Coursera Certificate: How It Works & Is It Worth It? - Learnopoly

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 for

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

Click Here To Go To Coursera

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.

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 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)

Click Here To Go To Coursera

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 option	Goal	Length	Price	Billing
Courses	Gain knowledge	4-12 hours	*Free or from $49	Per course
Guided Projects	Learn a skill	1-2 hours	From $9.99	Per project
Specializations	Master a Skill	1-3 months	From $39.99 – with some *free content	Monthlyor per unit
Professional Certificates	Get job ready for a career	4-7 months	From $39.99	Monthly
Coursera Plus	Certified access to 90%+ of catalog	various	$59 Or$399	Monthlyor annually
MasterTrack Certificates	Earn credit towards a degree	4-7 months	From $2000	Per 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.

Check Latest Prices On Coursera

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 for

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

Click Here To Go To Coursera

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]

Click Here To Go To Coursera

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.

Click Here To Go To Coursera

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.

Click Here To Explore Courses On Coursera

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 for

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

Click Here To Go To Coursera