Question 1

What is Swift, and why is it important to learn about?

Accepted Answer

Swift is an open-source programming language developed by Apple for developing applications for operating systems spanning the entire family of Apple products, including macOS, iOS, watchOS, and tvOS. While learning C and Objective-C to program on Apple platforms was traditionally less of a priority for developers than programming languages for PCs, the incredible popularity of the iPhone has made Swift programming for iOS app development a very important skill for mobile developers in particular.

Programming in Swift is intended to be fast and easy, with concise syntax, built-in safety and security, and additional developer tools as part of Apple’s Xcode integrated development environment (IDE) that can help speed the design of user interfaces and other tasks. According to Apple, Swift was “designed to be anyone’s first programming language,” making it a great choice for new computer science students or professionals from other fields looking to change careers.

Question 2

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in Swift?

Accepted Answer

Having a background in programming with Swift and Xcode is essential for software developers working on mobile applications, since it is the primary language used for iOS app development. While Android is used in more phones worldwide, the iPhone and iOS remain the most popular mobile device platform in the U.S. market, making Swift a must-learn for most large tech companies.

Becoming a mobile software developer with the ability to program in Swift is a gateway to a high-paying career with lots of job opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developers earned a median annual wage of $107,510 in 2019, and these jobs are expected to grow much faster than the economy-wide average over the next decade. And, as mobile platforms become increasingly important for companies of all kinds, having skills in mobile application development ensures you’ll be at the leading edge of the industry.

Question 3

Can I learn about Swift by taking online courses on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Certainly. Computer science topics are some of the most popular learning opportunities on Coursera, including individual courses in Swift development as well as Specializations spanning multiple courses. You can learn from top-ranked schools like University of California Irvine and the University of Toronto, or get a professional certificate in Swift programming through LearnQuest. Regardless of whether you’re a student or a mid-career professional looking to acquire a new skill, Coursera lets you learn about Swift on a flexible schedule and at a lower tuition than on-campus alternatives.

Question 4

What skills or experience do I need to already have, before starting to learn Swift?

Accepted Answer

The skills and experience that you might need to already have before starting to learn Swift would be a familiarity with Apple programs and apps, as Swift is the main programming language that Apple developed for its line of “i” products, like the iPod, iOS, and macOS. You might also want to know a good deal about user interface and user-experience concepts, as well as the human-interface guidelines that Apple uses for its apps and programs. Having a good background in iOS and macOS would be another plus for a new software developer, as well as having a good basis in computer science overall.

Question 5

How do I know if learning Swift is right for me?

Accepted Answer

You might know that learning Swift is right for you if you are a whiz in macOS, an expert in iOS, and you have worked with XCode already. This is important as XCode is the integrated development environment for Apple’s macOS. This environment is where you access Swift to develop software for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS. If you are a focused, analytical developer on your own or on a team, then learning Swift may be right for you.

Question 6

What kind of people are best suited for roles in Swift?

Accepted Answer

People who are creative, good at problem-solving, open-minded, adaptable, patient, and have critical thinking skills are well suited for roles in Swift. The kind of people best suited for roles working with Swift are, of course, those software developers who know how to write code in Swift proficiently. Developers can write entire apps in Swift, and maintain a stable API that brings existing Swift code into the latest version of XCode. These people best suited for roles in Swift may also build widgets for the iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices. Learning Swift to work in the iOS environment may also command a high salary for these software professionals.

Question 7

What types of places hire people with a background in Swift?

Accepted Answer

The types of places that hire people with a background in Swift are companies working in online grocery, e-commerce, online real estate, and similar areas, needing strong app development in Swift language that can help them achieve their company goals. Swift developers are in high demand by companies, and some of the better developers can earn a high hourly rate on a contract basis or an above-average salary on an annual basis.

Question 8

What are the benefits of taking an online Swift course?

Accepted Answer

Online Swift courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Swift skills. Choose from a wide range of Swift courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

Question 9

What Swift courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

Accepted Answer

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Swift, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.

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Explore the Swift Course Catalog

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Frequently Asked Questions about Swift

What is Swift, and why is it important to learn about?‎

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in Swift?‎

Can I learn about Swift by taking online courses on Coursera?‎

What skills or experience do I need to already have, before starting to learn Swift?‎

How do I know if learning Swift is right for me?‎

What kind of people are best suited for roles in Swift?‎

What types of places hire people with a background in Swift?‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Swift course?‎

What Swift courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?‎

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