Coursera Certificate: How it works and is it worth it?

by Liz Hurley

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A Coursera Certificate is an official endorsement that you've successfully completed a course on Coursera. And with partners like Yale, Stanford, Princeton and Google on board, a Coursera Certificate should definitely have value.

But if you’re here you're probably asking yourself: Is a Coursera Certificate worth it? Does a Coursera Certificate have value? What difference will a Coursera Certificate on my resume make – if any?

Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this Coursera Certificate guide I'll be answering all the questions you might have about whether a Coursera certificate is worth it.

I’ll be covering:

  • About Coursera and what a Coursera Certificate is – what it includes and what it doesn’t
  • Why you might consider getting a Coursera Certificate
  • How much a Coursera Certificate costs
  • Top Coursera courses free (not certified) and paid (certified)
  • Are Coursera Certificates worth it?
  • How to add Coursera Certificates to your resume and LinkedIn

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Best Coursera Courses

Best for

  • Wide Range of Courses
  • High-Quality Content
  • Flexible Learning

What is a Coursera Certificate?

Coursera is one of the largest learning platforms in the world. It was started in 2012 by two Stanford professors with a mission to provide universal access to world-class learning. 

Today, Cousera has 92 million registered users and is partnered with 250+ leading universities and industry educators to offer over 9,000 courses and degree programs. Over 100 Fortune 500 companies, and more than 6,000 businesses, campuses and governments use Coursera to upscale or reskill their employees, students and citizens. 

Where to find your Coursera Certificate

What is a Coursera Certificate?

A Coursera Certificate is proof you've completed and passed a Coursera program. 

All Coursera Certificates appear on your Accomplishments page as secure URLs. These can be shared online or to your LinkedIn profile. Plus, you can download Certificates as PDF files and print them.

To be eligible for a Certificate you have to:

  • Firstly, complete the name identification process
  • Then, pay the appropriate fee (these vary depending on the course) or be in receipt of Coursera Financial Aid
  • Lastly, pass any thresholds or assignments that are part of the course
A Coursera Certificate

A Course Certificate includes the:

  • Course name
  • Tutor’s signature
  • Partner Institution Logo 
  • Verification URL allowing anyone you share the Certificate with to check its authenticity 
  • Confirmation that Coursera has confirmed the identity of the recipient

A Course Certificate does not include:

  • Your photo
  • How long the course took to complete
  • The grade you received
  • Academic credit towards a degree from the partner institution offering the course (unless you are taking a MasterTrack – for more on these read our Coursera review)

How much does a Coursera Certificate cost?

Coursera Course Certificates start at $49 and Certificates for Guided Projects start at $9.99. For Coursera Specializations and Professional Certificates there is a monthly cost of $39.99+ a month (so the final cost depends on how long it takes you to finish). You MUST remember to cancel your payment when you have finished or payment will continue to be taken.

A Coursera Plus subscription giving full certified access to 90% of the Coursera catalog is $399 per year. With a subscription you can take as many different courses as you like and earn certificates for all of them.

This table provides more details:

Coursera optionGoalLength PriceBilling
CoursesGain knowledge4-12 hours*Free or from $49 Per course 
Guided ProjectsLearn a skill1-2 hoursFrom $9.99Per project
SpecializationsMaster a Skill1-3 monthsFrom $39.99 – with some *free contentMonthly
or per unit
Professional CertificatesGet job ready for a  career4-7 monthsFrom $39.99Monthly
Coursera PlusCertified access to 90%+ of catalogvarious$59 Or$399Monthly
or annually
MasterTrack CertificatesEarn credit towards a degree4-7 monthsFrom $2000Per course or Monthly

*Free content is not eligible for a Certificate but you can upgrade and pay for the certificate at any time – even after completion 

You can find out more about Coursera's pricing structure here.

Top Coursera Certificates (free and paid)

To give you a better idea of what Coursera has to offer, we've handpicked five of the most popular and highly-rated courses across various fields. Each mini-review will delve into the course content, structure, potential career benefits, and overall value. Whether you're looking to upskill, change careers, or simply expand your knowledge, these courses could be your gateway to achieving your goals.

As our mini-reviews will illustrate, Coursera partners with top-tier universities and leading companies to deliver courses that equip you with highly sought-after skills and knowledge. To explore the platform in more depth and discover additional course recommendations, we invite you to read our comprehensive Coursera review. It provides valuable insights into the platform's features, user experience, and overall value, helping you make the most informed decision about your learning journey.

Google Project Management Professional Certificate

The Google Project Management Professional Certificate was built to supply learners with essential project management skills that translate coherently across various industries. This comprehensive course is ideal for individuals aiming to begin or advance their careers in project management.

Course Length and Structure

The course spans approximately six months, assuming a commitment of 10 hours per week. It is divided into six key modules, each covering different aspects of project management.

Pricing

The Google Project Management Professional Certificate is offered through Coursera. Subscription costs range from $39 to $49 per month, depending on your location and the duration of your subscription.

Certification Price

There is no additional cost for the certification itself; it is included in the Coursera subscription fee. Upon completion, learners receive a certificate endorsed by Google, which can be added to resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

Level

This course is aimed at individuals at the junior to mid-career level, making it suitable for beginners and those with some experience in project management.

Updates

The course content is updated regularly to reflect the latest industry trends and practices. Google ensures that learners have access to current and relevant information, maintaining the course's value in the rapidly evolving field of project management.

Key Benefits

  • Gain skills in project management methodologies, tools, and best practices.
  • Learn from Google employees with extensive project management experience.
  • No prior experience in project management is required to enroll.
  • Practical projects and assignments to apply learned skills.

This certificate provides a solid foundation in project management, making it a valuable investment for those looking to enter the field or enhance their existing skills.

Jobs You Can Get with This Certification

The Google Project Management Professional Certificate can open doors to various entry-level project management roles and help you advance in your current career. Here are a few examples:

  1. Associate Project Manager: Assist experienced project managers in planning, executing, and monitoring projects.
  2. Junior Project Coordinator: Coordinate project tasks, track progress, and communicate with team members and stakeholders.
  3. Project Analyst: Analyze project data, identify trends, and report on project performance.
  4. Program Coordinator: Support the coordination and execution of multiple projects within a program.
  5. Business Analyst: Gather and analyze business requirements, and contribute to project planning and implementation.

While this certificate alone may not guarantee a job, it can significantly enhance your resume and demonstrate your commitment to professional development. It also provides you with the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary to excel in these roles.

IBM Data Science Professional Certificate

The IBM Data Science Professional Certificate is an extensive program aimed at those looking to start or advance their careers in data science. This course covers a wide range of topics, from data analysis and visualization to machine learning, providing a solid foundation in data science principles and practices.

Course Length and Structure

The course takes approximately 10 months to complete with a recommended study pace of 3 hours per week. It is structured into nine courses, each focusing on different aspects of data science, including Python, SQL, data analysis, data visualization, and machine learning.

Pricing

The IBM Data Science Professional Certificate is available through Coursera. Subscription costs range from $39 to $49 per month, varying based on your location and the length of your subscription.

Certification Price

The cost of the certification is included in the Coursera subscription fee. Upon successful completion of the program, learners receive a certificate from IBM, which can be added to resumes and LinkedIn profiles to showcase their skills.

Level

This program is suitable for individuals at the junior to mid-career levels. No prior experience in data science is required, making it accessible to beginners while still providing valuable insights for those with some experience in the field.

Updates

The course content is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements in data science. IBM ensures that the material stays relevant and up-to-date, providing learners with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

Key Benefits

  • Learn from industry professionals and IBM experts.
  • Gain practical experience through hands-on projects and assignments.
  • No prior knowledge of data science or programming is required to start.
  • Develop skills in Python, SQL, data visualization, and machine learning.

The IBM Data Science Professional Certificate is an excellent investment for anyone looking to break into the data science field or enhance their existing knowledge and skills.

Jobs You Can Get with the IBM Data Science Professional Certificate

1. Data Analyst: Interpret data and transform it into actionable insights for informed decision-making.

2. Data Scientist: Utilize advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms to uncover patterns and trends in large datasets.

3. Business Intelligence Analyst: Leverage data analysis and visualization skills to create reports and dashboards that drive business strategies.

4. Machine Learning Engineer: Design, build, and maintain machine learning models to solve complex problems.

5. Data Engineer: Design, build, and maintain data pipelines and infrastructure to support data-driven initiatives.

This certificate equips you with the skills to pursue these entry-level data roles or advance within your current organization. It demonstrates your knowledge of Python, SQL, data analysis, and machine learning, making you a competitive candidate in the growing field of data science.

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Best Coursera Courses

Best for

  • Wide Range of Courses
  • High-Quality Content
  • Flexible Learning

AWS Fundamentals Specialization

The AWS Fundamentals Specialization is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of Amazon Web Services (AWS). This course is ideal for those looking to start a career in cloud computing or expand their knowledge of AWS services and infrastructure.

Course Length and Structure

The specialization takes approximately 4-6 weeks to complete, assuming a commitment of 3-5 hours per week. It consists of four courses, each covering different aspects of AWS, including the foundations of cloud computing, AWS core services, security, and architecture.

Pricing

The AWS Fundamentals Specialization is available through Coursera. The subscription cost ranges from $39 to $49 per month, depending on your location and the duration of your subscription.

Certification Price

The cost of the certification is included in the Coursera subscription fee. Upon completion of the specialization, learners receive a certificate from Coursera and AWS, which can be added to resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

Level

This specialization is suitable for individuals at the junior to mid-career levels. No prior experience in cloud computing is required, making it accessible to beginners while providing valuable knowledge for those with some IT background.

Updates

The course content is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in AWS and cloud computing. AWS ensures that learners have access to current and relevant information, keeping the course valuable and up-to-date.

Key Benefits

  • Gain a solid understanding of AWS and its core services.
  • Learn from AWS experts and industry professionals.
  • Hands-on labs and practical exercises to apply learned skills.
  • No prior experience in cloud computing required to start.

The AWS Fundamentals Specialization provides a robust foundation in AWS, making it a valuable investment for those looking to enter the field of cloud computing or enhance their existing IT skills.

Jobs You Can Get with the AWS Fundamentals Specialization

  1. Cloud Support Associate: Provide technical support and resolve customer issues related to AWS services.
  2. Junior Cloud Engineer: Deploy, manage, and maintain AWS cloud infrastructure and resources.
  3. DevOps Engineer: Automate software development and deployment processes using AWS tools and services.
  4. Cloud Solutions Architect: Design and implement scalable, secure, and cost-effective cloud solutions on AWS.
  5. Systems Administrator: Manage and maintain an organization's IT infrastructure, including cloud-based resources on AWS.

The AWS Fundamentals Specialization equips you with essential skills in cloud computing, making you a competitive candidate for entry-level or mid-level cloud roles. It demonstrates your understanding of core AWS services, architecture, and security best practices, opening up opportunities in the rapidly growing field of cloud technology.

DeepLearning.ai TensorFlow Developer

The DeepLearning.ai TensorFlow Developer Specialization is designed to help learners master TensorFlow, an open-source machine learning framework. This course is ideal for those looking to build and deploy scalable machine learning models using TensorFlow.

Course Length and Structure

The specialization takes approximately 4 months to complete, assuming a commitment of 5 hours per week. It is divided into four courses, each focusing on different aspects of TensorFlow, including neural networks, computer vision, natural language processing, and time series forecasting.

Pricing

The DeepLearning.ai TensorFlow Developer Specialization is offered through Coursera. Subscription costs range from $39 to $49 per month, depending on your location and the duration of your subscription.

Certification Price

The certification cost is included in the Coursera subscription fee. Upon completion, learners receive a certificate endorsed by DeepLearning.ai, which can be added to resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

Level

This specialization is suitable for individuals at the junior to mid-career levels. Basic knowledge of programming, especially in Python, is recommended but not required, making it accessible to beginners and valuable for those with some experience in machine learning.

Updates

The course content is regularly updated to include the latest advancements in TensorFlow and machine learning. DeepLearning.ai ensures that learners have access to current and relevant information, maintaining the course's value in the fast-evolving field of AI.

Key Benefits

  • Gain hands-on experience with TensorFlow through practical projects.
  • Learn from AI experts and industry professionals.
  • Develop skills in building and deploying machine learning models.
  • Suitable for both beginners and those with some experience in machine learning.

The DeepLearning.ai TensorFlow Developer Specialization provides a robust foundation in TensorFlow, making it a valuable investment for anyone looking to advance their career in machine learning and AI.

Jobs You Can Get with the AWS Fundamentals Specialization

  1. Cloud Support Associate: Provide technical support and resolve customer issues related to AWS services.
  2. Junior Cloud Engineer: Deploy, manage, and maintain AWS cloud infrastructure and resources.
  3. DevOps Engineer: Automate software development and deployment processes using AWS tools and services.
  4. Cloud Solutions Architect: Design and implement scalable, secure, and cost-effective cloud solutions on AWS.
  5. Systems Administrator: Manage and maintain an organization's IT infrastructure, including cloud-based resources on AWS.

The AWS Fundamentals Specialization equips you with essential skills in cloud computing, making you a competitive candidate for entry-level or mid-level cloud roles. It demonstrates your understanding of core AWS services, architecture, and security best practices, opening up opportunities in the rapidly growing field of cloud technology.

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst

The IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate is designed to equip learners with the essential skills needed to start a career in cybersecurity. This course covers a wide range of topics, including network security, incident response, and threat management, providing a comprehensive foundation in cybersecurity.

Course Length and Structure

The course takes approximately 8 months to complete with a recommended study pace of 4 hours per week. It is structured into eight courses, each focusing on different aspects of cybersecurity, such as security fundamentals, compliance, network security, and penetration testing.

Pricing

The IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate is available through Coursera. Subscription costs range from $39 to $49 per month, varying based on your location and the length of your subscription.

Certification Price

The cost of the certification is included in the Coursera subscription fee. Upon successful completion of the program, learners receive a certificate from IBM, which can be added to resumes and LinkedIn profiles to showcase their cybersecurity skills.

Level

This program is suitable for individuals at the junior to mid-career levels. No prior experience in cybersecurity is required, making it accessible to beginners while still providing valuable insights for those with some IT background.

Updates

The course content is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements in cybersecurity. IBM ensures that the material stays relevant and up-to-date, providing learners with cutting-edge knowledge and skills in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.

Key Benefits

  • Learn from industry professionals and IBM experts.
  • Gain practical experience through hands-on projects and assignments.
  • No prior knowledge of cybersecurity required to start.
  • Develop skills in network security, threat management, and incident response.

The IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate provides a solid foundation in cybersecurity, making it a valuable investment for those looking to enter the field or enhance their existing skills.

Jobs You Can Get with the DeepLearning.AI TensorFlow Developer Certificate

  1. Machine Learning Engineer: Develop and deploy machine learning models using TensorFlow for various applications (image recognition, NLP, etc.).
  2. Deep Learning Engineer: Specialize in building and optimizing deep neural networks with TensorFlow for complex AI solutions (image generation, language translation).
  3. AI Research Scientist: Conduct research in AI/ML, using TensorFlow to experiment with new models and algorithms.
  4. Data Scientist: Leverage TensorFlow for data analysis, predictive modeling, and insight extraction for decision-making.
  5. AI Software Engineer: Develop software applications that incorporate TensorFlow models for AI-powered features and functionality.

This certification equips you with sought-after TensorFlow and deep learning skills, opening doors to these exciting AI careers and offering potential for advancement through specialization. While it may not guarantee a job, it enhances your resume and showcases your expertise in a leading AI framework.

They also include:

  • Courses: 1) Introduction to Psychology – Yale [rated 4.9/5] 2) The Science of Well Being – Yale [rated 4.9/5]
  • Guided Projects : 1) ChatGPT Playground for Beginners: Intro to NLP AI – Coursera Project Network [rated 4.8/5] 2) Wireshark for beginners: Capture packets – Coursera Project Network [rated 4.7/5]
  • Specializations : 1) Excel Skills for Business – MacQuarie University [rated 4.9/5] 2) Python for Everybody – University of Michigan [rated 4.8/5]
  • Professional Certificates: 1) Google Cyber Security – Google [rated 4.8/5] 2) IBM Data Analyst – IBM [rated 4.6/5] 

Benefits and drawbacks of Coursera Certificates

Pros of Coursera Certificates

  • According to Harvard and MIT completion rates for courses increase tenfold if you enrol in a course and pay for a certificate.
  • Many Guided Projects, Coursera Specializations or Professional Certificates teach new and highly marketable skills. They are project-based so you not only have a certificate but can provide evidence that you can do the things your certificate suggests you can.

Cons of Coursera Certificates

  • Whilst you have to verify your identity to receive a certificate, there is no guarantee that it was actually you who completed the course. It is possible to cheat and employers know this. The most valuable certificates are therefore those that are earned through completing a project that you can showcase to prove that you have learned what you have been certified for.
  • Some certifications, particularly for introductory or widely-known skills, may not offer enough value to justify the cost compared to more specialized or in-demand skills. Consider the specific skills you're seeking and their value in your field before investing in a certificate.

This brings me onto my next question:

Can a Coursera certificate get you a job?

Coursera doesn't directly offer job placement, but it can still play a role in your job search. Completing a Guided Project, Specialization, or Professional Certificate often involves hands-on projects that you can incorporate into a portfolio you can show potential employers. This helps you persuasively demonstrate practical skills and knowledge, making you a more attractive candidate.

Employers are primarily interested in what you can bring to the table. A Coursera certificate can show that you take initiative and have a willingness to learn. However, it's equally important to highlight the projects you've completed and the skills you've mastered through those projects. This tangible evidence of your abilities is usually a much stronger thing to present to potential employers.

While Coursera provides some job placement resources, the importance of networking and actively applying for jobs cannot be understated, even if you have a Coursera certificate.

By networking during your program and creating a list of jobs that are tailored to your skillset, you have a strong head start in your job search.

Are Coursera Certificates worth it?

Overall, yes, they are worth their cost.

Whether you're seeking promotion, attempting to switch careers, or just trying to build up more highly sought-after skills, a Coursera Certificate does have value and is definitely worth the investment.

Coursera partners and course providers are world-class. The course tutors are either the same professors who teach in person at notable institutions or are recognized industry experts.

Any prospective employer is likely to see your investment in yourself as a good indicator that you’re a self-starter and are worth their investment too.

On the other hand, if you're just taking a course for fun and it's available for free, then enjoy it! And don’t worry about the Certificate. 

Always be sure to check out reviews of the courses you’re planning on taking to ensure that it’s truly what you’re looking for and that the quality is there. Sometimes, courses that have been on the platform for a while might be a little out of date.

Ultimately, there are lots of ways to check out Coursera content for free and then upgrade later if you want to. Plus Coursera offers a variety of refunds and money-back guarantees, so there’s very little risk to you. 

How to add Coursera Certificate to your LinkedIn and resume

Share your Course Certificate on LinkedIn

  1. Open your Accomplishments page
  2. Find the Certificate you wish to share
  3. Click on Add to LinkedIn Profile

Then follow the instructions and your Certificate will be placed in the Certifications section of your profile where it can be viewed by prospective employers and LinkedIn colleagues

To add your Coursera Certificate to your resume:

  1. Log into your Coursera account and open your Accomplishments page
  2. Find the Certificate you want to add to your resume
  3. Copy the URL and paste it into your resume 

Related articles: Coursera review, Coursera Cost, Coursera Refund, Udemy vs Coursera, Coursera Alternatives and Coursera Statistics

Coursera Certificate -FAQs

Do Coursera certificates count as academic credit towards a degree? 

The only Coursera Certificates that count as credit towards a whole degree are Coursera MasterTracks.

Can a Coursera Certificate guarantee you a job?

No – but it can make you stand out from the crowd to a prospective employer. And if you do a project based Specialization or Professional Certificate you will be able to showcase what you know.

Do some employers require Coursera certificates?

While rare, some employers may require Coursera certificates for specific roles, particularly in emerging fields like data science or cybersecurity. More commonly, employers value the skills and knowledge gained from these courses, even if they don't explicitly require the certificate. Having a Coursera certificate can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and give you a competitive edge.

Do Coursera certificates expire?

Coursera certificates themselves do not expire. However, the knowledge and skills you gain may become outdated over time, particularly in rapidly evolving fields. It's recommended to refresh your knowledge periodically and consider additional courses or certifications to stay current in your field.

What is Coursera Plus and how does it affect certificate costs?

Coursera Plus is a subscription service offering unlimited access to most courses and Specializations on the platform for an annual fee. While individual course certificates can be costly, Coursera Plus allows you to earn certificates for all completed courses within your subscription period, potentially saving you money if you plan to take multiple courses.

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Best Coursera Courses

Best for

  • Wide Range of Courses
  • High-Quality Content
  • Flexible Learning

49 thoughts on “Coursera Certificate: How it works and is it worth it?”

    • Hi Desire, you can complete any course for free on Coursera, but you have to actually purchase the course to receive the certificate. Also, if you have completed a course within the 7 day trail period, payment will be taken in order to release the certificate.

  1. Let’s say that I get the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certification. Do I have to work for IBM or can I work for a different company?

    • Hi Christopher. The course enables you to get job ready for a cybersecurity analyst role generally so you will be able to go an work in the industry for any company. Hope that helps

  2. After completing the course with in the 7days of trial will I have to pay for the certificate or for the whole course of a month?

    • Hi Sana, thanks for your question. I am assuming that if you have been given a seven day free trial then you have probably completed a Coursera Specialization or Professional Certificate OR you have purchased a monthly subscription? The policy is that if you earn a certificate within the trial period Coursera reserves the right to charge you for one month’s subscription.

  3. Hey Liz,
    California libraries are giving out free Coursera membership. Do I still have to pay for the certificate in this case?

    • Hey An, I looked into this and the answer is NO, you won’t have to pay for a certificate. Under the American Rescue Plan Act, the CSL received funding which it has used to partner with Coursera in order to provide access to 5,000 CERTIFIED job relevant courses! So that is great news for you guys. Enjoy your learning!

  4. Hi, I am currently taking a course on coursera website, but concerning the value of the certificate, I would like to know how is it possible to confirm that the person who completed the “name identification” step is really the same person as that who watched the videos and answered to the exams. Isn’t this an obstacle to the recognition of the certificate by the employer?

    • Hi Nabil, to my knowledge there is no way to verify this – it is a general problem with online learning. Hopefully, at some point in the future a way will be found around this to increase the value of online certification.

      • Hi. I had thought about the legitimacy of taking these certifications and I figure if someone actually does the work it would be really easy to tell if they cheated with just a few random questions. The courses I have taken would be very difficult to cheat. Even if you somehow we’re already a pro or something it would be easy to spot a cheat. Not sure why a pro would go through it anyways? If they did just take the test, in my opinion they would deserve the certificate anyways.

  5. Hi,
    My university has sponsored some courses on coursera so I completed one but when I try to get into my certificate it says verify your account detail which included credit card number also so are they asking credit card to buy certificate? Why I am unable to take certificate when course was already sponsored

    • Hi Fatima, thanks for reaching out. This is something I would encourage you to ask Coursera directly. I’m sure they will be able to help. All the best

  6. Hey, I graduated from high school, and i want to take a cypersecurity analysis course from coursera, when i will finish the course..
    I can get a job easily ?
    Notice that i have a high school certificate!!
    Thank you for your time..

    • Hi Mazen, unfortunately there’s no easy way to answer this. But being proactive and using your initiative to go out there and get a Coursera certificate will surely help! Also, IBM certify the course and they are giants in the field!

  7. Can you earn credits wirh courses ? For gr 12 for example. And pay for the certificate when earned..39.99 per month depends in how many months she takes to complete the course ? .high school credit courses ? Thanks jane 🙂

    • Hi Jane, thanks for your comment. You will need to reach out directly to Coursera to get this question answered.

  8. hey i have a question i was enrolling in a course and they asked for certificate charges 62$ so. i enrolled.and paid.. but later on i got an email that you have subscribed at coursea plus 62$ per month.so i cancelled and asked for refund…even though I can still access the course.but i m not sure when i finish the course. they gonna ask again if you want to buy the certificate or not..because i want the certificate but i cancelled the subscribtion .

    • Hi Tee, a lot depends on the type of course you enrolled on. Generally, if you complete the course successfully before your subscription period ends you should still get the certificate. I hope this was the case!

  9. Hi, I was interested to enroll in one of the Coursera courses. I want to ask whether I can choose the class timing or if it has been set by the lecturers? Thanks lily.

    • Hi Lily, thanks for reaching out. It partly depends on the type of course you want to do. Courses and guided projects are available to take at any time at your convenience. Professional Certificates and Specializations sometimes have have a start date but, once started, you can take the course at your own pace. Professional Certificates and Specializations can take 3-4 months to complete but if you finish them more quickly you MUST remember to cancel your next payment. If you check out our Coursera Review on this site you can get all the info you need!

  10. Hi Liz,
    if i complete the professional course or specialization course, should i list the issuing organization as the partners (university etc.) or should i list it as coursera?

    thi is because some university has tag their brand with coursera but some are not.

    • Hi Faris, I would list the issuing organization as the partner. It is the partners who offer the course and accredit it, Coursera is usually just the platform. Hope that helps

  11. Hi.
    Thank you for your information about coursera certificates, I am actually facing a problem with my certificates and I don’t know is it the normal situation or not.
    I enrolled in ui/ux course from google using coursera’s financial aid, and have already passed 6 courses, since October 2021, and now there are 6 PDF files available for share or download in my profile, but the thing is,
    first: they all singed with the same date. Jan 4 2023
    second: I am not allowed to verify my ID, because my country is on coursera sanction’s list.

    I really don’t know what should I do. because that does not seems normal to earn 6 certificate in one day, if I want to include then in my resume or LinkedIn.
    I’d be very grateful if you please tell me what’s the solution here.

    • I’m afraid jobs are not guaranteed on the back of taking any Coursera course, even those offered by Meta. However, by demonstrating that you are prepared to invest time and money in self-improvement you definitely make yourself more attractive to any future employer. Good luck.

  12. Please i enrolled on Coursera to study a free course on Princeton University: Computer science programming with a purpose, but i read that Princeton will not offered certificate. I don’t understand, is it Coursera that will issue the certificate to me after i complete this course.

    • Hi Sunday, I have had a look at this course on the website. Because it is totally free, there is no certification at all. It is a little confusing. Usually you can opt to take a course for free (no certificate) or pay $49 for the certificate. However, in the case of the course you have chosen it is only available as a free course.

  13. Please I’d love to know if I can get a job with my Coursera certificate Eve though I don’t have a bachelor’s degree. I recently finished highschool and I decided to enroll into one of the programs available on Coursera before I start university. I’d love to know if I can get employed using the certificate and if the certificate is useful to me in anyway. Can you enlighten me, Liz?

    • Hi Billie, I’m afraid a Coursera does not guarantee a job. It does demonstrate your willingness to invest time and money in improving yourself and will make you more attractive to a potential employer. This will be even more the case since you are so young and are continuing your education voluntarily in your own time between high school and uni. I don’t know whether you registered for a course, a specialization or a professional certificate? If it was a course you can usually choose the free option and then upgrade if you decide you want the certificate. It is even possible to access some of the content of a specialization free. This gives you the chance to weigh up how good you think the content is and whether the full investment is worth it. Check out our article https://learnopoly.com/coursera-cost/#Is_Coursera_free to find out how to squeeze all the free content out of Coursera. Good luck and enjoy your learning, I am sure a diligent person like yourself will succeed!

  14. Hey, I was wondering if i could complete a course, then purchase coursera plus and get a certificate from that previous course?

  15. Greetings Liz! I would like to ask you that i have done my FSC / 12 class and if i get a certificate from coursera and then look for a job in UAE. Are these certificates recognized and accepted by the employers? I also learnt 3 programming languages (javascript, php and python) from youtube but i don’t have a degree or certification (I have a financial problem so i can’t afford a uni or any private college or institute)

    • Hi Abbas, Good question. On the one hand, Coursera’s partners are prestigious institutions and their names do carry weight with employers. A certificate is also evidence that you are willing to invest time and money in your own progression. However, there are questions about the validity of certificates for online courses as you can’t verify it was actually you who completed a course! BUT if you choose a course where you produce a project you will then have that to showcase and as proof that you achieved it. For example, we have an article called Best Python Courses https://learnopoly.com/best-python-courses/ Our top recommendation is a Coursera specialization during which you complete several projects. You could also check out my article https://learnopoly.com/best-coursera-courses/ which explains how the platform works and recommends a number of courses that might be useful to you. Best of luck

  16. Hi Liz,
    I wanted to know if Coursera Certificates had any value even in a European country like Germany or France? Are these recognized as a kind of diploma?

  17. Hi Liz, I am currently studying my masters degree in quantitative economics (in my last year). I have 7 certificates of coursera so far . Would these certificates add value to my cv in order to help me secure a phd scholarship

    • Hi Arafat, I would definitely say yes to your question. It would demonstrate your commitment to learning and your willingness to invest your time and money in continuous self improvement. Good luck!

  18. I just finished doing two courses on Coursera. How can I upgrade my certificates? And what is the essence of upgrading my certificates?

  19. Hi Liz,

    I’d like to purchase this course

    https://www.coursera.org/learn/motivate-genz-learners.

    Questions:
    1. How do I know if this assessments are peer graded or by instructor?
    2. On the course page it shows

    Approx. 8 hours to complete
    3 weeks at 2 hours a week

    Do I still get to learn at my own pacing even if it takes months to complete? Just want to make sure I understand the policy correctly before I purchase the course.

    3. If unfortunately I didn’t pass the assessment will there be a chance to redo the course for free or I’ll have to pay again?

    Thank you for taking the time to read and reply!

    • Hi Eva, since this is a Coursera ‘course’ you can take it for free. After clicking on Enrol for free, choose the second option ‘audit’. You can then take the whole course – but you won’t get a certificate. However, you can upgrade at any time for around $40 to receive the certificate. The assessments will be straightforward and assed automatically. You can take as long as you want as all the lessons are pre-recorded. You can take any Coursera course for free (there are 2,000). But you have to pay to take Specializations and Professional Certificates. It is confusing! For more info check our article https://learnopoly.com/coursera-cost/ It tells you how to get the most value out of Coursera and how to get as much content as possible for free. Hope this helps! Liz

  20. Hii right now I am doing me undergraduate courses in Bachelor in business administration and I also want to take coursera course in between of my UG. Does it really worth it to take course and add value to cv to get better job.

    • Hi Marlin, If it’s just Coursera courses you are interested in, you can take them for free. If you feel the course has really taught you something you can upgrade to get the certificate for around $30-$49. If you are interested in taking a Specialization or a Professional Certificate you pay on a monthly basis – so if you study intensively you can get it done pretty quickly. I do think being demonstrating your commitment to investing in yourself and life long learning will make you stand out from the crowd to any future employer.

  21. Hi, I just confused between free certificate that I got after finish the course and the one that have to pay 49usd. How different?

    • Hi Gena. If you have a certificate you don’t need to purchase one. There are a limited number of courses that are free even with certificate. So don’t worry!

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