Applied Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization Course Syllabus

Overview: This specialization provides a practical introduction to software engineering fundamentals with a strong emphasis on object-oriented design and Java implementation. Over approximately 9 weeks, learners will progress from foundational programming concepts to designing, testing, and building a complete software application. Each module combines theory with hands-on coding exercises, ensuring a solid understanding of core principles and real-world application.

Module 1: Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Java basics and development environment setup
• Understanding classes and objects
• Core OOP concepts: inheritance and encapsulation
• Hands-on coding with IntelliJ IDEA

Module 2: Software Design and Architecture

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Modeling systems with UML class and sequence diagrams
• Introduction to design patterns and their use cases
• Applying SOLID principles to software design
• Creating maintainable and scalable architectures

Module 3: Testing and Debugging

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Principles of unit testing and test-driven development
• Writing and running JUnit test cases
• Debugging techniques and tools in Java
• Handling assertions and error conditions

Module 4: Software Development Capstone Project

Estimated time: 16 hours

• Applying OOP concepts to design a Java application
• Creating UML diagrams for system modeling
• Implementing and testing a modular software solution

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic programming concepts
• No prior Java experience required
• Access to a computer with Java and IntelliJ installed

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain core principles of software engineering and object-oriented design
• Model software systems using UML diagrams
• Implement Java applications using OOP best practices
• Write and execute unit tests using JUnit
• Build, debug, and maintain a complete Java-based software project