Short courses are programmes that teach specific skills and knowledge in a short amount of time. You can take them to learn something new, improve your skills, or boost your career. Additionally, these courses aren’t just for work—you can also take them to grow personally or learn a hobby. They offer options for beginners and those with more experience, so these courses can fit everyone.
As the name suggests, short courses don’t take long to finish. Most of them last between 3 to 6 months. They also use different learning methods to fit your needs. For example, you can study online courses, attend in-person classes, or do a mix of both (hybrid learning). These courses are not only a great way to learn outside of traditional school, but you'll also get to focus on what’s important to you.
Are short courses worth it?
The simple answer is yes, learning through short courses is always worth it. These quick and flexible programmes have benefits that will help you educationally, professionally, and personally. These courses are also cheaper than a degree thus making it more available for more people. Below are a couple of reasons describing why short courses are worth it.
Gives certification
Some people are taking short courses because of this very reason. Having a certificate of completion can serve as proof that you are knowledgeable and skilled in a specific area.
Learn skills
Aside from the certification, people also take it because they want to learn new skills. One example of this in particular is AutoCAD. Some professionals may have the degree but still do not know AutoCAD. Some may also know the basics but not more than that. So to fill that gap, they take short courses to fit into their roles academically and skillfully.
Widens network
When you take a specific programme, you meet people interested in the same fields as yours. In this way, you can broaden your network in the industry you are working or interested in.
Degree trial
Taking a whole degree can be overwhelming and you may not know yet if you truly want the courses. And so, by taking short courses, you can test out if you can commit to the degree that you want to take.
Trying a new path
You may be bored or just want to try a new path different from what you are used to. Taking a short course can help you test out other things that you want to try. Whether it be for a new hobby or a new line of work, the same is applicable.
Although short courses provide valuable skills and knowledge, they are not the same as earning a degree. Since these types of courses are completed in a shorter time, they often cover topics in less depth compared to a degree programme. As a result, completing a short course doesn’t offer the same broad opportunities that a degree can provide.
Getting a job with short courses
In today’s job market, some employers do not look for a degree but still require specific skills. Through these quick courses, you can, consequently, gain skills and be a strong candidate for these positions. To enumerate that further, below is the list of jobs and courses that you can take to gain the required skills:
Tech & digital fields
- Web Developer/Designer
- Skills Required: Firstly, if you want to be a Web Developer/Designer, you need to know how to code using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You also need to understand web design and UX/UI design so you can create websites that look good and are easy to use.
- Courses to Take:
- HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Courses
- Front-End Development
- UX Design
- WordPress Development
- Responsive Web Design
- IT Support Specialist
- Skills Required: Following that, as an IT Support Specialist, you'll need to be good at solving technical problems, setting up computer networks, and working with different operating systems. You'll also have to make sure that everything is secure and works smoothly.
- Courses to Take:
- CompTIA A+ Certification
- Networking Fundamentals
- IT Troubleshooting and Support
- Operating Systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals
- Cloud Computing Basics (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud)
- Data Analyst
- Skills Required: Furthermore, a Data Analyst needs to be good at organising data, analysing numbers, and using programmes to show data in charts or graphs. This helps businesses understand information and make better decisions.
- Courses to Take:
- Microsoft Excel for Data Analysis
- SQL for Beginners
- Google Analytics
- Data Visualisation (Tableau, Power BI)
- Python for Data Science
Creative & design fields
- Graphic Designer
- Skills Required: Moreover, to become a Graphic Designer, you need to be skilled with design software like Photoshop or Illustrator. You'll also need to know how to use fonts, colours, and images to create designs that communicate ideas clearly and look appealing.
- Courses to Take:
- Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator
- Logo Design
- Typography
- Visual Communication
- Web and Print Design
- Photographer/Videographer
- Skills Required: Similarly, as a Photographer or Videographer, you need to know how to take great photos, shoot videos, and edit them using software. Understanding lighting and composition is important to make sure your images and videos look professional.
- Courses to Take:
- DSLR Photography
- Video Production and Editing
- Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro
- Lighting for Photography and Video
- Portrait and Landscape Photography
- Copywriter/Content Writer
- Skills Required: On the other hand, if you're a Copywriter or Content Writer, you'll need to be great at writing. You'll also need to learn SEO, and how to create engaging content for websites, blogs, or social media.
- Courses to Take:
- Creative Writing or Copywriting
- SEO Writing Techniques
- Content Marketing Strategy
- Blogging for Business
- Editing and Proofreading Skills
- Social Media Copywriting
Marketing & sales
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Skills Required: Additionally, a Digital Marketing Specialist should be good at SEO, social media, content marketing, and using analytics to help companies grow online. You'll help create strategies that drive traffic and increase sales through digital platforms.
- Courses to Take:
- Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
- Social Media Marketing
- Google Analytics Certification
- Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising (Google Ads)
- Content Marketing Strategy
- Email Marketing
- Social Media Manager
- Skills Required: Likewise, if you want to be a Social Media Manager, you’ll need to know how to plan social media strategies, create content, and use analytics to understand how well your posts are doing. You’ll be in charge of building an online community and keeping people engaged.
- Courses to Take:
- Social Media Strategy
- Content Creation and Editing
- Social Media Advertising (Facebook Ads, Instagram Ads)
- Social Media Analytics
- Community Management
- Sales Representative
- Skills Required: Lastly, as a Sales Representative, you’ll need excellent communication skills to talk to customers, understand their needs, and sell them products. You'll also need to learn sales techniques and how to use CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools to manage customer interactions.
- Courses to Take:
- Sales Techniques and Strategies
- Negotiation Skills
- CRM Tools (Salesforce)
- Persuasion and Influence in Sales
- Telephone Sales and Communication Skills
Trades & practical fields
- Electrician
- Skills Required: Although, if you’re interested in becoming an Electrician instead, you’ll need to know how to install electrical systems, follow safety rules, and work with wiring. In this manner, you can, henceforth, ensure you'll safely set up and fix electrical systems in homes or businesses.
- Courses to Take:
- Electrical Installation and Safety Certification
- National Electrical Code (NEC) Training
- Residential and Commercial Wiring
- Renewable Energy Systems (Solar, etc.)
- Plumber
- Skills Required: Finally, as a Plumber, you’ll need to learn how to install pipes, fix leaks, and work with water systems. You'll also need to understand the safety rules to make sure plumbing systems work properly and safely.
- Courses to Take:
- Plumbing Basics and Techniques
- Gas and Pipefitting Training
- Water Systems Installation and Maintenance
- Safety Standards in Plumbing
Wrap it up!
To summarise, short courses are a great way to learn about things that interest you! While they may not cover everything a full degree would, they still offer valuable knowledge. They’re especially helpful for people who can't afford traditional education or just want to learn something new and exciting without having to fully commit.
In conclusion, learning comes in many different forms, and short courses give you the flexibility to choose what works best for you. Whether it’s a quick skill boost, trying something new and exciting, or exploring a new interest, they’re a great option that fits your schedule and goals!
What short courses can I do online?
There is a multitude of online short courses available for study, and learning is always worth it! At the College of Contract Management, we offer exciting short courses that help you build skills and prepare for your dream career. Whether you’re exploring new interests or getting ready for the future, we’ve got courses designed just for you.
