10 Interesting Java Projects for Beginners and Pros

Created nearly 25 years ago, Java is the world's second most popular programming language, according to The PYPL PopularitY of Programming Language Index [1]. Top tech companies regularly seek skilled Java developers who can help them with innovative Java projects. If you wish to thrive in the competitive world of Java developers, you can strengthen your fundamental knowledge and gather real-world experience with Java projects. 

What can you create with Java?

As a versatile programming language, Java creates high-level programs in many areas, from games to computing applications and software. Due to its simplicity and reliability, Java has become widely adopted in the IT industry. Many large-scale companies like Uber, Airbnb, Google, Netflix, Amazon, and Spotify use Java and social networking sites like Instagram. Let’s look at some of the most popular applications you can create using Java.

How to start working on Java projects

Whether you’re a student or a working professional, Java comes packed with plenty of code compilers and integrated development environment (IDE) software. These tools help you begin developing Java projects with ease. Some common Java IDEs and compilers include the following:

Java IDEs:

• Eclipse

• NetBeans

• DrJava

• JDeveloper

• jGRASP

• BlueJ

Java compilers:

• Ideone

• Rextester

• JDoodle

• OneCompiler

• Paiza.io

Java project ideas for beginners

Next, here are a few core and advanced Java projects for beginners to help you understand the language's essential concepts.

1. Online survey system

Developing an online survey system for your Java project helps an organisation understand the viewpoint of a targeted audience through the internet. Any business or individual can use this survey form to collect feedback from people regarding their services and products and also send them promotional emails and more. The major attributes to consider while creating this Java project are compatibility with databases and anonymous submissions from the audience

Examples: Get your code from kiptoo2000 on GitHub or try a survey system using the MySQL database.

2. Password generator

With everything connected to the internet today, people create unique and complex passwords for their different accounts to keep them safe from hackers and any unwanted malicious activities. However, remembering each password of your diverse accounts can be challenging. Therefore, some people use online password generators to create stronger and more complex passwords. You need a core understanding of Java cryptography architecture to produce a password generator.

Examples: Head over to Juni Learning or get your instructions from Tarun Luthra for this Java project.

3. Snake game using Java

The snake game lets users navigate a snake at 90-degree angles to eat apples. The more it eats, the larger the snake gets. The user's points increase with the number of apples the snake eats, and the game ends when the snake collides with an object in the game.  

Examples: Let Devression give you a video tutorial on making a snake game using Eclipse IDE, or get your code and instructions at ZetCode.

4. Billing system using Java

The main focus in developing a billing system in Java is to calculate the quantity used and invoice the money to be paid accurately. This alternative to the conventional billing system provides a seamless and efficient system and reduces paper waste. You can create an online billing system for electricity bills, telephone bills, clothing store invoices, etc.

Examples: Try an invoice and billing system using NetBeans IDE or a pizza shop billing system.

5. Library management system

This is a simple Java project for developers just entering the programming field. The system is intended to oversee and sustain any educational institution's library, allowing librarians to handle day-to-day tasks easily and precisely.

Examples: Follow Keerthana Buvaneshwaran's instructions for this Java project or get helpful directions from Sahiti Kappagantula.

Java projects for professionals

Hone your programming skills with these exciting Java projects for professionals to add to your portfolio or advance your career.

6. Smart city Java project

Hundreds of people visit urban cities daily, searching for jobs, education, and tours. Initially, people naturally don’t know the area well in a new place, such as the city's facilities and attractions. Thus, you can create a web-based software application for smart cities to provide an integrated platform for storing information, aiding visitors in exploring the city. Include various modules in a project for different users, such as tourists, students, job seekers, and businesses.

Examples: Watch Codebun's video tutorial for this project or get your code for a mini project on GitHub.

7. Search engine using Java

Let’s look at a major example of a search engine: Google. People simply type their search terms into the Google search bar, and results pages appear. Similarly, you can develop a simple search engine for your Java projects by applying a ranking algorithm. Your search engine can contain page history, the number of pages visited in the last few days, accounts linked to different websites, and so on. You will require a Java Servlet, MySQL, JSP, and Apache.

Examples: Get detailed instructions from students at Swarthmore College in the US or the University of Windsor in Canada.

8. Data visualisation project using Java

Inspired by data science, data analytics, and business intelligence, data visualisation is a great option for your Java projects. This project aims to analyse how data can be represented visually through design and graphics. The key objective is to deliver effective communication to users by providing insights into the data with relevant graphical representations. Moreover, it aims to maintain and manage user engagement and attention to the data. 

Examples: Download a data visualisation Java project from CodeWithC or learn how to make histograms and other visuals with gavalian's GitHub project.

9. Supply chain management system

A supply chain management system is another interesting web-based Java project for professionals. The process involves inventorying, storing, handling, and transporting raw materials and finished goods. This helps retailers and buyers track the goods from the source to the final destination. To make the application more interactive, add a feedback feature.

Example: Get your source code and video instructions from Techno Geek.

10. E-medical management system

This is another exciting web-based application, a Java project that helps implement direct communication between doctors and patients. This medical management system application includes two modules: admin and doctor. In the doctor module, doctors can look into a patient’s medical history, prescriptions, lab results, etc.  The admin module represents the online medical framework. Patients can conveniently schedule appointments with their doctors online from their own homes.

Examples: Get access to a project from Codebun or find your code on GitHub.

Get started in Java with Coursera

Java projects are a great way to get started with learning and real-time practising and upgrade your skills through an online course. The Coursera Project Network makes it easy to complete additional Java projects with step-by-step instructions and video tutorials. Try these Java projects next:

• Creating a Simple Calculator in Android Using Java (Beginner)

• Creating a Virtual Bookstore Using Java Basics (Beginner)

• Create Your First Java Project Using jGRASP (Beginner)

• Create a Record of Students Using Arrays in Java (Intermediate)

• Intermediate Object-Oriented Programming With Java (Intermediate)

• Create a Tic-Tac-Toe Game Using Java (Intermediate)

You can learn more about Java through several courses, including the Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialisation from Duke University on Coursera.