# Application Development using Microservices an… Review (2026) — 8.3/10

> Independent review of Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course on Coursera. Rated 8.3/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, a…

Software Development Courses

Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course

![Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course](/api/media/file/hero/application-development-microservices-serverless-course.webp?v=2?width=800)

# Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course — Review (8.3/10)

This IBM-developed course offers a solid introduction to microservices and serverless architectures, ideal for developers transitioning from monolithic systems. It balances theory with practical insig...

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Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course is a 8 weeks online beginner-level course on Coursera by IBM that covers software development. This IBM-developed course offers a solid introduction to microservices and serverless architectures, ideal for developers transitioning from monolithic systems. It balances theory with practical insights, though deeper hands-on labs would enhance learning. The integration with OpenShift adds enterprise relevance, making it valuable for cloud-focused professionals. We rate it 8.3/10.

## Prerequisites

No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in software development.

## Pros

- Clear, structured introduction to microservices and serverless concepts

- Developed by IBM, ensuring industry-relevant and enterprise-aligned content

- Uses OpenShift, a powerful platform for real-world cloud deployment scenarios

- Free to audit, making it accessible for learners exploring cloud-native development

## Cons

- Limited hands-on coding exercises in the free version

- Assumes basic familiarity with cloud and development concepts

- Serverless coverage is introductory and not in-depth

## Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course Review

Platform: Coursera

Instructor: IBM

Updated Apr 23, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate

## What will you learn in Application Development using Microservices and Serverless course

- Design and deploy microservices using best practices

- Build and test REST APIs with Python and Flask

- Understand serverless architecture and FaaS models

- Deploy microservices on IBM Cloud Code Engine

- Create containerized applications using Docker

### Program Overview

### Module 1: Introduction to Microservices

2.6h

- Follow methodologies for creating microservices effectively

- Apply best practices in development and deployment

- Independently design, deploy, and scale microservices

- Avoid single points of failure in architecture

### Module 2: Web API Essentials: REST API and GraphQL

3.3h

- Understand REST architecture and its key characteristics

- Create a REST API using Python

- Use Flask to build web API endpoints

- Document APIs using Swagger and OpenAPI

- Test APIs with cURL and Postman

### Module 3: Serverless Overview

2.0h

- Learn basics of serverless application models

- Compare serverless with containers and traditional computing

- Understand Function-as-a-Service and its constraints

- Explore benefits and limitations of serverless platforms

### Module 4: Create and Deploy Microservices using Serverless

2.6h

- Use IBM Cloud Code Engine for deployment

- Build apps quickly with automated provisioning

- Deploy container-based apps using Dockerfile

- Run and manage cloud-native applications

- Handle app builds and job execution

### Module 5: Final Project

4.1h

- Apply microservices and serverless concepts in practice

- Develop and deploy a full application project

- Integrate APIs and cloud deployment strategies

- Demonstrate end-to-end development proficiency

### Module 6: Optional: OpenShift Essentials/Working with OpenShift and Istio

1.8h

- Discover Red Hat OpenShift for Kubernetes

- Automate provisioning and management of cloud apps

- Scale containerized applications efficiently

- Understand service mesh and its benefits

- Explore Istio for microservices networking

### Get certificate

#### Job Outlook

- High demand for cloud-native development skills

- Increased opportunities in DevOps and SRE roles

- Relevant for backend and full-stack developers

## Editorial Take

IBM's 'Application Development using Microservices and Serverless' on Coursera delivers a concise yet comprehensive entry point into modern cloud-native development. Geared toward developers and architects, it demystifies complex architectural patterns with clarity and real-world context.

### Standout Strengths

- Industry Authority: Developed by IBM, a leader in enterprise cloud solutions, ensuring content reflects real-world practices and scalable design principles. This credibility enhances learner trust and course relevance.

- Conceptual Clarity: Breaks down complex topics like service decomposition and event-driven architecture into digestible modules. Ideal for beginners transitioning from monolithic to distributed systems.

- OpenShift Integration: Leverages Red Hat OpenShift, a widely adopted enterprise Kubernetes platform. This provides practical exposure to tools used in production environments, boosting job readiness.

- Cloud-Native Focus: Emphasizes modern application design principles essential for scalability, resilience, and maintainability. Aligns with current industry trends in DevOps and platform engineering.

- Accessible Learning Path: Free to audit with a structured progression from theory to deployment. Low barrier to entry makes it ideal for self-learners exploring cloud technologies.

- Future-Ready Skills: Covers both microservices and serverless, two pillars of modern software development. Equips learners with foundational knowledge applicable across cloud providers and frameworks.

### Honest Limitations

- Limited Coding Depth: While concepts are well-explained, the course lacks extensive hands-on coding. Learners seeking deep implementation practice may need supplementary labs or projects.

- Assumed Background: Some familiarity with cloud platforms and basic development is expected. True beginners may struggle without prior exposure to containers or APIs.

- Serverless Coverage: Introduces serverless concepts but doesn’t dive into advanced patterns like cold starts, scaling limits, or vendor-specific implementations. More depth would enhance practicality.

- No Real-Time Feedback: As a self-paced course, it lacks mentorship or peer review. Learners must be self-motivated to complete assignments and reinforce learning independently.

### How to Get the Most Out of It

- Study cadence: Dedicate 3–4 hours weekly to absorb concepts and explore supplementary materials. Consistency ensures better retention of architectural patterns and deployment workflows.

- Parallel project: Build a simple microservice using Node.js or Python and deploy it locally with Docker. Reinforces theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice.

- Note-taking: Document design decisions, trade-offs, and communication patterns. Helps internalize key architectural considerations for future reference.

- Community: Join Coursera forums and IBM developer communities. Engaging with peers enhances understanding and exposes you to real-world implementation challenges.

- Practice: Experiment with OpenShift Sandbox or Kubernetes locally using Minikube. Practical experience with orchestration deepens deployment knowledge.

- Consistency: Complete modules in sequence to build a strong foundation. Skipping ahead may hinder understanding of inter-service communication and scalability concepts.

### Supplementary Resources

- Book: 'Building Microservices' by Sam Newman. Offers deeper architectural insights and best practices beyond the course scope.

- Tool: Use Postman to test APIs between microservices. Enhances understanding of service communication and debugging.

- Follow-up: Enroll in IBM's Cloud Native Foundation specialization. Builds directly on this course with advanced topics and labs.

- Reference: Kubernetes documentation and OpenShift developer guides. Essential for mastering deployment and scaling in production-like environments.

### Common Pitfalls

- Pitfall: Underestimating network complexity in microservices. Without proper service discovery and fault tolerance, systems can become fragile. Learn circuit breakers and retries early.

- Pitfall: Over-engineering with serverless. Not every function needs to be serverless. Understand cost, latency, and operational trade-offs before implementation.

- Pitfall: Ignoring data consistency across services. Distributed transactions are hard. Learn eventual consistency and saga patterns to manage state correctly.

### Time & Money ROI

- Time: At 8 weeks with 3–4 hours weekly, the time investment is manageable. Most learners complete it within two months while balancing other commitments.

- Cost-to-value: Free to audit with a paid certificate option. Exceptional value for foundational cloud-native knowledge, especially given IBM’s industry standing.

- Certificate: The course certificate adds credibility to resumes, particularly for roles in cloud development, DevOps, or platform engineering.

- Alternative: Compared to paid bootcamps, this course offers similar foundational content at a fraction of the cost, making it a smart starting point.

### Editorial Verdict

This course successfully bridges the gap between traditional monolithic development and modern cloud-native practices. By focusing on both microservices and serverless architectures, it equips learners with essential skills for today’s software landscape. IBM’s industry expertise ensures the content remains practical and aligned with enterprise needs, while the use of OpenShift provides tangible experience with a widely adopted platform. The course is particularly strong in explaining architectural trade-offs, scalability considerations, and deployment workflows—making it ideal for developers looking to modernize their skill set.

While it could benefit from more in-depth coding exercises and advanced serverless patterns, the course delivers excellent value as an entry point. Its free audit model removes financial barriers, encouraging broad access to high-quality education. For learners committed to self-directed study, this course lays a solid foundation that can be expanded with hands-on projects and follow-up specializations. We recommend it for aspiring cloud developers, software engineers transitioning to microservices, and IT professionals seeking to understand application modernization. With the right supplementary practice, this course can be a pivotal step toward a career in cloud-native development.

## How Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course Compares

| Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration |

| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |

| Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course | Coursera | 8.3/10 | Beginner | 8 weeks |

| How to make your first iOS 7 iPhone app BOOTCAMP | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A |

| GitHub Copilot Masterclass for Java, Spring, AI and IntelliJ | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A |

| Mastering Authentication in Nodejs: JWT, SSO, Token based | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A |

## Who Should Take Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course?

This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in software development. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by IBM on Coursera, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a course certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers.

If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course.

### Career Outcomes

- Apply software development skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities

- Qualify for entry-level positions in software development and related fields

- Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers

- Add a course certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume

- Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field

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## User Reviews

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## FAQs

What are the prerequisites for Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course?

No prior experience is required. Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Software Development. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners.

Does Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course offer a certificate upon completion?

Yes, upon successful completion you receive a course certificate from IBM. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Software Development can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development.

How long does it take to complete Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course?

The course takes approximately 8 weeks to complete. It is offered as a free to audit course on Coursera, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably.

What are the main strengths and limitations of Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course?

Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course is rated 8.3/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: clear, structured introduction to microservices and serverless concepts; developed by ibm, ensuring industry-relevant and enterprise-aligned content; uses openshift, a powerful platform for real-world cloud deployment scenarios. Some limitations to consider: limited hands-on coding exercises in the free version; assumes basic familiarity with cloud and development concepts. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Software Development.

How will Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course help my career?

Completing Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course equips you with practical Software Development skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by IBM, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market.

Where can I take Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course and how do I access it?

Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course is available on Coursera, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is free to audit, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on Coursera and enroll in the course to get started.

How does Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course compare to other Software Development courses?

Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course is rated 8.3/10 on our platform, placing it among the top-rated software development courses. Its standout strengths — clear, structured introduction to microservices and serverless concepts — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding.

What language is Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course taught in?

Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course is taught in English. Many online courses on Coursera also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction.

Is Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course kept up to date?

Online courses on Coursera are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. IBM has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate.

Can I take Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course as part of a team or organization?

Yes, Coursera offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build software development capabilities across a group.

What will I be able to do after completing Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course?

After completing Application Development using Microservices and Serverless Course, you will have practical skills in software development that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. Your course certificate credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers.

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