Courses, Classes, & Certificates
Explore individual courses, classes, and certificate options that help you build targeted skills, deepen subject knowledge, or prepare for career-focused learning without committing to a full degree.
Courses, classes, and certificate programs give you flexible ways to learn new skills or strengthen what you already know. These options work well if you want short, focused training that fits around your schedule and supports personal or professional growth.
Whether you’re exploring a new interest, preparing for an entry-level role, or expanding your qualifications, these learning pathways offer practical experiences at a manageable pace. Many are available online or in hybrid formats, making them accessible for working adults.
What Courses, Classes, and Certificates Usually Include
Most courses and classes are designed to teach specific skills or topics through structured lessons, assignments, and hands-on practice. You may find introductory classes that help you learn the basics or more advanced options that support career development.
Certificate programs typically go a step further by combining multiple courses into a sequence that builds deeper knowledge. These programs often prepare you for industry-recognized credentials or help you demonstrate expertise in a specialized area.
Popular Subjects for Courses and Certificates
You can find courses and certificate programs across a wide range of subjects, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore new fields or reinforce existing strengths. Common areas of study include:
- computer science and information technology
- business administration and management
- health care support and medical office skills
- education and early childhood training
- marketing and communication
- design and creative arts
- skilled trades and technical fields
- personal and professional development
These options make it easier to learn at your own pace while building skills that can support your long-term goals.
Why These Learning Options Are Valuable
Short-term learning pathways offer a practical alternative to full degree programs, especially if you want to upskill quickly or test out a new career interest. They provide focused instruction that helps you gain confidence without a major time or financial commitment.
Many learners also use courses and certificates to qualify for new responsibilities at work or to prepare for industry exams. Because these options are typically accessible year-round, they give you the flexibility to continue learning whenever you are ready.
Explore Resources on Courses, Classes, and Certificates
If you’re interested in expanding your skills, the resources on this page can introduce you to learning options that match your goals. They highlight flexible pathways that support personal growth, professional development, and career exploration.
How Can I Become MDS Certified?
Explore the career requirements for Minimum Data Set (MDS) certification. Get the facts about job duties, education requirements, professional licensure and the employment outlook to determine if this is the right field for you.
How Can I Become ESL Certified?
ESL stands for English as a Second Language, and an individual with ESL certification helps others learn how to speak, read and write in English. Certified ESL instructors are typically trained and licensed elementary or high school teachers. Becoming certified as an ESL teacher requires completing a teacher education program.
How Do I Become HR Certified?
As an HR professional with a college degree and on-the-job experience, you may be interested in taking your career to the next level by obtaining certification through a professional or trade organization. Keep reading to learn about HR certification and certification program options.
10 FAFSA-Approved Online Certificate Programs 2026
Many colleges offer online certificate programs that accept financial aid. These FAFSA-approved online certificate programs can help you get started in specialized careers quickly.
5 Free Artificial Intelligence (AI) Courses and Degrees 2026
Learn about ways you can study artificial intelligence (AI) at a very low cost--or even for free--through a number of programs and scholarships from tech firms and universities.
Top 8 Free Online Ministry Certificate Programs in 2026
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Affordable Online Medical Billing & Coding Courses 2026
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7 Cheapest Online I/O Psychology Graduate Certificates 2025
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StraighterLine Overview | Low-Cost Online Courses for College Credit
StraighterLine offers self-paced, low-cost online courses for college credit. Learn how it works, what it costs, how courses work, and how credits transfer.
Study.com Overview | Low-Cost Online Courses for College Credit
Study.com offers self-paced online courses for college credit, including upper-division options. Learn how it works, what it costs, and how credits transfer.
Sophia Learning Overview | Low-Cost Online Courses for College Credit
Sophia Learning offers low-cost, self-paced online courses for college credit. Learn how it works, what it costs, and how many credits you can transfer.
Study.com vs Sophia vs StraighterLine: What’s the Best Low-Cost Online Courses for College Credit?
Compare Sophia Learning, Study.com, and StraighterLine to see how the pricing, courses, and transfer options differ for earning low-cost college credit.
Study.com vs Sophia Learning: Pros and Cons
Compare Study.com and Sophia Learning to see how pricing, course options, learning format, and transfer policies differ for earning low-cost college credit.
Study.com vs StraighterLine: Pros and Cons
Compare Study.com and StraighterLine to see how pricing, course options, assessments, and transfer policies differ for earning low-cost college credit.
Sophia Learning vs StraighterLine: Pros and Cons
Compare Sophia Learning and StraighterLine to see how pricing, course format, and transfer options stack up when you’re earning low-cost college credit.
List of Courses Offered by Study.com (2026)
Explore a curated list of courses offered by Study.com, including general education, business, technology, and upper-division options for college credit.
Is Study.com Accredited?
Find out whether Study.com is accredited or not, how its courses are evaluated for college credit, and what accreditation means for transferring credits.
Is There a Study.com Coupon or Promo Code?
Learn whether Study.com offers coupon or promo codes, what types of discounts are common, and the various ways students can often save on subscriptions.
Is Study.com Free? Free vs Paid Features of Study.com
Study.com provides limited free access, while college credit and full courses require a subscription. Find out how the platform works before you commit.
How Much Does Study.com Cost in 2026? Complete Pricing Guide
Study.com offers multiple subscription plans, from college credit to test prep. Learn how much each plan costs and what’s included.
Does SNHU Accept Study.com Credits?
SNHU accepts many Study.com credits, but transfer limits and degree rules apply. Learn how SNHU evaluates your Study.com courses and credits for transfer.
Does WGU Accept Study.com Credits?
WGU accepts many Study.com credits, but transfer rules apply. Learn how WGU evaluates Study.com courses for transfer and when credits must be submitted.
Is Study.com Legitimate?
Study.com is a legitimate online learning platform, but acceptance varies by school. Learn how Study.com works and when it makes sense to use the platform.
List of Courses Offered by Sophia Learning (2026)
Explore a representative list of courses offered by Sophia Learning, including general education, business, technology, science, and social science options for college credit.
Is Sophia Learning Accredited?
Sophia Learning is not an accredited college, but its courses may still transfer. Learn what accreditation means and how Sophia Learning fits your goals.
Is There a Sophia Learning Coupon or Promo Code?
Sophia Learning sometimes offers promo and coupon codes, but their availability changes. Learn how Sophia discounts work and the most reliable ways to save.
SNHU Transfer Courses From Sophia Learning
SNHU accepts many Sophia Learning courses, but transfer limits and degree rules may apply. Learn how Sophia credits transfer, save money, and plan ahead.
Does WGU Accept Sophia Learning Credits?
WGU accepts many Sophia Learning credits, but strict transfer limits apply. Learn how many credits transfer, deadlines to know, and how to plan ahead.
Does Liberty University Accept Sophia Learning Credits?
Liberty University accepts many Sophia Learning credits, but transfer limits and policies apply. Learn how Sophia credits transfer and how to plan ahead.
List of Courses Offered by StraighterLine (2026)
Explore a selection of StraighterLine courses, including general education, math, science, business, and technology options for flexible college credit.
Is There a StraighterLine Coupon or Promo Code?
Learn how StraighterLine discounts work, what types of savings you can realistically expect, and how you can reduce the cost of earning college credit.
Is StraighterLine.com Accredited?
Learn how StraighterLine handles accreditation, ACE credit recommendations, and transfer policies so you can decide whether its courses fit your degree plan.
Nursing Schools That Accept StraighterLine.com Credits (2026)
Find online nursing schools that accept StraighterLine credits for science and general education prerequisites, and learn how transfer policies vary by program.
Is StraighterLine Legit?
Learn how StraighterLine works, how its courses are reviewed by ACE, and how colleges will typically evaluate your StraighterLine credits for transfer.
Does SNHU Accept StraighterLine Credits?
Learn how SNHU accepts StraighterLine credits, how transfer limits work, and how students can use this partnership to save time and reduce their degree costs.
Does WGU Accept StraighterLine Credits?
Learn how WGU accepts StraighterLine credits, how guaranteed transfer works, and how this partnership can help reduce your total time and tuition costs.
Substitute Teacher Certification in Michigan
There are four types of substitute teacher certifications, or permits, in Michigan. Each one has distinct requirements. This article provides information about all the different permits and how to get them.
How Much Does a Medical Billing & Coding Program Cost?
Medical billing and coding certification costs vary by program type and format. Compare tuition ranges, added fees, and ways to reduce training costs.
10 Best Early Childhood Education (ECE) Online Courses
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7 Best Online UX Design Certificates & Courses in 2026
Explore a variety of top UX design certificate programs that can improve skills and knowledge in user experience design, while also boosting career prospects.
10 Best Business Communications Courses & Certificates 2026
Business communications courses come in a variety of formats and specialties. We highlight 10 online courses available through colleges and education platforms.
10 Online Organizational Leadership Courses & Certificate Programs
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5 Pay-As-You-Go College Courses in 2026
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7 Best Online Cyber Intelligence Courses 2026
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ESL Teacher Certification in Michigan
Individuals looking to earn ESL teaching certification in Michigan will need to fulfill certain requirements. Continue reading to learn about the education and testing for the ESL endorsement.
ESL Teacher Certification in North Carolina
English teachers for non-native speakers will need to complete a few extra steps before they can earn a license in their area. Learn more about the academic requirements to teach English as a second language and which exam you need to pass for licensing requirements.
ESL Certification Requirements in New York
ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers are also called ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) teachers in New York. Learn how to get certified to teach this subject in the state.
Substitute Teacher Certification in Nebraska
There are two options to gaining a certificate in Nebraska to work as a substitute teacher. Continue reading for more information on the education and certification requirements.
Substitute Teacher Certification in Louisiana
Substitute teachers in Louisiana do not have a state certification requirement, but each school district has its own unique list of qualifications. Pay schedules and rates can also be decided by each district.
Substitute Teacher Certification in Pennsylvania
Discover all the necessary requirements to substitute teach in the state of Pennsylvania. Learn more on the certification, background clearances, and continuing education required in pursuing this role.
Get a Social Worker Certification Online in 6 Steps
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10 Semiconductor Courses & Certificate Programs 2026
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7 Online Cybersecurity Courses With Certificates 2026
Those who want to start their careers in cybersecurity or fine-tune their knowledge in the field can do so via online cybersecurity courses with certificates.
AI Majors, Minors & Certificates You Can Earn in 2026
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12 Best Software Engineering Bootcamps in 2026
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MasterClass Review 2026: Is MasterClass Worth It?
MasterClass features a broad selection of courses taught by leaders in their fields. Explore the pros and cons of MasterClass courses, who they tend to work best for, who may prefer alternative learning options, and what to consider before signing up.
What Topics are Covered in Freight Broker Classes?
Freight broker classes cover topics like laws and regulations, marketing and sales and customer relations, which can be helpful to people who are preparing for a career as a freight broker.
What Topics are Covered in a Community Health Assessment Course?
A community health assessment course is usually part of the curriculum of a formal program related to community or public health. In this course, students might learn how to analyze and mitigate a community's health problems. Read on for information about the topics covered in a community health assessment course.
What Topics are Covered in College Criminal Justice Classes?
College-level courses in criminal justice instruct students in a variety of materials related to law enforcement, criminology and the court system. This article discusses topics covered in many of these classes.
What Topics Are Covered in Early Childhood Education Classes?
College-level early childhood education classes (ECE) focus on topics related to child development, social skills, safety and nutrition. Students can learn about the theories behind early childhood education and discover how curricula are developed for children under the age of eight. Continue reading to find out what topics are covered in early childhood education college classes.
What Topics are Covered in an Introductory Astronomy Course?
An introductory astronomy course covers topics such as the sun, stars and the planets. Students taking an introductory astronomy class learn about the physical universe through class lectures and labs.
What Topics are Covered in an Introductory Chemistry Class?
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What Topics are Covered in an Online Diesel Mechanics Class?
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What are General Education Courses?
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What is a Training Certificate?
In the broadest sense, a training certificate is a document certifying that the holder has taken a specific course of training. Read on to learn more about the types of training certificates.
Which Schools Offer Social Worker Certification in California?
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Which Schools Offer Teaching Certificates in California?
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Which Topics are Covered in an Abnormal Psychology Course?
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Is a Google Paid Search Certification Worth it?
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Is there a Microsoft Quality Assurance (QA) Certification?
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Is a Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate Worth It?
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Is Nursing Certification Online Legit?
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Is a Google Project Management Certificate Worth It?
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Is a Google IT Automation With Python Cert. Worth It?
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How To Go from CNA to LPN Online
Explore and read this in-depth guide on how to go from CNA to LPN online and take the next step in advancing your nursing career. Discover more information now.
7 Ways To Teach Elementary School Without an Education Degree
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How Many Years Does it Take to Become a Preschool Teacher?
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Accelerated 8-Week Paralegal Certificate Programs Online 2025
Several colleges and universities across the United States offer accelerated paralegal certificate programs online, with some taking as few as eight weeks.