Have you ever had a innovative idea to create an Android application And have you wondered how to make it happen, even if you have no prior programming experience? The world of mobile apps is accessible to everyone thanks to the wide range of Online courses to learn how to develop Android applications, designed to guide you step-by-step, from the basics to advanced aspects like monetization, marketing, and publishing to stores. Below, we present a comprehensive and detailed guide about Google's Android Basics Nanodegree course, along with other recognized training options and strategies to become an app developer, whether from scratch or by expanding your current skills.
Why learn Android app development?
El mobile app market It is currently one of the most dynamic sectors with the highest demand for technology professionals. Android, as the most widely used operating system on mobile devices worldwide, offers a huge range of opportunities for those seeking self-employment, launching technology startups, or joining established development teams.
Develop an Android app It not only allows you to express your ideas, but also to access new sources of income through monetization and the potential to impact millions of users. Furthermore, the skills acquired can be applied across different sectors, given the fundamental role apps play in everyday life, entertainment, e-commerce, productivity, and more.
Android Basics Nanodegree: The Official Google Course for Beginners
Google has opted to democratize access to Android app development. through its training program Android Basics Nano degree, hosted on the Udacity platform. This course is primarily aimed at those who want to start from scratch, without requiring any prior technical knowledge.
What will you learn during the program?
The Android Basics Nanodegree Curriculum covers the fundamental pillars of Android development, including:
- Installation and configuration of Android Studio, the official development environment.
- Fundamentals of language Java and basic notions of structured and object-oriented programming.
- Creation and design of user interfaces attractive and functional using layouts, styles and visual components.
- Management and storage of information both in local memory (databases, SharedPreferences) and remote access.
- Debugging and error correction using the debugger and other tools offered by Android Studio.
- Adapting apps for different languages and devices, ensuring accessibility and scalability.
- Best practices for usability, UX/UI, and basic testing to ensure application quality.
The course is designed in a modular and practical way, allowing you to develop small applications that exemplify the theoretical lessons and introduce you to the real creative process.
How is the course taught? Format and methodology
El Android Basics Nano degree It is taught completely online through the platform Udacity, recognized for its project-based teaching approach and independent learning. Materials include:
- Interactive tutorials showing the fundamentals of Android development.
- Explanatory videos recorded by experts from Google and international collaborators.
- Practical exercises and mini-projects to apply what you've learned and build a portfolio.
- Access to student forums and communities to resolve questions and share progress.
The training is available in EnglishWhile this can be challenging, it's also an opportunity to become familiar with global technical language and access universal documentation.
Cost and access modalities
The course can be done for free Accessing materials and projects, making it an ideal option for those who want to learn at their own pace without an initial investment. There is also a paid option ($199 per month, approximately €180), which includes:
- Personalized tutoring with professionals in the sector.
- Feedback on your projects and advice to improve your skills.
- Access to a network of contacts and job opportunities within the Android ecosystem.
- Official certification Once the course is completed, accrediting your knowledge to potential employers.
The estimated duration is about 165 hours, although you can go faster or slower depending on your available time and learning pace.
How to enroll in Android Basics Nanodegree
To sign up, you only need to have Internet access, a computer capable of installing Android Studio, and basic English skills. Simply log in to Udacity and complete the registration process on the course page. Android Basics Nano degreeThe website itself offers a simple registration form and immediate access to materials.
- Android Basics Nanodegree – Udacity
Other alternatives to learn Android app development online
In addition to the official Google course, there are other specialized platforms and internationally recognized courses that allow training in Android development from different perspectives, both for self-taught individuals and for those seeking guided, in-person, remote, or certified training.
Udemy Training: Variety and Flexibility
Udemy is one of the leading platforms for online courses on mobile app development. It offers training for all levels, from beginners to advanced programmers looking to master cutting-edge Android technologies. Its features include:
- Android app development courses with updated content and downloadable materials.
- Practical lessons on Android Studio, Java, Kotlin (the modern language recommended by Google), and popular libraries such as Retrofit, Picasso, and Glide.
- Specific topics on monetization, API integration, deployment on Google Play, and ASO positioning.
- Lifetime access to materials and updates, allowing you to review or advance at your own pace.
- Courses are offered in Spanish and English, making them easy for non-English speakers.
OpenWebinars: Comprehensive course in Spanish
Open Webinars It is another platform that stands out for its Android course for beginners in Spanish. The syllabus includes:
- Installing and configuring Android Studio.
- Manipulation of AVD Manager (virtual device manager) for testing.
- Theory and practice on activities, life cycle, explicit and implicit intents.
- Creating and debugging code for Android systems.
- Design of the Graphic interface using layouts, controls, vector images and colors.
- Using libraries such as Picasso and Glide for image management.
- Working with fragments, communication between fragments, multiscreen design, and custom dialogs.
- Android navigation, creating menus, tabs, and drawer navigation.
- Handling lists using ListView, GridView and RecyclerView with custom adapters.
- Managing local storage: SharedPreferences and databases (Realm).
- Integration with Google Maps and creation of custom markers.
- Connecting to REST APIs using Retrofit.
Skillshop by Google and Complutense University: Digital Certification and Solid Foundations
La Training offered by Google's Skillshop together with the Complutense University of Madrid goes beyond the technical. Its approach:
- Teaches the Essential principles for creating mobile applications, focusing on design and programming from a professional perspective.
- Allows you to obtain a recognized digital badge internationally that you can add to your LinkedIn profile.
- Recommended for those seeking accreditation that officially supports their knowledge.
Benowu: Create apps without coding, from niche analysis to marketing.
El Benowu course offers a global vision of the app creation process, ideal for those looking for a comprehensive methodology, including the ability to create applications without programming knowledge and monetize them:
- Introduction to the mobile app market, opportunities and digital evolution.
- Detection and analysis of successful niches through keyword tools and competition analysis.
- Use of no-code platforms (Appmakernow) for rapid development without the need for programming knowledge.
- Complete publishing process on Google Play Console, from preparation to public release.
- Monetization Strategies: Advertising, in-app purchases and subscription models.
- Real-life success stories and practical advice straight from developers who have succeeded from scratch.
- Introduction to ASO (App Store Optimization) to position your app and increase downloads.
- Digital marketing for apps: Tips for getting downloads and maintaining user retention.
Domestika: Focus on UX/UI design applied to apps
For those interested in the user experience (UX) and interface design (UI)Domestika offers specializations focused on:
- user research and application of design methodologies focused on accessibility.
- App prototyping and testing strategies before launch.
- Construction of a professional portfolio attractive for mobile app designers.
Complementary training for developers looking to integrate the best design trends into their creations, or for creative profiles looking to make the leap into programming.
Google Developers and free official resources
La Google Android Developers official page offers a series of free courses and updated tutorials in section Android Training, ideal for both beginners and those who wish to specialize in:
- Advanced development with Kotlin (the reference language for modern Android).
- App security, performance, and optimization techniques.
- Integration with cloud services and Google APIs.
These resources are complementary and can help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the Android ecosystem.
Other self-learning platforms and resources
- IT Trainers and specific Android Studio courses for those looking to specialize in the most widely used IDE for Android development.
- Courses on YouTube such as those that analyze app creation step by step, especially for those who prefer visual and free learning.
Methodology for creating Android applications: From concept to publication
The training itinerary recommended by the main courses can be summarized as follows:
- Definition of the idea and market analysis: Research what needs you can meet, evaluate the competition, and find a profitable niche.
- Design and prototyping: Consider how your app will look and function, keeping user experience and accessibility in mind from the start.
- Development and testing: Use Android Studio or a no-code platform to bring your app to life, run functional tests, and review performance across devices.
- Publish to Google Play: Prepare your requirements (icon, description, screenshots, privacy policy) and upload your app to share it with millions of users.
- Monetization and marketing: Choose strategies to make money (advertising, purchases, subscriptions), work on ASO positioning, and use digital marketing to drive downloads.
Frequently asked questions about online courses for creating Android apps
- Do I need previous programming experience? Many courses, especially official ones from Google and Udemy, are designed for absolute beginners, guiding you through the most basic concepts.
- What computer do I need? Any recent computer (Windows, Mac or Linux) capable of running Android Studio and an emulator will suffice.
- Is there practical training? All featured courses include real-life exercises and projects to ensure applied learning, which is essential for consolidating concepts.
- Can I get officially certified? Yes, both the Google Nanodegree and the Skillshop digital badge, as well as the Udemy and OpenWebinars certificates, are recognized in the industry.
- What if I want to create apps without knowing how to program? Platforms like Benowu teach you how to use no-code tools that allow you to create and publish simple, monetizable apps.
- What language are the courses in? Although the official Google course is in English, there are several alternatives in Spanish and with subtitles.
The online course offering for Android app development is broad, accessible, and tailored to different profiles and needs, from those looking to change careers to those looking to complement their current training. Whether through the official Google program, platforms like Udemy, OpenWebinars, Skillshop, Benowu, or free resources from Google Developers, the opportunities to learn how to create apps and become a professional in the sector have never been greater. The important thing is to choose the option that best suits your goals, commit to a practical methodology, and take advantage of the global developer community to continue growing. This is the perfect time to begin your journey as an Android app creator!