Software security courses can help you learn secure coding practices, vulnerability assessment, threat modeling, and incident response strategies. You can build skills in risk analysis, penetration testing, and implementing security protocols across various software environments. Many courses introduce tools like static and dynamic analysis software, intrusion detection systems, and security frameworks, showing how these tools enhance your ability to protect applications from potential threats.

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
Skills you'll gain: Application Security, OAuth, Data Validation, Authentications, Security Testing, Secure Coding, Web Applications, Authorization (Computing), Vulnerability Scanning, Cyber Attacks, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Server Side, Security Strategy
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

University of California, Davis
Skills you'll gain: Threat Modeling, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Secure Coding, Cryptography, Authentications, Exploit development, Encryption, Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Security, Application Security, Exploitation techniques, Security Controls, Software Design, Verification And Validation, Java, Code Review, Programming Principles, Debugging, Cybersecurity
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Microsoft
Skills you'll gain: CI/CD, Continuous Deployment, Application Deployment, Cloud Deployment, Restful API, Middleware, Continuous Integration, Software Testing, API Design, Azure DevOps, Postman API Platform, API Testing, .NET Framework, Microservices
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 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: Software Testing, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Business Logic, Secure Coding, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Test Case, Identity and Access Management, Authentications, Vulnerability Assessments, Threat Modeling, Encryption, Data Validation, Network Protocols, Authorization (Computing), Web Applications
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: AI Security, Threat Modeling, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Security Testing, Retrieval-Augmented Generation, Software Architecture, API Design, Test Automation, Vulnerability Management, Agentic systems, Systems Design, Model Evaluation, Test Driven Development (TDD), CI/CD, Python Programming, Continuous Deployment, Dependency Analysis, Large Language Modeling, Machine Learning, Performance Analysis
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: AI Security, Responsible AI, Cryptography, DevSecOps, Encryption, Secure Coding, Data Security, Cybersecurity, Network Security, Public Key Infrastructure, Data Encryption Standard, Security Engineering, Software Architecture, Cyber Security Strategy, Cloud Security, CI/CD, Security Awareness, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Security Controls, Software Development
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Microsoft
Skills you'll gain: Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Authentications, Secure Coding, ASP.NET, Microsoft Copilot, Data Security, Back-End Web Development, Authorization (Computing), JSON, Identity and Access Management, Data Storage, Application Programming Interface (API), Encryption
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Software security refers to the measures and practices that protect software applications from vulnerabilities and threats. It is crucial because software is integral to nearly every aspect of modern life, from banking to healthcare. A breach in software security can lead to data theft, financial loss, and damage to reputation. As software systems become more complex and interconnected, ensuring their security is paramount to safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining user trust.
A career in software security can lead to various roles, including software security analyst, application security engineer, security consultant, and penetration tester. These positions are essential in organizations that prioritize protecting their digital assets. As businesses increasingly rely on technology, the demand for skilled professionals in software security continues to grow, offering opportunities for career advancement and specialization.
To excel in software security, you should develop a range of technical and analytical skills. Key areas include understanding secure coding practices, familiarity with security testing tools, knowledge of threat modeling, and proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++. Additionally, soft skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital for collaborating with teams and conveying security concepts.
There are numerous online courses available for those interested in software security. Some notable options include Software Security for Web Applications, which focuses on securing web applications, and CISSP Domain 8: Software development security, which covers essential security practices in software development. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical skills to enhance your expertise.
Yes. You can start learning software security on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in software security, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn software security effectively, start by exploring foundational courses that cover basic concepts and practices. Engage with hands-on projects to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Joining online communities or forums can also provide support and resources as you progress. Consistent practice and staying updated with the latest security trends will further enhance your learning experience.
Typical topics covered in software security courses include secure coding practices, threat modeling, security testing methodologies, and risk assessment. Courses may also address specific vulnerabilities, such as SQL injection or cross-site scripting, and provide insights into compliance standards and regulations that govern software security.
For training and upskilling employees in software security, courses like Information Security Analyst Professional Certificate and IBM DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate are excellent choices. These programs offer comprehensive training that equips teams with the necessary skills to address security challenges effectively.