Why now is the perfect time to study blockchain?
Digital accounting technology, cryptography, smart contracts and consensus mechanisms are useful for many sectors, developers, investors and professionals in the technology or finance industry emphasize this.
The blockchain is receiving a lot of adoption due to the great advantages it brings in all sectors, electoral processes, financial sector, companies... This is the reason why companies, entities, are desperately looking for professionals with the necessary knowledge of the blockchain sector. A blockchain developer can earn between 50,000 and 120,000 euros per year, depending on his experience and specialization.
The 7 best options to learn blockchain development
After analyzing dozens of training programs, I have selected the most solid options on the market:
1. Blockchain Specialization - University at Buffalo (Coursera)
Here you find the most basic concepts up to the creation of smart contracts. What strikes me most is its practical approach because each module has its real projects.
Main topics:
- Technical fundamentals of blockchain.
- Applied cryptography and security protocols.
- Development of smart contracts.
- Architecture of decentralized applications.
Advantages: Flexible learning, hands-on projects, university certification. Disadvantages: May be too theoretical for those looking for immediate practice.
2. Ethereum and Solidity: complete guide for developers (Udemy)
Stephen Grider has one of the most important courses to learn in depth about Ethereum, the most important altcoin currency. The concepts are very well simplified having access also to train you from scratch on Solidity.
What you will master:
- Advanced programming in Solidity.
- Creation of functional dApps.
- Deployment of smart contracts.
- Integration with development tools.
Pros: Crystal clear explanations, abundant examples, 24/7 access. Cons: Focuses only on the Ethereum ecosystem.
3. Blockchain Developer Nanodegree (Udacity)
If you are looking for an intensive that you will learn a lot of constant knowledge this is the ideal one as they include personalized mentoring and an active community that will support you during the process.
Areas of specialization:
- Cryptography and blockchain security.
- Multi-network development.
- Distributed systems architecture.
Strengths: Professional focus, one-on-one mentoring, entrepreneurial projects. Limitations: Significant financial investment.
4. Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies - Princeton University (Coursera)
You will understand the theoretical foundations of bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. Combines academics with practical applications.
Academic content:
- History and evolution of bitcoin.
- Mechanics of cryptocurrency operation.
- Privacy and security in blockchain networks.
Benefits: First level academic content, theory-practice balance. Considerations: Less oriented to practical development.
5. Decentralized Applications - ConsenSys Academy
ConsenSys is a worldwide reference in Ethereum, you enter a space where the experts are the ones building the technology itself.
Technical specialization:
- Advanced dApps development.
- Professional Ethereum tools.
- Industry best practices.
Strengths: Training from industry experts, advanced tools. Requirements: Prior knowledge recommended.
6. Hyperledger Fabric for Developers (edX)
If you want to implement blockchain in enterprises, this is your best choice because you configure private networks and develop applications for corporate environments.
Enterprise focus:
- Hyperledger network configuration.
- Development of corporate applications.
- Permissions and security management.
Advantages: Enterprise oriented, recognized platform. Limitation: Less applicable for public blockchain.
7. Introductory Blockchain Technology (INSEAD - Coursera)
A simple powerful introduction for those who want to understand the impact of blockchain in the business world without an understanding of programming.
Three outstanding premium trainings in Spain
Master in Blockchain and Web3 of the European University
This master touches JavaScript to Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric. The master's time is 14 weeks and they combine face-to-face classes in Alcobendas with blended learning methodology.
Main features:
- Duration: 14 intensive weeks.
- Mode: Blended learning (Alcobendas campus).
- Credits: 60 university credits.
- Language: Spanish.
Global Master's in Blockchain Technologies - Zigurat
Based in Barcelona, this program allows you to choose between business specialization or application development. All training is taught in English for a full year.
Two specializations available:
- Blockchain applied to business.
- Blockchain for application development.
Requirements:
- Perfect command of English.
- Previous technical or business training.
ConquerBlocks Master of Blockchain Development
Starting from absolute zero, this training includes everything from IT basics to fullstack blockchain development. It includes bonuses such as English academy and productivity modules.
Complete methodology:
- 100% online and flexible.
- Approximate duration: 18 months.
- Personalized access to teachers.
- Extra value-added modules.
5 steps to choose the right course for you
Step 1: Evaluate your current technical level. Do you have programming experience? If you are a total beginner, opt for programs that start from scratch like ConquerBlocks.
Step 2: Define your career goals. Are you looking to work in startups, traditional companies or entrepreneurship? Each path requires different specializations.
Step 3: Consider your time availability. Intensive bootcamps require full-time dedication, while online options offer more flexibility.
Step 4: Evaluate your available budget. Prices vary significantly. Some options such as Coursera are very inexpensive, while master's degrees can exceed 10,000 euros.
Step 5: Check networking opportunities. Good networking can be just as valuable as technical knowledge. Look for programs with active communities.
The active search for blockchain developers is currently real and will continue to grow even more over the years. With the developer shortage, skills are in high demand so if you are looking for a developer, look for a program with an active community.