The operating system of choice
6 - 9 months
7993669
This Program is Perfect For
- Advanced developers or IT pros aiming to level up in Linux internals and embedded systems
- Professionals targeting high-demand, industry-relevant roles in fields like IoT, telecommunications, and enterprise computing
- Learners who value flexibility and formal recognition, without needing workforce or international approval
Program review underway
As we evolve our programs to reflect today’s technology landscape, the specialization in Linux Development is under review and is not currently open for new enrollment. If you are enrolled in this specialization and are finishing up your courses, please reach out to us at extension@ucsc.edu. We will help you plan your journey.
After reviewing the current market conditions and engaging with industry, we are now offering new short programs, that are flexible paths to get the skills you need fast. During this time, our specialization programs continue to be under review and we are committed to assisting all enrolled students to finish the specialization programs. To learn more, visit our Short Programs page.
Courses are open to everyone
You are invited to enroll in individual courses to build your knowledge and develop new skills.
Build Linux skills and expand your job opportunities
The job boards are full of opportunities for people with the latest Linux skills—the foundation for malware analysts, testing engineers, security administrators, and developers.
In this advanced Linux systems and development program students gain a comprehensive education that quickly prepares them for high-demand jobs in industries such as IoT, telecommunications, automotive systems, and enterprise computing.
Tailor your learning experience
Thanks to a flexible course structure, students can tailor their learning experience to specific interests and career goals within the Linux ecosystem.
Learning outcomes
- Design and develop embedded Linux systems
- Create and manage Linux kernel modules
- Implement Linux device drivers
- Utilize Linux programming interfaces and tools
Whether you're a software engineer looking to specialize in Linux systems, an embedded systems developer, or an IT professional aiming to enhance your Linux expertise, this specialization will provide you with advanced knowledge and practical skills to excel in Linux development and administration.
Courses
Program Requirements
Total: 3 courses or 9 units
- End with specialization completion review.
1. Required Courses:
EMBD.X420
$750
You may enroll in this offering at any time.
Sep. 18 - Dec. 11, Fri, 6:30pm - 9:30pm
- Flexible Attend in person or via Zoom at scheduled times.
EMBD.X420.(5)
Schedule
| Date | Start Time | End Time | Meeting Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, 09-18-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 09-25-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 10-02-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 10-09-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 10-16-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 10-23-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 10-30-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 11-06-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 11-13-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 11-20-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 12-04-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
| Fri, 12-11-2026 | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | Flexible | SANTA CLARA / REMOTE |
This class meets simultaneously in a classroom and remotely via Zoom. Students are expected to attend and participate in the course, either in-person or remotely, during the days and times that are specified on the course schedule. Students attending remotely are also strongly encouraged to have their cameras on to get the most out of the remote learning experience. Students attending the class in-person are expected to bring a laptop to each class meeting.
No meeting on November 27, 2026. Two "no meeting" dates TBD. To see all meeting dates, click "Full Schedule" below.
You will be granted access in Canvas to your course site and course materials approximately 24 hours prior to the published start date of the course.
Required Tools and Materials: Students are expected to install or have access to Linux Operating System version 7, or higher (version 9 is preferred) on their home computers.
Options include VMWare, VirtualBox, LiveCD, disk partition or separate drive or an embedded Linux system such as a Raspberry Pi.
|| Skills Needed:
Prerequisites / Skills Needed
Fall
Currently no classes scheduled. Would you like to be notified when a class is available?
Summer
Currently no classes scheduled. Would you like to be notified when a class is available?
Spring
2. Completion Review:
O-CE0532
$50
You may enroll in this offering at any time.
Schedule
Please enroll in the Linux Development Completion Fee only when all of the specialization requirements have been met and your final grades are posted.
3. Related Course(s):
Currently no classes scheduled. Would you like to be notified when a class is available?
Winter
Establish Candidacy
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