Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) is a flexible model of software design that aims to support the delivery of services across different applications and networks. Coursera's SOA catalogue teaches you the principles of designing and implementing this architecture to enhance interoperability and business efficiency. You'll learn about the key concepts of SOA, including services, service contracts, service composition, and service security. You'll also dive into the practical aspects of implementing SOA, such as service versioning, orchestration, and governance. This knowledge will equip you to design more efficient and adaptable IT systems, whether you are a software engineer, IT manager, or a professional aspiring to these roles.