Advanced track for Salesforce implementers and people with a development background
Salesforce Development Course
From the business requirement to a solution that works in code.
Learn to turn business needs into tailored Salesforce solutions using Apex, data, automations and Lightning Web Components.
60 study hours
8 professional modules
Apex and LWC taught in the track
Practical development project
What does a Salesforce Developer do?
A Salesforce developer builds in code the capabilities the platform's built-in tools cannot deliver on their own: business logic, automations and interface components tailored to the organization's needs. They translate a business requirement into a solution, test the code and deploy the change in an orderly way.
A fit for Salesforce implementers and Admins who want to move into development, and for anyone with an object-oriented programming background. No prior experience with Apex or LWC is required; suitability is checked in a short conversation.
Get the syllabus and check suitability for the track
Leave your details and we'll get back to you with the full syllabus and a short conversation, to check whether your background fits the track.
From implementation to development
Add to your existing Salesforce knowledge the ability to build tailored solutions in code, not only to configure the system.
Learning by doing
Practice Apex, SOQL, DML, Triggers, Flow, LWC, working with data and deploying changes.
A project that ties it all together
Build a practical development project that connects a business requirement, logic, data, testing and Deployment into one complete process.
Professional advanced track
Why study Salesforce development at HPI
This track is designed to transform previous familiarity with Salesforce or software development into practical ability to build, test, and deploy customized solutions on the platform.
Moving from Configuration to Development
Learn to identify when Configuration, Flow, or built-in capabilities provide a solution, and when custom code is required. The goal is to choose a correct, maintainable solution suitable for the business requirement - not to write unnecessary code.
Learn the core of platform development
Delve into Apex, Object-Oriented Programming, SOQL, DML, Triggers, Collections, Exception Handling, Unit Tests, and Governor Limits.
Connecting server-side, interface, and automation
Combine Apex, LWC, Flow, data, and services to understand how solution components work together - from server-side logic to the component displayed to the user.
Conclude with a practical development project
Apply knowledge to a business scenario, work with automations and data, and build a practical product that can be documented and presented as part of a portfolio. The product does not constitute a job guarantee.
The Practical Advantage
Transform Salesforce knowledge into end-to-end development capability
Apex, Tests, and Governor Limits
Learn to write platform-specific logic, handle exceptions, build Unit Tests, and understand the limitations that differentiate Salesforce development from traditional environment development.
Data, Triggers, and Bulk Processing
Practice retrieving data using SOQL, modifying information using DML, working with Triggers, and planning code that correctly handles multiple records, not just a single scenario.
LWC, Flow, and Integrations
Connect Lightning Web Components with processes, screens, and services, and learn when to use Flow and when custom development or an API is required.
Environments, CLI, and Deployment
Become familiar with Sandboxes and environment types, work with CLI, and learn how to move developments between environments as part of an organized and automated deployment process.
Before you decide
An advanced development track requires a correct starting point. Let's really check it
We have compiled the important questions about prior knowledge, the difference between implementation and development, the tools learned, the project, and the path forward - so you can understand if this is the right professional stage for you.
60 hours
8 modules
Prior foundation required
Apex and LWC
Flow and Agentforce
Hands-on development project
01
Why is this an advanced track and what needs to be known beforehand?
This track does not start from Salesforce fundamentals or computer basics. It focuses on developing and extending the platform, and therefore requires a suitable starting point.
This track is mainly intended for graduates of a Salesforce Implementer course, Salesforce Admins, implementers, and people who already work with the platform and want to move to working with Apex, LWC, data, testing, and deployment. You can also come from an Object-Oriented development background, such as Java or .NET, but familiarity with how the Salesforce platform works is still required.
The suitability call is designed to check prior knowledge and understand if you can enter the track directly. If you still lack a foundation in CRM, data model, permissions, Flow, and the Salesforce interface, it is recommended to start with the Implementer track.
You don't have to come from a development role, but you do need to be willing to learn code, logical thinking, and Object-Oriented concepts.
Salesforce Implementer course graduates and platform professionals can move into development even if they haven't worked as full-time developers yet. The track includes Apex Basics and Object-Oriented principles, but it is not a general introductory computer science course and is not intended for those looking for a track that starts from scratch.
A background in Java, .NET, or an Object-Oriented language may ease entry into Apex, but it is defined as an advantage rather than an absolute prerequisite. Suitability also depends on familiarity with Salesforce, technical ability, and willingness to practice.
03
What is the difference between a Salesforce Implementer and a Salesforce Developer?
The implementer focuses on the business process and the platform's configuration capabilities; the developer builds extensions in code when the built-in tools are insufficient.
A Salesforce Implementer characterizes requirements, plans a data model, defines permissions, and builds solutions using Objects, Flow, reports, and No-Code or Low-Code tools. A Salesforce Developer works with Apex, LWC, SOQL, APIs, testing, and Deployment processes.
Both roles complement each other. A professional developer needs to understand the business requirement and the platform's capabilities to avoid unnecessary code, and an implementer needs to know when to involve development. This track focuses on the development side and assumes a prior platform foundation.
04
What is Apex and what is learned in it?
Apex is the server-side development language for the Salesforce platform, used to build customized business logic and capabilities not solved by built-in tools.
The track covers Apex Basics, Object-Oriented principles, Collections, Exception Handling, Asynchronous Programming, Events, Unit Testing, and Debugging. Additionally, you will learn how the code operates within the unique limitations and model of the platform.
Working with Apex requires considering Governor Limits, Bulk Processing, security, and the maintainability of the solution. The goal is not just to make the code work, but to build a solution suitable for the Salesforce environment.
05
What is LWC and what is Client-Side development in Salesforce?
Lightning Web Components allow you to build customized interface components and extend the user experience on Lightning pages and processes.
In the Client-Side Development module, you will learn the LWC model, working with Client-Side Messaging, and integrating components into Screen Flows and Lightning pages. The client-side component connects to the platform's data and logic to present a customized experience.
LWC development requires an understanding of the division of responsibilities between the interface, Apex, data, and security. The goal is to build a clear and maintainable component, not to circumvent Salesforce's mechanisms and permissions.
06
How do Flow, automations, and Agentforce integrate into the track?
A Salesforce developer needs to know how to work alongside the platform's automation tools and decide when Flow is sufficient and when code is required.
In this track, you will learn to understand Flows, build business processes, and perform Debugging and Testing. We will also examine the use of services within Flow and the connection between Declarative automation and customized development capabilities.
Agentforce is included as an introduction only, according to the syllabus. The course should not be presented as full Agentforce training or certification in the field. The purpose of the introduction is to familiarize participants with its place within the platform's automation and AI capabilities.
07
What does the practical project include and what deliverables are built?
The project connects course topics to a business scenario and allows practicing an organized development process instead of remaining at the level of isolated exercises.
The project is based on a Real-Life Case Study and includes business analysis, work with automations and data, and implementation of development capabilities learned in the track according to the scenario requirements. The syllabus also includes reports and dashboards as part of the practical solution.
The deliverable can be documented and presented as part of a portfolio and used to explain the thought process and execution. A learning project provides an opportunity to demonstrate capability, but does not constitute employment experience or a guarantee of job placement.
08
What development directions and certifications can be explored after the track?
The track can support continued development into technical Salesforce roles, but senior roles and certifications require practice and sometimes additional experience.
Graduates of the track can explore directions such as Salesforce Developer and other technical roles in the ecosystem, depending on their knowledge, experience, and employer requirements. After gaining experience, one can develop into leadership, technical consulting, or architecture roles, but these are not entry-level positions and progression to them is not automatic.
The syllabus includes an introduction to the Salesforce Certified Platform Developer certification track. The exam and certification are administered separately by Salesforce and are subject to its requirements. The course does not guarantee passing the exam, and the exam or voucher are not automatically included in the price.
Want to check if your prior knowledge is suitable for the development track?
Tell us about your experience with Salesforce, implementation, or Object-Oriented development. We will get back to you for a short call, review the track requirements, and help you understand if this is the right starting point.
No obligation · Short call · Personal response from HPI team
Want to check if your prior knowledge is suitable for the development track?
Tell us about your experience in Salesforce, implementation, or Object-Oriented development. We'll get back to you for a short chat, review the track requirements, and help you understand if this is the right starting point.
No obligation · Short chat · Personal response from the HPI team
Study Program
Eight modules, 60 hours, and end-to-end development on Salesforce
The advanced track progresses from Apex fundamentals and data manipulation to automations, LWC, data tools, environments, Deployment, and a practical development project.
Total: 60 hours
Introduction to the Apex language and the development principles that underpin Salesforce server-side operations. This module builds a foundation for writing clear, organized, and maintainable code.
Apex Basics
Basic Apex code structure
Object-Oriented Programming
Classes and Objects in an Apex context
Collections
Exception Handling
Thinking about code responsibility distribution
The initial difference between Configuration and Development
You will be able to write basic Apex code, organize logic using an Object-Oriented approach, and work with Collections and exceptions.
Deep dive into how Apex code functions within the Salesforce platform, with an emphasis on Asynchronous Programming, Events, Unit Testing, Debugging, and the system's Governor Limits.
Asynchronous Programming
Events
Unit Testing
Governor Limits
Debugging
Designing code that fits the Salesforce working model
Introduction to consuming API services
Introduction to exposing services
Security models for services
Deciding when to use code versus existing platform capabilities
You will be able to build and test more advanced logic in Apex, understand platform limits, and approach integration in an organized and secure manner.
Working with the data layer using Apex: retrieving records, modifying information, triggering logic based on events, and designing code that correctly handles multiple records.
SOQL
Retrieving information using queries
DML
Creating, updating, and deleting records
Triggers
The relationship between Triggers and business processes
Bulk Processing
Avoiding code suitable only for a single record
Considering Governor Limits when working with data
You will be able to retrieve and modify information, build Triggers, and design logic suitable for large-scale operations.
Understanding Salesforce automation tools and their connection to custom development. This module focuses on building processes, testing, troubleshooting, and selecting the appropriate tool for each requirement.
Understanding Flows
Creating business processes
Debugging Flows
Testing Flows
Working with conditions, actions, and data flow
Integrating services from Flow
The difference between Flow solutions and Apex development
Introduction to Agentforce
Choosing between Automation Declarative and code
You will be able to build and test Flow processes, understand when code is required, and connect automation to additional platform capabilities. Agentforce is taught as an introduction only.
Hands-on experience with the main tools for loading, importing, and validating data in Salesforce, while understanding the differences between the tools and their suitability for various tasks.
Data Loader
Data Import Wizard
Salesforce Inspector
Loading data into the system
Importing and updating records
Choosing the right tool for the data task
Checking loading results
Working carefully with data in Salesforce environments
You will be able to use Salesforce's central data tools to load, import, and manage records in an organized manner.
Developing customized interface components using Lightning Web Components and understanding the connection between the client-side, Salesforce data, screens, and processes.
Lightning Web Components - LWC model
LWC component structure
Client-Side Development
Client-Side Messaging
Communication between components
Integrating LWC into Screen Flows
Integrating LWC into Lightning pages
Connecting the interface to logic and data
Working with Events in the context of interface components
You will be able to build an LWC component, connect it to a page or a Screen Flow, and understand the client-side data flow.
Introduction to how developments move from a working environment to testing and production environments, using CLI and organized deployment processes.
Sandboxes
Salesforce environment types
The difference between development, testing, and production environments
CLI Commands
CLI Deployment
Transferring developments between environments
Pipeline Automation
Basic principles of automated deployment
Avoiding direct development in a Production environment
You will learn the environment structure and be able to understand and perform a basic deployment process using CLI according to the Salesforce workflow.
Applying knowledge to a business scenario that simulates a real-world need. This module connects requirements gathering, development, automations, data, and documentation into a practical product that can be presented and explained.
Real-Life Case Study
Business Requirements Gathering
Translating business needs into a technical solution
Selected implementation of Apex, LWC, Flow, and data capabilities according to the scenario
Automations
Working with Data
Reports and Dashboards according to project requirements
Testing and Documentation of the Solution
Preparing a Deliverable for a Portfolio
Introduction to the Job Market and Interview Process
Practice Questions and Tips for Presenting the Project
Overview of the Salesforce Certified Platform Developer certification path
You will complete a practical development project demonstrating how you approached a business requirement, planned a solution, implemented platform and development capabilities, and presented the result. This project does not constitute employment experience, a commitment to placement, or a guarantee of acceptance into a role.
Practical Deliverables
What You Will Build During the Course
The course combines focused practice with deliverables that illustrate how you approach Salesforce development in an organized manner.
Apex Solution for Data Handling
Logic combining Apex, SOQL, DML, and Triggers, addressing Bulk Processing, Unit Tests, and Governor Limits.
LWC Component Connected to the Platform
Lightning Web Component including client-side logic and integration into a Lightning Page or Screen Flow according to the practice.
Practical Development Project for Portfolio
A solution based on a business scenario, combining requirements gathering, automations, data, and development capabilities. The project can be documented and the workflow presented, with no guarantee of acceptance into a role.
Certificate and Professional Advancement
HPI Certificate and Introduction to Salesforce Certification Path
Certificate of Completion from HPI
Upon completion of the program and subject to meeting its requirements, you will receive a certificate of completion from HPI College. This certificate attests to the completion of the study program and does not replace an external Salesforce certification.
Salesforce Certified Platform Developer
The syllabus includes an overview of the Salesforce Certified Platform Developer certification path and its relevant professional topics. The training and project can help build a foundation for further learning, but do not guarantee passing the exam.
The exam and certification are managed by Salesforce and subject to its requirements and current policy. The cost of the exam, registration, and exam voucher are not automatically included in the course price, unless explicitly stated in writing for the specific cohort.
Frequently Asked Questions - Salesforce Development Course
Important answers regarding admission requirements, Apex, LWC, automations, the project, the certificate, and the path forward.
The course is mainly suitable for graduates of the Salesforce Administrator course, Salesforce Admins, implementers, and individuals who already work with the platform and wish to acquire development skills. It may also be suitable for those with a background in Object-Oriented development, such as Java or .NET, and graduates of a technological degree with a suitable foundation. Suitability is checked during a call before registration.
A prior foundation in Salesforce or a suitable foundation in software development is required. Graduates of the Administrator program should be familiar with the platform, data model, permissions, processes, and Flow. Those with a development background need to be prepared to learn Salesforce's unique model and platform limitations. The final decision is made after a suitability interview.
This program is not a regular introductory course, so prior familiarity with Salesforce is a recommended starting point. Developers with a strong Object-Oriented background may be admitted even without prior professional experience on the platform, but they will need to learn the Salesforce structure, security model, data, and Governor Limits. If a platform foundation is lacking, it is recommended to start with the Administrator course.
Prior programming knowledge is a significant advantage, but it is not defined as an absolute condition for every candidate. The program includes Apex Basics and Object-Oriented principles, but it quickly advances to topics such as Triggers, Unit Tests, Asynchronous Programming, and LWC. Therefore, logical thinking, willingness to work with code, and the ability to practice consistently are required.
The Administrator course focuses on process definition, data model, permissions, Flow, reports, and No-Code and Low-Code tools. The Development course focuses on extending the platform using Apex, SOQL, DML, Triggers, LWC, APIs, testing, and Deployment processes. The Development course is a continuation program and does not replace the platform foundation.
Apex is Salesforce's server-side development language. It allows building customized business logic, working with data, executing processes, and creating services when built-in tools are insufficient. The program teaches Apex Basics, Object-Oriented Programming, Collections, Exception Handling, Asynchronous Programming, Events, testing, and Governor Limits.
SOQL is used to retrieve information from the Salesforce database. DML is used to perform operations on records, such as creation, update, and deletion. The program teaches how to use both from within Apex and how to integrate them with Triggers and Bulk Processing in a way that suits platform limitations.
LWC, or Lightning Web Components, is Salesforce's development model for customized UI components. It can be used to build components for Lightning pages and integrate them into Screen Flows. The program teaches component structure, Client-Side Messaging, and the connection between the interface, logic, and data.
You will learn to understand Flows, create business processes, and perform Debugging and Testing. Additionally, the connection between Flow and services and code will be examined, and the decision of when to use Declarative tools and when Apex is required. Agentforce is taught at an introductory level only and is not presented as a specialization or full training in the field.
The project is based on a Real-Life Case Study and connects business analysis, development, automations, information, and documentation. Depending on the scenario, it can combine skills learned in Apex, LWC, Flow, and information tools. The output can be documented and presented as part of a portfolio, but it does not constitute employment experience or a guarantee of employment.
The program includes exactly eight modules, with a cumulative total of 60 hours. Six modules are eight hours each, the Deployment module is four hours, and the practical project module is eight hours. Details of the days, hours, and format of the active cohort will be provided by the study advisor.
The track includes Apex, Object-Oriented Programming, SOQL, DML, Triggers, Bulk Processing, Unit Tests, Governor Limits, Flow, Agentforce at an introductory level, Data Loader, Data Import Wizard, Salesforce Inspector, LWC, Client-Side Messaging, APIs, Sandboxes, CLI and Deployment.
The track can support further development towards a Salesforce Developer and other technical roles in the Salesforce environment. Later, and after gaining appropriate experience, one can explore technical consulting, leadership, or architectural roles. Actual integration depends on knowledge, practice, experience, and employer requirements.
Upon completion of the track and subject to meeting its requirements, a certificate of completion from HPI College is received. This is a college completion certificate and is not an official Salesforce certification.
Not automatically. The exam, registration, and exam voucher are not considered included unless explicitly stated in writing for the specific cohort. The exam and certification are managed separately by Salesforce and subject to its current policies and requirements.
No. The course provides training, practice, and a practical project, but does not constitute a guarantee of placement, a specific salary, promotion, or acceptance into a role. Professional success depends on the level of knowledge, practice, the project, prior experience, personal performance, and employer requirements.
For further reading
Continue learning in the Knowledge Hub
Three complementary guides on the difference between implementation and development, working with Flow, and career paths in the Salesforce ecosystem.
