In today’s fast-paced world, continuous learning and skill development are key to staying ahead in the job market. The opportunity to upskill without the burden of tuition fees is a golden one. Fortunately, there are numerous free online courses with certificates available that not only offer valuable knowledge and skills but also provide certificates upon completion.
Here’s a curated list of the top 5 platforms with free online courses tailored for South African youth looking to enhance their capabilities.
Related: 40 Websites for Young Professionals: The Essential Career Toolkit
Top 5 Platforms for Free Online Courses with Certificates
1. LinkedIn Learning Free Certificates
LinkedIn Learning is excited to announce the addition of 50 new online courses, available at no cost. This expansion builds upon our extensive library of free courses, offering even more opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement. To receive a certificate for any course, participants must watch all video content and successfully complete any required quizzes or exams. Certificates for individual courses can be obtained by navigating to the “Related to this course” section beneath the video player on a desktop device and selecting “Show all.” A pop-up will display the available certificates, which can be downloaded directly.
Additionally, some courses provide Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits alongside the LinkedIn Learning certificate, further contributing to professional growth and development. For those looking to achieve a certificate for a learning path, completion of all courses within the path is required prior to downloading the certificate.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of LinkedIn Learning Courses that offer free certification, covering a wide range of topics from administrative professional tips to advanced technical certifications and soft skills development. These courses are designed to cater to various professional needs and interests, ensuring there’s something for everyone looking to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
Full List of Free LinkedIn Learning Courses with Certification
Business and Professional Development
- Administrative Professional Tips
- Communication Foundations
- Entrepreneurship Foundations
- Finding a Job
- Guy Kawasaki on Entrepreneurship
- Prepare Yourself for a Career in Sales
- Project Management Foundations (including Budgets, Ethics, Risk, Schedules)
- Tips for Writing Business Emails
- Video Interview Tips
- Writing a Resume
- 10 Ways to Stay Motivated While Job Hunting
- A Career Strategist’s Guide to Getting a Job
- Developing Your Emotional Intelligence
- Engage the Likability Effect in the Job Search
- Entrepreneurship: Raising Startup Capital
- Foundations of Raising Capital
Tech and IT Certifications
- CompTIA A+ (220-1001 and 220-1002) Series
- CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) Series
Design and Creative Skills
- InDesign 2020 Essential Training
- What is Graphic Design?
- Building Powerful Instagram Assets with Photoshop
Personal Development and Productivity
- Critical Thinking for Better Judgment and Decision-Making
- Digital Networking Strategies
- Effective Listening
- Embracing Unexpected Change
- Graphic Design Careers: First Steps
- How to Manage Feeling Overwhelmed
- Learning Data Analytics: 1 Foundations
- Microsoft Project 2019 and Project Online Desktop Essential Training
- Persuading Others
- Programming Foundations: Fundamentals
- Project Management Foundations: Teams
- Recession-Proof Career Strategies
- Recovering from a Layoff
- Teamwork Foundations
- Unconscious Bias
- Working and Collaborating Online
- Working with Computers and Devices
Microsoft and Business Skills
- Microsoft Foundational Career Certificate in Data Analytics
- Optimizing Your Work with Microsoft 365
- Managing Data with Microsoft 365
- Getting Started with Microsoft 365
- Collaborating with Microsoft 365
- Managing Projects with Microsoft 365
- Career Essentials in System Administration by Microsoft and LinkedIn
This list represents a fraction of the extensive learning opportunities available for free on LinkedIn Learning. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, learn a new skill, or earn professional certifications, these courses provide valuable resources to help achieve your goals.
2. Google Free Certificates
From the essentials of Gmail to the complexities of Maps, Google’s suite of applications serves as a cornerstone for modern digital life. This versatility extends into the realm of education through Google’s commitment to providing accessible learning. Unbeknownst to many, Google goes beyond its range of applications to offer a plethora of online courses, many of which come with the added bonus of free certificates or badges.
Google’s educational initiatives, such as the Grow with Google program and Google’s Digital Garage, are designed to equip learners with crucial digital skills or prepare them for the intricacies of running online businesses. These platforms boast a wealth of courses, spanning from digital marketing and Google Analytics to in-depth Google Cloud training, all aimed at empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools needed for success in the digital age.
After an extensive exploration of Google’s online learning ecosystem, we’ve uncovered an impressive tally of 600 courses that offer free certificates or badges. This endeavor not only highlights the vast learning opportunities provided by Google but also showcases our firsthand experience and achievements within these courses.
Highlighted Google Certifications
Free Google Analytics Certifications
The transition to Google Analytics 4 marks a significant update to Google’s analytics platform. In celebration, Google launched new online courses, including a comprehensive free certification program through Skillshop. This initiative complements the ongoing availability of free courses for the Universal Analytics platform via the Google Analytics Academy, ensuring a broad understanding of analytics principles applicable across versions.
Free Google Digital Marketing Certification
The Google Digital Garage’s “Fundamentals of Digital Marketing” course, among others, provides a robust foundation in digital marketing skills across 26 modules, each culminating in a quiz to solidify your learning. Completing these modules not only awards badges but also unlocks a prestigious certificate, demonstrating your newly acquired digital marketing prowess.
Free Google Skillshop Certifications
Skillshop offers detailed training across various Google services, including Google Ads and Google My Business. With 14 online courses offering certificates upon completion, Skillshop emphasizes a text-based learning approach, catering to a wide array of professional development needs.
Free Google Developer Certifications
For developers, Google’s platform offers an extensive catalog of over 1000 courses ranging from programming languages like Kotlin and JavaScript to libraries and services such as TensorFlow and Kubernetes. These courses are structured to accommodate all levels, from beginners to advanced learners, with a special focus on Android development.
Free Google Cloud Skill Boost (Qwiklabs) Certifications
Google Cloud Skills Boost, previously known as Qwiklabs, emphasizes hands-on learning through labs conducted in a real cloud environment. This platform offers the opportunity to earn badges and certifications by completing courses, quests, and learning paths in Google Cloud, providing practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
In summary, Google’s free certification courses offer an unparalleled opportunity for learning and professional development. Whether you’re interested in honing your digital marketing skills, diving deep into analytics, mastering Google Cloud, or developing new software solutions, Google’s educational offerings provide the resources to achieve your goals. Our journey through these courses has not only enriched our understanding but also demonstrated the tangible benefits of Google’s educational initiatives. For those looking to explore the full spectrum of Google’s free certifications, delve into our comprehensive guide to discover a world of learning at your fingertips.
3. Microsoft Free Certificates & Badges
Microsoft‘s dedication to promoting learning and development is clearly reflected in its vast array of free online courses, modules, and learning paths. With a staggering offer of over 3700 modules and 800 learning paths, Microsoft caters to a wide audience, encompassing beginners, intermediate learners, and advanced professionals. These educational resources cover a breadth of Microsoft products, including Office 365, Visual Studio, Windows, SQL Server, and Azure, ensuring there’s something valuable for everyone looking to enhance their skills or dive into new technologies.
One of the notable aspects of Microsoft’s learning platform is its badge system. Upon completing a course’s tutorials and quizzes, learners are rewarded with a badge, prominently displayed on their learner profile. This not only serves as a testament to their dedication and skill acquisition but also enhances their professional profile, signaling to employers and peers alike their commitment to continuous learning and mastery of Microsoft technologies.
In an effort to further empower learners, Microsoft has introduced the Applied Skills credential. This new certification pathway is being offered for free for a limited time, allowing learners to gain recognized qualifications without any cost. This initiative is particularly valuable for those looking to demonstrate their practical skills and knowledge in specific Microsoft technologies, providing an added layer of credibility to their learning achievements.
Highlighted Free Courses with Certificates or Badges from Microsoft
- Write your first code using C# (Get started with C#, Part 1): Dive into the world of programming with C#, a versatile language used for a wide range of applications, from desktop applications to mobile games.
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Describe cloud concepts: This course lays the foundation for understanding cloud computing, including its benefits, models, and services, using Microsoft Azure as the platform for illustration.
- Get started with Microsoft data analytics: An introductory course designed to acquaint learners with the basics of data analysis, utilizing Microsoft’s powerful data analytics tools.
- Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals: AI Overview: Provides an overview of artificial intelligence concepts and Azure AI services, designed to introduce learners to the potential of AI solutions.
- Introduction to version control with Git: Learn the fundamentals of version control using Git, an essential skill for anyone involved in software development or managing codebases.
- Deploy containers by using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS): This course teaches the deployment of containerized applications using AKS, enabling scalable and efficient application deployment.
- Develop natural language processing solutions with Azure AI Services: Dive into the development of NLP solutions, exploring how Azure AI can be leveraged to understand and interpret human language.
- Create computer vision solutions with Azure AI Vision: Focuses on the creation of AI solutions that can interpret the world visually, using Azure’s computer vision services.
- Create and Manage Automated Processes by using Power Automate: Learn how to streamline workflows and automate business processes with Power Automate, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
- Develop an ASP.NET Core web app that consumes an API: This course offers practical experience in developing web applications with ASP.NET Core, focusing on consuming APIs for dynamic web content.
- Develop solutions with Azure AI Document Intelligence: Explore how to leverage Azure AI for understanding and processing documents, extracting actionable insights from various document types.
- Get started with Power BI: An introductory course to Power BI, a business analytics service by Microsoft, aimed at enabling learners to create reports and dashboards with real-time data insights.
Microsoft’s commitment to providing free, high-quality educational content ensures that learners across the globe have the resources they need to succeed in today’s tech-driven world. Whether you’re looking to begin your journey in technology, advance your existing skills, or pivot to a new technical domain, Microsoft’s learning platform offers a wealth of opportunities to achieve your goals.
4. Great Learning Free Certificates
Great Learning stands out as a beacon for those eager to dive into the realm of technology and digital skills, offering over 90 free certificate courses. These courses span an impressive range of subjects including artificial intelligence (AI), data science, programming, cloud computing, and digital marketing. The platform’s commitment to accessible education is evident, with each course designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced technological landscape. Upon completion of all course videos and quizzes, learners can claim their well-deserved free certificate, marking a significant milestone in their professional development journey.
Featured Free Certificate Courses from Great Learning
- Java Programming Free Course with Certificate: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Java programming, one of the most widely used programming languages, ideal for beginners looking to make their mark in software development.
- Front End Development Free Online Course: Dive into the basics of front-end web development, learning about HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create visually appealing and interactive web pages.
- Learn Data Structures and Algorithms in Java: Enhance your coding efficiency by mastering data structures and algorithms in Java, a crucial skill set for problem-solving in software development.
- Digital Marketing Free Course SEO, PPC, and SEM: Get acquainted with the fundamentals of digital marketing, including search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and search engine marketing (SEM), to drive online traffic and engagement.
- Learn Data Visualization Using Tableau: Discover how to transform data into actionable insights using Tableau, a leading tool in the field of data visualization.
- Cloud Foundations Free Online Course: Gain a solid understanding of cloud computing principles and technologies, exploring services offered by major providers such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
- Learn Front End Development (HTML): This course offers a focused dive into HTML, the foundational language for creating and structuring web content.
- Python for Machine Learning: Explore the power of Python in machine learning projects, learning how to use this versatile programming language to develop algorithms capable of learning and making predictions.
- Free Online Excel Course For Beginners: Master the basics of Microsoft Excel, a critical tool for data analysis and visualization, suitable for beginners with no prior experience.
- Learn Blockchain Basic For Free: Demystify the concepts of blockchain technology and understand its potential applications beyond cryptocurrencies.
- Data Structures in C Free Session: Delve into the fundamental data structures using the C programming language, essential for efficient data management and manipulation.
- Learn How to Make a Game using JavaScript: Unleash your creativity by learning how to develop interactive games using JavaScript, a fun way to enhance your programming skills.
- DevOps Online Certification Training Course: This course introduces the practices of DevOps, focusing on the automation and integration of processes between software development and IT teams.
- What is Angular JS?: Get started with AngularJS, a structural framework for dynamic web apps, learning how to enhance web app functionality and responsiveness.
Great Learning’s array of free courses is meticulously designed to cater to both beginners and those looking to deepen their expertise in specific tech domains. By offering certificates upon completion, Great Learning not only facilitates skill acquisition but also helps learners to tangibly demonstrate their learning achievements. Whether you’re aspiring to break into tech, aiming to upgrade your skills, or seeking to pivot your career path, Great Learning provides a valuable resource to help you achieve your goals.
5. Hubspot Academy Free Certificates
HubSpot Academy emerges as a premier online learning platform, offering a curated selection of 25 free certificate courses specifically tailored to the nuances of digital marketing. This initiative by HubSpot is aimed at empowering individuals—whether they are marketing professionals, business owners, or enthusiasts—with the latest marketing strategies and tools. Each course is meticulously designed to not only impart theoretical knowledge but also provide practical skills through a combination of videos, quizzes, and hands-on exercises. The culmination of these courses is a certification exam, the successful completion of which awards learners a certificate, thereby endorsing their expertise in the respective digital marketing domain.
Featured Free Certificate Courses from HubSpot Academy
- Inbound Marketing Course via HubSpot Academy: Delve deep into the inbound marketing methodology, learning how to attract, engage, and delight customers through content creation, social media strategies, and lead nurturing.
- Sales Management from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: This course is designed for sales leaders and managers looking to refine their sales strategy, improve team performance, and drive revenue growth effectively.
- Email Marketing Course: Get Certified in Email Marketing via HubSpot Academy: Master the art of email marketing, from crafting compelling emails to segmenting your audience and analyzing email campaigns for optimized results.
- Content Marketing from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: Explore the core elements of content marketing strategy, including content creation, promotion, and repurposing to build brand authority and engagement.
- Inbound Sales from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: Learn the fundamentals of inbound sales techniques and how to personalize the sales process to meet the needs of modern buyers.
- SEO from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: Gain insights into search engine optimization strategies to improve website visibility, drive organic traffic, and enhance search rankings.
- Digital Marketing from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: This comprehensive course covers a broad spectrum of digital marketing disciplines, offering insights into online marketing tactics and best practices.
- Inbound from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: Get a holistic understanding of the inbound methodology and how it can be applied across marketing, sales, and customer service to grow your business.
- Growth-Driven Design from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: Revolutionize your approach to web design with the growth-driven design methodology, focusing on iterative improvements based on real user data.
- HubSpot CMS for Developers from HubSpot via HubSpot Academy: Specifically designed for web developers, this course teaches how to build and manage websites using the HubSpot CMS, optimizing for performance and user experience.
HubSpot Academy’s courses stand out not only for their comprehensive curriculum and practical approach but also for their accessibility and the value they add to learners’ professional profiles. By earning certificates from HubSpot Academy, individuals can showcase their commitment to continuous learning and expertise in digital marketing, enhancing their credibility and opening doors to new career opportunities. Whether you’re looking to upskill, transition to a career in digital marketing, or simply stay ahead in the ever-evolving digital landscape, HubSpot Academy provides the tools and knowledge needed to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are online courses with certificates?
A: Online courses with certificates are structured educational programs available over the internet, offering learners the opportunity to gain new skills or enhance existing ones. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate, validating their accomplishment and mastery of the subject matter.
Q: How valuable are certificates from online courses?
A: Certificates from reputable online courses are highly valuable, especially when they come from recognized institutions or industry leaders. They can bolster a resume, demonstrate commitment to continuous learning, and provide a competitive edge in the job market.
Q: How do I choose the right online course with a certificate?
A: Selecting the right course involves considering factors such as your career goals, the course’s relevance to your field, the credibility of the issuing institution, and the skills you aim to acquire. Research and reviews from past participants can also guide your decision
Q: How long does it take to complete an online course with a certificate?
A: The duration varies widely depending on the course complexity and structure. Some courses can be completed in a few hours, while others might take several weeks or months. Most platforms provide an estimated completion time for guidance.
In conclusion, the landscape of professional development and education has been significantly transformed by the availability of online courses with certificates. These courses offer an accessible, flexible, and cost-effective way for individuals to enhance their skills, boost their career prospects, and stay competitive in the rapidly changing job market. With offerings from esteemed platforms like Great Learning, HubSpot Academy, Microsoft, and Google, learners have a wealth of options across various fields, including digital marketing, programming, data science, and cloud computing.
The certificates earned upon completion serve as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the learner, providing a valuable addition to their professional portfolio. Whether you’re seeking to advance in your current career, pivot to a new field, or simply expand your knowledge, these online courses with certificates present a golden opportunity to achieve your goals.
As we navigate through the digital age, the importance of continuous learning cannot be overstated. These online courses not only make education more accessible but also ensure that individuals are equipped with the latest skills required by the industry. Therefore, embracing these opportunities can lead to personal growth, improved job prospects, and the continued advancement of professional skills in a world that’s constantly evolving.
Remember, the journey of learning is endless, and with the vast array of online courses with certificates available at your fingertips, there has never been a better time to invest in your future and take the next step towards achieving your professional aspirations.
