33 Free Online Certifications to Boost Your Resume in 2020

Free IT Certifications

1. Engineering Cisco Meraki Solutions 1

This introductory course gives students a working knowledge of the Meraki dashboard and how to use it to troubleshoot basic IT problems. By the end of the training, students will be prepared to pass the Cisco Meraki Solutions Specialist certification exam.

Learned skills:

• How to utilize configurations in the Meraki Dashboard.
• How to use Meraki products for IT applications.
• Ways to troubleshoot basic IT problems with Meraki Dashboard tools.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: TBD

2. Network Security Associate Program

The Fortinet Network Security Expert (NSE) is an eight-course certification program that is designed to guide beginner IT professionals through self-paced courses to improve their security skills. The Network Security Associate Program is the first course in this series and aims to give students a basic understanding of the current threat landscape that impacts networks in the U.S.

Learned skills:

• How to validate network security skills.
• Basic understanding of the ever-increasing threat landscape that impacts networks.
• Experiential exercises that showcase network security concepts.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free (certificates 1–3); $100–$400 (courses 4–8)

3. Cybersecurity Training Certifications

Each of the Mile2® cybersecurity training certification courses guides students through the fundamental and advanced principles of cybersecurity. These courses allow students to gain experience with incident handling, hands-on skills training, disaster recovery and network forensics. Mile2® certifications are known to be robust programs that meet specifications for the military, government and private sectors.

Learned skills:

• Disaster recovery techniques.
• Common incident handling strategies.
• The foundations of network forensics.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: $500

4. The Google IT Support Professional Certificate

For beginner IT support professionals, Google’s five-course certificate is a great way to learn the basics and prepare for an entry-level role. After enrolling, students have access to situational problems that provide hands-on simulations of IT support scenarios to help build confidence and experience.

Learned skills:

• To troubleshoot basic IT problems.
• How to provide high-quality customer service.
• An understanding of common operating systems.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

5. The Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate

This course is ideal for students who have a foundation in IT skills and want to level-up their careers. After the course is complete, students will know how to code using the Python programming language and how to apply it to system administration tasks. The course will also train students to use Git and GitHub, create solutions for complex problems and automate tasks using configuration management.

Learned skills:

• To automate simple tasks by writing Python scripts.
• How to utilize Git and GitHub for version control.
• Management skills for IT resources for both physical and virtual machines.
• Ways to approach IT problems and create strategies to solve them.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

Free Marketing Certifications

6. Google Analytics for Beginners

For marketing professionals who want to boost their resumes, Google Analytics for Beginners gives digestible, step-by-step instructions to build a foundation to operate Google Analytics. Once students complete the first course they should move on to Advanced Google Analytics, Google Analytics for Power Users and Getting Started with Google Analytics 360. The training that these courses provide will prepare students to pass the certification exam.

Learned skills:

• To use Analytics for their specific website’s needs.
• Discover the different reports and learn how to use the data to create a strategy.
• How to use raw data to communicate results.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

7. Digital Marketing Specialization

This certificate from the University of Illinois is made up of seven courses that can help students develop an understanding of how marketing is changing in this digital world. After completing this certification, students will understand how digital tools — such as the internet and smartphones — can be used to create messages for highly specific audiences in ways that have never been possible before.

Learned skills:

• How digital tools are changing marketing from the inside out.
• The strategies behind marketing analytics and how to approach them.
• The impact of digital technologies on communication strategies and practices.
• How to balance revolutionary digital strategies with analog sales.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

8. Hubspot Inbound Marketing Certification Course

Inbound marketing uses relevant, functional and highly optimized content to attract potential customers. This approach requires marketing professionals to create helpful and human content to build trust. The Hubspot Inbound Marketing Certification Course educates students on why marketing has shifted towards inbound, how buying behavior has changed as a result and actionable ways to create an inbound strategy for business.

Learned skills:

• The history and foundation of inbound marketing.
• The difference between the inbound flywheel model and the traditional funnel model for businesses.
• How to apply these strategies to a business.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

9. Google Ads Certification

For students who want to level up their marketing knowledge, these certificates for Google Ads are the perfect challenge. Google offers six Ads courses that will help students develop a broad understanding of search, display, video, shopping ads and measurement for Google Ads. At the end of this course students will be able to showcase their mastery of building, running and measuring different types of Google Ads.

Learned skills:

• To build effective display ads.
• The ability to demonstrate mastery of campaigns.
• How to connect products with shoppers.
• Ways to get results from YouTube and Google Video ads.
• To measure marketing objectives.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

10. Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

This Google course on the fundamentals of digital marketing teaches students how to apply the core concepts of digital marketing to their roles. The 26 modules in the course are made by Google trainers and are designed to teach students using real-world exercises. This ensures that the lessons learned in this course can be taken and applied to any company.

Learned skills:

• How to turn data from Analytics into actionable insights.
• Ways to drive relevant traffic to sites by creating high-value content for audiences.
• Strategies for building a highly optimized and effective online store.
• Master email marketing techniques and track clicks and responses.
• Knowledge of research tools and how to find keywords to target during campaigns.
• To develop effective SEO plans so that potential customers can find content more easily.
• Ways to integrate video into digital marketing strategies.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

Free Programming Certifications

11. Python for Everybody Specialization

The University of Michigan offers a five-part specialization course for the programming software Python. During the course of this class, students will learn fundamental Python concepts to use in their future careers. Students will complete four courses with gradually increasing difficulty and finish with a capstone course. According to the University of Michigan at a pace of three hours per week, this course will take students approximately eight months to complete.

Learned skills:

• Install Python and write their first program.
• Describe the basics of the Python programming language.
• Use variables to store, retrieve and calculate information.
• Utilize core programming tools such as functions and loops.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

12. CS50 Introduction to Computer Science

Harvard offers this course as an introduction to computer science. Students will develop a working knowledge of languages, including C, Python, SQL and JavaScript plus CSS and HTML. If students achieve a passing score on nine problem sets and their final project, they are eligible for a certificate.

Learned skills:

• How to solve programming problems efficiently and effectively.
• Fundamental concepts like abstraction, encapsulation, resource management, security and web development.
• Familiarity in languages such as C, Python, SQL, and JavaScript plus CSS and HTML.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$90 (financial aid available)

13. Responsive Web Design Certification

This 300-hour course on freeCodeCamp.org covers basic HTML and CSS, visual design elements, accessibility and responsive web design principles. This site only requires a login and students are free to work through the respected coding courses at no cost.

Learned skills:

• Basic HTML and HTML5
• Basic CSS
• Responsive Web Design Principles
• CSS Flexbox
• CSS Grid

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

14. JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures Certification

This course is also hosted on freeCodeCamp.org but covers basic JavaScript, ES6, regular expressions, algorithm scripting and functional programs. This 300-hour course will give programmers a foundation in JavaScript that they can build upon as they progress through their careers.

Learned skills:

• Basic JavaScript
• Basic Algorithm Scripting
• Object Oriented Programming
• Functional Programming
• Intermediate Algorithm Scripting
• JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures Projects

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

15. Front End Libraries Certification

The Front End Libraries Certification is a 300-hour training that increases students’ understanding of Bootstrap, jQuery and React and Redux. This course also includes several projects at the end so that students can put their knowledge to work.

Learned skills:

• Bootstrap
• jQuery
• Sass
• React
• Redux

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

16. Data Visualization Certification

freeCodeCamp.org offers this project-heavy course on data visualization. At the end of the 300-hour training, students will be able to use D3 to complete challenges such as creating heat maps and treemap diagrams.

Learned skills:

• Data Visualization with D3
• JSON APIs and Ajax

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

17. This Is How You Make iPhone Apps

This course hosted by Udemy gives users a well-rounded understanding of project creation, programming, testing procedures and production details for creating apps. Though the course is completely free, a small fee is required to receive a printed certificate. However, the benefit of continuing education through Udemy is all courses have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Learned skills:

• How to write the C programming language.
• Ways to develop apps from inception to testing.
• How to submit an app to The App Store.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: $10-$20

NOTE: Once you obtain the certification of your choice, you can start applying for jobs using our Resume Builder, which lets you select the resume template of your choice, get expert text suggestions for all resume sections, tailor to the specifics of a job advertisement, download, and then send.

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Free Nursing Certifications

18. First Aid

This First Aid course is the perfect solution for individuals who don’t have the time to take an in-person course every few years. This course uses minimal technical jargon and provides students with a helpful review section. All Basic Life Support (BLS) procedures covered in the course reflect the most recent American Red Cross® and ILCOR® Guidelines to provide people with modern techniques to administer CPR and First Aid.

Learned skills:

• American Red Cross® and ILCOR® Guidelines for CPR and First Aid.
• Techniques for administering CPR and First Aid in an emergency situation.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$20

19. Early Heart Attack Care

The Early Heart Attack Care (EHAC) Course is designed to prepare medical professionals to recognize early symptoms of heart attacks. The course covers nonspecific and specific warning signs, ways to persuade reluctant patients to seek medical care, early heart attack care and how to empower the community.

Learned skills:

• Nonspecific and specific warning signs.
• How to persuade patients to seek early medical care.
• Ways to empower and educate the community.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

20. CDC Certifications

The CDC has a database of 1000+ free courses for medical professionals. For nurses who are trying to increase their understanding of specific diseases, courses like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Training or Community Care Provider Opioid Safety Initiative can provide up-to-date training on groundbreaking issues.

Learned skills:

• How to use groundbreaking technology.
• Up-to-date information on emerging diseases.
• Modern treatments for disease and illness.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

Free Engineering Certifications

21. Communicating Strategically

This course from Purdue University on communicating strategically is designed to help experts in scientific and engineering fields communicate effectively. Whether communicating in a report, to the board, to peers or even to family members, some experts have a hard time verbalizing their work in a digestible and productive manner. At the end of the course, students should be able to use speaking techniques and non-verbal communication to interface with any audience.

Learned skills:

• How to practice good communication skills with vocal tactics and non-verbal cues.
• The value of communication and how to be confident in their abilities.
• To bridge the communication gap between experts and non-experts.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: $49

22. OSHA

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is tasked with keeping workplaces safe for employees. For engineers who work in labs with dangerous chemicals and machinery, knowledge of the policies put in place by OSHA is crucial. These certifications for OSHA policies will teach students the most recent OSHA regulations so all employees under their supervision will stay safe.

Learned skills:

• Latest workplace safety procedures.
• Workplace hygiene courses.
• How to implement these regulations in the workplace.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

Free Graphic Design Certifications

23. Graphic Design Specialization

Graphic design is so much more than proficiency in Adobe programs. The Graphic Design Specialization teaches graphic designers foundational skills such as typography, composition and color and shape theory. At the end of this course, students will have a deeper understanding of design as an art form and a science so that they can confidently progress in their practice.

Learned skills:

• How to use color, rhythm and pattern in design.
• Ways to implement weight, scale, direction, space and texture in a composition.
• To create images using specific techniques.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

24. UX Fundamentals

For graphic designers who are interested in applying their design skills to web design, this course over UX fundamentals can help connect the dots. In this course students will learn how to use wireframing and prototyping, ways to organize content to meet user expectation and how to conduct user testing. Throughout the course of the lessons, students will learn to assess a site’s usability and make changes to the design using UX principles as necessary.

Learned skills:

• How to use wireframing and prototyping.
• To design for user expectation and how to organize content based on the user.
• Ways to conduct user testing during development.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

25. Web Designing Certification

This web designing certification is the perfect course for design students who want to learn how to create optimized and professional websites. By the end of the course, students will have a working knowledge of emerging technology and how they can use it to create quality websites that are beautiful and functional on any device.

Learned skills:

• Skills such as HTML5, CSS and JavaScript.
• Use quizzes and projects to develop an understanding of programming languages and responsive web design.
• How to choose the best fonts, layouts and colors for optimal user experience.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

Free Writing Certifications

26. High-Impact Business Writing

Writers in any profession know how to write in their own voice about topics that they are familiar with. Learning to write in other styles about topics they have little experience in is a learned skill. This course is the perfect option for writers who want to improve their business writing skills. Students will learn to use specific formats based on the audience, choose the most effective medium and communicate objectives clearly. Additionally, students will learn to avoid common writing mistakes for a wide range of business documents from memos to yearly reports.

Learned skills:

• To communicate effectively to any audience.
• Different techniques for choosing the right medium.
• Efficient ways to edit business documents.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

Free Management Certifications

27. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project management is one of the most universal skills a student can pursue. Engineers, marketing professionals and politicians alike all can benefit from courses like this Project Project Management Professional (PMP) training. During this course, students will develop the skills needed to plan and manage a project, analyze the potential risks, monitor project contracts and efficiently schedule and budget.

Learned skills:

• The skills needed to plan and manage a project.
• Tools for analyzing any potential risks at stake.
• Techniques for monitoring project contracts during the course of the timeline.
• Scheduling and budgeting strategies to keep the project on track.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: $400–$500

28. Management Leadership

Leadership skills are crucial for professionals in management positions. This course trains managers to be excellent leaders by teaching theories and models of leadership from different perspectives. By the end of the course, students will take away strategies for leading teams well in various settings.

Learned skills:

• Decision-making techniques for different leadership settings.
• How to lead independently with or without a manager.
• Strategies for managing individuals, groups, teams and organizations.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

29. Management and Leadership Skills Course

The Management and Leadership Skills Course is a great choice for any level of manager. First-time supervisors, experienced professionals and seasoned executives alike can benefit from this course on managing people. This course teaches students helpful strategies for building strong teams that work hard.

Learned skills:

• How to help teams meet their goals.
• Strategies for hiring and keeping the right people.
• Techniques for delegating projects and encouraging individuals to take responsibility.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: free

Free Entrepreneurship Certifications

30. Entrepreneurship: Launching an Innovative Business Specialization

This course on Launching an Innovative Business is designed to teach entrepreneurs how to use their skills to pick up on innovation opportunities, how to bring those innovations to investors and strategies to establish a competitive company. Students will also be taught modern ways to finance new ventures.

Learned skills:

• Strategies for getting new businesses to the marketplace.
• How to build relationships with investors.
• Ways to finance a new venture using modern techniques.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$50 (financial aid available)

31. Web Business Development and Marketing

Web Business Development and Marketing is a free e-business course that can help business owners set up their website to best serve their customers. By the end of the course, students should have experience with creating websites from beginning to end that are responsive, user-friendly and appropriate for a specific client base.

Learned skills:

• How to navigate CSS and HTML.
• Build email marketing campaigns and affiliate programs.
• Techniques to create a site that increases online traffic.
• To design their site for SEO (search engine optimization).

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$19

Free Personal Development Certifications

32. Introduction to Public Speaking

For many people, public speaking is a major fear. This course is designed to help individuals conquer that fear and effectively and confidently speak to crowds of any size. The lessons will walk students through writing the speech, practicing and ultimately performing a speech that is both clear and engaging.

Learned skills:

• How to outline and write an engaging argument.
• Delivery techniques for communicating clearly.
• Tactics for presenting complex information in a digestible way.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: TBD

33. National Career Readiness Certificate

For professionals who are feeling stuck or aren’t sure what career path they want to take, the National Career Readiness Certificate (ACT WorkKeys NCRC®) is a great way to boost a resume for any field while identifying any gaps that should be filled.

Learned skills:

• How to show employers concrete proof of hard and soft skills.
• Which skills could use improvement and training.
• To apply classroom experience to real-world skills.

Cost of course: free
Cost of certificate copy: ~$60 (financial aid available)

Certificates give professionals the opportunity to pursue continuous education throughout their lives. From engineers to nurses there is always emerging technology, techniques and skills that can be learned and added to a resume. For professionals who are in a slump or are ready to make a change, these free online certifications might be the key to the next big career move.

Sources: The Helpful Professor

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