We Reviewed 11 Best Online Learning Platforms with Certification

Online learning has become incredibly popular in recent times, giving people the opportunity to access high-quality resources as long as you can connect to the internet. There are various reasons that people choose to take online courses, ranging from wanting a resume boost, pivoting careers, or exploring a passion. Without a doubt, the right certification can help you stand out in a competitive field. 

With so many options available, it's easy to get overwhelmed while trying to find the best one for your particular needs and situation. That’s why we reviewed 11 of the best online learning platforms offering certifications to help you make an informed decision.

Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each platform, including what it offers, how much it costs, and who it’s best suited for. Let’s jump right in.

1. Coursera

Overview

Coursera is a powerhouse in the online education space, offering a mix of university-backed courses and professional development programs. Established in 2012, it has become a trusted name with partnerships that include over 200 top universities and companies such as Google and IBM. 

With more than 113 million users worldwide, Coursera caters to learners of all backgrounds, whether they’re looking to enhance their skills, change careers, or earn a degree.

Course Selection

The platform provides an impressive array of courses across diverse fields like technology, business, healthcare, and the arts. Learners can choose from individual courses, Specializations (multi-course series), and Guided Projects for hands-on practice. 

For more advanced goals, Coursera offers MasterTrack Certificates and full-fledged online degrees from prestigious universities. This variety ensures something for everyone, from casual learners to those pursuing academic or professional excellence.

Pricing

Coursera offers flexibility in pricing:

• Free: Audit many courses without certification.
• Paid Options:
  • Guided Projects start at $10.
  • Specializations and professional certificates cost $39+ per month.
  • Full degrees range from $2,000 and up.
• Coursera Plus: Unlimited access to most courses for $59/month or $399/year.

Learning Experience

Courses are designed with a multimedia approach, resembling a virtual college classroom. They include video lectures, quizzes, peer interactions, and assignments. The Coursera mobile app makes it easy to learn on the go.

Pros

• World-class university partners.
• Accredited certifications recognized globally.
• Financial aid options for affordability.
• Strong community and mobile-friendly design.

Cons

• Costs can add up for premium features.
• Some courses have strict deadlines, which may challenge self-paced learners.

Best For

Coursera is ideal for those seeking university-level education, globally recognized credentials, or structured learning for professional growth.

2. edX

Overview

edX is a leading non-profit online learning platform founded in 2012 by Harvard and MIT. Designed to bring top-tier education to learners around the globe, edX partners with over 160 universities and institutions, including Ivy League schools and industry leaders. 

With its mission to increase access to high-quality education, the platform has become a go-to choice for those seeking academically rigorous and career-advancing opportunities.

Course Selection

edX offers a broad selection of courses, with a strong focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) but also includes humanities, business, and professional development programs. 

Signature offerings like MicroMasters, XSeries, and professional certificates allow learners to dive deeper into specialized areas. Programs like the Global Freshman Academy even let students start earning university credit. 

Whether you’re looking to advance your career, prepare for a degree, or explore a new interest, edX has something to offer.

Pricing

• Free Audits: Access course materials without certification.
• Verified Certificates: Typically cost around $49 per course.
• Degree Programs: Vary widely in cost, depending on the institution.

Learning Experience

The platform emulates a college-style classroom with video lectures, readings, assignments, and interactive discussions. While primarily self-paced, some courses have fixed schedules for added structure.

Pros

• Courses from prestigious institutions like MIT and Harvard.
• Affordable audit options and financial assistance available.
• Degree programs and professional certificates for career advancement.
• 14-day money-back guarantee for verified tracks.

Cons

• Limited interactivity compared to other platforms.
• Career services are not as robust.
• Heavy STEM focus may not appeal to all learners.
• Course quality can vary depending on the partner institution.

Best For

edX is ideal for learners who value academic rigor and seek certifications or degrees from world-renowned universities.

3. Udemy

Overview

Udemy is one of the most versatile online learning platforms, offering over 213,000 courses that span a wide range of topics. Whether you’re interested in professional skills like coding or business management, or personal interests such as photography or cooking, Udemy has a course for you. With millions of learners and instructors worldwide, it’s a favorite for those seeking flexibility and variety.

Course Selection

Udemy’s extensive catalog covers virtually every subject imaginable, including technology, business, creative skills, and personal development. 

The platform’s courses are primarily geared towards skill-building, making it a great choice for learners looking to enhance their professional capabilities or explore hobbies.

Pricing

Udemy’s pricing is straightforward and flexible:

• Individual courses range from $9 to $200.
• Frequent discounts often lower prices significantly.
• Udemy for Business offers subscription-based learning for teams and companies.

Learning Experience

Udemy’s courses are entirely self-paced and video-based, allowing learners to progress at their own speed. Many courses come with additional resources like assignments and downloadable materials. 

Once purchased, you gain lifetime access to the course, making it easy to revisit lessons when needed. Courses are available in multiple languages, broadening accessibility for learners worldwide.

Pros

• Affordable with frequent sales and discounts.
• Massive selection of courses.
• Lifetime access to purchased content.
• Multilingual options.
• 30-day refund policy for risk-free exploration.

Cons

• Course quality varies depending on the instructor.
• Lacks the structure and interactivity of some other platforms.

Best For

Udemy is perfect for learners with diverse interests who are looking for affordable, self-paced learning options without committing to subscription models.

4. LinkedIn Learning

Overview

LinkedIn Learning is a career-driven online learning platform that seamlessly integrates with LinkedIn profiles, making it an excellent tool for professionals seeking skill development and career advancement. 

Previously known as Lynda.com, LinkedIn Learning focuses on practical, job-ready skills in business, technology, and creative industries. With a strong emphasis on helping users succeed in the job market, the platform has become a favorite for career-focused learners.

Course Selection

The platform offers a wide range of courses tailored to professional growth, covering areas like project management, leadership, software development, and creative skills.

Learning paths allow users to build expertise in specific fields by following curated course sequences. Whether you’re brushing up on Excel, learning to manage a team, or mastering graphic design, LinkedIn Learning provides tools to stay competitive in the workforce.

Pricing

• Subscription-based model:
  • Monthly plans start at around $29.99.
  • Annual plans offer a discounted rate of $239.88/year.
• Free trial available for new users.

Learning Experience

Courses are structured with high-quality video lectures that are concise and engaging. Bite-sized modules make it easy to fit learning into a busy schedule. 

Certificates earned upon completion can be added directly to your LinkedIn profile, boosting your professional visibility. The ability to download courses for offline viewing adds to the platform’s flexibility.

Pros

• Courses aligned with job market needs.
• Easy integration with LinkedIn profiles for showcasing achievements.
• High-quality production and instructional design.
• Free trial to explore the platform.
• Downloadable content for offline learning.

Cons

• Less academically rigorous compared to platforms like Coursera or edX.
• Subscription model may not suit learners who prefer one-time payments.

Best For

LinkedIn Learning is ideal for professionals looking to advance their careers, develop workplace skills, and enhance their LinkedIn profiles to attract opportunities.

5. DataCamp

Overview

DataCamp is a leading online platform specializing in data science, analytics, and programming. With its focus on practical, hands-on learning, DataCamp is designed to help individuals and teams master in-demand data skills. 

Since its launch, it has attracted professionals and aspiring analysts looking to enhance their expertise in the fast-growing fields of data science and analytics.

Course Selection

DataCamp’s courses cover essential tools and techniques for data-driven careers. You can learn programming languages like R, Python, and SQL, as well as skills in data visualization, machine learning, and statistical analysis. 

The platform also offers DataCamp for Business, providing tailored learning paths for teams and organizations.

Pricing

DataCamp operates on a subscription model with multiple tiers:

• Individual Plans: Start around $25/month, with discounts for annual subscriptions.
• Business Plans: Customized pricing based on team size and requirements. A free trial allows you to explore limited features before committing.

Learning Experience

The platform emphasizes interactive learning, with courses that combine short video tutorials and coding exercises. This approach allows learners to apply concepts in real time, reinforcing knowledge through practice. 

Projects and assessments provide additional hands-on experience, helping users build portfolios to showcase their skills.

Pros

• Highly interactive and hands-on learning style.
• Strong focus on data science and analytics.
• Active community and peer support.
• Team learning options through business plans.

Cons

• Narrow subject focus may not appeal to those outside data science.
• Subscription costs can add up over time.

Best For

DataCamp is perfect for aspiring data scientists, analysts, and professionals looking to gain practical data skills for career advancement.

Overview

Udacity stands out as a premier platform for those seeking to build or enhance careers in technology. Best known for its Nanodegree programs, Udacity offers intensive training in some of the most in-demand skills in tech. 

With strong ties to industry leaders like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, the platform is ideal for learners aiming to break into or advance in cutting-edge fields.

Course Selection

Udacity’s courses focus on high-growth areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems, programming, and cloud computing. 

The platform’s Nanodegree programs are particularly notable for their comprehensive curricula, which combine multiple courses and real-world projects to deliver job-ready skills.

Pricing

• Nanodegrees: Pricing varies but generally starts at around $399 per month.
• Individual Courses: Available for specific topics.
• Payment Plans and Scholarships: Flexible options to make learning accessible.

Learning Experience

Udacity emphasizes a project-based approach, ensuring learners apply concepts to practical, real-world challenges. Programs include access to one-on-one mentorship, career coaching, and resume reviews, making it more than just an educational experience—it’s a career development tool. 

The focus on hands-on projects helps build a portfolio that showcases skills to potential employers.

Pros

• High-quality courses designed with input from industry leaders.
• Comprehensive career services, including mentorship and job preparation.
• Flexible payment plans and scholarships for affordability.
• Project-based learning that builds practical experience.

Cons

• Costs can be high, especially for longer programs.
• Significant time commitment required to complete Nanodegrees.

Best For

Udacity is ideal for serious tech professionals and career changers looking to gain job-ready skills in emerging fields like AI, programming, and cloud computing.

7. Pluralsight

Overview

Pluralsight is a go-to platform for tech and creative professionals seeking to sharpen their skills in a fast-evolving industry. 

With courses designed by industry experts, Pluralsight caters to those aiming to upskill or reskill in areas like software development, IT, and design. Its blend of high-quality content and practical tools has made it a trusted resource for professionals and organizations worldwide.

Course Selection

Pluralsight offers an impressive library of courses covering topics like software development, IT operations, cybersecurity, and creative tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud. 

Additionally, it supports cloud computing training for platforms like AWS and Azure. Learners can follow structured learning paths to develop expertise in specific roles or technologies, making it particularly useful for career-oriented professionals.

Pricing

• Individual Plans: Subscriptions start at $29/month or $299/year.
• Business Plans: Tailored pricing for team and enterprise access.
• Free Trial: Offers limited access for new users to explore the platform.

Learning Experience

Pluralsight prioritizes skill development through expert-led video tutorials and interactive tools. Its Skills feature allows learners to assess their current knowledge and receive personalized recommendations for improvement. Structured learning paths guide users step-by-step, while unlimited course access ensures flexibility. A focus on practical application makes it easy to translate learning into real-world outcomes.

Pros

• High-quality, in-demand content curated by industry experts.
• Skill assessments and tailored learning paths.
• Unlimited access to the course library.
• Free trial for exploration.

Cons

• Less suitable for absolute beginners.
• Primarily tech-focused, limiting appeal for broader interests.
• No refund policy.

Best For

Pluralsight is best suited for tech and creative professionals looking to stay ahead in their fields through advanced, structured training.

8. Skillshare

Overview

Skillshare is an online learning platform designed for creative minds and hobbyists seeking to develop practical skills in fields like art, design, writing, and photography. Its community-driven approach sets it apart, encouraging interaction and collaboration among learners and instructors. 

Skillshare’s accessible and engaging content makes it a favorite for those pursuing creative interests or improving productivity and lifestyle skills.

Course Selection

Skillshare focuses heavily on creative disciplines such as graphic design, photography, and writing but also offers courses on productivity, entrepreneurship, and personal development. 

The catalog includes workshops and project-based classes that emphasize hands-on learning, making it an excellent fit for learners who thrive in practical, interactive environments.

Pricing

• Subscription Model: Monthly or annual membership options, with pricing starting at approximately $13/month (billed annually).
• Free Trial: Provides access to explore the platform before committing.

Learning Experience

Skillshare’s courses are designed to be concise and actionable, often delivered in short video lessons. Learners can participate in projects, upload their work, and interact with peers for feedback and motivation. 

The platform recently introduced a certification feature for select courses, adding value for those looking to showcase their learning. Downloadable content enables offline learning for added convenience.

Pros

• Affordable subscription with a free trial.
• Strong emphasis on community and peer interaction.
• Ideal for creative and lifestyle-focused learning.
• Project-based classes encourage practical skill application.
• Downloadable lessons for learning on the go.

Cons

• Course quality can vary depending on the instructor.
• Non-accredited certificates may not hold weight in professional settings.
• Less structured compared to more formal learning platforms.

Best For

Skillshare is perfect for creative individuals, hobbyists, and those looking to explore new passions or enhance personal skills in an affordable, flexible, and collaborative environment.

9. CXL

Overview

CXL is a premium online learning platform focused on digital marketing, growth marketing, and advanced business strategies. Known for its in-depth training and practical focus, it caters to professionals and entrepreneurs looking to elevate their marketing expertise and drive measurable results. 

The platform features courses designed and taught by top industry experts, making it a trusted resource for advanced learners.

Course Selection

CXL offers a range of advanced courses and programs, including mini-degrees that delve into specific areas like conversion optimization, growth marketing, and analytics.

Each course is structured around proven frameworks and methodologies, ensuring learners gain actionable skills they can immediately apply in their work.

Pricing

• Annual Membership: Grants unlimited access to the course library, starting at approximately $1,000/year.
• Team and Enterprise Plans: Tailored pricing for businesses and organizations seeking to train multiple employees.

Learning Experience

CXL prioritizes practical, results-driven learning. Courses are in-depth and designed to challenge experienced marketers, with content often drawn from real-world case studies. 

The platform’s focus on actionable strategies ensures learners leave with tangible skills.

Pros

• Courses taught by top industry experts.
• Practical, results-oriented training.
• Options for team and enterprise learning.

Cons

• Pricey, especially for individual learners.
• Best suited for experienced marketers.

Best For

CXL is ideal for advanced marketing professionals and entrepreneurs seeking to refine their skills, grow their businesses, or gain a competitive edge in the digital marketing space.

10. FreeCodeCamp

Overview

FreeCodeCamp is a non-profit platform dedicated to making coding education accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or budget. It’s an excellent starting point for anyone looking to build a career in web development or software engineering. 

With a mission to provide free, high-quality education, FreeCodeCamp has helped millions of learners worldwide gain valuable technical skills.

Course Selection

The platform focuses on practical coding skills, offering a range of learning tracks in web development, front-end and back-end programming, and frameworks like JavaScript, React, and Node.js. 

Learners complete coding challenges, work on real-world projects, and earn certifications by demonstrating their skills.

Pricing

• Completely free, with no hidden costs or premium tiers.

Learning Experience

FreeCodeCamp is self-paced, making it highly flexible for learners with busy schedules. Its hands-on approach revolves around solving coding problems and building projects, which helps solidify skills through practical application. 

The platform also boasts a strong online community, where learners can seek help, share knowledge, and network.

Pros

• Free and accessible to all.
• Strong emphasis on project-based learning.
• Community support and real-world certifications.
• Searchable tutorials for quick problem-solving.

Cons

• Limited to programming and web development.
• Requires self-discipline to stay on track.
• No dedicated mobile app.

Best For

FreeCodeCamp is ideal for beginners and self-directed learners looking to acquire coding skills without financial barriers.

11. Great Learning

Overview

Great Learning is a comprehensive education platform designed for professionals looking to advance their careers through structured, industry-relevant programs.

Offering a mix of online and offline learning, it caters to learners seeking flexible yet robust training in fields like data science, technology, and management. Its strong ties with top universities and industry partners make it a trusted choice for those aiming for recognized credentials.

Course Selection

Great Learning offers a variety of programs, including full degrees, short-term bootcamps, and professional certificates. Popular subjects include data science, AI, business management, and emerging technologies. 

Many programs are developed in partnership with renowned universities, ensuring high academic standards and real-world relevance.

Pricing

• Program costs vary widely, depending on the course type and duration.
• Flexible payment options, including installments, make programs more accessible.

Learning Experience

The platform combines online modules with live classes, blending self-paced learning with interactive sessions led by experienced instructors. 

Personalized mentorship and career support, such as resume reviews and job placement assistance, add significant value to the learning experience. The structure ensures learners stay on track while gaining practical, job-ready skills.

Pros

• Career-focused programs with personalized support.
• Mentorship and career services enhance employability.
• Flexible payment options accommodate diverse budgets.

Cons

• Can be expensive, especially for advanced programs.
• Time-intensive, requiring consistent effort and commitment.

Best For

Great Learning is ideal for professionals seeking structured programs and mentorship to achieve significant career advancement.

Choosing the Right Platform

Finding the perfect online learning platform depends on your individual goals, resources, and preferences. To help narrow down your options, consider these key factors:

Learning Goals

Start by identifying what you want to achieve. Are you looking to earn a certification for career advancement, acquire specific skills for a job change, or pursue a personal interest? 

Defining your objectives will help you select a platform that aligns with your aspirations.

Budget

Evaluate your financial resources and look into the pricing structures of different platforms. Some, like FreeCodeCamp, are completely free, while others, such as Coursera or Udacity, offer premium options with higher price tags. 

Take advantage of free trials and flexible payment plans to explore courses before committing.

Time Commitment

Determine how much time you can dedicate to learning. If you have a busy schedule, platforms with self-paced options, like Udemy or Skillshare, may be ideal. For those seeking more structured learning, consider platforms like edX or Great Learning.

Learning Style

Reflect on how you learn best. Do you prefer the flexibility of self-paced video courses, or do you thrive in interactive environments with live classes and mentorship? Platforms like DataCamp emphasize hands-on projects, while Coursera offers a more academic approach.

Subject Areas

Finally, ensure the platform specializes in your area of interest. For example, DataCamp focuses on data science, while LinkedIn Learning offers a broad range of business and creative skills. Matching your interests to a platform’s strengths is key to staying engaged and motivated.

Conclusion

Online learning opens doors to new skills, certifications, and career opportunities. With so many platforms available, choosing the right one depends on your goals, budget, and learning preferences. 

Whether you’re looking for career-focused programs, creative skill development, or advanced technical training, there’s a platform tailored to your needs. To help you dive deeper into your options, explore more in-depth reviews and resources at Learnopoly.

Our guides can help you make an informed decision, ensuring you get the most value from your online learning experience. Take the next step and start building your future today.