freeCodeCampCertificate
Node.jsIntermediate
Back End Development and APIs
Learn Node.js and Express by building real-world API projects. Covers npm, package.json, basic node, Express routing, and MongoDB. Free verified certificate.
Free course on The Odin Project
NodeJS Path (The Odin Project)
120 hours 4.8(8,900 reviews)Free
The Odin Project's NodeJS Path teaches server-side JavaScript with Node.js, Express, and databases. You build real backend applications including REST APIs, authentication systems, and database-backed web apps. The course is part of The Odin Project's Full Stack JavaScript curriculum and is completely free. After finishing, you can build production backends in JavaScript. The main limitation: Node.js has a callback/async learning curve. JavaScript on the server behaves differently than in the browser, which trips up many learners.
Node.js is used by 49.1% of professional developers and runs the backends of Netflix, LinkedIn, Uber, and PayPal (source: Stack Overflow Developer Survey 2025).
About This Course
The Odin Project's Node.js path covers Express.js, databases with PostgreSQL, authentication, APIs, and deployment. Build real-world backend applications through hands-on projects.
Course Details
- Platform
- The Odin Project
- Language
- Node.js
- Level
- intermediate
- Duration
- 120h
- Certificate
- No
- Cost
- Free
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Odin Project's Node path free?
Yes, completely free.
Do I need to complete The Odin Project's JS basics first?
Yes, the Node path assumes strong JavaScript skills.
What databases does it teach?
MongoDB and PostgreSQL; both are covered through projects.
How is Node different from browser JavaScript?
No browser APIs (DOM, window). Instead you get file system, network, and process control.
After Node, should I learn Next.js?
Yes. Next.js is the modern way to build full-stack JavaScript apps, building on Node.js.