Business classes teach entrepreneurial skills. These skills can help you start a business or for a role in a large corporation. In business classes, participants often learn about identifying opportunities, developing business plans, managing finances, and making strategic decisions. High-level jobs are open to those who understand these business concepts and practices.
Gaining a business mindset can improve personal finances. It helps individuals understand concepts like budgeting, financial statements, investment strategies, and risk management.
With this knowledge, people can make informed decisions regarding investments, retirement, and debt.
Business classes also teach critical thinking and problem-solving. Many business situations are multi-faceted, requiring individuals to pick apart several complex layers before gaining understanding. Classes also teach how to approach problems and develop practical solutions.
Learning more about business will benefit any individual, personally and professionally.
The 8 Best Online Business Classes
- American Management Association ®—Certified Professional in Management Exam Prep Express (Live Online)
- Noble Desktop—Social Media Marketing Certificate (Live Online)
- General Assembly—Product Management Course (Live Online)
- NYC Career Centers—Business Writing Bootcamp (Live Online)
- Harvard Business School—Strategic Project Management (Live Online)
- Wharton Online at The University of Pennsylvania—Professional Certificate in Strategic Management (On-demand)
- Udemy—Basics of Business Finance (On-demand)
- MIT Sloan School of Management—Data-Driven Teams: The Art and Science of Winning (Live Online)
#1: American Management Association ®—Certified Professional in Management Exam Prep Express (Live Online)
AMA’s Certified Professional in Management Exam Prep Express is a crash course in management theory and practice.
Enrollees participate in four separate units: professional effectiveness, relationship management, business acumen, and analytical intelligence. The first lesson teaches that effective managers possess emotional intelligence, strong communication abilities, and effective presentation skills. Then, enrolled students learn how to motivate, delegate, coach, manage change, collaborate, and manage conflict in the workplace. The final two lessons cover the ins and outs of the business. In lesson 3, the instructor builds skills for managing projects, understanding the financials, becoming customer-focused, and gaining and keeping top talent. The final day teaches critical thinking and data for business managers before reviewing concepts and administering a practice exam.
Students trying to earn the AMA-CPM ® (Ama Certified Professional in Management ®) can enroll when ready. It is not a part of the course.
Key Information
This course has a two-tiered pricing structure. AMA members pay $2,495; non-members pay $2,795; Government Service Agencies only pay $2,175. Full payment is required to hold a spot in the course. It is a part-time course. Over four days, students spend three hours in class for twelve hours. Participants can earn 1.2 CEUs after taking the course.
This class is aimed at managers of any level but does not require prerequisites.
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The course is based on the book Management Body of Knowledge by the AMA. A free copy of the book is included with registration.
Many former students commented about the grueling but effective pace of the course. Shawn K. from the manufacturing world praised the instructor’s ability to cover “an enormous volume of data along with tips, analogies, and humor.” Both Rohan P. and James J. noted how knowledgeable the instructor was. The course scores five out of five stars on the company’s website.
#2: Noble Desktop—Social Media Marketing Certificate (Live Online)
All businesses need an online presence to grow sales. Noble’s Social Media Marketing Certificate class helps participants generate an effective social media presence for a business.
Social media marketing can greatly expand a business’s reach. Students should walk away with the ability to develop a highly successful social media strategy. The class teaches the steps to develop this strategy, including understanding strengths and weaknesses, creating a schedule, and consistency. Depending on the platform you’re posting content, some of these may change. This course covers the big six social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, and X (formerly known as Twitter). It also addresses how to use blogging to increase traffic and help with SEO. Storytelling is at the heart of successful social media posts. This course also covers creating posts that include stories and tracking them effectively, using data to fine-tune a campaign.
Key Information
Noble’s Social Media Marketing Certificate costs $2,496 and combines several smaller courses. Bundling the smaller courses in this Social Media Marketing Certificate results in a significant discount. Individually, the smaller courses cost over $4,000. The course can be paid for up-front or can be paid for with an installment plan. Under the installment plan, a participant puts 10% down. The remainder of the tuition is broken up into five equal payments, charged one week before the start of each new section. Selecting this option does not accumulate additional fees. If an employer offers tuition reimbursement, the company will provide you with documentation for your company.
This class is offered full-time (7 hours per day), 4-5 days per week for a month. There are no prerequisites for the course. However, students should understand the basics of a computer before signing up for this course.
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The New York State Education Department licenses Noble’s classes. The company has a content learning guarantee–all concepts are taught by experts in the field and solidified through projects. They also offer a free retake; students can refresh their knowledge free within one year of the course. Or, the school provides recorded sessions within a day, so it’s easy to catch up on any missed material. Students who prefer in-person learning can attend class at Noble’s Manhattan location.
The information learned in this course pertains to a wide variety of businesses. Victoria M., a business owner, held huge misconceptions about SEO. She “didn’t see the point of LinkedIn for a self-employed person like me, but it’s now really clear and I’ll use the platform much more effectively.” After taking the class, Manizaay Gala landed a job as an Account Manager with Code3.
#3: General Assembly—Product Management Course (Live Online)
Successfully overseeing a product’s life cycle improves once business and product-minded individuals take a Product Management Course like the one General Assembly offers. In this course, students learn how to describe a Product Manager’s role and responsibilities from end to end. The class walks participants through the entire PM process, starting with product development. Considering what stakeholders and customers need and want is also essential to this course. The final project will be to develop a complete PM process for a product or feature, plus include a roadmap indicating future growth direction.
Key Information
This course costs $4,500. The company partners with lenders–Climb, Maritize, and Ascent–to assist enrollees with the course tuition. Loan approval is not guaranteed. General Assembly also offers installment plans. Students can split their tuition into two, three, or four separate payments.
This course, designed for working professionals, is scheduled part-time in the early evening. Over about a month, expect to attend class live online for 40 hours. Planning some additional time each week for homework time is essential for success.
There are no prerequisites for this course though the company prefers if participants have taken on some PM responsibilities before taking this course. Students who complete the course earn a General Assembly (GA) course certificate that can easily be uploaded to LinkedIn.
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Instructors offer office hours to help students who need support outside class. The company, General Assembly, boasts that they host networking events and workshops for former students long after their course has ended. They also provide on-demand lessons in resume writing, interviewing, job searching, and branding. Students also graduate with a portfolio for future jobs.
Not sure if this class is right? The company regularly hosts info sessions or encourages potential students to contact their admissions team, who can help with the right course. Nataly took this class live online and raved about the instructor quality and the professional connections she made in the course.
#4: NYC Career Centers—Business Writing Bootcamp (Live Online)
Learn how to successfully tackle any business writing form in NYC Career Centers’ Business Writing Bootcamp. Identifying the most essential pieces of business writing–the target audience, goal, and purpose–are front and center in the course. The instructor will teach participants how to analyze a writing task and draft a response that meets the goals every time. Some genres are sales proposals, memos, and internal emails. No professional writing course is complete without a segment on grammar. This course provides participants with essential grammar rules, focusing on common mistakes and misspelled words.
Key Information
The Business Writing Bootcamp combines three smaller classes into a single, discounted class. Taken individually, the three cost $975. By signing up for the bootcamp, students pay a discounted rate of $695 for the 18-hour course. All money is due before the course starts and includes supplemental material.
NYC Career Centers offers flexible scheduling options. Students can complete this course full-time over three 6-hour sessions. Or, they can split the course into part-time 3-hour evening sessions or create a custom schedule with a mix of part-time and full-time.
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Current experts in the field teach all courses. Students can retake any portion of the course for free within one year of completing the course. Any student who completes the course will also receive a verified digital certificate of completion. Plus, all sessions are recorded, so students can quickly catch up when they miss a class or a portion.
Taking a grammar class can elicit groans. Michelle D., a former participant, welcomed it. She attributed it to her instructor, Grace, who made the day fly by with jokes. “I don’t think I could’ve sat through grammar with anyone else, ” Michelle said. Vincent D. echoed her remarks. He noted that Grace is “good at establishing rapport and creating a great learning environment.” Though his writing skills were already advanced, he praised this course for pushing him to an even higher level.
#5: Harvard Business School—Strategic Project Management (Live Online)
Businesses plan, manage, and implement projects frequently; therefore, Harvard Business School’s (HBS) Strategic Project Management course can improve the life cycle of a project. Managing projects successfully takes practical knowledge and specific techniques. This course aims to create stronger Project Managers by sharing how to analyze, plan, execute, and lead projects that align with an organization’s goals. Many projects fail, yet this doesn’t have to be. Through learning steps to careful planning and execution, a PM can ensure success. Most learning occurs through activities, interactive discussions, and mini-case studies.
Additionally, the course addresses how to lead and encourage a highly effective project team. Students who complete this course earn a certificate of participation through Harvard’s Division of Continuing Education.
Key Information
This course costs $2,600. Full payment is required to hold a seat in the course, and students can cancel free of charge until 14 days before the start of the course. The only discounts HBS offers are for those who attend more than one program or for groups from the same organization. It is a part-time course, scheduled one day per week for four weeks. Each live online class lasts for 3.5 hours.
This class requires at least three years of project experience, managing or participating as a team member. Plus, they require enough written and spoken English proficiency that participants can easily participate. All enrollees must have a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in experience.
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Grades are not assigned in Harvard Professional Development courses and cannot count for a degree. They also don’t count for continuing education credits.
The tuition includes instruction and digital program materials. Mary Finlay, the instructor, has over 25 years of industry experience. She specializes in strategy and IT management and directs several programs such as the Program for Chairs of Clinical Services.
#6: Wharton Online at the University of Pennsylvania—Professional Certificate in Strategic Management (On-demand)
This self-paced Professional Certificate in Strategic Management course guides participants to improve their leadership in a changing world. You can learn how to lower business costs, improve efficiency, and upgrade the customer experience with videos and hands-on assignments.
The class starts with teaching the new business landscape: business in the era of technology. It addresses new ways businesses can use technological advances as they rewrite their business models. This new business model, the course teaches, must include a connected customer experience. In the final stage of the program, students will apply their new knowledge to their current job and company, developing actionable steps and strategies.
Key Information
This on-demand certificate program costs $537.30 for full access to support materials and a certificate of completion. People may audit the course for free but cannot access all materials, get feedback on assignments or exams, or earn a shareable certificate of completion. During the course, auditing individuals may upgrade to the full version. After the course concludes, no upgrades are available.
The entire program consists of three smaller courses. Each smaller course takes about six weeks. Participants should expect to spend two to four hours per week watching lectures and completing assignments. Finishing the Professional Certificate in Strategic Management takes 18 months.
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Course tuition covers all materials such as videos, guidance, and assignment feedback. The same professors at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania teach their on-demand courses. Students rate Nicolaj Siggelknow, one of the instructors, highly. He received several teaching awards, including the Graduate Association Student Choice Award, an Excellence in Teaching award, and an award for a faculty member with the highest teaching rating in the MBA classroom. Christian Terwiesch, the co-instructor for the course, also receives similar accolades. He’s also a published author of several books; his most recent book is Matching Supply with Demand.
#7: Udemy—Basics of Business Finance (On-demand)
A large part of business success is knowing how to manage finances. In the Basics of Business Finance course, beginners learn essential financial management. The course starts with an overview of business finance: how corporate finance plays a role in a company’s decision-making. Income, profit and loss, balance, and cash flow statement lessons come later. After each lesson, students complete a quiz or assignment based on the information presented. This certificate course is ideal for entry-level workers who wish to advance their careers in business. Students have pursued careers in Ratings and Risk Management, Strategy, Corporate Banking, and more.
Key Information
This is an on-demand course; students can complete the lessons independently. It includes four hours of video lessons, consisting of 24 lectures. Expect to work on an assignment for under a half-hour for each lecture. Many participants completed the class in one week.
This on-demand class costs $59.99; the full amount is due upfront. The Basics of Business Finance course has no prerequisites. In fact, it is designed for those with no knowledge of finance.
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Most students who enrolled in this course enjoyed their learning experience but found a few minor issues. Victor S. struggled with unfamiliar terminology but has learned a lot about advanced financial statements. After taking the class, Marissa C. felt “better able to participate in financial discussions as a non-financial manager.”
#8: MIT Sloan School of Management—Data-Driven Teams: the Art and Science of Winning (Live Online)
Successful businesses have one trait in common: their teams are highly skilled and functional. In this option, Data-Driven Teams: The Art and Science of Winning workshop, leaders guide participants through a process of strengthening their team. Managers use data to discover areas that need improvement and create a plan for success.
This class teaches an analysis tool to use in four measurable areas–talent, system, leadership, and culture–that has worked well in the sports industry. It focuses on identifying the talent within the current organization. Sometimes the talent has yet to show itself. So, the course also covers fostering a team’s talent on a team through a systematized process. Leaders must exhibit key behaviors to build a strong culture along the way.
Key Information
This part-time course requires 4.5 hours per day for three consecutive days. This course costs $4,300. Payment is required to secure a spot in a course. Students who cannot attend the entire course may reschedule for a fee. Registering for more than one course results in a discount of 10%. If three or more people from the same organization register for a course, each is entitled to 15% off the tuition.
Participants can earn 2 EEUs (Executive Education Units) that can be applied to an Executive Certificate or ACE requirement. All participants enrolling in this course should be part of management, but no formal prerequisites exist.
More Details
Once students take this or any course with MIT Sloan School of Management, they can review their certificate program requirements on their dashboard. As long as a student completes all hours in the course, this class will count toward a certificate in management.
Reviews for the course are all four out of five stars and up. Typically, organizational data can feel impersonal, which may frustrate attendees learning about it. However, Ibeh A. appreciated how this class hosted a “guest speaker to talk about the importance of storytelling” and “humanized how data were perceived.” Another student recommended the class for any skill level since the “instructor does a tremendous job teaching in a way that is digestible and understandable for all.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Different Types of Online Business Classes?
Online business classes can be either live or on-demand. Live online classes or synchronous classes happen in real-time. The students and teachers meet at a specific time, interacting together. On-demand classes are also called asynchronous classes. These classes can be accessed at any point since all lessons are pre-recorded. Students have greater flexibility with on-demand classes.
Live online classes have more interaction. Students can ask questions, participate in discussions, and work in small groups with their peers. Instructors can provide feedback immediately. On-demand classes don’t have the same level of interaction. Feedback from instructors may be limited or delayed. Students cannot have live discussions. Instead, the instructor may use discussion boards, having students post their ideas or work to get feedback from others.
Students needing accountability and a set schedule may prefer live online classes. These classes may have a fixed meeting schedule, strict deadlines, and participation requirements. On-demand classes may have flexible deadlines, allowing enrollees to complete work at their own pace or within a specific time frame.
On-demand and live online courses may be geared toward beginners or advanced students. Sometimes introductory classes or seminars are priced lower or free. These types of classes will be short and provide an overview. To go deeper, enroll in a multi-day or multi-week course.
What Will I Need for an Online Business Class?
Before taking an online business class, ensure you have all the necessary supplies. A working computer with an internet connection is the most important item; complete any updates before the class starts so the computer runs as fast as possible. Also, a good microphone and webcam are essential. Most classes require some verbal participation. It’s easier to participate when the instructor or classmates can hear you. Plus, many people prefer talking to an actual person instead of a blank computer screen. A webcam encourages the face-to-face interaction that an in-person class touts.
Before purchasing any software, read the class description and any notes the instructor sends out. Business classes may expect that you have access to Microsoft Office 365 or Google Workspace. Both companies offer a free trial for interested individuals. Purchasing Microsoft Office 365 provides access to Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and more. Google Workspace’s introductory rate may be less expensive. After a 14-day trial, Google Workspace gives access to email, video meetings, and storage.
Project Management classes may require software such as Asana. Asana software has a tiered structure. Their basic version is free. Browse all Asana software versions for purchase on their website. Customer Relationship Management required software may include Salesforce, which can be accessed on their website. The company provides a free trial. Accounting or financial classes likely use QuickBooks, downloadable from Intuit. Users can score a free 30-day trial. The software costs as little as $30 per month; however, check with the company for the best current prices.
Many classes will help you access free or low-cost versions of any necessary software before the course begins.
Can I Learn Business Online for Free?
Online, many people post free informational videos. Business is no different. On sites like YouTube, people can learn more about business for free. However, most informational videos provide only basic business concepts. It’s best to sign up for a class to truly learn more complex ideas.
Is It Better to Learn Business in a Live or Self-paced Class?
Consider outside commitments, motivation, and flexibility when deciding whether to enroll in a live or self-paced business class. Live online classes have a fixed schedule which may or may not work with current commitments like work. If you have many commitments, an on-demand class may be better since it assigns work to be completed within a window.
However, some students struggle with focus without an instructor present or with tight deadlines. Like traditional classrooms, live classes provide an instructor who can answer your questions and classmates who can interact with you. Live online classes provide structure: specific meeting times and assignments with set deadlines. Schedules keep students accountable and ensure they are progressing through synchronous classes. A self-paced class may not be ideal if you’re a student motivated by interactions with others who need to follow a schedule.
If flexibility is important, an on-demand class might be the ideal option. Online courses deliver instruction through recorded lessons, tutorials, or written materials. Students can access these whenever it’s convenient. In addition, students can rewind the video when a concept is tough, playing it as many times as necessary to master the content and fast forward through easier concepts. The format allows enrolled students the autonomy to make educational decisions.
Both on-demand and live online classes can be effective ways of learning business. Consider who you are as a learner before signing up for a course.