7 BEST Data Structures and Algorithms Courses (2025)
Sarah Chen
A Senior Software Engineer gets around $1,39,724 annually in the United States. The only way to reach that level is to understand data structures and algorithms well. The best data structures and algorithms course helps you get a high-paying job. Getting a job at a Big tech company like Google, Amazon, or Microsoft requires you to know a lot about data structures and algorithms. You need to have a sound understanding of DSA to get a job as a programmer or get a promotion.
A wrong DSA course can hamper your career growth. Hence, enrolling in the best DSA course online is beneficial. We have done the research for you so that you don’t have to. We have curated some of the best data structures and algorithms courses to help you.
Best Data Structures and Algorithms Courses
| Course Name | Provider | Price | Duration | Key Topics | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algorithms Specialization | Coursera | Free | 4 Months | • Searching and Sorting • Graph Algorithms & Structures |
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| Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization | Coursera | Free | 8 Months | • Algorithm Basics & Techniques • Data Structures Mastery |
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| Data Science Foundations | Coursera | Free | 3 months | • 2D List Manipulation • Stack & Queue |
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| Data Structures & Algorithms – Python | Udemy | 7-day free trial | $9.95 | • Algorithms on Graphs • Genome Assembly Programming Challenge |
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| Data Structures and Algorithms | edX | $680 | 5 Months | • ArrayLists • AVL and 2-4 Trees |
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1) Algorithms Specialization (Coursera)
Rating: 4.8 | Duration: 4 Months | Certificate: Yes | Level: Intermediate
Algorithms Specialization was a standout during my analysis of the BEST Data Structures and Algorithms Courses. I tested the content, especially the sections on heaps and hash tables, and found it exceptionally relevant for intermediate programmers. I could access structured learning without feeling overwhelmed. The course stays practical, helping you build solutions that scale. I recommend it for developers wanting a deeper but manageable path into core algorithmic thinking.
What You Will Learn?
- Shortest Paths & NP Problems: You will understand the nature of NP-Complete problems and how shortest path algorithms help in practical computation. I once solved a time-sensitive pathing problem with Dijkstra’s. This is great for improving your problem-solving approach where approximation may be the only option.
- Graph Algorithms & Structures: You will build efficient graph traversal logic using BFS, DFS, and suitable data structures like priority queues. This may help when analyzing real-world networks. It is a great way to optimize code for route-finding and recommendation engines.
- Divide-and-Conquer Techniques: You will learn recursive problem-solving with examples like Merge Sort and Closest Pair problems. These help you approach complex logic in steps. I used recursion-based divide and conquer to split data and speed up search operations significantly.
- Optimization with Greedy & DP: You will learn when to apply greedy methods or dynamic programming based on the structure of a problem. Try to start with greedy solutions for simpler decision-making scenarios. This method is typically used in top coding interviews and problem-solving competitions.
Pricing:
Free to enroll
How to Enroll in the Algorithms Specialization Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Algorithms Specialization course page on Coursera.
- Step 2) Tap the “Enroll for Free” button and either log in or create an account with your email.
- Step 3) Begin your learning journey with core topics like data structures, graph primitives, and their real-world applications.
Pros
Cons
2) Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization (Coursera)
Rating: 4.6 | Duration: 8 Months | Certificate: Yes | Level: Intermediate
Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization (Coursera) is a well-structured, engaging option that I recommend for learners who want solid results. During my analysis, I found that it brings advanced topics like minimum spanning trees and shortest path algorithms into everyday context. That really helps in making learning stick. I found that being able to work on two industrial projects made the course feel more practical than many others. This may help learners feel confident in applying their skills in job scenarios or competitive exams. It is the perfect course if you want both academic depth and real-world application.
What You Will Learn?
- Algorithm Basics & Techniques: You will explore core algorithmic principles such as greedy algorithms, binary search, and dynamic programming. I used these principles in a coding assignment where optimization was essential. This may help you solve complex computational problems with ease and clarity.
- Graph & String Algorithms: You will learn efficient techniques to solve graph traversal and string processing problems, including shortest paths and pattern matching. These topics are essential for interviews and real-world applications. I applied shortest path algorithms when modeling route maps in a project.
- Data Structures Mastery: You will gain deep understanding of stacks, queues, hash tables, trees, and heaps. These are essential tools that help you manage data efficiently. I implemented hash maps to improve lookup operations in my past code challenges.
- Genome Assembly Skills: You will work on a programming challenge where you simulate genome sequencing using advanced algorithms. This challenge is great for building problem-solving skills. It is one of the best ways to apply graph algorithms in bioinformatics.
- Advanced Algorithmic Strategies: You will tackle NP-complete problems, approximation algorithms, and linear programming techniques. This part allows you to think critically about computational limitations and find approximate solutions where exact ones are not feasible.
Pricing:
Free to enroll
How to Enroll in the Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization course page on Coursera.
- Step 2) Tap the “Enroll for Free” button and create an account with your email.
- Step 3) Dive into the course by starting your learning experience with topics like graph theory, shortest path algorithms, and minimum spanning trees.
Pros
Cons
3) Data Science Foundations: Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization (Coursera)
Rating: 4.7 | Duration: 3 months at 9 hours a week | Fee: Free | Certificate: Yes | Level: Advanced
Data Science Foundations is one I analyzed in-depth while searching for truly impactful courses under the best DSA courses category. I found that this course simplifies complex topics like indexing and shortest path algorithms while allowing learners to implement them in Python. It offered me practical insights and academic alignment through CU Boulder’s credit system. During my analysis, it was clear this is not just another data course—it is a powerful tool for making sense of complex data problems. These days, financial analysts rely on graph traversal algorithms from this course to detect fraud patterns in massive datasets.
What You Will Learn?
- Maze Pathfinding Techniques: You will learn how to design logic that finds optimal paths through complex mazes using various search algorithms. These concepts are perfect for simulation, games, or robotics. I implemented a pathfinding routine to guide a virtual player through a layered maze.
- 2D List Manipulation: You will gain hands-on experience with the 2D List data structure, which is essential for representing grids, maps, and matrices in programming. It is best for projects involving spatial data, board games, or terrain modeling.
- Stack & Queue Operations: You will explore how stacks and queues function in memory and how they are typically applied to algorithm design. These are great options for solving recursive and sequential problems. I wrote a program that managed tasks using queue logic to maintain proper order.
- Graph Search Algorithms: You will understand how Breadth-First Search (BFS) and A* Search work in finding the shortest or most efficient paths across graphs or grids. These are the most effective tools for pathfinding in games, logistics, and network routing applications.
Pricing:
Free to enroll
How to Enroll in the Foundations of Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Foundations of Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization course page on Coursera.
- Step 2) Tap the “Enroll for Free” button and create an account with your email.
- Step 3) Dive into the course by starting your learning experience with topics like arrays, hash tables, heaps, trees, graphs, and fundamental algorithms for sorting, searching, and traversal.
Pros
Cons
4) Data Structures & Algorithms – Python (Udemy)
Rating: 4.7 | Duration: 8 Hours 2 Minutes | Certificate: No | Level: Beginner
Data Structures & Algorithms – Python (Udemy) offers a refreshingly visual learning style that kept me engaged throughout the review process. I checked every module and noticed how seamlessly the instructor brings concepts like linked lists and heaps to life. It helps you retain what you learn faster. I would recommend this course for anyone who learns better through visuals and needs a solid base before advancing. It is perfect for those wanting to avoid the frustration that often comes with coding basics. Entry-level developers working in ed-tech startups often use the visual techniques from this course to better understand algorithm flow before applying it in real projects.
What You Will Learn?
- Big O & Programming Basics: You will master basic programming concepts such as Big O efficiency, memory pointers, and object-oriented structures. These are perfect for building a solid programming foundation. I once used pointer manipulation to optimize memory usage in a recursive function.
- Tree Structures in Depth: You will study tree-based models such as binary trees, AVL trees, and N-ary trees, with traversal techniques. This may help you solve hierarchical data problems, typically found in parsing or file structure navigation. Trees are a great option for structured, non-linear data.
- Hash Maps & Fast Access: You will learn to design and apply hash tables that provide fast access through constant-time operations. I applied hash functions to prevent duplicate data entries efficiently. This is the best way to store and retrieve unordered data.
- Stacks & Queues Operations: You will understand how to apply stacks for LIFO tasks and queues for FIFO logic. These are essential for algorithms like BFS or undo-redo features. It might be helpful to simulate these behaviors to fully grasp their practical uses.
- Graph Structures & Search: You will build graphs and use traversal techniques like Depth-First and Breadth-First Search. These help you analyze connections, routes, and dependencies. I solved a shortest path problem using BFS on a weighted graph structure.
Pricing:
$9.95 per month
How to Enroll in the Data Structures & Algorithms in Python Course?
- Step 1) Head over to the Data Structures & Algorithms in Python course page on Udemy.
- Step 2) Click the “Buy Now” or “Add to Cart” button and sign in or create an account with your email.
- Step 3) Complete the purchase process and start learning data structures like linked lists, trees, heaps, and graphs through practical applications.
Pros
Cons
5) Data Structures and Algorithms (edX)
Rating: 4.5 | Duration: 5 Months | Fee: $680 for Full Course | Certificate: Yes | Level: Intermediate
Data Structures and Algorithms (edX) is a program I analyzed to understand its impact on learners aiming to enhance their algorithmic thinking. The course’s comprehensive coverage, from fundamental data structures to complex algorithms like Dijkstra’s and dynamic programming, offers a holistic learning experience. I particularly liked how the course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring that learners can apply concepts in real-world scenarios. The instructor’s expertise and clear explanations further contribute to the course’s effectiveness. Given its depth and practical orientation, this program is an excellent option for those seeking to master data structures and algorithms.
What You Will Learn?
- Advanced Tree Structures: You will learn to work with self-balancing trees like AVL and 2-4 Trees, which are essential for maintaining sorted data and ensuring fast retrieval and updates. I used AVL trees to maintain consistent performance in a program that handled large datasets in real time.
- Efficient Storage & Access: You will master the use of ArrayLists, LinkedLists, Stacks, and Queues. These structures are the most effective tools for sequential data storage and access. It is best to understand their differences in order to choose the right one for each use case.
- Hashing, Heaps & Binary Trees: You will explore Binary Trees, Heaps, SkipLists, and HashMaps. These are essential for optimizing memory usage and improving runtime in various applications. This may help with tasks like scheduling, indexing, and search optimization.
- Pattern Matching & Graph Algorithms: You will gain practical knowledge of Dijkstra’s Algorithm, Minimum Spanning Trees, and pattern matching. This is great for solving routing problems, optimizing networks, and processing large strings. I implemented Dijkstra’s algorithm in a past project to simulate optimal pathfinding.
Pricing:
$680 for a course
How to Enroll in the Data Structures and Algorithms Professional Certificate by Georgia Tech?
- Step 1) Head over to the Data Structures and Algorithms Professional Certificate course page on edX.
- Step 2) Click the “Enroll” or “Enroll Now” button and sign in or create a new edX account with your email.
- Step 3) Begin learning by accessing the course materials and progressing through foundational topics in data structures and algorithmic problem-solving.
Pros
Cons
6) Easy to Be Advanced Data Structures (Udemy)
Rating: 4.4 | Duration: 8 Hours 17 minutes | Certificate: Yes | Level: Beginner
Easy to Be Advanced Data Structures became one of my top picks during my analysis of Java-based DSA courses for beginners. I was able to get a clear sense of how each topic—from linked lists to heaps—is explained with animation and code. As per my research, this method helps reduce learning friction for those new to algorithms. The course is especially helpful to anyone looking to shift from basic computer science knowledge to more applied problem-solving. For example, edtech tutors now integrate lessons from this course to build interactive classroom tools.
What You Will Learn?
- Efficient Array Operations: You will master static and dynamic arrays to manage memory, resize efficiently, and handle indexing. I used dynamic arrays in a task where memory flexibility was required for unpredictable input sizes.
- Linear Data Structures: You will work with stacks, queues, and linked lists, which are essential for ordered processing, undo functionality, and dynamic insertion. This is a great way to build foundational skills for recursive and sequential applications.
- Tree Data Management: You will explore AVL trees, Binary Search Trees, and Fenwick trees, which are helpful to structure data for fast access and real-time updates. These are perfect for sorted data operations and cumulative range queries.
- Quick Access Structures: You will understand how to use hash tables and sparse tables to perform rapid lookups in large collections. These are typically used in caching systems, search engines, and compilers.
- Set-Based Graph Techniques: You will learn union-find operations, which are useful for determining connectivity and cycles in networks. It is best for scenarios like Kruskal’s algorithm and connected components tracking.
Pricing:
$9.95 per month
How to Enroll in the Easy to Be Advanced Data Structures Course?
- Step 1) Head over to the Easy to Be Advanced Data Structures course page on Udemy.
- Step 2) Click the “Buy Now” or “Add to Cart” button and log in or sign up with your email.
- Step 3) Complete the checkout process and start learning data structures with clear explanations and examples.
Pros
Cons
7) Data Structures and Algorithms: Deep Dive Using Java (Udemy)
Rating: 4.4 | Duration: 15 Hours 59 minutes | Certificate: Yes | Level: Intermediate
Data Structures and Algorithms: Deep Dive Using Java is a great way to master Java-based problem-solving. I analyzed its modules and found them structured for real-world applications. The course stands out for being intuitive, comprehensive, and engaging throughout. While conducting my evaluation, I realized how effortlessly it breaks down recursion, trees, and sorting algorithms. It is a good idea to choose a course that is both beginner-friendly and deep in content. I recommend this one for anyone who wants to turn theoretical knowledge into tangible skills fast.
What You Will Learn?
- Understanding Arrays & Complexity: You will work with arrays while learning Big-O notation to evaluate runtime efficiency. This may help in deciding the most effective algorithm for a given task. I used this method while analyzing sorting speed.
- Fundamental Linear Structures: You will study queues, stacks, and lists, which are needed for data management in games, simulations, or parsers. These are essential tools in many programming environments.
- Sorting & Search Optimization: You will experiment with key sorting and searching algorithms. These are perfect for refining database queries or arranging user data. It is a good idea to compare algorithm speed with different input types.
- Efficient Data Access: You will use heaps, trees, and hash tables to implement indexing systems and priority queues. These are top picks for building apps that need quick data retrieval or ranking systems.
- Source Code Mastery: You will get hands-on experience reading and writing the code behind these structures, which allows you to gain deeper technical confidence and understanding.
Pricing:
$9.95 per month
How to Enroll in the Data Structures and Algorithms: Deep Dive Using Java Course?
- Step 1) Head over to the Data Structures and Algorithms: Deep Dive Using Java course page on Udemy.
- Step 2) Click the “Buy Now” or “Add to Cart” button and either log in or create an account with your email.
- Step 3) Dive into the course by starting your learning experience with in-depth content on Java-based data structures and algorithms.
Pros
Cons
How Did We Choose BEST Data Structures and Algorithms Courses?
At Guru99, we are committed to delivering accurate, relevant, and unbiased information to support informed decisions. Our editorial process ensures each recommendation is current, trustworthy, and objectively evaluated. Data Structures and Algorithms are essential for software development, technical interviews, and competitive coding. Our team spent over 100 hours analyzing 40+ platforms to highlight practical, well-structured courses ideal for both beginners and experienced developers. We offer a transparent overview of free and paid options, including verified features, benefits, limitations, and pricing. We focus on the following factors while reviewing a tool based on
- Curriculum Depth: We chose based on inclusion of recursion, trees, graphs, sorting, and searching topics for completeness.
- Instructor Expertise: Our team chose courses taught by seasoned engineers from top universities or major tech firms with proven impact.
- Hands-on Practice: The experts in our team selected the tools based on coding platforms, real problems, and mock interviews.
- Course Structure: We made sure to shortlist courses with a balanced mix of theory, visuals, quizzes, and coding challenges.
- Student Outcomes: We chose based on success rates, learner feedback, and career transitions shared by past students consistently.
- Platform Reliability: Our team chose platforms that are secure, ultra-responsive, and optimized for efficiency with ease of use.
Verdict:
In this review, you got acquainted with some of the best automation testing tools. All of them have their advantages and disadvantages. To help you take the final call, I have created this verdict.
- Algorithms Specialization: A phenomenal curriculum from Stanford, this course delivers strong algorithmic fundamentals using real-world examples. The peer-reviewed assignments and graded programming help resolve deep technical doubts efficiently.
- Data Structures and Algorithms Specialization: A top-rated and comprehensive sequence offered by UC San Diego, this course brings a robust mix of theory and real-world projects, making it an excellent choice if you are deciding on a reliable academic-style structure.
- Data Science Foundations: This course stands out with its user-friendly and visually engaging breakdown of complex structures like stacks, queues, and search algorithms. It is an ideal option for learners aiming to bridge Python with applied algorithmic thinking.
