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Best Excel Classes: Explore In-Person & Online Courses

Discover the powerful capabilities of Microsoft Excel and learn how to use it to your advantage in the workplace. From tracking inventory and creating budgets to analyzing data and visualizing information, Excel can be a powerful tool to help you achieve success.

Microsoft Excel is a popular, versatile spreadsheet application with a range of professional uses. This tool can gather, organize, and analyze information, and perform calculations on these data. Spreadsheet skills help employees contribute to their organization by performing tasks like monitoring inventory and supplies, creating budgets, determining profit and loss margins, organizing revenue statements, and visualizing data so that it is accessible to others.

Those trained to work with Excel can perform many tasks much faster than would be possible manually. Shortcuts and simple commands allow Excel users to easily add totals that span a range of numbers, design graphs or charts, create PivotTables that organize and locate information, and apply conditional formatting to cells to change individual cell appearance based on the value it contains. Any job in which employees must gather and organize data can benefit from Excel. In addition, those with spreadsheet training have many professional opportunities since Excel is the industry-standard spreadsheet application and is used by organizations of all sizes and types around the world.

#1: Noble Desktop—Excel Level 1: Fundamentals (in-person and Live Online) 

Noble Desktop’s Excel Level 1: Fundamentals provides participants with hands-on training in a range of introductory spreadsheet skills. This course is intended for those who have limited spreadsheet experience and are interested in becoming more proficient. Participants in this course learn how to perform calculations and basic functions. They receive instruction on creating graphs and charts in Excel, as well as formatting and printing worksheets and workbooks. Students in this course first learn a new concept, then are provided with an example to reinforce what they were taught. They then complete an activity on their own to help commit this concept to memory. 

Key Information

Excel Level 1: Fundamentals is six hours long and can be completed in one day of study. This course is available in the in-person training format in Manhattan, as well as in the live online environment. Those interested in completing this class online connect in real time with an instructor who leads the class. Industry experts with real-world Excel experience provide students with project-based training that will help them become familiar with the Excel interface. This course costs $249, which is due before the first class meeting. There are no prerequisites for study. All participants receive a digital certificate upon successful completion of this class.

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In addition to six hours of training, Excel Level 1: Fundamentals also includes a proprietary workbook, a supplemental refresher video suite, and the option of a free course retake for up to one year to revisit course materials. After completing this class, students will be given access to a suite of companion videos that provide introductory-level videos on Excel. Those who are interested in saving money and developing a range of skills related to Excel can take this course as part of a bootcamp program or certificate such as Noble’s Data Analytics Technologies Bootcamp, Business Analyst Certificate, Excel Bootcamp, or Financial Analyst Training Program.

Those who have taken Noble’s Excel Level 1: Fundamentals offer positive reviews of their experience “It was a full day from 10-5, fast-moving and packed with information on all the Excel basics, including on-the-spot exercises. I’d highly recommend this course, ” said one student. Another noted: “The content was well organized, and the instructor was excellent. I would definitely recommend it.”

#2: Udemy—Easy Excel Basics for Beginners—Get Started with Excel (On-Demand)

Udemy’s Easy Excel Basics for Beginners is an introductory-level course designed to teach students how to navigate the Excel interface and perform basic spreadsheet tasks. Those who sign up for this class can get started working with Excel in a stress-free environment that offers basic instruction. Participants learn a range of core Excel skills, like how to create basic and effective spreadsheets. They receive instruction on formatting numbers into currency, performing shortcuts, formatting text and organizing it alphabetically, and adjusting row and column sizes. Participants also work with Excel formulas to automate repetitive calculations. This class provides relevant instruction for Excel 2010,2013, and 2016.

Key Information

This course is a free tutorial that offers participants 39 minutes of on-demand video content. Most learners can complete the class in about half an hour. By course completion, students will know how to create a basic Excel spreadsheet in which they can automatically calculate kitchen remodeling costs. Because this class is intended for those who are just getting started on their Excel learning journey, no prerequisites are required. Those who take this course must have a working copy of Microsoft Excel, version 2010 or later.

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Since this Udemy class is available for free in the on-demand format, students can take it as many times as they wish without accruing any charge. This allows participants to revisit any content in this pre-recorded video that may be relevant to their current work project.

Students who have already completed this class share their positive reviews. One student noted that “You can take your time with this course. I work full-time so it’s nice to have a class I can do in my spare time.” Another said, “It’s a very good course to get yourself started with Excel.” Participants also found this course “very well-explained and easy to follow.”

#3: Skillspire—Intro to Data Analytics (In-Person and Online)

If you’re interested in studying Excel as well as other related data skills, Intro to Data Analytics is available from Skillspire. Participants in this course work with a range of tools for data analysis such as Power BI, Python, SQL, and Excel. Learners receive instruction on topics like data quality, data analytics, and data visualization that is intended to prepare them to work with real-world data problems in a professional setting. The first week of coursework offers students an overview of the data analytics process, as well as how to work with Excel to handle data. Then, coursework progresses into other topics such as data visualization in week two and data quality and cleaning in week 3. 

This class is taught by an IT professional with a background in data architecture, solutions development, and business intelligence. Participants learn to work with Excel and other tools through a combination of classroom sessions, hands-on practice, exercises, quizzes, and a final project. This course is intended for those who are new to data analytics, as well as individuals seeking a career change or professional development related to data. 

Key Information

Skillsire’s Intro to Data Analytics is a 12-week course that meets four nights a week for three hours/night, as well as on Saturdays for six hours. This course can be purchased on a monthly payment plan or for one upfront fee. The monthly plan is available in four-month and six-month payment options; both require a $1,000 down payment and the remainder of the $5,099 in installments. Those who’d like to pay upfront receive a tuition discount and pay a one-time fee of $4,599. Scholarships are also available for eligible individuals.

Those interested in enrolling in this course should have a basic level of computer literacy; no other prerequisites are necessary.

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In addition to instruction in data analytics and Excel, this course includes career guidance on how to prepare for job interviews and craft a strong resume. After students pass the final exam, they will be given a certificate of completion. Veterans interested in taking this course can use the GI Bill to do so.

#4: Ledet Training—Excel 101 (Live Online)

Ledet Training’s Excel 101—Microsoft Excel Introduction teaches learners a variety of fundamental spreadsheet skills and techniques. Students learn to format numbers and text, use formulas, create worksheets and workbooks, add graphics like charts, and print their worksheets. The instructor who teaches this class is an industry professional with working knowledge of Excel best practices, shortcuts, and pitfalls. 

This comprehensive class offers pragmatic and useful Excel training with applications across industries and professions. By course completion, learners will know how to create and manage spreadsheets, and organize and analyze data with the help of tables. Instruction is also offered on how to switch between multiple workbooks, enter a data series, and dictate how Excel formats cells, columns, and rows.

Key Information

Excel 101 is a one-day course. The cost to enroll is $399. Payment must be provided ahead of the scheduled class date. Students are taught in the live online environment with an instructor who’s connected in real-time. Training centers are available in Chicago, D.C., Denver, San Diego, Houston, and Atlanta for those who live nearby and wish to complete lessons in a provided computer lab. It is suggested that those interested in attending this class have basic computer skills as a prerequisite. In addition, those enrolled should have a version of Microsoft Excel software to complete coursework.

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Participants in this class described their experience as positive. “This class was very informative, and I learned skills that I can use in my everyday workload, ” one learner noted. Another said: “The instructors know their business, and you can’t beat the hands-on training.

#5: Certstaffix Training—Excel—Level 1 (Live Online)

Certstaffix Training’s Excel—Level 1 is a short course taught in the live online environment with a real-time instructor. Participants become familiar with fundamental spreadsheet skills and concepts that can help them quickly perform common or repetitive Excel tasks. Instruction is provided in a range of skills such as how to enter data, set up workbooks, improve formatting for easy viewing, make calculations, and spot and correct errors. Students also become familiar with visualizing their data results in the form of charts and graphs such as waterfalls and treemaps, as well as how to print these charts and worksheets.

The chapters taught in this course each pertain to specific Excel skills. Chapter 1 involves creating and modifying workbooks. Chapter 2 teaches students how to work with tables and data. The third chapter pertains to performing calculations on data. In chapter 4, students learn how to alter the appearance of their workbooks. Chapter 9 provides instruction on creating graphics and charts. Finally, chapter 11 teaches learners how to print charts and worksheets.

Key Information

This course is one day long. It costs $275. This class is taught using the desktop version of Office 365/2019. The following versions of Excel are compatible with the instruction provided in this class: Office 2021 (Desktop); 365; 2019; 2016. It is suggested that participants in this class have a basic command of working with Windows and can perform skills like starting and closing programs, locating saved files, switching between programs, and accessing websites via a browser. Those interested in bundling this Level 1 course with Levels 2 and 3 can do so at a reduced cost of $750 for all three classes.

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In addition to providing those enrolled with real-world Excel training, tuition also covers the cost of a free online course retake for up to six months for interested learners. Upon successfully completing the course, participants are given a digital badge and certificate of completion. Participants can use the provided computer lab or complete coursework from the comfort of their own space. 

Those who participated in this class shared their positive feedback. One learner said: “This class is amazing! I learned so many helpful things. It was never overwhelming like I expected from Excel. Everything was explained easily and completely.”

#6: Udemy—Microsoft Excel—Excel from Beginner to Advanced (On-Demand)

Microsoft Excel—Excel from Beginner to Advanced is available for those interested in comprehensive Excel instruction. Participants in this class complete lessons in a range of core spreadsheet skills. This course comprises 43 sections and 254 lectures, many of which are just a few minutes long. Once students master spreadsheet fundamentals like entering and editing text and formulas, they progress to working with Excel functions and worksheets. Instruction is offered on how to insert images and shapes into spreadsheets, as well as how to create basic data visualizations like charts. 

Once foundational Excel concepts are taught, students progress to more advanced spreadsheet training. They learn how to use macros and VBA to automate daily work tasks. Participants are taught how to maintain large datasets using tables or lists. Those enrolled create dynamic reports using PivotTables. By course completion, students will have a working knowledge of how to use VLOOKUP, MATCH, IF, and INDEX functions to unlock formulas.

Key Information

Excel for Beginners to Advanced offers participants over 21 hours of instruction. This course is offered for $160. It is available at a discounted price of $$35 for a limited time. Interested learners can also subscribe to Udemy using a personal plan, which provides access to more than 8,000 courses, including this class. After a free trial window, personal plan subscriptions cost $16/month. Those interested in enrolling are not required to have prior Excel knowledge. Participants should have Excel loaded onto their computers to follow along with the lectures. The following versions of Excel are acceptable: 2007,2010,2014,2019, and Microsoft 365. 

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In addition to on-demand video content, students have access to 12 articles, as well as 51 resources to download. Upon successful completion of this class, students earn a certificate. Participants can use the Q&A board to post questions as well as screenshots of their progress during the course. The instructor, as well as classmates, can communicate with them via this board.

Those who have already completed this course provided largely positive reviews. One student said, “I learned so much about Excel and its awesome features. Thanks again for this amazing course.” Another noted that “Kyle Pew’s timing and teaching are flawless. He is personable and relatable, full of energy and eager to help others learn Excel.” A third participant said, “The course is well-structured and provides very detailed and diverse exercises.”

#7: NYIM Training—Excel for Business Fundamentals (In-Person & Live Online)

NYIM’S Excel for Business Fundamentals is an introductory-level Excel class that prepares students to work with basic Excel features and functions. This short class prepares students to perform basic spreadsheet tasks such as data entry and calculations. Small class instruction is provided in formatting cells and text to facilitate easy spreadsheet scanning. Participants learn how to work with multi-input functions, auto-sum functions, tables, absolute cell reference, and charts. The expert instructor provides time-saving tips for accelerating workflow in Excel. By course completion, those enrolled will know how to create and print spreadsheets.

Key Information

This one-day course can be completed in six hours. It costs $249. Payment is due up-front to reserve a spot in the course. Those interested in completing the entire three-day Microsoft Excel Bootcamp offered by NYIM (of which this course is the first part) receive a 15% tuition discount.

Because this is a beginner-level course, no prior Excel knowledge is necessary. It is recommended that participants have a familiarity with computer basics. This course is taught by an instructor who is working with Excel on a PC but will explain any command or shortcut variations for Mac users. Students who take this course in the live online format can follow along on their own Mac or PC. Participants must obtain a copy of Excel prior to course commencement. NYIM can help students obtain a free trial of Excel if necessary.

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In addition to live, project-based Excel training, those enrolled in this course have additional benefits like setup assistance and the option of a free course retake for up to a year. Participants each receive a proprietary workbook and have access to a supplemental refresher video suite. At the end of the course, students receive a digital certificate of completion.

Course alumni have left positive reviews about Excel for Business Fundamentals. One student noted, “The course was very informative, and the instructor did an excellent job going over the material.” Another said, “I’ve taken courses at other facilities, but this one tops the charts! I had a fantastic experience learning Excel with NYIM Training.”

#8: General Assembly—Data Analytics Immersive (Live Online)

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in data, General Assembly’s Data Analytics Immersive is a good study option. Participants in this live online course complete lessons in Slack and Zoom, which provides a convenient way to connect in real-time with instructors, as well as classmates around the world. Instruction is provided by an industry expert with training in a range of data-related skills. This approach ensures that participants have an insider’s perspective on the tech industry. In addition to teaching students how to use Excel for data analysis, this program provides instruction in other related skills. By course completion, learners will have an understanding of how to perform responsible data analytics, as well as how to apply various statistical and mathematical concepts to their analysis process. Instruction is also provided in working with programming languages like SQL and Python for data analysis. Students also become familiar with how to use Power BI and Tableau to analyze data and communicate findings.

Key Information

General Assembly’s Data Analytics bootcamp provides 12 weeks of training on how to access, analyze, and visualize datasets using a range of industry tools. During this time, participants discover how, when, and why they should use specific tools like Excel, Python, or Tableau, and how they can be used to solve a range of real-world business problems. 

This is a beginner-friendly class and has no prerequisites. Industry veterans designed this course with an eye to beginners looking to take the first step on their path toward becoming a data professional. This program costs $16,450. This can be paid upfront or in four equal installments. Those who pay tuition upfront receive a $450 discount. In addition, interested learners can contact Admissions to learn more about financing and tuition discounts. Loans and financing options are also available for eligible individuals. 

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Participants in this program receive additional perks beyond classroom instruction. Those enrolled Before this course begins, students are given self-paced pre-work to get started learning fundamental data science concepts. This ensures that by the start of the course, all learners have received a groundwork on which to build their skills. In addition to expert instruction, this class offers project toolkits and expert-vetted lesson decks. All students create professional-grade portfolios that display their data skills to potential employers.

The final unit in this course is devoted exclusively to career planning. Career services advises students on their job search, as well as how to negotiate salary and other professional skills. 

Professional training includes mock interviews, resume reviews, interview prep, and practice with whiteboarding. Learners also have the opportunity to connect with hiring managers and Data Analysts during guest panels, day-in-the-life talks, and hiring discussions. Instructors and TAs are also available during office hours to provide individualized guidance and feedback.

Those who successfully complete this class are given a signed certificate that can be used to highlight their skills to potential employers on LinkedIn. Additionally, graduates of this program are given exclusive access to career workshops and networking events.

Those who have already completed this course share their positive reviews online. One learner wrote: “My opinion of this course could not be higher. General Assembly is with you every step of the way. They provide extra support if you’re struggling and will even stay after class to offer extra guidance. Having class every day ensures difficult concepts are reinforced.”

#9: NYC Career Centers—Beginner Microsoft Excel (In-Person & Live Online)

Beginner Microsoft Excel is an introductory-level class designed to teach participants how to work with basic Excel features, functions, and tools. Hands-on training is provided for participants on how to navigate the Excel interface. Instruction is provided on topics like how to format workbooks, create charts, and work with functions and formulas. Those who are new to Excel learn time-saving hotkeys and shortcuts that make it easier and faster to perform a range of repetitive Excel tasks. Students first learn an Excel concept, then see an example, then practice this concept on their own to ensure they can use this skill. In addition to live lessons, those enrolled in this small class have access to a companion video suite that offers introductory-level video lessons that can be viewed on desktop devices as well as tablets and mobile devices. Each video is a short tutorial that breaks down common Excel concepts into basic steps.

Key Information

This course can be completed in one day in approximately six hours. The cost of study is $249. This cost includes classroom instruction and project-based training from industry experts. Tuition is due before class starts. Those interested in taking this course as part of the three-day Excel Bootcamp receive a 15% discount on the cost of enrollment.

There are no prerequisites for this course. However, those who elect to complete this class in the live online environment must obtain a version of Excel for their own device. 

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Those interested in taking NYC Career Centers Beginner Microsoft Excel receive supplementary educational resources and materials in addition to course lectures. Setup assistance is provided to any learner who may require help. Those enrolled have access to a supplemental suite of refresher videos. They also can keep their Excel training guide for future reference. In addition, all participants have the option of retaking this class for no additional cost for up to a year to refresh course material. A digital certificate is provided to all learners who successfully complete this class.

Class alumni share their positive reviews online. One student says, “I’ve been working with Excel for a while, and I still learned a ton.” Another writes: “This course is outstanding! Anyone who wants to learn Excel basics for business should take this class.” A third learner writes: “I enjoyed the dynamic of the class and will definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to learn Excel or needs a refresher.”

#10: SquareOne Training—Excel: Introduction (Level 1) (In-Person & Live Online)

SquareOne’s Excel: Introduction teaches students how to get the most out of their Excel experience. This course is geared toward those new to working with Excel, as well as self-taught Excel learners interested in gaining practical training to improve their spreadsheet skills. Coursework is provided by trainers with real-world Excel knowledge. Over the course of this training session, participants will receive basic Excel instruction on navigating the interface and working with the Excel screen and ribbon. Participants also learn how to create, operate, and save workbooks. By course completion, those enrolled will be able to move and copy data using drag-and-drop and copy-and-drop techniques, as well as AutoFill. They will also be able to work with functions like SUM, MIN, MAX, and COUNT, and use the Function Wizard. Coursework is also offered on editing and formatting worksheets, as well as how to handle and print large worksheets and multiple worksheets. 

Key Information

Excel: Introduction is a one-day class that can be completed in the live online format or via classroom training in the UK. Although no formal prerequisites are required for this introductory-level class, those wishing to enroll are expected to possess basic computer knowledge such as how to use a keyboard and mouse, launch and close apps, and open and save files. This class costs £220.

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Students who complete this course get a certificate of attendance. In addition, they leave the class with an extensive manual on the spreadsheet skills they learned.

Those who have already completed this course posted their reviews online. One learner said, “The instructor is very passionate about Excel and it shows in his delivery of the session.” Another wrote that “My trainer was fantastic. When I asked a question he didn’t know the answer to, he went out of his way during break to find the answer.”

#11: Computer Training Source, Inc.—Excel Introduction (Live Online) 

Excel Introduction offers students beginner-friendly Excel instruction. Participants in this online class receive instruction on topics like absolute and relative references, working with rows, columns, and ranges, moving and copying data, using basic functions, and saving workbooks. In the first lesson, students become familiar with the Excel interface and basic commands. Lesson 2 teaches how to work with basic formulas, functions, and calculations. The third lesson teaches students how to make modifications to an Excel worksheet. The fourth lesson pertains to formatting worksheets and workbooks. Lesson 5 covers printing workbooks and lesson 6 pertains to managing workbooks.

Key Information

Participants must be at least 18 years old to enroll in this course. Those interested in taking this class must have a stable internet connection as well as a computer device with which they can complete coursework. Sessions take place on Zoom. Each spans seven hours and occurs in central time. It’s recommended that students arrive to the first class meeting five or ten minutes before the class starts to ensure their device is properly set up and connected. Tuition is $399. The average class size for Computer Training Source courses is ten students.

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Participants in this course noted in their reviews that “This class was very informative. I will be interested in taking more levels.”

#12: NYC Career Centers—Excel Programming with VBA (Live Online)

If you’re interested in learning to work with macros to automate repetitive spreadsheet tasks, you may want to explore NYC Career Centers Excel Programming with VBA. In a small class setting (average class size of seven), participants work with Excel’s programming language, VBA, and macros for automation. This allows students to perform faster, more accurate work in Excel. Those enrolled in this class will receive instruction on how to create macros and use macros to format interactive worksheets. They will also learn to navigate a workbook using variables, range names, and offsets. By course completion, students will be able to use automation for event processes and to handle unexpected events and errors.

Key Information

This class is taught in the remote setting on Zoom with a live instructor. This training format allows students to ask questions and receive real-time support and guidance. Although participants don’t need to have VBA programming knowledge to enroll, familiarity with PivotTables, VLOOKUP, and IF statements is suggested. 

This class spans two full-day sessions. It is available for $549. Participants must be at least 18 years old to enroll. 

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NYC Career Centers has earned a five-star rating from the nearly 700 students who have left online reviews of their courses.

#13: Training Connection—Microsoft Excel Level 1 (In-Person in Los Angeles)

Those seeking beginner-level Excel instruction can find it in Training Connection’s Microsoft Excel Level 1. Participants receive guidance on how to create, edit, and print Excel spreadsheets. They also become familiar with how to manipulate data in Excel and add charts, as well as how to use basic functions and formulas. Instruction begins with Excel essentials such as how to open, navigate, and save a workbook. Participants then study how to create worksheets and format their content. Instruction on data manipulation is also provided such as how to insert, delete, or hide rows and columns. Those enrolled also learn about visualizing data in Excel using charts.

Key Information

This course is taught in the in-person learning environment in downtown Los Angeles.

It is intended for Excel 2010,2013, or 2016 users. Participants must be at least 14 years of age to enroll. Tuition is $350 for this one-day program. The average class size is five participants.

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Training Connection has received nearly 150 course reviews, which average five out of five stars.

#14: NYC Career Centers–Financial Analysts Training Program

The Financial Analyst Training Program offered by NYC Career Centers is an intensive bootcamp that prepares participants to pursue a career in financial analytics. Those enrolled in this rigorous program learn about corporate valuation and finance, as well as advanced Excel tools and functions. Students begin this program by studying Excel basics, like working with formulas and functions. They then receive instruction on how to use this app for financial modeling using tools like Goal Seek. Corporate accounting and finance skills are covered next. The final unit in this bootcamp covers financial modeling and provides learners with the chance to create a three-statement DCF model for a public company. This training has applications in a range of financial careers such as investment banking, private equity, hedge funds, and real estate.

Key Information

This course spans five full-day sessions. The cost of study is $1,295. Participants meet in the live online environment using Zoom. Although there are no required prerequisites for study, it is suggested that those interested in this bootcamp have a basic understanding of accounting and corporate finance. All participants receive access to free accounting and corporate finance materials before the first class meeting.

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Over 700 students have posted reviews of NYC Career Center classes and given their experience an average of five out of five stars.

#15: Digital Workshop Center—Microsoft Excel for Beginners (Level 1) (Live Online)

For those who are new to Excel and want to learn spreadsheet basics, Digital Workshop Center’s Microsoft Excel for Beginners is available. Students in this class become familiar with the Excel interface, as well as how to work with basic functions and formulas. They receive instruction on formatting workbooks, as well as how to print and distribute them. The skills taught in this class lead to greater workplace productivity and efficiency. By course completion, participants will know how to create and modify an Excel worksheet, perform basic calculations, format data, and print Excel worksheet content.

Key Information

This class consists of two, three-and-a-half-hour sessions that take place in the interactive online environment. In addition to seven hours of classroom training, students will also be asked to complete supplementary assignments out of class. There are no formal prerequisites to enroll, though participants are expected to have a basic understanding of computers to complete lessons.

Participants must be at least 16 years old to sign up for this class. Those enrolled must have a reliable internet connection. The cost of study is $349. Tuition includes a professional textbook, a month of technical support, the option of a free course retake for up to a year for public class participants, and a certificate of completion at the end of study.

#16: Los Angeles City College–Microsoft Excel Series (In-Person in Los Angeles)

Los Angeles City College’s Microsoft Excel Series is available for learners at all levels. Participants in this two-day class learn how to create worksheets to present data findings. Students receive instruction on navigating the Excel interface, as well as how to enter data into worksheets. Instruction is offered on fundamental Excel topics such as cell references, command groups and settings, and basic database operations. By course completion, learners will know how to work with core Excel formulas and functions, as well as how to create basic data visualizations such as graphs and charts.

Key Information

Instruction is provided in the in-person classroom environment in East Hollywood. Tuition costs $169 for this course. A series discount is available for those interested in taking Excel Level 1 and 2 together. Those interested in enrolling must be at least 18 years old. This class can be completed in two, six-hour weekend sessions.

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Participants in this class noted that it was “informative and enjoyable” despite the lack of air conditioning in the facility. 

#17: ONLC Training–Excel PowerPivot and Interactive Visualizations (Live Online)

ONLC Training’s Excel PowerPivot and Interactive Visualizations is available for those interested in creating data visualizations in Excel. Those enrolled in this hands-on course learn how to gather insights from big data. Instruction is provided on PowerPivot, which provides a way to extend Pivot Table use and improve how data is summarized. Learners receive guidance on using Power Query to gather data from various sources and clean it before it’s incorporated into a data model. Students work with Power View to design interactive dashboards and Power Map to create 3D data visualizations, interactive tours, and map charts. This course is designed to provide Excel users with advanced analytics capabilities.

Key Information

Tuition is $1,495. This class is taught in the live online environment using Zoom, which provides participants with access to an instructor in real-time. Although this course is open to learners at all levels, it is suggested that students have a basic understanding of Excel. In addition, prior experience with PivotTables is useful but not necessary. All participants are expected to have a reliable internet connection to complete coursework. This class is taught using Excel 2016 but has applications for other versions of Excel as well.

#18: Noble Desktop–Excel VBA and Macros (Live Online)

Noble Desktop’s Excel VBA and Macros Level 1 teaches students how to automate repetitive tasks in Excel using macros. Participants receive instruction on how to incorporate macros into spreadsheets, which allows them to perform a range of data tasks faster and more efficiently. Those enrolled also learn the basics of Excel’s programming language, VBA. Training ensures that students can find new and exciting ways to work with spreadsheets. 

Key Information

This class spans one full day and costs $345. Instruction is provided in the live online classroom setting. Anyone 18 years and older can enroll in this course. Participants should have a stable internet connection to complete lessons. Although it’s not required that students have prior VBA knowledge, it is helpful for those enrolled to understand IF statements, VLOOKUP, and PivotTables.

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Noble Desktop’s courses have received over 300 online reviews. Students give Noble an average score of five out of five stars when they rate their learning experience.

#19: NYC Career Centers—Complete Microsoft Office Bootcamp (Live Online) 

In the small class online environment, students in the Complete Microsoft Office Bootcamp receive instruction on core Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Participants learn beginner to advanced Excel skills like working with hotkeys, creating tables, removing duplicates, joining text, automating workflows, and using functions like SUMIFS, INDEX-MATCH, and VLOOKUP. In addition to Excel training, students also learn Word skills like inserting special characters, images, and tables, managing lists, creating customized visual elements, using templates, and adding watermarks. 

Learners are also taught how to perform a range of tasks in Outlook such as managing calendars, emails, and contacts, as well as automating message organization and customizing the interface. In the PowerPoint portion of this bootcamp, students learn essential skills for making effective presentations such as how to make reusable slides, record presentations, and record a custom playlist of slideshows.

Key Information 

This bootcamp takes place in ten sessions, each of which is seven hours long. It’s taught in the live online environment using Zoom, which provides students with real-time access to an expert instructor. The cost of study is $1,725. Participants must be at least 18 years old to enroll.

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The courses at NYC Career Centers have received nearly 700 reviews and average a five out of five star rating from students.

#20: NYIM Training—Excel Specialist Certification Program (In-Person in Midtown Manhattan)

If you’d like to become a certified Excel specialist, NYIM Training’s Excel Specialist Certification Program provides hands-on training. Over the course of this three-day course, students progress from fundamental Excel training into intermediate and advanced Excel for business skills. This bootcamp provides a great way for students to boost their resumes. This program’s training is designed to prepare participants to pass the Microsoft Excel Specialist Certification exam.

Key Information

This certification program costs $899. It is open to learners at all levels who are at least 18 years old. Coursework spans three sessions, each of which is approximately seven hours long. This program is available in the in-person environment in midtown Manhattan.

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In addition to bootcamp Excel instruction, participants will be provided with two hours of private training in Excel. Tuition covers the fee for the Microsoft Excel Specialist Exam. All participants have the option of a free course retake for up to six months and receive lifetime access to NYIM’s free Excel video courses. Instruction is provided in-person in Midtown Manhattan. 

NYIM Training has more than 700 reviews with an average of five stars for their classes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Choose an Excel Class?

Deciding which Excel class is the best match for you will require some research. You will first want to explore the educator’s website. This should provide you with information pertaining to class size, cost of study, difficulty level, and course content. Often, educators have their syllabi online so prospective students can get a feel for the scope of course content. It’s important to choose a class that will challenge you and teach you new skills rather than just cover material you may already know. Courses that offer real-world examples that allow you to practice your spreadsheet skills as you learn can increase retention. You may also want to read student reviews to see if they had a favorable experience taking the class.

In addition to ensuring the provider is reputable and the content up-to-date, prospective Excel students should also consider their professional reasons for learning this spreadsheet app. If, for example, your job only requires that you have basic Excel proficiency, you may be okay learning the needed spreadsheet skills via free online material or on-demand content. However, if your employer requires you to have advanced Excel training such as creating macros to automate tasks, you may wish to explore more structured and rigorous educational options such as in-person or live online certificate programs or bootcamps. 

Is It Better to Attend an Excel Class In-person or Online?

Once you’ve decided to study Excel, you may wonder whether it’s better to learn in the in-person environment or to take an online course. The learning format you select will likely depend on several factors. 

In-person Excel study is the most engaging and interactive way to learn this spreadsheet application. This training format occurs in a classroom or computer lab and provides students with access to the most up-to-date spreadsheet tools. Participants are taught by an instructor who guides coursework and provides in-the-moment feedback and support. Those enrolled also have the opportunity to connect with other learners, which provides a great opportunity for networking. In-person study involves having to commute to and from class for each meeting, which can result in additional expenses for travel and parking. In addition, it requires living near an educational provider, which can make in-person study prohibitive for those who don’t live near a major metropolitan area. 

If you thrive studying Excel in the live environment, you may also want to consider live online coursework. Similar to in-person study, live online Excel training allows participants to connect with a live instructor. Instead of battling rush-hour traffic or wasting time searching for parking, live online coursework can be completed remotely from any location with a reliable internet connection. Participants can ask questions in real-time and receive immediate feedback from an expert instructor with real-world Excel knowledge. Live online coursework does require attending classes that meet at regular times, which may require having to change your work schedule. 

The most flexible way to learn Excel is in the on-demand learning environment. Self-paced Excel coursework is pre-recorded and available online. Students can complete lessons at their own pace from any location. This makes it a great option for those who must balance Excel studies around other personal or professional commitments such as family, travel, or full-time work. Asynchronous course material is often a good starting point for those who are new to Excel and interested in learning the basics of this spreadsheet application. Because there is no instructor available for on-demand coursework, it may be difficult to learn more complex or advanced Excel skills in this format.

What Will I Need for an Excel Class?

Once you’re ready to learn Excel, the next step is ensuring you have the proper software and tools. If you’re studying Excel in the online environment, you will need a computer with a reliable internet connection. You also will have to have a version of Excel available on your computer or device. This may require purchasing Excel or opting for a free trial of this application. Excel is available for purchase as part of the Office 365 suite of productivity tools. If you are studying Excel in the in-person classroom environment, a computer lab will likely be provided with the most current version of Excel already installed. However, it’s a good idea to have Excel installed on your personal device, even if you study in the classroom environment, because this ensures you can practice the spreadsheet skills you acquire.

Can I Learn Excel Online for Free?

When searching for Excel classes, you likely will find free coursework in addition to paid classes. You may wonder if signing up for free study is enough to teach you the Excel skills you need. Often, free Excel content consists of YouTube videos, online tutorials, and other material that was recorded at an earlier time. These resources can teach spreadsheet basics such as navigating the Excel interface and working with basic functions and features. However, if you’re interested in learning Excel for professional reasons such as to complete a work project, you may need more structured content such as that which is provided in live online courses. Free coursework is a low-stakes starting point for Excel study but doesn’t provide access to an instructor. This means you will have to find the answer to questions on your own. In addition, free content is sometimes outdated. When selecting free Excel study material, it’s important to choose that which is current.

Is It Better to Learn Excel in a Live or Self-paced Class?

Those interested in learning Excel online select from live coursework as well as self-paced learning options. Learning in the live online environment provides interactive training from an instructor who’s connected in real time. This mode of study not only allows students to ask questions as they arise and receive immediate guidance, but it also provides a way to connect with other learners who are studying this application. Some live online courses even offer participants the option to share their screen with their instructor (with permission) for additional guidance. Live virtual Excel classes also require participants to be available for regular meetings, which may be challenging for those who have busy schedules.

Self-paced study offers the flexibility of allowing students to decide when to study, as well as the pace at which they learn. On-demand coursework can be paused, rewound, and revisited as often as necessary, which can help students learn and remember the material. In addition, learners can study at night, on the weekends, or even when traveling, which makes this training format a good option for those who have busy schedules and still want to learn how to work with spreadsheets. Typically, on-demand courses are most suited for beginner-level Excel study since they do not provide real-time access to a teacher. They are a good starting point for individuals who want to learn Excel basics.

#14: NYC Career Centers–Financial Analysts Training Program

The Financial Analyst Training Program offered by NYC Career Centers is an intensive bootcamp that prepares participants to pursue a career in financial analytics. Those enrolled in this rigorous program learn about corporate valuation and finance, as well as advanced Excel tools and functions. Students begin this program by studying Excel basics, like working with formulas and functions. They then receive instruction on how to use this app for financial modeling using tools like Goal Seek. Corporate accounting and finance skills are covered next. The final unit in this bootcamp covers financial modeling and provides learners with the chance to create a three-statement DCF model for a public company. This training has applications in a range of financial careers such as investment banking, private equity, hedge funds, and real estate.

Key Information

This course spans five full-day sessions. The cost of study is $1,295. Participants meet in the live online environment using Zoom. Although there are no required prerequisites for study, it is suggested that those interested in this bootcamp have a basic understanding of accounting and corporate finance. All participants receive access to free accounting and corporate finance materials before the first class meeting.

More Details

Over 700 students have posted reviews of NYC Career Center classes and given their experience an average of five out of five stars.

#15: Digital Workshop Center—Microsoft Excel for Beginners (Level 1) (Live Online)

For those who are new to Excel and want to learn spreadsheet basics, Digital Workshop Center’s Microsoft Excel for Beginners is available. Students in this class become familiar with the Excel interface, as well as how to work with basic functions and formulas. They receive instruction on formatting workbooks, as well as how to print and distribute them. The skills taught in this class lead to greater workplace productivity and efficiency. By course completion, participants will know how to create and modify an Excel worksheet, perform basic calculations, format data, and print Excel worksheet content.

Key Information

This class consists of two, three-and-a-half-hour sessions that take place in the interactive online environment. In addition to seven hours of classroom training, students will also be asked to complete supplementary assignments out of class. There are no formal prerequisites to enroll, though participants are expected to have a basic understanding of computers to complete lessons.

Participants must be at least 16 years old to sign up for this class. Those enrolled must have a reliable internet connection. The cost of study is $349. Tuition includes a professional textbook, a month of technical support, the option of a free course retake for up to a year for public class participants, and a certificate of completion at the end of study.

#16: Los Angeles City College–Microsoft Excel Series (In-Person in Los Angeles)

Los Angeles City College’s Microsoft Excel Series is available for learners at all levels. Participants in this two-day class learn how to create worksheets to present data findings. Students receive instruction on navigating the Excel interface, as well as how to enter data into worksheets. Instruction is offered on fundamental Excel topics such as cell references, command groups and settings, and basic database operations. By course completion, learners will know how to work with core Excel formulas and functions, as well as how to create basic data visualizations such as graphs and charts.

Key Information

Instruction is provided in the in-person classroom environment in East Hollywood. Tuition costs $169 for this course. A series discount is available for those interested in taking Excel Level 1 and 2 together. Those interested in enrolling must be at least 18 years old. This class can be completed in two, six-hour weekend sessions.

More Details

Participants in this class noted that it was “informative and enjoyable” despite the lack of air conditioning in the facility. 

#17: ONLC Training–Excel PowerPivot and Interactive Visualizations (Live Online)

ONLC Training’s Excel PowerPivot and Interactive Visualizations is available for those interested in creating data visualizations in Excel. Those enrolled in this hands-on course learn how to gather insights from big data. Instruction is provided on PowerPivot, which provides a way to extend Pivot Table use and improve how data is summarized. Learners receive guidance on using Power Query to gather data from various sources and clean it before it’s incorporated into a data model. Students work with Power View to design interactive dashboards and Power Map to create 3D data visualizations, interactive tours, and map charts. This course is designed to provide Excel users with advanced analytics capabilities.

Key Information

Tuition is $1,495. This class is taught in the live online environment using Zoom, which provides participants with access to an instructor in real-time. Although this course is open to learners at all levels, it is suggested that students have a basic understanding of Excel. In addition, prior experience with PivotTables is useful but not necessary. All participants are expected to have a reliable internet connection to complete coursework. This class is taught using Excel 2016 but has applications for other versions of Excel as well.

#18: Noble Desktop–Excel VBA and Macros (Live Online)

Noble Desktop’s Excel VBA and Macros Level 1 teaches students how to automate repetitive tasks in Excel using macros. Participants receive instruction on how to incorporate macros into spreadsheets, which allows them to perform a range of data tasks faster and more efficiently. Those enrolled also learn the basics of Excel’s programming language, VBA. Training ensures that students can find new and exciting ways to work with spreadsheets. 

Key Information

This class spans one full day and costs $345. Instruction is provided in the live online classroom setting. Anyone 18 years and older can enroll in this course. Participants should have a stable internet connection to complete lessons. Although it’s not required that students have prior VBA knowledge, it is helpful for those enrolled to understand IF statements, VLOOKUP, and PivotTables.

More Details

Noble Desktop’s courses have received over 300 online reviews. Students give Noble an average score of five out of five stars when they rate their learning experience.

#19: NYC Career Centers—Complete Microsoft Office Bootcamp (Live Online) 

In the small class online environment, students in the Complete Microsoft Office Bootcamp receive instruction on core Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Participants learn beginner to advanced Excel skills like working with hotkeys, creating tables, removing duplicates, joining text, automating workflows, and using functions like SUMIFS, INDEX-MATCH, and VLOOKUP. In addition to Excel training, students also learn Word skills like inserting special characters, images, and tables, managing lists, creating customized visual elements, using templates, and adding watermarks. 

Learners are also taught how to perform a range of tasks in Outlook such as managing calendars, emails, and contacts, as well as automating message organization and customizing the interface. In the PowerPoint portion of this bootcamp, students learn essential skills for making effective presentations such as how to make reusable slides, record presentations, and record a custom playlist of slideshows.

Key Information 

This bootcamp takes place in ten sessions, each of which is seven hours long. It’s taught in the live online environment using Zoom, which provides students with real-time access to an expert instructor. The cost of study is $1,725. Participants must be at least 18 years old to enroll.

More Details

The courses at NYC Career Centers have received nearly 700 reviews and average a five out of five star rating from students.

#20: NYIM Training—Excel Specialist Certification Program (In-Person in Midtown Manhattan)

If you’d like to become a certified Excel specialist, NYIM Training’s Excel Specialist Certification Program provides hands-on training. Over the course of this three-day course, students progress from fundamental Excel training into intermediate and advanced Excel for business skills. This bootcamp provides a great way for students to boost their resumes. This program’s training is designed to prepare participants to pass the Microsoft Excel Specialist Certification exam.

Key Information

This certification program costs $899. It is open to learners at all levels who are at least 18 years old. Coursework spans three sessions, each of which is approximately seven hours long. This program is available in the in-person environment in midtown Manhattan.

More Details

In addition to bootcamp Excel instruction, participants will be provided with two hours of private training in Excel. Tuition covers the fee for the Microsoft Excel Specialist Exam. All participants have the option of a free course retake for up to six months and receive lifetime access to NYIM’s free Excel video courses. Instruction is provided in-person in Midtown Manhattan. 

NYIM Training has more than 700 reviews with an average of five stars for their classes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Choose an Excel Class?

Deciding which Excel class is the best match for you will require some research. You will first want to explore the educator’s website. This should provide you with information pertaining to class size, cost of study, difficulty level, and course content. Often, educators have their syllabi online so prospective students can get a feel for the scope of course content. It’s important to choose a class that will challenge you and teach you new skills rather than just cover material you may already know. Courses that offer real-world examples that allow you to practice your spreadsheet skills as you learn can increase retention. You may also want to read student reviews to see if they had a favorable experience taking the class.

In addition to ensuring the provider is reputable and the content up-to-date, prospective Excel students should also consider their professional reasons for learning this spreadsheet app. If, for example, your job only requires that you have basic Excel proficiency, you may be okay learning the needed spreadsheet skills via free online material or on-demand content. However, if your employer requires you to have advanced Excel training such as creating macros to automate tasks, you may wish to explore more structured and rigorous educational options such as in-person or live online certificate programs or bootcamps. 

Is It Better to Attend an Excel Class In-person or Online?

Once you’ve decided to study Excel, you may wonder whether it’s better to learn in the in-person environment or to take an online course. The learning format you select will likely depend on several factors. 

In-person Excel study is the most engaging and interactive way to learn this spreadsheet application. This training format occurs in a classroom or computer lab and provides students with access to the most up-to-date spreadsheet tools. Participants are taught by an instructor who guides coursework and provides in-the-moment feedback and support. Those enrolled also have the opportunity to connect with other learners, which provides a great opportunity for networking. In-person study involves having to commute to and from class for each meeting, which can result in additional expenses for travel and parking. In addition, it requires living near an educational provider, which can make in-person study prohibitive for those who don’t live near a major metropolitan area. 

If you thrive studying Excel in the live environment, you may also want to consider live online coursework. Similar to in-person study, live online Excel training allows participants to connect with a live instructor. Instead of battling rush-hour traffic or wasting time searching for parking, live online coursework can be completed remotely from any location with a reliable internet connection. Participants can ask questions in real-time and receive immediate feedback from an expert instructor with real-world Excel knowledge. Live online coursework does require attending classes that meet at regular times, which may require having to change your work schedule. 

The most flexible way to learn Excel is in the on-demand learning environment. Self-paced Excel coursework is pre-recorded and available online. Students can complete lessons at their own pace from any location. This makes it a great option for those who must balance Excel studies around other personal or professional commitments such as family, travel, or full-time work. Asynchronous course material is often a good starting point for those who are new to Excel and interested in learning the basics of this spreadsheet application. Because there is no instructor available for on-demand coursework, it may be difficult to learn more complex or advanced Excel skills in this format.

What Will I Need for an Excel Class?

Once you’re ready to learn Excel, the next step is ensuring you have the proper software and tools. If you’re studying Excel in the online environment, you will need a computer with a reliable internet connection. You also will have to have a version of Excel available on your computer or device. This may require purchasing Excel or opting for a free trial of this application. Excel is available for purchase as part of the Office 365 suite of productivity tools. If you are studying Excel in the in-person classroom environment, a computer lab will likely be provided with the most current version of Excel already installed. However, it’s a good idea to have Excel installed on your personal device, even if you study in the classroom environment, because this ensures you can practice the spreadsheet skills you acquire.

Can I Learn Excel Online for Free?

When searching for Excel classes, you likely will find free coursework in addition to paid classes. You may wonder if signing up for free study is enough to teach you the Excel skills you need. Often, free Excel content consists of YouTube videos, online tutorials, and other material that was recorded at an earlier time. These resources can teach spreadsheet basics such as navigating the Excel interface and working with basic functions and features. However, if you’re interested in learning Excel for professional reasons such as to complete a work project, you may need more structured content such as that which is provided in live online courses. Free coursework is a low-stakes starting point for Excel study but doesn’t provide access to an instructor. This means you will have to find the answer to questions on your own. In addition, free content is sometimes outdated. When selecting free Excel study material, it’s important to choose that which is current.

Is It Better to Learn Excel in a Live or Self-paced Class?

Those interested in learning Excel online select from live coursework as well as self-paced learning options. Learning in the live online environment provides interactive training from an instructor who’s connected in real time. This mode of study not only allows students to ask questions as they arise and receive immediate guidance, but it also provides a way to connect with other learners who are studying this application. Some live online courses even offer participants the option to share their screen with their instructor (with permission) for additional guidance. Live virtual Excel classes also require participants to be available for regular meetings, which may be challenging for those who have busy schedules.

Self-paced study offers the flexibility of allowing students to decide when to study, as well as the pace at which they learn. On-demand coursework can be paused, rewound, and revisited as often as necessary, which can help students learn and remember the material. In addition, learners can study at night, on the weekends, or even when traveling, which makes this training format a good option for those who have busy schedules and still want to learn how to work with spreadsheets. Typically, on-demand courses are most suited for beginner-level Excel study since they do not provide real-time access to a teacher. They are a good starting point for individuals who want to learn Excel basics.

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