In today’s fast-paced job market, staying competitive often means picking up new skills or brushing up on old ones. Luckily, there are tons of online learning platforms out there that make it super easy to do just that, right from your couch. Whether you’re looking to switch careers, get a promotion, or just learn something new for fun, these platforms are a game-changer. This article will go over 8 Online Learning Platforms to Upskill for Career Success, helping you figure out which one might be the best fit for your learning journey.
Key Takeaways
- Online learning platforms are a great way to improve your career prospects and personal development.
- There are many platforms available, each with its own focus, from creative skills to academic degrees.
- Consider what you want to learn and your budget when picking a platform.
- Some platforms offer official certifications, which can be good for your resume.
- Many platforms let you learn at your own pace, which is perfect for busy people.
1. Udemy
Okay, so Udemy is up first. I’ve spent a fair amount of time on Udemy, and I have to say, it’s a mixed bag, but overall, I think it’s a solid option if you know how to use it. Udemy is a massive online learning platform with a huge range of courses.
One of the things I like most is the sheer variety. You can find courses on just about anything, from coding and business to arts and crafts. The prices are usually pretty reasonable, especially when they have one of their frequent sales. I’ve snagged some really good courses for under $20. It’s worth checking out their Udemy alternatives if you want to compare.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I think are the pros:
- Huge selection of courses.
- Affordable prices, especially during sales.
- Lifetime access to courses you purchase.
- Self-paced learning, which is great if you have a busy schedule.
I think the key to getting the most out of Udemy is to really read the course descriptions and reviews before you buy anything. Also, take advantage of the preview videos to get a feel for the instructor’s teaching style. Not all courses are created equal, so doing your homework is important.
I think Udemy is a good place to learn new skills if you are motivated and do your research.
2. Coursera
Coursera is another platform I’ve spent a lot of time on. It partners with universities and organizations to provide courses, professional certificates, and even degrees. I think it’s a great option if you’re looking for something more academically focused. They have a huge catalog, so you can find something in pretty much any field.
I like that Coursera offers a mix of free audit options and paid certificates. This makes it accessible to a wider range of learners. If you’re just curious about a topic, you can audit the course for free. But if you need a certificate to show employers, you can pay for the graded assignments and official credential. Coursera also offers financial aid and scholarships, which is a big plus if you’re on a tight budget. To apply, you need to fill out an application including information about your educational background, career goals, and financial circumstances.
One thing I appreciate about Coursera is the quality of the instructors. Because they partner with universities, you’re often learning from professors who are experts in their fields. The courses are usually well-structured and include a variety of learning materials, like videos, readings, and quizzes.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I see as the pros and cons:
- Pros:
- University-backed courses. I find this reassuring.
- Financial aid options. This makes education more accessible.
- Wide range of subjects. You can find almost anything.
- Cons:
- Some courses have set timelines. This might not work for everyone.
- Degree programs require applications. It’s an extra step.
- Free courses don’t result in certifications. Keep this in mind.
Coursera is a platform that is used by a wide variety of people, including students, professionals and lifelong learners. Although more specifically, it appeals to a learner wanting to earn an accredited completion certificate from a course or learning program. If you’re looking for career counseling resources, Coursera might be a good place to start.
3. Skillshare
I’ve spent a good amount of time on Skillshare, and I have to say, it’s become one of my go-to spots for anything creative. It’s got a massive library of classes, over 35,000, all focused on creative skills.
I think it’s a great platform if you’re looking to learn something new or improve your skills in areas like illustration, design, photography, or video. They really push project-based learning, which I find super helpful because you’re not just passively watching videos; you’re actually creating something and getting feedback. It’s a very hands-on approach.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I like and don’t like:
- Tons of courses to pick from. Seriously, the sheer choice is amazing.
- The project-based learning is a big win for me.
- The community aspect is cool; getting feedback from other students is valuable.
One thing I’ve noticed is that some courses seem geared towards people who already have some experience. So, if you’re a complete beginner, you might need to do a little digging to find the right starting point. Also, to get the most out of it, you really need a subscription, which might not be ideal if you only want to take one or two classes. But overall, I think it’s a solid platform for creatives.
4. edX
edX is another platform I’ve explored for upskilling. It was actually founded by Harvard and MIT, which immediately gives it a certain level of credibility. They offer real college courses taught by university professors. While they do lean towards STEM fields, you can also find courses in languages, arts, and the humanities. I think it’s great that they offer courses in cybersecurity, among other subjects.
One thing that sets edX apart is its “Global Freshman Academy” in partnership with Arizona State University. You can actually earn undergrad credits for certain courses that will transfer to other colleges or universities. That’s a pretty cool option if you’re looking to get a head start on your degree.
EdX does offer free classes in subjects like computer science, business, and history. However, if you want to earn a “verified certificate” for your job, it’ll cost you, usually between $50-$300 per course. Each class has a start date, but once it begins, you can work at your own pace. I appreciate the flexibility that offers.
I think edX is a solid choice for anyone looking for rigorous, university-level courses. The option to earn college credit is a major plus, and the free courses are a great way to test the waters before committing to a paid certificate.
5. LinkedIn Learning
I’ve found LinkedIn Learning to be a pretty useful resource, especially since it ties right into my LinkedIn profile. It’s got a ton of courses – over 16,000, I think – covering everything from business skills to creative stuff and tech know-how. It’s not perfect, but it’s got its perks.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I’ve noticed:
- The integration with LinkedIn is a big plus. It makes it super easy to show off any new skills or certifications I pick up.
- There’s a good variety of courses, and they seem to keep adding new ones all the time. I’ve taken courses on copywriting, social media, and even some data analytics stuff.
- I like that I can learn from people who actually work in the fields they’re teaching about. It feels more practical that way.
One thing I’ve noticed is that some of the courses can feel a bit corporate-y. Also, don’t expect to get college credit for anything you learn here. It’s more about professional development than academic stuff.
I think it’s a solid option if you’re looking to boost your skills for your career. It’s especially good if you’re already active on LinkedIn and want to plan your career and show off what you’re learning.
6. MasterClass
I’ve always been intrigued by MasterClass. It’s not your typical online learning platform; it’s more like getting a peek into the minds of some seriously accomplished people. The courses are taught by celebrities and experts in their fields, which is a pretty cool concept.
I think what sets MasterClass apart is the production quality. The videos are beautifully shot, almost like watching a documentary. It definitely keeps me engaged more than some of the other platforms I’ve tried. It’s less about formal education and more about getting inspired and learning practical tips from the best.
I find that MasterClass is great for sparking creativity and getting a different perspective on things. It’s not necessarily going to give you a certification or a degree, but it can definitely help you grow personally and professionally.
Here’s what I like about MasterClass:
- The instructors are top-notch. Where else can you learn strategic networking from someone like Anna Wintour?
- The production value is amazing. It feels like you’re watching a high-quality film.
- The range of topics is pretty broad, from cooking to writing to business.
I think it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for something a little different in your online learning journey.
7. Mindvalley
Mindvalley is a platform that’s always intrigued me. It’s not your typical academic learning space; instead, it’s heavily focused on personal growth and transformation. Founded in 2003 by Vishen Lakhiani, it aims to impact various aspects of your life, including mind, body, soul, career, and relationships. With over 10 million students worldwide and a diverse international team, it’s clear they’re doing something right.
Their learning programs, called ‘Quests,’ can be purchased individually or accessed through an ‘All Access’ membership, available monthly or annually. I appreciate that they offer a free trial, allowing you to explore the platform and see if it aligns with your goals. The focus on practical knowledge and real-life results is what sets Mindvalley apart.
Mindvalley’s approach uses behavior design to make learning engaging. Beyond video lectures, they provide guided meditations and downloadable resources. Some programs even include live coaching sessions. The sense of community, with peer support and collaborative learning, is a big motivator.
I find the bite-sized video content, typically 10–20 minutes long, very manageable. It’s easier to fit into a busy schedule compared to longer, more demanding courses. Plus, the platform’s AI-guided curriculum adds a personalized touch to the learning experience.
Here’s a quick look at the pricing:
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| Monthly | $49 USD |
| Yearly | $399 USD ($33.25/month) |
They also offer a 15-day money-back guarantee, which is reassuring. Overall, Mindvalley seems like a solid option if you’re looking for a personal development platform that goes beyond traditional education.
8. ProProfs Training Maker
ProProfs Training Maker is something I’ve been looking into lately, and it seems pretty solid as a cloud-based learning management system (LMS). It’s designed to handle pretty much everything: creating, managing, sharing, tracking, and even analyzing online training courses. I think it could be a great tool for businesses needing to onboard new employees or provide compliance training. It seems like a one-stop shop, which is always a plus.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I’ve gathered:
- You can upload a bunch of different stuff like images, videos, and quizzes to make your courses more engaging.
- It lets you keep tabs on how learners are doing and get their feedback, which is super important for improving the training.
- Generating reports looks like it’s pretty straightforward, which is a huge time-saver.
From what I’ve read, it’s got a lot going for it, but it’s not perfect. Some users have mentioned that the quiz builder isn’t the most intuitive, and there’s no way to really verify who’s taking the exams. Plus, there’s a limit on the number of learners you can have, and it doesn’t have any live learning features like webinars. Still, it seems like a decent option, especially if you’re looking for an all-in-one solution. I’m also looking at mentorship resources to help guide my career journey.
Here’s a quick look at the pricing structure:
| Plan | Cost | Features