As a business support focused recruitment company, we know that investing in professional development is crucial for a candidate’s success in the industry. Many job seekers question whether they should include online courses on their resumes.

Online courses are becoming increasingly popular as they offer learners affordable courses with the convenience of studying at their own pace and on their own schedule. They can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, meaning learners don’t have to travel to a physical classroom or campus. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at what online courses are and how they differ from training courses. We’ll explain the benefits of including online courses on your CV and the steps to include them. Lastly, we’ll explore some examples of online learning platforms and courses specifically related to business support positions. 

What are online courses?

Online courses refer to educational programmes or classes that are delivered via the internet. These courses are designed to provide learners with a flexible and convenient way to acquire new knowledge, skills and competencies through various digital learning resources such as videos, lectures, quizzes, assignments and discussion forums. 

To better understand what online courses entail, consider the following details:

Price

Online courses can vary in price, with some being free and others costing thousands of pounds or dollars. Free courses may not offer certification or qualifications, while paid courses often do. Some online learning platforms offer subscription models and some charge per course. Other factors that influence the price of an online course can include the level of education, subject, institution and duration. 

Duration

The length of an online course can range from a few hours to several weeks or even years. Some courses are self-paced, allowing learners to complete the course in their own time, while others may have a set schedule with deadlines for assignments and assessments.

Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of online courses is the flexibility they offer. Learners can study when and where they want, as long as they have an internet connection. This is particularly beneficial for people with busy schedules or those who cannot attend traditional classes due to work, family or other commitments.

Mode of delivery

Online courses can be delivered in various ways, including pre-recorded videos, live video conferencing, written materials, quizzes, interactive simulations and more. 

Most online courses can be viewed on a desktop, tablet or smartphone, making the course content easy to access wherever you are, any time of day. 

Instructors

Online courses may be taught by industry experts or experienced educators. Some courses may also have teaching assistants or mentors to provide additional support to learners.

Location

Since online courses are delivered over the internet, learners can participate from anywhere in the world. This means that learners can access courses from top institutions in other countries without having to travel.

Certification

Online courses can cover a wide range of subjects and topics and may or may not offer certificates or qualifications upon completion. 

Support and resources

Online courses can provide learners with access to various resources such as online libraries, course materials, discussion forums and technical support. These resources can help learners to better understand the course content, interact with other learners and resolve any technical issues.

Interaction and collaboration

Online courses can offer opportunities for learners to interact and collaborate with other learners, instructors and experts from different parts of the world. This can enhance their learning experience, help them to develop new skills and expand their network.

Assessment and feedback

Online courses may have different assessment methods, such as quizzes, assignments, exams or projects. Learners may receive feedback from instructors or peers, which can help them to identify areas for improvement and enhance their learning outcomes.

Most online learning platforms also allow students to rate lessons and instructors. This helps to keep the online course content and user experience updated and relevant to the learners’ needs and preferences. The feedback provided by students can also help instructors improve their teaching methods and course materials for future students.

Online courses vs training courses

An online course and a training course share similarities in that they both offer learning experiences designed to enhance knowledge and skills in a specific area. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Online courses

Online courses are educational programmes delivered over the internet. They are typically self-paced and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. They may cover a wide range of subjects and topics and can be offered by educational institutions, universities or independent organisations. 

Training courses

Training courses are designed to provide specific skills and knowledge related to a particular job or industry. They are typically instructor-led and may be offered in a classroom setting, on the job or through a combination of both. 

Training courses may also be tailored to meet the specific needs of an organisation or industry. 

While online courses are primarily designed for educational purposes and can cover a wide range of subjects, training courses focus on developing specific skills and knowledge required for a particular job or industry. 

Why should you include online courses in your CV?

Including online courses in your CV can be a great way to showcase your skills, knowledge and commitment to professional development. Here are a few more reasons why you should consider including online courses in your CV:

Demonstrate continuous learning

Including online courses in your CV demonstrates that you have a strong desire for continuous learning and a commitment to self-improvement. This can show potential employers that you are willing to invest time and effort into your professional development, which can be an attractive quality.

Increases your skill set

Online courses can be a great way to learn new skills and acquire knowledge in areas that are relevant to your profession. Including these courses in your CV can show that you have a diverse set of skills and are well-rounded in your field.

Highlight your expertise

Online courses can help you specialise in a specific area of your field. By including these courses in your CV, you can show potential employers that you have expertise in a particular area and are dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and practices.

Shows initiative

Including online courses in your CV can show that you’ve taken the initiative to learn and develop your skills on your own. This can demonstrate to potential employers that you are proactive and can work independently, which can be a valuable asset in many support roles.

Stay abreast of new technology

Many online courses are focused on teaching the latest technology and software skills that are relevant to your industry. By taking these courses, you can ensure you are up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and trends.

Including these courses in your CV can demonstrate to potential employers that you have a strong understanding of technology and are able to adapt to new tools and software quickly. 

What steps should you take when including online courses in your resume?

When deciding which courses to include on your resume, it’s important to include courses that effectively showcase your skills, knowledge and commitment to professional development. 

When including online courses in your resume, here are some steps you should take: 

1. Choose relevant courses

Choose online courses that are relevant to the job or industry you’re applying for. Look for courses that align with your career goals and that demonstrate your expertise in those areas.

2. Include course details

When listing online courses in your resume, include the course title, course provider and date of completion. If the course is particularly relevant to the job, you may also want to include a brief description of what you learned and how it can be applied to the role.

3. Organise them properly

Organise your online courses in a separate section of your CV, typically under the education or professional development heading. You may want to consider grouping them by topic or skill to make it easier for employers to see your areas of expertise.

4. Highlight certifications

If the online course offers a certificate of completion or a recognised credential, make sure to highlight this in your resume. This can demonstrate to employers that you have achieved a certain level of mastery in a particular area, which can be an added advantage.

5. Be honest

Be honest about the online courses you’ve taken and the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired. Avoid exaggerating or misrepresenting your experience and make sure you can speak knowledgeably about the courses you have taken if asked during an interview.

Online course platforms 

When it comes to online courses for support-related positions, there are a variety of courses and platforms to choose from. Let’s take a look at some popular online learning platforms for business professionals: 

LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning is a popular online learning platform offering a wide range of courses and tutorials to help professionals develop new skills and advance their careers. 

From business and technology to administration and personal development, LinkedIn Learning offers a flexible and convenient way to learn and grow. 

The platform also offers personalised recommendations based on your interests and career goals, making it easy to find the courses that are right for you. 

Whether you are interested in a career as an executive assistant or you would like to brush up on your administration skills, LinkedIn Learning offers a library of courses at your fingertips. 

• Owned by LinkedIn, offers courses on business, technology and creative skills
• Subscription-based model, with access to over 16,000 courses
• A monthly subscription cost, with a one-month free trial
• Courses are designed by industry experts, with video-based content, quizzes and assignments
• A certificate of completion is available for each course, which can be shared on LinkedIn
• Available in Simplified Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish

Udemy

Udemy is a leading online learning platform that offers a vast library of courses on a wide range of topics. Udemy is a go-to destination for anyone looking to learn new skills, refresh their existing knowledge or advance their career. 

If you’re looking for an event coordinator job, then a course like Udemy’s Successful Events: Event Planning, Marketing & Management Course could help you elevate your resume and stand out from the crowd.  

Udemy courses are created and taught by industry experts, so you can be confident that you’re learning from knowledgeable and experienced instructors. With lifetime access to course materials and the ability to learn at your own pace, Udemy makes learning accessible and convenient for everyone.

• Offers courses on a wide range of subjects, including business, technology and personal development
• Individual course-based model, with over 155,000 courses to choose from
• Course prices vary, with frequent sales and discounts available
• Courses are designed by instructors from around the world, with video-based content, quizzes and assignments
• A certificate of completion is available for each course
• Available in over 70 languages

Coursera

Coursera is a popular online learning platform that partners with top universities and organisations to offer courses, certificates and degree programs in various fields. 

Coursera provides learners with an opportunity to learn from some of the world’s best instructors and universities, including Yale, Stanford and Duke. 

The platform offers a range of learning options, including video lectures, quizzes and assignments and also provides learners with a community of peers to collaborate and learn with.

• Offers courses, certificates and degrees from top universities and institutions
• Individual course-based and subscription-based models, with over 7000 courses to choose from
• Coursera offers a subscription model and a 7-day free trial
• A certificate of completion is available for each course and some courses offer accredited certificates
• Available in multiple languages

MasterClass

MasterClass is an online learning platform that offers courses taught by some of the world’s most successful and renowned experts in various fields, including writing, cooking, filmmaking and more. 

MasterClass provides learners with a unique opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and gain insights into their creative processes and techniques. 

The platform offers high-quality video lessons, interactive exercises and community forums that allow learners to engage with each other and receive feedback from instructors. 

MasterClass courses are designed to inspire and challenge learners to develop their skills and pursue their passions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, MasterClass offers a creative and engaging learning experience that can help you take your skills to the next level.

• Subscription-based model, with access to over 100 courses
• An annual subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee
• Courses are designed and taught by experts in their respective fields, with video-based content and interactive assignments
• No certificates are available for completion
• Available in English

Online courses in CV examples

If you are looking to enrol in an online course to improve your resume, then here are a few examples of courses to consider: 

Administrative and Office Assistant Course

Udemy’s Administrative and Office Assistant course provides an overview of the skills needed to become a successful administrative assistant, including communication, organisation and time management. This course can be a valuable addition to the CV of someone seeking a job in administrative support.

Excel Essential Training

LinkedIn Learning offers an in-depth course that covers the basics of Excel, including functions, formulas and charts. This course can be a valuable addition to the CV of someone seeking a job in administration, office management or accounting.

Business Writing

Coursera’s Business Writing course covers the basics of effective communication in the workplace, including email etiquette, writing style and tone. This course can be a valuable addition to the CV of someone seeking a job in an office environment or as a team assistant. 

Project Management

Udemy offers courses on project management that cover the fundamentals of project planning, budgeting and execution. These courses can be a valuable addition to the CV of someone seeking a job in project management or operations.

Human Resources

LinkedIn Learning offers courses on human resources that cover the basics of recruitment, performance management and employee relations. These courses can be a valuable addition to the CV of someone seeking a job in human resources or talent acquisition.

FAQS

Do online courses belong on your resume? 

Yes, online courses can be a valuable addition to your resume as they demonstrate your commitment to learning and development, as well as your skills and knowledge in a particular area.

How to list online courses on a resume

When listing courses on your resume, follow the same format as listing traditional courses.  Include the course title, the institution or provider where you completed the course, the date of completion and any relevant skills or knowledge you gained from the course.

How to list training on a resume 

To list training on your resume, include the type of training, the institution or provider where you completed the training, the date of completion and any relevant skills or knowledge you gained from the training.

Online course on a resume example 

Here is an example of how to list an online course on your resume: “Advanced Excel Techniques,” LinkedIn Learning, completed in April 2023, gained proficiency in advanced Excel functions and data analysis.

Should I put Udemy courses on my resume?

You can include Udemy courses on your resume if they are relevant to the job you are applying for and have helped you develop relevant skills or knowledge. Be sure to list the course title, completion date and any relevant skills or knowledge gained.

How to list Coursera courses on my resume?

To list Coursera courses on your resume, include the course title, institution (Coursera), date of completion and relevant skills or knowledge gained. You can also include any certifications or badges earned through the course.

Conclusion

Online courses offer a flexible and cost-effective way to upskill and stay competitive in an ever-changing job space. 

By enrolling in online courses, you can elevate your resume, showcase your commitment to learning and development, gain new knowledge and improve your existing skills – making you a more valuable candidate in the job market. 

Platforms such as LinkedIn Learning, Udemy and Coursera offer a wide range of support and administrative online courses, making it easy for you to find courses relevant to your career goals. 

If you are looking for a job in business support then visit our vacancies page to view our current job openings.  

Find more CV guides here.