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Learn Eclipse with online courses and programs

Eclipse is a program that lets developers write and test their code in an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). If you are interested in how to learn Eclipse, discover how online courses delivered through edX can help.
Eclipse | Introduction Image

What is Eclipse?

Eclipse is an open-source IDE designed to make the software development process more efficient for developers. The software primarily supports Java, but it can also work with other languages like Python and C++ via plugins.Footnote 1 In addition to an IDE, it offers:

  • Tools framework: Developers can use Eclipse to build their own tools and extend the platform’s functionality further. This is possible thanks to frameworks like the Eclipse Communication Framework (ECF).Footnote 2

  • Application framework: Developers can use frameworks like the Eclipse Rich Client Platform (RCP) to create feature-rich applications.Footnote 3

With these frameworks in Eclipse, developers can streamline their workflows and speed up software development. The Eclipse Foundation manages and oversees the development of the Eclipse software. It also provides other key services to the Eclipse community, including the IT infrastructure that development teams use to develop projects.Footnote 4

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Eclipse tutorial curriculum

Aspiring developers or programmers who are interested in introductory Eclipse courses can expect to learn how to:

  • Install and set up the program.

  • Configure the IDE for Java development.

  • Set up their first project.

  • Debug programs.

  • Refactor their code to improve its structure.

More advanced topics may include how to use GitHub in Eclipse (for version control), install and configure plugins, and troubleshoot common issues.

Some familiarity with basic coding concepts may prove useful as you learn how to use the platform in your own development projects. Enrolling in a coding boot camp delivered through edX can help cover any skills gaps you might have and help you become more proficient with Eclipse.

Explore developer jobs that use Eclipse 

Professionals who may use Eclipse in their roles include:

  • Software developer: Software developers, including Java developers, create software and applications with programming languages like Java. They may use the Eclipse IDE to test and debug their code.Footnote 5

  • Android developer: Android developers create and develop applications for Android devices, including mobile phones and tablets. They may use application frameworks in Eclipse for Android projects.Footnote 6

  • Web developer: Web developers, including full-stack developers, write code for the front- and back-end of applications. Eclipse enables them to create and troubleshoot their code before they deploy it to a live server.Footnote 7

As you search for developer jobs that use Eclipse, you may find that some listings prefer or even require a bachelor’s degree or similar qualifications.Footnote 8 The good news is, it’s never too late to earn an Eclipse certificate and develop the skills to thrive in a new role.

With edX, you can explore different learning paths for individuals who wish to pursue a career as a developer. If you’re new to coding, you may consider earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. For those who want to advance their education, a master’s degree may be more appropriate.

A selection of expert-led executive education programs are available through edX as well. These courses are designed to help you build both technical and leadership skills. Boot camps are also an option for professionals who want to upskill quickly. 

How to use Eclipse in your career

Software developers are responsible for many of the applications you use regularly. Their day-to-day tasks and responsibilities typically include:Footnote 9

  • Write, test, and maintain code.

  • Troubleshoot issues that arise during development.

  • Collaborate with other team members to design applications.

  • Document and create user manuals.

  • Participate in code reviews and identify areas of improvement.

They may use Eclipse extensively in their roles to test and debug their code. 

The specific languages a software developer needs to know will depend on the position they’re applying for. However, some of the most common languages are JavaScript, Python, SQL, and Java.Footnote 10 Software developers are advised to know how to code in at least one of these languages, as well as understand development principles.