Free Online Classes for Part-Time Workers

Part-time workers often have irregular schedules, which might make it hard to attend traditional degree programs, even online. Still, students can learn new skills without attending a college or university.

Many top companies and universities offer online courses and classes that can teach in-demand skills, even to students with part-time work schedules to work around. These courses can be found through university websites and third-party learning providers and include courses on everything from healthcare to data analysis.

Some of these courses can be used strictly for professional and personal development; others include an online certificate that can be used to apply for entry-level jobs or pursue a career path specialization.

10 Free and Low-Cost Online Courses for Part-Time Workers

Various learning platforms offer free online classes for working professionals, including part-time workers. These self-paced courses combine guided tutorials, interactive assignments, and quizzes to gauge overall learning. These programs come with multiple pricing options including free certificates, free-to-audit, and paid courses with a certificate.

1. HarvardX Introduction to Computer Science

HarvardX is a partnership of Harvard University and edX. HarvardX's Introduction to Computer Science is an online version of CS50, Harvard's largest in-person course. Learners in this program will study the fundamentals of different programming languages, like JavaScript and Python. This course can be audited for free, but learners can receive a professional certificate for a fee.

2. HarvardX Introduction to Databases With SQL

HarvardX provides an opportunity to work with SQL, a programming language commonly used in data science. Learners will learn how to build databases and review data using SQL, as well as how to combine SQL with Python and other programming languages. This course is a targeted look at SQL, beginner students should take CS50x before or simultaneously with this program.

3. Udacity Intro to TensorFlow for Deep Learning

Deep learning is the term for multi-layered machine learning programs used in Artificial Intelligence (AI). This 11-course program was developed by Google and Udacity to teach beginners the basics of using TensorFlow to create Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). Udacity offers several other courses on TensorFlow and Deep Learning in general, which allows you to continue your education for free.

4. HarvardX Introduction to Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is an in-demand skill for many industries. The advanced use of data has led to an increase in cybercrime, such as hacking. This course teaches a fundamental understanding of cybersecurity and related skills like software engineering and web development. This course can be audited for free or come with a paid certificate.

5. HarvardX Introduction to Data Science With Python

Python is one of the most commonly used programming languages used as a basis for many advanced computer science programs. This course is an in-depth look at Python, like the SQL course. Learners who complete the CS50X program will be better prepared for this course than learners with no background.

6. Coursera The Strategy of Content Marketing

Content marketing is a subdivision of digital marketing that combines copywriting, social media, and graphic design to create compelling content. The content marketing strategy includes best practices for written and visual content and making the most of search engine optimization (SEO) and pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns.

7. Coursera Introduction to Psychology

Psychology is the study of the human mind. Yale University and Coursera partnered to make this introductory-level course which takes beginners approximately 14 hours to complete. The new skills developed in this course can be applied to psychology-based bachelor's degree programs, but they can also give learners a better understanding of themselves and others.

8. Coursera Foundations of Software Testing and Validation

Software testing and validation is the process in software development that confirms the processes were completed properly. This involves functionality and cybersecurity testing to ensure the program is ready for use or sale. This five-hour course provides beginners with the training to pursue additional learning.

9. Udacity Intro to Python Programming

Udacity teaches learners the basics of Python, including how to use it for data science by using Pandas and NumPy, which are Python libraries. These libraries allow programmers to access pre-made code to speed up the programming process.

10. Udacity Developing Android Apps With Kotlin

Kotlin is the main programming language used in developing apps for Android devices, like tablets and smartphones. Programmers who plan to work primarily with mobile applications will benefit from learning these targeted skills. App development can be used to work for companies or to begin work on your own projects.

Are Free Online Courses Actually Free?

Many free online courses are actually free, but these courses don't always come with certificates. Most of the programs that provide these courses offer them on a free-to-audit basis. This means you can complete the program without paying or full enrollment, but there won't be a tangible result like a degree or a certificate. If you want to learn new skills to enhance your natural entrepreneurship, a certificate might not be necessary; however, if you seek to pursue a career path, you will probably have to pay to receive a certificate.

Where Can I Get Free Courses With a Certificate?

Many certification programs can be completed for free, but require payment for access to the certificate. Some programs are completely free and still include a certificate. Additionally, these programs are offered by some top companies in their respective industries, including Google and IBM.

Google Digital Garage

Google Digital Garage is a collection of free training courses designed by thought leaders at Google. These courses can be taken with goals of individual growth or with a more business-minded focus. Students can pursue certificates in programs like social media marketing and computer science. These certificate courses can qualify as life experience credits at some universities.

IBM SkillsBuild

IBM has been a leader in technology-related business models for decades. The experts at IBM have put together courses to help share the skills and tips they've pioneered. These courses provide learners the opportunity to learn new skills as well as earn certificates they can share on LinkedIn or their resume.

Alison

Alison is a learning platform home to thousands of courses in healthcare, IT, project management, and more. These courses are free and designed in partnership with top companies and universities. These certificates provide learners with the opportunities to upskill within their current careers or develop new skills to switch fields.

Are Free Certifications Worth It?

Free certification programs are worth it for most learners. These programs are self-paced and allow part-time workers to enhance their current career paths or begin a new one without the costs of earning a bachelor's degree. These certificates can also be used to satisfy work experience credits at some universities, allowing you to get a start on a bachelor's degree program with little to no cost.

The only time a free certification course won't be worth it is if the certificate is awarded by a non-accredited or reputable provider. These programs won't have the same respect as those from respected providers, such as Google, Amazon, and Udemy.