Mainframe Programming – Step-by-Step Course Structure

This course is designed to transform learners from basic to advanced mainframe developers capable of writing efficient, production-grade code that’s better than most industry-trained freshers.

1. Core Concepts of COBOL – Structured Programming Foundations

The course starts with COBOL basics, covering data types, divisions, and file handling. Learners will write simple programs to understand structured logic, working storage, and basic computation.

2. JCL Fundamentals – Running and Managing Batch Jobs

Next, we cover Job Control Language (JCL), explaining how to compile and execute COBOL programs. Students will learn job structure, DD statements, PROCs, and how to manage batch job dependencies.

3. VSAM Essentials – File Handling with KSDS, ESDS, RRDS

Learners will explore Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM) files, how they differ from sequential files, and their practical use in real-world banking and insurance systems.

4. CICS Basics to Advanced – Online Transaction Processing

This module introduces Customer Information Control System (CICS). Students will learn to build interactive applications, design BMS maps, and understand conversational programming and error handling.

5. Advanced COBOL & Performance Optimization

We dive deeper into efficient COBOL techniques—modularization, table handling, and optimizing loops. Students will learn to refactor and write cleaner, faster code.

6. Debugging & Code Review – Becoming Production-Ready

The final module focuses on analyzing job failures, identifying ABENDs, and improving poor-quality code. Real case studies and debugging sessions will help learners build strong problem-solving skills.