Introduction
Swift is a powerful and intuitive programming language developed by Apple Inc. for iOS, iPad OS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS, respectively. Moreover, Swift is an open-source programming language. This programming language has evolved over the years with more functionalities for developers to build iOS applications efficiently.
Besides, the Swift programming language incorporates various aspects of Python, Ruby, and other similar languages to make it easy to be used in a production environment. Furthermore, the syntax is concise, which allows developers to write clean codes using Swift.
The developers are offered an interactive way of building codes with modern features and modern safety features by design to prevent errors or unsafe codes and improve readability. As a result, Swift remains one of the most popular programming languages and among the fastest instead of other programming languages such as Python.
As the Apple organization remains one of the top tech giants in the industry, the need for developers to build advanced iOS with modern functionalities and applications continues to grow, leading to a large number of jobs being listed each year.
In addition, there are packages released for developers to build and run codes for Windows operating systems. Thus, cross-platform support increases the demand for Swift’s skillset, and developers are expected to be well-equipped with Swift’s know-how as modern-day developers are expected to be multi-dimensional. Therefore, one must opt for industry-recognized courses to upskill themselves to achieve lucrative career opportunities as developers.
Related reading: Top 16 Android Development Courses
1. Swift 5 iOS Application Developer Specialization by Learn Quest – Coursera
The is a Swift developer specialization course offered on Coursera. This learning program is intended for learners looking to grasp the knowledge of developing applications using Swift and iOS. In this course, the learners will cover the topics from absolute basics and release their apps on the app store. In addition, the program provides the necessary skills to advance the programming skills for iOS application development.
The learners will be provided with hands-on sessions throughout the course to strengthen their Swift language skills and the coding expertise required for iOS applications.
In addition, the learners will create interfaces for user interaction, system data using tables, and the concepts of data persistence.
At the end of the course, the learners are expected to develop fully functional applications and understand various monetization concepts related to in-app ads, purchases, and subscriptions.
The course curriculum includes:
- Introduction to Programming in Swift 5
- Introduction to iOS App Development
- Tables, Data and Networking in iOS
- iOS App Store and In-App Purchases
Instructor: Mark Price
Level: Beginner
Duration: 4 Months
User Review: 4.5/5
Price: Free Enrollment (Additional charges for certification may apply)
2. iOS Development for Creative Entrepreneurs Specialization – Coursera
This course is offered by the University of California (UCI) on Coursera. In this iOS development course, the learners are expected to cover all the aspects of Swift programming, Objective-C, and mobile development, including fluency with the development tools and different interface concepts and UI kit.
The learners will also cover essential concepts of iOS development such as networking requirements, security, audio, location, and sensor frameworks. For the capstone project, the learners must create a networked game that leverages various sensors on the mobile phone to provide a unique gaming experience to the users.
The course curriculum includes:
Foundations of Objective-C App Development
The first module of this course focuses on foundational concepts on Objective-C. By the end of this module, the learners will read and write Swift language and have a solid understanding of Swift objects. Moreover, the learners will understand how to organize the codes professionally using objects and blocks. Finally, the learners will explore the concepts of building prototypes of various entry-level applications.
Networking and security in iOS Applications
The second module provides the knowledge of building iOS apps and understanding how they can securely interact with web services and receive push notifications. Furthermore, the learners will cover data storage concepts using Core data and the secure deployment of applications to the app store and the beta-users.
This module also offers various coding-based tutorials and explores the personal app toolbox to build apps. At the end of this module, the learners will cover authentication using OAuth 2.0, JSON, JSON syntax, data objects in Objective-C, setting up security settings, fetching web resources, and push notifications. In addition, the topics on permission, coding for building apps to receive remote and local push notifications, Apple’s cryptographic services, secure storage, and much more.
Best Practices for iOS User Interface Design
In this module, the learners will understand the developmental process for the sophisticated user interfaces for iOS and the best practices, UI-related animations, and responsive design requirements. In addition, the learners will cover topics such as virtual UI widgets, interface mapping, and viewing restoration.
Game, Sensors, and Media
This module covers fluid digital experience for gaming purposes and the use of advanced sensor hardware required for iPhones and iPad. The learners will cover 2D graphics, sounds, game center interaction, iOS physical engine, device detection orientation, and location settings.Â
Some of the essential concepts covered in this module include reverse geocode service, iOS device locations, accelerometers, and other sensors for the device’s orientation in physical space, ambient lighting levels, and sound effects.
Finally, the learners will learn to build games like breakout and pong and cover the concepts of graphic manipulation. Multi-touch events for complex interaction design, collision detection, and response for games are also covered in-depth.
Toward the Future of iOS Development with Swift
In this module, the learners will cover extensive iOS app development using Swift and build the foundations to understand advanced Swift development topics. At the end of the module, the learners will gain mastery over Swift coding, understanding the relationship between Objective-C and Swift programming, implement Swift programming for new platforms such as Apple Watch and Apple TV, and create client-server iPhone applications with location services.
iOS Project: Transreality Game
The final module includes the capstone projects to create a unique gaming experience for the users. The game aims to provide real-world gestures, motions, and real-world locations. In addition, the students are required to integrate graphics, networking sensors, and user interface design using the tools.
Instructor: Don Patterson, Sam Kaufman, Justin-Nicholas Toyama, Ralf Brockhaus, and Frank Ayars
Level: Beginner
Duration: 7 Months
User Review: 4.5/5
Price: Free Enrollment (Additional charges for certification may apply)
3. iOS App Development with Swift Specialization – Coursera
The University of Toronto offers a course on Coursera. This course covers the fundamentals of iOS development by building on the programming skills for Swift language.
In addition, the learners will explore the developmental tools such as Xcode and the design interfaces and interaction to build iOS applications. Furthermore, the learners will understand how to evaluate the usability and integrate camera, photo, and location performance to enhance the app’s performance.
Finally, the learners will build a fully functional photo editing app for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch for the capstone project. The capstone project completion is mandatory for learners to receive their certificate of completion.
The course modules are:
- Introduction to Swift Programming
- iOS App Development Basics
- App Design and Development for iOS
- Build iOS App
Instructor: Parham Aarabi
Level: Intermediate
Duration: 5 Months
User Review: 4.0/5
Price: Free Enrollment (Additional charges for certification may apply)
4. Mobile App Development with Swift by Curtin University – edX
The course is available on the edX platform. This course offers learners the tools, techniques, and various concepts related to building a basic iOS app from scratch. The learning program introduces Swift fundamentals and the advanced concepts to learn to code for iOS development. In addition, the learners will understand the uses of the Software Development Kit, the Apple developer tools to create mobile applications for Apple stores.
The learners will work through several practical sessions focused on Swift programming for app development throughout the course. The learners will also have an option to interact with app development companies to gather insights into developing apps and achieve a well-functioning product.
The course curriculum includes:
- Build the Very First iOS App
- Work with Augmented Reality and the Web
- Project: Create an iOS App from Start to Finish
Instructor: Dr. David A. McMeekin and Tristan W.Reed
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Duration: 6 Months
User Review: NA
Price: $497
5. Intro to iOS App Development with Swift – Udacity
This course is available on Udacity. In this course, the learners will be able to build an iPhone app for recording conversations between friends and have options for changing their voices. The course allows learners to gain knowledge of foundational skills for iOS app development using Swift.
The learners will explore the tools of iOS and the app structure and layout, and the buttons to be implemented in the application. All the concepts will be covered with hands-on sessions. The course prerequisites include prior programming experience and a strong understanding of programming concepts such as variables, statements, loops, functions, and classes.
The course curriculum includes:
- Introduction to Swift and Xcode: The Tools of iOS
- iOS App Structure: AutoLayout and Buttons
- Using View Controllers to build an App with Multiple Views
- How to Record Audio and Use the Delegation Design Pattern?
- Playback Sound and Add Sound Effects
Instructor: Jarrod Parkes
Level: Intermediate
Duration: 1 Month
User Review: NA
Price: Free
6. Certified iOS App Developer Training Course – Simplilearn
This course is offered on the Simplilearn platform. In this course, the learners will cover the concepts of iOS App development using the Swift 3 programming language. Furthermore, the learners will be provided with various aspects of the iOS 10 platform, including the interfaces, the input restrictions, notifications, messaging, and integration with the Sirikit.
The learners will also undergo hands-on training sessions by industry experts and build an app development portfolio by the end of the course. In addition, the learners will have the provision to participate in discussion groups with other professionals and students, and the mentor in the students’ community of the platform.
The course curriculum includes:
- Introduction
- iWatch course
- iOS App Developer
Instructor: Industry Professionals
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Duration: Flexible Learning (Lifetime Access on Payment)
User Review: 4.6/5
Price: $135.1 (Approximately)
7. Become an iOS Developer Nanodegree Program – Udacity
This course is a specialization course for iOS development offered on Udacity. In this course, the learners will master the Swift programming language to build applications for various Apple platforms such as iPhone, iPad, macOS, and more. Among various online courses on Swift programming, this course stands out as one of the most comprehensive courses.
The learners will begin with the basics of iOS app development, followed by delving into the Swift programming concepts and the relevant tools. Furthermore, the learners will also explore the Apple development environment and understand various concepts on layouts, views, UIKit, and other associated platform concepts. In addition, the learners will progress to build complex and advanced iOS applications using features such as networking, Apple’s Grand Central Dispatch, and Core Data.
Finally, the learners will build ready-to-publish applications as part of the capstone project for the App store. The prerequisites of the course include a basic understanding of programming. The learners will also be including their projects on the GitHub profiles, which will be taught separately in this course.
The course curriculum includes:
- Introduction
- Learn Swift Programming
- Intro to iOS App Development with Swift
- UIKit Fundamentals
- Network Requests and GCD
- Data Persistence
- Final Project
Instructor: Jarrod Parkes, Gabrielle Miller-Messner, Kate Rotondo, and Owen LaRosa
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Duration: 6 Months
User Review: 4.6/5
Price: Monthly Access: $399 and 6-month Access: $2034 (Approximately)
8. Swift in Depth – Pluralsight
This course is offered on the Pluralsight platform. In this course, the learners will be introduced to Swift programming language and deep dive into the concepts of Swift, and understand the difference between Objective-C programming. The course is designed to provide learners with essential hands-on experience to write working programs and learn to develop within the Apple ecosystem. The prerequisites of the course include prior experience with object-oriented programming language.
The course modules are:
- Introduction
- Operators, Types, and Collections
- Struct, Class, Tuples and Enum
- Control Flow, Patterns, and Error Handling
- Functions and Closures
- Subclassing, Properties, and Initializers
- Access Casts, Any, Generics, and Extensions
- Memory Management
- Protocols
- Customizing Swift
Instructor: Industry Expert
Level: Intermediate
Duration: 5 hours and 6 minutes
User Review: 4.7/5
Price: 10- Day Free Trial ( Charges may apply after trial period)
9. Play by Play: iOS and Swift from Scratch – Pluralisght
The course is available on Pluralsight. This course provides the fundamentals of iOS development using Swift and Xcode. The learners will explore app development concepts for the iOS platform by following along with examples throughout the course. This course is suitable for learners who are entirely new to iOS and Swift programming languages.
The learners will understand how to build fully functional applications with unique features of the Swift language. For the capstone, the learners will build an application to list their favorite movies and search from the Open Movie Database. In addition, the learners will understand how to incorporate app functionality using views, layouts, events, and integration with external data.
The course modules include:
- Introduction
- Swift and Xcode
- App Basics in Swift and Xcode
- Working with Data and HTTP in Swift
- Conclusion
Instructor: John Papa and Brian Clark
Level: Beginner
Duration: 1 hour and 29 minutes
User Review: 4.0/5
Price: 10- Day Free Trial ( Charges may apply after trial period)
10. iOS and Swift: The Complete iOS App Development Bootcamp – Udemy
This course is available on Udemy. The course is among the highest-rated courses on the platform for Swift programming and iOS development. In this course, the learners will understand how to code using Swift and build enhanced applications for iPhone and iPad platforms.
The course offers comprehensive modules covering key concepts on Swift UI, iOS, iPad OS, and macOS app interface design. The learners will also explore the concepts of an augmented reality kit for building AR-based apps, including Core ML and Create ML, to develop intelligent apps with machine learning. In addition, the learners will also build 3D augmented reality applications such as Pokemon Go or Harry Potter games.
At the end of the course, the learners will have complete fluency with programming in Swift and build apps ready for publishing in the app store.
Furthermore, the learners will have an in-depth understanding of the concepts such as OOP, control structures, data structures, software design patterns, and Apple’s delegation patterns. In addition, the learners will understand the networking concepts, persistent local data storage uses, machine learning for iOS apps, adding in-app purchases, and more.
The course curriculum includes:
- Getting Started with iOS Development and Swift 5
- Xcode Storyboards and Interface Builder
- Challenges
- Swift Programming Basics
- Programming Challenges
- Auto Layout and Responsive Uis
- Swift Programming: Control Flow and Options
- iOS App Design Patterns and Code Structuring
- Networking and API
- Core Location, Firebase Cloud Firestore, Swift UI
- Advanced Swift and CoreML
- ARKit
- Advanced Augmented Reality Apps
Instructor: Dr. Angela Yu
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Duration: 60 hours and 25 minutes
User Review: 4.8/5
Price: $19.99 ( Charges may vary according to region)
11. SwiftUI Masterclass 2021: iOS 15 App Development and Swift 5 – Udemy
The course is offered on Udemy. In this course, the learners will understand how to build iOS, macOS, and a watchOS application from scratch. The learners will cover the concepts with practical sessions to build their Swift programming skills.
Some of the key concepts covered in this course include SwiftUI, Swift UI programming, concurrency, advanced core data, and the MVM architecture. In addition, the learners will cover the concepts of a combined framework, external REST API integration, and augmented reality.
The learners will be completing a total of 12 hands-on projects and also deep dive into advanced topics such as:
- SwiftUI Animation,
- Advanced Core Data with Apple’s CloudKit integration,
- App Clips,
- WidgetKit framework,
- Test-driven app development,
- Core Machine Learning,
- SpriteKit with SwiftUI,
- Swift Package Manager (SPM),
- Google FireStore integration with SPM,
- Version control with Git,
- Native macOS app development,
- watchOS,
- tvOS,
- App design, UI design, UX design,
- HealthKit,
- MapKit,
- SiriKit,
- ARKit (Augmented Reality) framework,
- RealityKit framework,
- CareKit,
- Create ML,
- PencilKit,
- Push Notification,
- WKWebView,
- Face ID and Touch ID,
- App distributions to App Store
The learners will also explore various development tools and the iOS and iPad widgets for the home screen.
The course modules include:
- Introduction
- The Complete SwiftUI Guide
- Projects using SwiftUI and Xcode
- Building the First iOS App
- Apple Watch Application with SwiftUI
- iOS Apps with Core Data and SwiftUI Framework
- Apple App Development Software
Instructor: Robert Petras
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Duration: 27 hours and 3 minutes
User Review: 4.7/5
Price: $19.99 ( Charges may vary according to region)
12. iOS App Development Certification Training – Edureka
The course is offered on Edureka. In this course, the learners master the concepts like Swift, Core data, networking, and cloud development with use cases and hands-on projects. In addition, this course offers essential concepts of the Swift programming language for iOS and OS X applications.
The learners will also be provided with safe programming patterns to create clean codes with modern features to make programming more accessible and flexible. Furthermore, the learners will be required to build apps for iPhone and iPad platforms.
The course curriculum includes:
Understanding Swift
- Introduction to Swift
- Introduction to XCode IDE
- Structure of Swift program
- Compiling and building a Hello world
- Swift Playground
- Basic Syntax
- Variables and data types
- Structs and Classes
Getting Started with Swift
This module offers concepts of different collection types available in Swift and understands how to create classes and Enums alongside protocols and generics.
- Working with collections
- Protocols and Extensions
- Generics
- Tuple
- Functions
- Subscripts
- Closures
- Automatic Reference Counting
iOS Development Basics
- Installing XCode and iOS SDK
- Understanding XCode
- Creating a simple iOS app
- Project templates
- Introduction to pillars of iOS app development-Tools-XCode
- iOS Simulator
- Instruments
- Language- Swift
- Design patterns
- Frameworks
- Design-CorrectUI
- AppleHIG
- Testing
- Provisioning
- Signing
- Submitting
- Using iOS Simulator
- MVC pattern in iOS app development
Storyboard Controllers and Layouts
- Lifecycle of iOS Application
- Understanding Delegation
- iOS View Controllers
- Creating UI
- Introduction to Layout and Views
- Designing responsive interfaces with Auto layout
- Create a sample UI
- Walkthrough of controllers
- Debugging iOS application
Tableview, Collection View, and Various View Controllers
- Introduction to Table View
- Creating a basic table view and data source
- Loading data into TableView
- Reusing table view cells
- Customizing table views
- UI CollectionView
- UI RefreshControl
- Introduction to multiple-view applications
- Using navigation controller
- Introduction to a master-detail application
- Creating a tab-bar-driven application
- UIPageViewController
Universal App, Size Classes, and Camera
- UISplitViewController
- Master-detail application
- Using Size Classes for Adaptive Layout
- Using Camera & Gallery to Capture Images
Animation, Location, Maps, and Social Sharing
- Animations- Core Animation
- UIKit Dynamics
- Facebook Pop Animation
- Working with Maps- MKMapItem, and MKPlacemark
- CLLocationManager
- MKMapView
- UIActivityViewController to perform Social Sharing
JSON Handling, Network Operation, and Image Caching
- Networking with Alamofire
- SwiftyJSON & HanekeSwift
- Introduction to networking in iOS application
- Adding/Managing frameworks using Carthage
- JSON Handling using SwiftJSON
- Performing networking using Alamofire
- Downloading & Caching images using HanekeSwift
Data Persistence and Storage
- iOS data persistence
- Using NS User Defaults to store and read information
- Property Lists-Working with Core data
- Introduction to Core Data
- Creating models with entities
- Saving models
- Fetching model
- Edit and remove models
- Sample application implementing Core data
CloudKit and Parse and Submitting Apps to App Store
- Implementing CloudKit Storage
- Interact with Parse backend
- Localizing Application
- Submitting an App to Apple App Store
Instructor: NA
Level: Beginner
Duration: NA
User Review: 5/5 (24750 reviews)
Price: $179
Conclusion
Understandably, Apple products have received enormous popularity due to their quality applications with a well-optimized OS making it efficient for users and enhancing user experience. Moreover, modern Apple products have continued to gain a competitive edge over its competitors due to balanced performance without compromising on offering a better user experience with each new release in the market.
This has been possible due to their homebrewed programming language: Swift, which has been the key behind building such applications across multiple platforms of Apple such as iOS, macOS, watchOS, and Apple Tv OS. Moreover, Swift language has extended its uses for Windows platforms recently, creating tremendous demand for developers with Swift skillset.Â
Today, iOS developers with Swift programming skills are offered highly competitive salaries ranging from an average of $99,000 to $200,000 for experienced developers. Therefore, it is essential for aspirants and experienced professionals to add the Swift programming skills to their knowledge repository with top courses with industry-recognized courses highlighted in this article for upskilling and climbing the hierarchical ladder in their careers.
