Java Fundamentals Course - Master Core Java in 80 Hours

Ready to level up from full-stack web development to enterprise Java? Code College's Java Fundamentals Course is your 80-hour intensive bridge from Python/Django/MERN Stack level to Java's powerful object-oriented programming. This crash course transforms full-stack MERN-level developers into Java developers ready for Spring Framework mastery.

In this course, you'll master core Java syntax, OOP principles, collections, streams, exception handling, and enterprise design patterns. These skills are essential whether you're advancing your multi-language expertise or pivoting to backend Java specialization. Therefore, this intensive 80-hour course prepares you for Level 3: Java Software Engineering Bootcamp and $75K-$180K+ enterprise roles.

For the full course details, visit: codecollege.co.za/programming-courses/java-fundamentals/

Ready to level up your development skills to enterprise class? The Java Fundamentals Course is designed specifically for experienced developers who've completed the Full-Stack Web Developer Bootcamp (MERN) and SQL course, and are ready to expand into enterprise-class backend development. Specifically, this intensive 80-hour course teaches you Java programming in depth, preparing you for Spring Framework and enterprise-grade application development.

Furthermore, you'll transition from JavaScript-based full-stack development to Java's object-oriented programming paradigms, diving deep into OOP principles, Java collections, streams, and patterns used in enterprise environments. Upon completion, you'll be able to write professional-grade Java applications and be ready to master Spring Framework and microservices architecture. This course emphasizes learning through practice—you'll build multiple Java applications that demonstrate your enterprise development capability.

Focused Enterprise Preparation: All students master core Java concepts needed for Spring Framework and enterprise development with integrated development environments (free, no credit card required). Additionally, advanced developers can optionally work with networking and real-time features for deeper expertise. This approach accelerates experienced developers into enterprise Java without the beginner material.

Real-World Application Experience: Importantly, you'll build projects throughout the course that follow enterprise patterns including a Battleship-style game with OOP design, animal inheritance hierarchies, music jukebox with polymorphism, GUIs with Swing, and a multi-threaded chat client. These hands-on projects demonstrate your ability to apply advanced Java concepts to real problems—exactly what Spring Framework builds upon.

In summary, you get intensive, focused training designed for experienced developers ready to master Java and prepare for enterprise development in just 80 hours.

Duration & Time Commitment

• Total Duration: 80 hours (2-3 weeks full-time / 4-8 weeks part-time)
• Format: Intensive, project-based learning
• Pace: Self-paced or instructor-led options available
• Schedule: Flexible - combine online and in-person sessions

Learning Locations

• Johannesburg: Hybrid (In-person and online classes)
• Everywhere Else: Live Online (Full virtual classroom experience globally)

Prerequisites

• Required: Complete the Full-Stack Web Developer Bootcamp (MERN) or equivalent full-stack development knowledge
• Required: Complete our SQL course or have equivalent SQL knowledge (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, JOINs, indexing)
• Helpful: Understanding of advanced JavaScript concepts and backend frameworks
• Helpful: Familiarity with MongoDB and Node.js
• Problem-solving mindset and eagerness to advance your programming skills

Technical Requirements

• Computer: Laptop or desktop with at least 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)
• Operating System: Windows, Mac, or Linux
• Internet: Stable connection for downloads and online sessions
• IDE: IntelliJ IDEA Community (free) or Eclipse (free)
• Java: JDK (Java Development Kit) - free download provided during course

Pricing

• R29 995 (Java Fundamentals 80-Hour Crash Course)
• Note: Income Share Agreement (ISA) options are available for Code College's 6-month and 12-month bootcamps. The 80-hour Java Fundamentals crash course is a full-price enrollment program. Contact admissions for payment plan options.

Programming Fundamentals

• Java syntax, data types, and control flow
• Methods, parameters, and return types
• Arrays, loops, and conditional logic
• Variable scope and memory management

Object-Oriented Programming

• Classes, objects, and their relationships
• Inheritance and polymorphism
• Interfaces and abstract classes
• Encapsulation and access control
• Design patterns and best practices

Collections & Generics

• ArrayList, HashSet, HashMap, and other collections
• Generic types for type-safe code
• Sorting with Comparable and Comparator
• Collections utility methods

Modern Java Features

• Lambda expressions and functional interfaces
• Streams API for functional data processing
• Method references and functional programming

Real-World Applications

• Exception handling and error management
• File I/O and object serialization
• Graphical user interfaces with Swing
• Network programming and client/server applications
• Multithreading basics

Oracle Java Certification Preparation

Aligned with Oracle Java Programmer Certification Syllabus

Code College's Java Fundamentals Course is specifically designed to align with the Oracle Java Programmer certification syllabus (OCAJP/OCPJP). Every module covers the core competencies tested in the official Oracle Java certification exams.

As a result, our curriculum ensures you master the exact topics, terminology, and coding patterns required to succeed in Oracle certification. This targeted approach means you're not just learning Java—you're preparing for a recognized professional credential.

Topics Covered for Certification Preparation:

• Java Syntax & Fundamentals: Variables, data types, operators, control structures (exactly as tested in OCAJP)
• Object-Oriented Programming: Classes, inheritance, polymorphism, interfaces, encapsulation (core exam topics)
• Collections Framework: Lists, Sets, Maps, sorting, generics (heavily tested in Oracle exams)
• Exception Handling: Try-catch-finally, custom exceptions, exception hierarchy (critical exam content)
• Streams & Lambda Expressions: Functional interfaces, stream operations, lambda syntax (modern Java certification)
• String Handling & Regular Expressions: String methods, immutability, regex patterns (exam topics)
• File I/O & Serialization: File operations, object serialization, NIO concepts (certification requirements)

Mock Exam Included

As part of the course, we include a comprehensive sample mock exam that mirrors the format, difficulty, and content of the actual Oracle Java certification tests. This provides you with real exam experience.

Moreover, the mock exam identifies areas where you need additional study before attempting official certification. The mock exam covers:

• Full-length practice test (equivalent to real Oracle exam duration)
• Multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blank questions matching Oracle format
• Detailed explanations for all answers
• Performance metrics and scoring aligned with Oracle standards
• Identification of weak areas for focused study

Next Step to Certification: After completing Java Fundamentals and the mock exam, students are well-prepared to pursue official Oracle Java Programmer certification through Oracle University.

Subsequently, Level 3: Java Software Engineering Bootcamp builds on this foundation with advanced topics relevant to higher-level Oracle certifications. These include Spring Framework mastery, enterprise patterns, and microservices architecture.

Code College's 3-Level Enterprise Developer Pathway

Transform from complete beginner to enterprise-class Java developer in 10-12 months of intensive bootcamp learning. Across this journey, you'll gain up to 2000 bootcamp hours across three strategic levels with clear progression and salary advancement.

What is Java?

Java is a versatile, object-oriented programming language used to build everything from web applications and Android apps to enterprise software and embedded systems. Specifically, it runs on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), meaning it works on any computer with Java installed, regardless of operating system.

Is this course suitable for me?

This is an intermediate-to-advanced level course designed exclusively for experienced developers who've completed our Full-Stack Web Developer Bootcamp (MERN) and SQL course. You should be comfortable with JavaScript, React, Node.js, MongoDB, REST APIs, and backend development concepts. This is NOT for complete beginners—it's for developers and junior developers looking to level up to enterprise-class Java development. If you don't have these prerequisites, we recommend taking our Full-Stack Web Developer Bootcamp first.

How much time does this 80-hour course require?

This is an 80-hour intensive course that can be completed in 2-3 weeks full-time or 4-8 weeks part-time. Specifically, the pace depends on your schedule and learning speed. Furthermore, you can choose self-paced or instructor-led options to fit your lifestyle.

Will I have a portfolio after completing this course?

Absolutely! You'll build 5 real-world Java projects throughout the course, including a Guessing Game, Battleship-style game, animal simulation, music jukebox, and chat client. Consequently, these projects form a strong portfolio that you can showcase to employers when applying for Java developer positions.

What are the job prospects after completion?

Java developers are in high demand across industries. After completing this course, you'll be qualified for entry-level roles like Junior Java Developer, Associate Programmer, or Java Developer. Moreover, our graduates work at leading companies across various sectors. Importantly, many of our graduates secure employment within months of completion.

Do I need to install anything on my computer?

Yes, you'll need Java Development Kit (JDK) and an IDE like IntelliJ IDEA Community or Eclipse—both are free downloads. Furthermore, we provide installation guides and support during the course. Additionally, system requirements are minimal (4GB RAM minimum, 8GB recommended).

Is this course hands-on and project-based?

Yes! This is primarily a hands-on, project-based course. In fact, you'll spend most of your time writing actual code and building real applications. Additionally, lectures are kept concise with the focus on practical application of concepts and problem-solving.

Do you provide career support?

Yes, we provide comprehensive career guidance, resume review, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. Notably, many of our students and graduates have successfully transitioned into Java development careers with our support.

Can I take this course part-time?

Yes! While full-time is ideal for completing in 2-3 weeks, part-time options are available spread over 4-8 weeks. Specifically, this allows you to balance learning with other commitments. Contact us for details on scheduling options.

What are the prerequisites for this course?

You must have completed (1) the Full-Stack Web Developer Bootcamp (MERN stack), and (2) our SQL course or have equivalent knowledge. Furthermore, you should be proficient with React, Node.js, Express, MongoDB, and advanced JavaScript. Specifically, your SQL knowledge must include SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, JOINs, and indexing. If you don't have these skills yet, we recommend following the proper learning sequence listed below.

What comes after Java Fundamentals? What about Spring Framework?

Java Fundamentals gives you the core Java knowledge you need. The natural next step is our Java Software Engineering Bootcamp (12 months), which teaches Spring Framework, Spring Boot, Spring Cloud, microservices architecture, Docker containerization, AWS cloud deployment, and AI/LLM integration. Spring Framework is the enterprise standard for Java development, and completing Java Fundamentals prepares you perfectly for mastering Spring. You'll progress from learning Java syntax and OOP to building production-grade enterprise applications with Spring Boot that serve millions of users.

What's the recommended learning path?

The ideal progression for developers becoming enterprise-ready is: (1) Web Programming Bootcamp (3 months, 500 hours) to learn web fundamentals including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python & Django, (2) Full-Stack Web Developer Bootcamp (2 months, 400 hours) to master MERN stack (React, Node.js, Express, MongoDB), (3) SQL Course to deepen database knowledge and querying skills, (4) Java Fundamentals Course (80 hours) to master core Java programming and object-oriented principles, (5) Java Software Engineering Bootcamp (12 months, 2000+ hours) to master Spring Framework, Spring Boot, microservices, Docker, AWS, and AI/LLM integration. This pathway transforms you from a full-stack MERN developer into an enterprise-class backend developer with Spring Framework expertise.