Ken Kariuki
Shiftpulse Marketers
Top 10 YouTube Channels to Replace Your Computer Science Degree
TL;DR: YouTube offers a great alternative for learning computer science without a formal degree. Channels like freeCodeCamp, MIT OpenCourseWare, and Harvard’s CS50 provide tutorials on coding, algorithms, and web development. Whether you're a beginner or advanced learner, these free resources can help you gain valuable skills.
For individuals looking to gain computer science knowledge without enrolling in a traditional degree program, YouTube offers a wealth of educational channels. These channels cover a wide array of computer science topics, from introductory programming to advanced subjects. Here are ten of the best YouTube channels that can serve as a valuable alternative to a computer science degree, including their top watched video:
freeCodeCamp.org
- Major Focus: Broad computer science education, including web development, data science, machine learning, and more. Offers comprehensive courses, tutorials, and certifications.
- Channel Link: freeCodeCamp.org
- Top Watched Video: Learn Python - Full Course for Beginners [Tutorial]
CS Dojo
- Major Focus: Computer science fundamentals, coding interviews, and career advice. CS Dojo, hosted by YK Sugi, provides clear explanations of complex topics and practical tips for landing a job in tech.
- Channel Link: CS Dojo
- Top Watched Video: How to learn to code (quickly and easily!)
The Net Ninja
- Major Focus: Web development tutorials, including JavaScript, React, Node.js, and more. The Net Ninja offers project-based tutorials that are excellent for hands-on learning and building a portfolio.
- Channel Link: The Net Ninja
- Top Watched Video: JavaScript Tutorial for Beginners - Full Course in 8 Hours - 2020
Traversy Media
- Major Focus: Web development and programming tutorials across various languages and frameworks. Traversy Media is known for its crash courses and project-based content, covering front-end and back-end technologies.
- Channel Link: Traversy Media
- Top Watched Video: HTML Crash Course For Absolute Beginners
Sentdex
- Major Focus: Python programming, data analysis, machine learning, and finance. Sentdex offers in-depth tutorials and practical applications of Python in various domains.
- Channel Link: Sentdex
- Top Watched Video: Python Basics for Data Analysis - Full Course
Coding Tech
- Major Focus: Talks and lectures from tech conferences and universities on a wide range of computer science topics. Coding Tech aggregates valuable content from industry experts and academic institutions.
- Channel Link: Coding Tech
- Top Watched Video: Elon Musk's "Boring" Advice For College Students & Young People
MIT OpenCourseWare
- Major Focus: Actual computer science courses from MIT, including introductory programming, algorithms, data structures, and artificial intelligence. Provides access to university-level material for free.
- Channel Link: MIT OpenCourseWare
- Top Watched Video: MIT 6.0001 Introduction to Computer Science and Programming in Python, Fall 2016
Harvard University
- Major Focus: Computer science courses from Harvard, notably CS50, an introductory computer science course. Offers a comprehensive introduction to the principles of computer science.
- Channel Link: Harvard University
- Top Watched Video: CS50 2023 - Lecture 0 - Scratch
Neso Academy
- Major Focus: Core computer science subjects like data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and networking. Neso Academy provides structured, lecture-style content ideal for understanding theoretical concepts.
- Channel Link: Neso Academy
- Top Watched Video: Data Structures: Linked List
3Blue1Brown
- Major Focus: Mathematics with a focus on visualizing mathematical concepts relevant to computer science, such as linear algebra and calculus. 3Blue1Brown offers visually engaging explanations of complex mathematical ideas.
- Channel Link: 3Blue1Brown
- Top Watched Video: But what is a Fourier series? From heat flow to circle drawings.
These YouTube channels collectively offer a comprehensive learning path in computer science, covering theoretical foundations, practical programming skills, and career guidance. While they may not fully replace a traditional computer science degree in terms of formal accreditation, they provide an accessible and rich educational resource for self-learners.
