Software Design and Architecture Specialization Course Syllabus

Overview: This specialization provides a beginner-friendly introduction to software design and architecture, guiding learners through core concepts such as object-oriented design, design patterns, software architecture, and service-oriented architecture. The program is structured into five foundational modules followed by a hands-on capstone project, totaling approximately 50 hours of self-paced learning. Ideal for aspiring software architects and engineers, this course emphasizes practical skills in designing reusable, scalable, and maintainable software systems using Java and UML.

Module 1: Object-Oriented Design

Estimated time: 17 hours

• Principles of object-oriented analysis and design
• Creating modular, flexible, and reusable software
• Applying object-oriented design guidelines
• Communicating designs using Unified Modeling Language (UML)

Module 2: Design Patterns

Estimated time: 15 hours

• Incorporating common design patterns in applications
• Building interactive software with pattern-based solutions
• Identifying code smells and problematic designs
• Using a catalog of design patterns for better maintainability

Module 3: Software Architecture

Estimated time: 9 hours

• Representing software architectures using UML and visual tools
• Understanding common architectural styles and their tradeoffs
• Evaluating architecture quality attributes
• Techniques for improving software architecture

Module 4: Service-Oriented Architecture

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Principles of service-oriented architecture (SOA)
• Designing scalable and reusable services
• Implementing maintainable service components

Module 5: Capstone Project Preparation

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Reviewing design principles and patterns
• Planning a Java-based Android application
• Documenting architecture with UML diagrams

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Design and implement a Java-based Android application
• Apply object-oriented design principles and patterns
• Submit documented software architecture and working prototype

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic Java programming
• No prior experience in software design required
• Basic understanding of software development concepts

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Apply object-oriented design principles to create reusable software
• Identify and implement appropriate design patterns
• Express software architecture using UML and other visual notations
• Evaluate and improve software architectures based on quality attributes
• Design and develop a functional Android application as part of a capstone project