We all have that one friend who can never seem to stop learning, who’s always taking on new projects and expanding their skill set.
But let’s be real, most of us aren’t quite that dedicated to our own professional development.
That’s where professional development courses come in — they’re like a cheat code to career growth, giving us the chance to upgrade our skills without having to devote every waking moment to self-improvement.
So, grab your favorite learning beverage (whether it’s coffee, tea, or a soda), and let’s dive into the world of professional development training.
What is a Professional Development Course?
A professional development course is a training program that aims to enhance an individual’s career growth and job performance. It can encompass a wide range of subjects, from technical skills like coding and data analysis to leadership and communication skills.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry or a recent graduate trying to make your mark in the workforce, professional development courses offer a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and advance your career.
Unlike a traditional academic program, these courses are designed with a specific purpose in mind to help you develop the skills you need to succeed in your current role or pursue a new career path. So whether you’re looking to upskill, reskill, or simply take your career to the next level, professional development courses are a great place to start.
Why should I take a Professional Development Course?
Taking a professional development course is not just a smart career move, it’s an investment in yourself. By taking a course, you’re also showing your employer that you’re dedicated to your own growth and development. Not only does this show initiative and drive, but it also gives you a competitive edge in the job market.
Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or pursue a new career opportunity, having a well-rounded skill set is key. Professional development courses offer the chance to acquire new knowledge and skills, as well as network with other professionals in your field.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing job market, staying ahead of the curve and keeping your skills up-to-date is crucial, and professional development programs provide an effective and efficient way to do so. So if you’re ready to take your career to the next level by continuing education, now is the time to start exploring your options for professional development and certificate programs.
🔥 Pro-Tip from The Assist: Set clear goals and objectives for the course to stay focused and evaluate its relevance to your career.
8 Best Professional Development Courses
1. Coursera
✅ Training Description: With over 1,400 high-quality, online professional development courses you are bound to find one that fits your needs. Coursera offers a wide range of subjects and skills aimed at enhancing career growth and job performance.
💰 Cost of Training Course: Depends on which course you choose to take.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: Depends on which course you choose to take.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- Requires self-motivation to complete.
- Lacks peer support.
- No customized feedback.
2. LinkedIn Learning
✅ Training Description: LinkedIn Learning’s professional development courses provide a comprehensive and dynamic platform for individuals to upgrade their professional skills and advance their careers, with a vast library of expert-led video tutorials and hands-on projects. These courses are tailored to meet the needs of both professionals and businesses, offering a convenient and flexible way to up skills and stay ahead in today’s competitive job market.
💰 Cost of Training Course: The first month is free, after that, the cost is course-dependent.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: Depends on which course you choose to take.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- Content can become outdated quickly.
- Impersonal experience.
- Segmented topics.
🔥 Pro-Tip from The Assist: Actively engage and participate in discussions, questions, and real-world applications to enhance your learning experience and retention.
3. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
✅ Training Description: The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized and highly sought-after credential for project managers. It demonstrates a mastery of project management best practices, including the ability to lead and direct complex projects, time management, and effectively manage resources, risks, and stakeholders. This online course is self-paced and done all on your own time, so it’s easily doable on top of a full-time job.
💰 Cost of Training Course: $800 for non-members and $700 for members.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: 35 hours.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- High upfront costs.
- Significant time commitment.
- Content not tied to the real-world.
4. Agile Scrum Master Certification
✅ Training Description: The Agile Scrum Master Certification is a highly regarded certification for professionals who are looking to master the Agile method of project management and leadership development. It showcases a comprehensive understanding of the Agile framework, including the ability to lead cross-functional teams and effectively manage the delivery of complex projects in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. All courses are live instruction online but can be completed within 2 days.
💰 Cost of Training Course: $400.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: 2 days; 8 hours a day.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- Narrow focus.
- Shorter credential lifespan.
- Less value than experience.
5. Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect
✅ Training Description: The Udemy Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect course is a comprehensive training program that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to design, develop, and manage secure and scalable cloud solutions on the Google Cloud Platform. Upon completion, participants will earn the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certification, demonstrating their expertise in cloud technology and architecture.
💰 Cost of Training Course: $20 for the course. $200 for the exam.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: 21 hours for the online course.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- High complexity.
- Expensive prep materials.
- Frequent recertification.
6. Fundamentals of Human Resources Management
✅ Training Description: The Fundamentals of Human Resources Management AMA course is a comprehensive training program that covers the basics of human resources management, including staffing, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and training and development. This course is designed for HR professionals, managers, and those looking to start a career in HR and provides a solid foundation of knowledge to help them succeed in their careers. The AMA course offers an in-person or interactive online version to adapt to your needs.
💰 Cost of Training Course: $2,595 for non-members and $2,345 for members.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: 2 days in-person or 2 online lessons.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- Broad overview only.
- Doesn’t cover latest trends.
- Theoretical focus.
7. Certified Professional in Training Management CPTM
✅ Training Description: The Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM) course from Training Industry is a rigorous online only training program that provides a comprehensive understanding of the training and development function within an organization. Upon completion, participants will earn the CPTM certification, demonstrating their mastery of the best practices and standards in training management, as well as their commitment to continued professional development.
💰 Cost of Training Course: $3,495.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: As little as 2 months depending how quickly you complete the coursework.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- High cost.
- Significant time commitment.
- Limited applicability.
8. Dale Carnegie Professional Development Training
✅ Training Description: Whether you’re launching your career or seeking a transformative boost, the Dale Carnegie Course® methodology empowers you with the mindset and skillset to attain improved and innovative outcomes. Deliberately enhance your personal and professional capabilities, allowing for substantial growth and impact.
💰 Cost of Training Course: $2,195.
⏰ Approximate time to complete: Once a week for 8 weeks, 3 consecutive days, and once a week for 12 weeks.
👎 Cons of this Professional Development Course:
- Content may not be industry-specific.
- Lack of customization.
- Limited digital offering.
People Also Ask These Questions About Professional Development Courses
Q: What are the benefits of taking professional development courses?
- A: Taking professional development courses can help you stay up to date on the latest industry trends, gain valuable new skills, and network with other professionals in your field. It can also provide an opportunity to increase your earning potential and position yourself for career advancement.
Q: How do I choose the right professional development course for me?
- A: When choosing a professional development course, it is important to consider your career goals, the skills you already have, and the level of expertise the course will provide. Research available courses and evaluate how they can help you reach your career objectives. Or take a look through this list!
Q: Are professional development courses worth the time and money investment?
- A: Yes, investing in professional development courses can be well worth the time and money. Such courses can help you stay competitive in your field, expand your skill set, open up networking opportunities, and potentially increase your earning power.
Q: How do professional development courses enhance my career prospects?
- A: Professional development courses can help you stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and provide advanced training in critical skills. Investing in high-quality courses from a reputable provider may also open new career opportunities, increase your value to employers, and lead to a higher salary.
Q: How do professional development courses help me gain new skills and improve existing ones?
- A: Professional development courses provide an opportunity to learn new skills that can be immediately applied in workplace situations. They also allow you to deepen your understanding and practice of existing skills, helping you become more proficient in particular areas. These can range from skills such as problem-solving, social media, supply chain, digital marketing, or operations management.
