10 Things Java Programmers Should Learn in 2024 [UPDATED]

It's 27th December now, and only a few days have left in the year 2023, one of the years which brings joy and freedom after a couple of years of lockdown. Now, it's time to look back and retrospect on what you have achieved in 2023 and what you could have done better, despite all the challenges 2023 has thrown to all of us. This will also help you to create your goals for 2024. As a programmer, our biggest challenge is to keep ourselves up-to-date. Technology changes very fast, and you will see a new version of programming language and framework coming to every couple of years. This year has plentiful changes with keeping up-to-date with a new Java version every 6 months, Spring 6.0, Spring Security 6.0, and Spring Boot 3; it's probably the busiest year in terms of changes for Java developers.

When I started 2023, I thought Java 17  was new, and before I could finish learning Java 17 thoroughly, Java 21 were already out and Java 22 is also coming soon on March 2024. 

All these Java releases since JDK 9 came with a lot of exciting features, like Text Blocks, new HttpClient API, Records, Modules, String in the switch case, var with local variables, API enhancements, GC improvement, Thread Local handshake, and many more. I am really excited to learn those in 2024.

The same goes with the Spring framework and Spring Security, I didn't know all the changes on Spring 6.0 and Spring Security 6.0, my project was still using Spring Security 4, and boom we now have version 6.0 for both Spring and Spring security.

Though this year will be known for AI technologies, LLM like ChatGPT, Google Bard, Gemini, CoPilot and all other productivity tools which evolve around AI. Accordingly I have updated the article and added things like Prompt Engineering, and Cloud Technologies to learn and enhance a Java developer's tool set. 

My learning speed has slowed down a little bit in the last couple of years, and I haven't managed to keep myself up-to-date with the latest and greatest like I am yet to master new technologies like Docker and Kubernetes, JavaScript frameworks like Angular and React, most recent changes on unit and integration testing space and new versions of simplified structure, like Spring, Spring Security, and Spring Boot.

So, 2024 will be all about getting myself up-to-date with things that matter most on the technology side like Microservices, improving my toolset chain, and exploring the DevOps and Cloud Computing landscape, particularly on Docker, Kubernetes, and Jenkins with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.

What Java Programmers should learn in 2024?

Here is my list of things a Java developer should learn in 2024, there is a good chance that you already know most of them but learning them better and doing deep dive doesn't hurt:

1. Git

Git and Github have been around some time, and while I have used Git in the past with Eclipse, I am yet to become comfortable with Git on the command line.

Why I haven't mastered Git so far? Simply because I didn't need it yet. I have occasionally downloaded projects from Github and run from Eclipse, but I am still a novice with Git.

Since now, most of the companies are migrating their projects from SVN, CVS to Git, it's high time to learn and master Git. 

I have recently purchased the Git Complete: The definitive, step-by-step guide to Git from Udemy on their last 10$ sale, and this would be the first item to complete in 2024. If you are in the same boat and want to learn Git in 2024, do check out that course from Udemy, it's convenient.

2. Spring Framework 6.0

It's been a couple of years since we had seen many significant upgrades to Spring and Java Ecosystem, and Spring Framework 6.0 is one of them. I have been hearing about some new features like the reactive programming model on Spring 5, the adoption of Java 17, some unit testing improvement, support for JPA Managed type etc. but I have yet to try that.

Anyway, I have already started learning Spring 6.0 and Spring Boot 3.0 by following Master Spring Boot 3 & Spring Framework 6 with Java and will keep the momentum going in 2024. If you use Spring, probably it's the best time to learn Spring 5.0.

If you like books, you can also check out this list of advanced Spring Books for Java developers from Manning and Packt Publications.

3. Docker and Kubernetes

You’ve probably heard the buzz around Docker and Kubernetes and the impact it has on DevOps teams. You may have at first thought, "ahh, yet another new technology I need to learn", but I will say that Docker is not just another technology but it's truly a game-changer.

Along with Kubernetes, It’s one of the most important tools that you can learn and will stay with you throughout your entire career.

Nowadays, Docker and Kubernetes are used by almost every development team, whether it’s a large enterprise or a small startup. It’s safe to say that if you’re entering the workforce now, you’ll most likely brush up against Docker at some point.

In short, whether you are a junior Java developer or an experienced veteran of several years of experience, Having Docker and Kubernetes knowledge is essential for your career progression and job change. If you have already realized the importance of Kubernetes and looking to learn Kubernetes in 2024 then Docker and Kubernetes: The Practical Guide by AcadMind on Udemy is an excellent course to start with.

If you prefer free resources, like free online courses, then you can also check out this list of free Docker and Kubernetes courses for Java developers to start your journey.

4. New Java Features from JDK 9 to 21

As I have said in the past, I am still struggling to catch up with six-monthly Java releases and many Java developers too. I have spent some time learning new features of Java 9, 10, 11, and 12 this year, but for me, Java 11 is still a priority until I moved to Java 13, which is an LTS release.

The JDK 9 brings a lot of goodies in terms of modules, Jigsaw, Reactive Streams, Process API, HTTP2 client, JShell, and API improvements like collection factory methods, and I am really looking forward to learning them at the earliest opportunity.

Similarly, JDK 10 brings var to give you a flavor of dynamic typing and some GC improvement. Then you have Text Blocks and String in the switch case from JDK 17 and JDK 21.

In the last Udemy 10$ sale, I have purchased a host of courses, and one of them is The Complete Java Masterclass, which is updated for Java 17, and I am looking forward to starting my Java 17 journey with that.

Btw, if you have yet to start with JDK 8 then here is my list of favorite Java 8 tutorials and courses which you can free of cost: 10 best tutorials to learn Java 8.

5. Unit testing (JUnit and Mockito)

Another area which I want to improve in the coming year. There are a lot of new frameworks and tools available for Java programmers to unit test, and integration tests their application, like Mockito and PowerMock for mocking objects, Robot Framework, and Cucumber for automated integration test and of course the new and shining JUnit 5 library.

There is plenty of stuff to learn on this front. If you can invest some time upgrading your unit testing skill, not only your coding expertise will improve, but also you will become a more professional developer, which every company looks from. To start with, you can check out the JUnit and Mockito Crash Course from Udemy.

6. DevOps (Jenkins)

This is another area where I am seeing a lot of traction last year as more and more companies are moving into DevOps and adopting continuous integration and deployment.

DevOps is very vast, and you need to learn a lot of tools and principles, and that's what overwhelms many developers, but you don't need to worry. I have shared a DevOps RoadMap, which you can follow to learn and master DevOps, particularly Jenkins at your own speed.

This means if you are an experienced Java programmer with a passion for managing the environment, automation, and improving overall structure, you can become a DevOps Engineer.

If you are looking for some excellent resources, then Jenkins, From Zero to Hero: Become a DevOps Jenkins Master is a great course to start with, particularly for Java developers.

7. RESTful Web Service

One more thing I want to keep improving in 2024 is my knowledge about writing REST API and implementing secure and scalable RESTful Web Service and Cloud-Native Microservices in Java using Spring.

This is one skill that is highly desirable in the Java world, and there are not many people who know both Java and REST well. If you are also in the same boat and want to learn how to develop RESTful Web Service using Spring, The REST of Spring Masterclass from Eugen Paraschiv is a good starting point.

8. Spring Security 5.0 (OAuth)

This is the third major upgrade on Spring Eco-System. The 5th version of the popular security framework has several bug fixes and a major OAuth 2 module, which you just can't miss.

This is another priority Item for me in 2024, along with Spring 5.0 framework stuff. Thankfully Eugen has updated his best selling course Learn with Spring Security to include 5.0 features and added a separate module for OAuth 2.0., probably the best material to learn Spring Security 5.0 at this moment.

9. Spring Boot 3.0

The Spring Boot framework also has a new release, Spring Boot 2. If I get some time after all these goals this year, then I will spend some time learning Spring Boot 2. If you also want to learn Spring Boot 3, you can check out this Learn Spring Boot 3 in 100 Steps - No 1 Java Framework course by Ranga Karnam and In29Minutes on  Udemy for a quick start.

If you need more choices, then you can also check this list of top Spring boot courses for Java developers to learn in 2024.

10. Angular 2+ or React JS

These two JavaScript framework has completely changed how you develop web applications. As a Java developer, I have used Servlet, JSP, and jQuery on the client-side but haven't yet tried my hand with Angular or React.

In 2024, one of my goals is to learn Angular, and I will be starting my journey with Udemy's Angular -The Complete Guide. If you are in the same boat, then you can also take a look at that course; it's convenient.

11. Android

If you don't know how to write Android Apps in 2024, then you lack something. Mobile is one of the best platforms to reach a large number of people, and Android is probably the most popular platform to write mobile applications.

Even though I know Android basics, I have yet to publish any Android apps, maybe 2024 will change that. For now, I have shortlisted these Android online courses to refresh my knowledge and get to the next level. If you are also in the same boat, then you may find them useful as well.

12. Apache Spark and Kafka

One more thing I want to keep exploring in-depth in 2024 is Big Data and mainly Apache Spark and Apache Kafka framework. I am not sure if I will get time to look at other Big data technologies, but it's seriously good stuff, and Big Data is probably the hottest technology at this moment.

If you also want to learn Big data in 2024, you may want to check my list of shortlisted courses to learn Apache Spark for Java developers from Udemy and Pluralsight.

13. Microservices

So, we have already covered 10 things Java developers should learn in 2024 but if you can add one more thing then I would suggest learning Microservice architecture. This is the architecture that goes hand-in-hand with cloud computing because it's easier to deploy and scale in the cloud and that's why most companies are now developing their application using Microservice architecture. 

Since Cloud Native development is the future of Software development it makes sense to learn both Cloud Computing and Microservice architecture and how to develop Microservice in Java. Well, when it comes to Java, you have many options. 

For example, you can choose the tried and tested duo of Spring Boot and Spring Cloud to create Microservices. Alternatively, you can also use frameworks like MicroNaut and platforms like Quarkus for developing high-performance Kubernetes-based Java Microservice solutions. 

Whichever framework you choose, the key is to learn Microservices in 2024 and if you need some courses and books, I recommend checking Master Microservices with Spring Boot and Spring Cloud course by In28Minutes on Udemy for Java developers. 

And, if you love books, you can check out these best Spring & Microservice books for Java developers.  My personal favorite is Microservice in Action by Manning's publication. 

14. Cloud Technologies

Java developers should learn cloud technologies in 2024 for several compelling reasons. Cloud computing offers scalable infrastructure, enabling developers to deploy, manage, and scale applications more efficiently. 

With cloud services, developers can leverage resources on-demand, reducing infrastructure costs and improving flexibility. Additionally, cloud platforms provide a variety of managed services, such as databases, storage, and machine learning, simplifying development tasks and accelerating time-to-market. Integration with cloud services allows Java developers to build resilient, distributed systems and facilitates the adoption of microservices architecture. 

Furthermore, understanding cloud technologies aligns with industry trends and positions developers to stay competitive in a landscape increasingly focused on cloud-based solutions. 

To get started, the Udemy course "[NEW] Building Microservices with Spring Boot & Spring Cloud" is recommended. This course covers the fundamentals of building microservices using Java and Spring Boot, with a focus on cloud-native development and integration with Spring Cloud.

Another way is to prepare for cloud certifications like AWS Solution Architect associate which will help you to learn AWS and cloud technologies in depth. If you need a resource, I also recommend joining Ultimate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate SAA-C03 course by Stephane Maarek, an AWS Guru in 2024. 

15. Prompt Engineering

Java developers can benefit significantly from learning prompt engineering in 2024, especially given the growing importance of generative AI like ChatGPT. Prompt engineering involves crafting specific instructions or queries to guide the responses of large language models, enhancing their usefulness.

Java developers can leverage prompt engineering to interact effectively with ChatGPT for various tasks, such as generating code snippets, solving programming challenges, or obtaining insights into complex problems. 

By mastering prompt engineering, Java developers can optimize their interactions with ChatGPT, ensuring more accurate and tailored responses to their queries. To delve into prompt engineering, developers can explore the Coursera course "Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT." 

This course provides practical insights into creating effective prompts, understanding the principles of prompting, and employing advanced strategies for improved interactions with generative AI models like ChatGPT. It's a valuable resource for Java developers seeking to enhance their skills in leveraging generative AI technologies for diverse applications. 

There is also a Coursera project called ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers by Andrew Ng, one of Coursera founder and AI expert. You can also combine join this course to learn Prompt Engineer for developer productivity. 

By the way, instead of joining these courses and specialization individually, you can also join the Coursera Plus, a subscription plan from Coursera which gives you unlimited access to their most popular courses, specialization, professional certificate, and guided projects. 

That's all about what Java programmers should learn in 2024? As I said, Technology changes at a rapid speed, and the biggest challenge for programmers are to keep themselves up-to-date. Apart from this list, there is plenty of other stuff that you can look up in the new year like learning a new programming language like Kotlin, but for me, I will be more than happy if I can achieve these goals in 2024.

I wish you guys Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2024.

Other Java Articles you may like to explore:

• The 2024 Java Developer RoadMap
• 10 Tools Every Java Developer Learn in 2024
• Top 5 Courses to learn Spring Boot in 2024
• 10 Programming languages to Learn in 2024
• 10 Books Java Developers Should Read in 2024
• 10 Frameworks Java and Web Developer Should learn in 2024
• 20 Libraries Java developer should know
• 10 Scala and Groovy Frameworks to learn in 2024
• My favorite free courses to learn Java in depth
• Top 5 courses to learn Spring Framework in Depth
• 10 Free courses to learn Maven, Jenkins, and Docker  for Java developers
• 10 Free Spring Boot Courses for Java developers
• 10 Advanced Spring Boot Courses for Java Programmers
• Why Java Developers learn Docker in 2024

P. S. - If you are looking for some gift ideas for your programmer friend this holiday season, then you can check out my list of the 10 best gifts for programmers and tech geeks.

P. P.S - I had published the same article on the same day for the last 2 years, and now I am updating it so that it makes more sense in 2024.