There are countless online courses available today, some free and others paid. Many of these courses provide you with a certificate of completion, which can be a valuable addition to your CV. In this article, I’ll cover some of the best free online courses currently available and explain why including online courses and micro-credentials on your CV is important for your future career.
What Are Micro-Credentials and Online Courses?
Micro-Credentials
Micro-credentials are short, focused learning programmes designed to help you develop specific skills or knowledge in a particular subject area. Unlike full university degrees, micro-credentials are typically shorter and more flexible. They are often delivered online by universities or well-known training providers.
While most micro-credential courses do require payment, there are some free options available if you do your research. At the end of a micro-credential course, you usually earn a certificate or digital badge to showcase your achievement.
Online Courses
Online courses are, as the name suggests, courses delivered entirely online. These can range from short one-hour tutorials to longer structured programmes lasting several weeks. Some online courses are free, while others may require a fee.
For example, the Gov.uk website offers many free online courses that are particularly useful for boosting your employability. Other reputable sites also provide free online learning, with some even awarding certificates that you can add to your CV.
Trusted Websites Offering Online Courses and Micro-Credentials
Here’s a list of well-known websites where you can find both free and paid online courses and micro-credential programmes:
Online Courses:
- Coursera
- Google Career Certificates (usually hosted on Coursera)
- The Open University
- Canva Design School
- Free Courses in England (Government-funded)
- Back to Work Complete Training
Micro-Credentials:
- University websites (check directly with institutions)
- The Open University
- FutureLearn
- Class Central
- Microsoft Learn
- LinkedIn Learning
Skills You Can Gain Through Online Learning
Completing online courses and earning micro-credentials can help you develop a wide range of skills that employers value. These can include:
Problem-Solving
Many online courses require you to solve problems and think critically to complete assignments. This is a vital skill for any job, helping you take initiative and overcome challenges.
Communication
Some online courses involve group discussions, project work, or even live online sessions. This helps you build your communication and collaboration skills.
Teamwork
Depending on the course, you may work on group projects or team presentations. Teamwork is a key skill in almost every industry, where you’ll need to work with colleagues from different departments.
Time Management
Online learning often requires you to manage your own time effectively. Many courses include deadlines, projects, or timed assessments. Practising good time management during your course will help prepare you for the world of work.
Digital Literacy
By completing online learning, you’ll naturally become more confident in using digital platforms and online tools, an essential skill for today’s digital workplace.
Independent Learning
Many online courses require you to work independently. Even in team-based courses, there are often individual assignments. This builds your ability to work without constant supervision, something employers really value.
How to List Online Courses and Micro-Credentials on Your CV
When adding online courses or micro-credentials to your CV:
- Clearly state the course title and provider (e.g., Google Career Certificate via Coursera).
- Include the completion date (month and year).
- Add a short bullet point summary of what you learned or the skills gained.
This helps show employers your commitment to personal development and highlights when and where you gained particular skills.
Also, remember to update the skills section of your CV regularly as you complete more courses and gain new expertise.
What Are the Benefits of Completing Online Courses and Micro-Credentials?
There are several benefits to completing online courses and gaining micro-credentials:
Fill Your Free Time Productively
If you find yourself with spare time, why not put it to good use by learning something new? Whether it's a topic you're interested in or a skill relevant to your chosen career, completing an online course can help make you more employable.
Gain Valuable Experience
Many online courses involve completing tasks and assignments that mirror real-world work scenarios. This gives you practical experience that you can reference in job applications and interviews.
Build Your CV and Stand Out
Adding extra learning and qualifications to your CV shows employers that you’re proactive and dedicated to your career development.
Conclusion: Why Online Courses and Micro-Credentials Are Worth It
Overall, there are no real disadvantages to completing online courses or gaining micro-credentials. In fact, it’s highly beneficial for your personal and professional development. By taking the time to learn new skills and expand your knowledge, you’ll significantly improve your employability.
Including these qualifications on your CV shows future employers that you are proactive, dedicated, and willing to go the extra mile to develop yourself. It could also give you the edge over other candidates by demonstrating that you already possess specific skills that they’re looking for.
Whether it’s problem-solving, digital literacy, teamwork, or independent working, every new course you complete helps to build a stronger, more impressive CV and increases your chances of securing the job you want.
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