Coursera, Inc. (NYSE: COUR), a leading online learning platform in partnership with Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: MSFT), is thrilled to announce four new entry-level Professional Certificates. These certificates are not just about learning but about opening doors to exciting career opportunities in high-growth fields over the coming decade. They equip learners with the essential skills to start a new career in just a few months without the prerequisite of a college degree or prior work experience. The new programmes include:
- IT Support Specialist Professional Certificate – Equips job seekers with comprehensive skills required for IT support, including data backup, cloud computing, and mobile device management. Available now.
- Cloud Support Associate Professional Certificate–Designed for those interested in starting a career in cloud support, this certificate focuses on Microsoft Azure solutions and services. Learners will gain an understanding of managing cloud resources, cloud security management, and cost optimization. Available now.
- Business Analyst Professional Certificate–As the first business analyst Professional Certificate on Coursera, this program provides learners business, technology, and data science skills, including strategic and data-driven decision-making, change management, and process modelling. Available now.
- Project Manager Professional Certificate–With a rise in project management roles last year, this programme focuses on Microsoft Projects for planning and scheduling. Learners walk away with a deep understanding of project management principles, methodologies, and tools. Launching this summer, it is available now for pre-enrollment.
Speaking on the partnership, Marni Baker Stein, Chief Content Officer of Coursera, said:
We’re excited that Microsoft is expanding its portfolio on Coursera as part of our shared efforts to increase equitable access to digital skilling opportunities. This collaboration will empower individuals globally, particularly those aspiring to break into the tech industry, with critical skills to thrive in today’s digital economy.
With the addition of these new courses, Microsoft now offers ten entry-level Professional Certificates on Coursera, which have drawn in over 600,000 students from around the globe. These four new certificates provide generative AI-specific lessons in the context of the Microsoft 365 product suite. But it’s not just about theory. Hands-on projects are a crucial part of the new programmes, designed to help learners develop practical skills and ensure seamless preparation for Microsoft certification exams. This practical approach will leave you feeling confident and prepared for the job market.
Elisa Graceffo, General Manager of Worldwide Learning Technical Content at Microsoft, added:
Our collaboration with Coursera provides more options for learners to start or switch their careers by making these courses and skills accessible for people of all backgrounds. These programmes are a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to providing learners with skills that enhance their careers and fill skill gaps in the industry.
Coursera was launched in 2012 by two Stanford Computer Science professors, Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller, to provide universal access to world-class learning. The platform has partnered with over 325 leading university and industry partners to offer content and credentials, including courses, Specializations, Professional Certificates, Guided Projects, and bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Institutions worldwide use Coursera to upskill and reskill their employees, citizens, and students in data science, technology, and business.
