domains, ranges, kinds of testing
This is a free course for professionals with a background in programming. You will learn how to find and repair bugs, write better code, generate test cases, and evaluate different elements of software testing. You will receive video lectures from industry professionals and learn through practical exercises and interactive quizzes.
Key Takeaway: This is a cost-effective course that will give you the knowledge you need through self-paced learning.
Robot Framework Test Automation – Level 2 | Udemy
- Learning Format: Online class
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Advanced data management, web locators, script control flow, data-driven tests
This course focuses on Robot Framework test automation and its capabilities. You will learn to create a Robot Framework library, build data-driven scripts, and update the framework test tools. The course also delves into HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap. First, however, you must have basic knowledge of the Robot Framework platform and scripting.
Key Takeaway: The class aims to improve your understanding of the Robot Framework in software testing, so it is a good choice if you want to learn a specific skill.
Selenium WebDriver with Java – Basics to Advanced + Frameworks | Udemy
- Learning Format: Course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Selenium introduction, deep dive into functional testing, locator techniques, automate web elements
This is the number one software testing course on Udemy. Students explore real-time projects, data-driven frameworks, and mobile automation. The course is available for beginners and manual testers without programming experience. You also work with five dedicated industry experts who offer guidance as you go through the 348 lectures spread across 41 sections.
Key Takeaway: This best-selling course will teach you all you need to know about Selenium for software testing.
Online Software Testing Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?
Courses, training, and classes are all beneficial for different reasons. You will learn essential technical concepts of software testing that will add to your career or help you get a new job as a software tester. Each option will teach you the technical skills you need to start a software testing career.
However, courses are more long-term and can be offered by bootcamps, online course providers, or higher learning institutions. They are pricier than the other options and last from a few weeks to months. Furthermore, courses can combine both practical or project-based learning and theoretical concepts.
Unlike courses, classes are short-term and are offered as individual lessons, which make up a course. Usually, classes last a few hours or a day, depending on the topic. These are often available on online course platforms. Beginners can take these as introductory lessons or professionals who wish to acquire specific skills within a given time frame.
Training programs focus more on hands-on exercises and practical knowledge. Students explore training to gain or enhance specific skills in software testing. You will also be required to complete a project as part of the training. Additionally, training can be offered as part of a course. These also last between several weeks and months, depending on the institution.
How to Choose the Right Online Software Testing Course, Class, or Training Program
Cost
You must consider the course, program, or bootcamp cost before narrowing down the best option. Bootcamps and higher learning institutions tend to be more expensive compared to courses from providers like Udemy and Coursera. For example, a software quality assurance course at Careerist costs up to $5,999, but a similar course on Udemy can cost you $89.99.
Alternatively, you can check to find out which providers offer financial aid, scholarships, or flexible financing options. For example, most bootcamps offer income share agreements, installment plans, and loan financing. You can also start with free courses, which are readily available online. In short, do enough research to find a wallet-friendly course.
Certificate
Certificates are important because they prove you completed the course, class, or training program. You can add these to your resume and present them to employers, allowing you to stand out during interviews. Therefore, before selecting the course, find out if the provider offers certificates or certifications upon completion.
It will also help if the provider is accredited or certified to offer these courses. Accreditations mean that the courses meet government standards, and your certificate is credible in the job market. You can always check for accreditations and certifications on the provider’s official website.
Length
These learning options take anywhere from a few hours or months to complete. With this in mind, you must select an option that matches your availability. No matter what types of software testing training courses you prefer, you’ll learn all the aspects of software testing you need to know.
If you are not available to pursue a long-term course, then a class or short-term training program may be suitable. However, if you want to delve into advanced-level software testing, a course is an excellent option. You’ll have more opportunities to work on real-life projects with instructor-led training.
Format
Some courses are instructor-led, while others also offer the self-paced option. Instructor-led courses require students to be present at specific times for live online classes. Therefore, you must abide by this schedule to avoid falling behind on the coursework.
Self-paced courses are more flexible and solely depend on your discipline level. You are in charge of setting your pace and completing the set hours of weekly study. You might be required to study three hours a week or more, depending on the schedule. To avoid falling behind, keep a steady pace throughout.
Software Testing Course Certificates vs Certifications
Software testing certificates and certifications are not the same. Most, if not, all course providers provide students with a certificate of completion to show that they took part in the program. Certificates are evidence of participation and academic knowledge in the software testing field. One of the best online certificates can make you eligible for employment.
You’ll have to pass a separate exam to get a professional certification. These are more valuable and prove that you meet the industry standards, allowing you to work as a tester. National or state organizations offer certifications, such as the Association for Testing and Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) or ISTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification.
Importance of Software Testing Certifications
A software testing certification will increase your employability in the field. Employers are more likely to hire a certified candidate because it proves you have the necessary software testing skills. After passing an exam, you’ll have a certification for your resume that can help you get hired and earn a higher salary.
Why You Should Take Online Software Testing Courses or Classes
Online software testing courses are excellent in adding to your technical and analytical skills. You gain practical experience to start your career in software testing, which will help you make sure companies release bug-free, high-quality software. These courses are essential for anyone that views software testing as a long-term career path.
Software testing requires extensive knowledge and understanding of technology, analytical skills, and more. However, if you have a passion for the field, you can find a lucrative career as a tester.
Through software testing courses online, it’s possible to join the career field quickly, instead of earning a degree. The average salary of a software tester is $56,600, according to Payscale.com.
If you have an interest in the field, you owe it to yourself to give it a try. Not only is software testing a growing career field, but there are many ways to try it for free. Check out any of the above software testing courses. Learn more about becoming a tester today.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
