A major concern for anyone interested online courses is whether employers will take their qualifications seriously. The idea of an affordable learning experience is appealing, but what use is it if it won’t get you the job you want? Qualifications need accreditation from a reputable institution if they’re going to mean anything to prospective employers, right?
Not necessarily. It’s possible to experience the benefits of affordable online courses that are certified by top universities around the U.S. and the world when you enroll in edX.
Below, we’re sharing everything you should know about edX’s courses and what you can expect to gain from enrolling.
Overview of edX
edX is the result of a collaboration between Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). These esteemed universities wanted to make their education accessible to all. So what did they do? They launched a massive open online course (MOOC) initiative. Created in 2012, edX appealed to people that were looking for affordable courses from both these universities and many other education providers.
Today, edX provides courses at many levels and in a wide variety of academic subjects. The online learning platform currently has over 35m users and offers over 3,000 courses.
Programs Offered on edX
edX offers a variety of programs that cater to all learners and professional goals. They offer everything from full online degree programs, including college credit-eligible courses, to professional education courses to microcredentials such as MicroMasters programs and MicroBachelors programs. These options provide a range of opportunities for adult learners and non-traditional students to advance their education and careers.
When it comes to the structure of edX courses, learners can expect a well-rounded experience that covers course length and workload, course format, and interaction with instructors and fellow students. Most courses on edX last anywhere from four to twelve weeks, with a weekly workload of 2-6 hours. The course format typically includes video lectures, readings, and quizzes to ensure comprehensive understanding and engagement. Additionally, edX courses often facilitate interaction with instructors and peers through discussion forums, providing valuable networking and collaboration opportunities.
The following list includes options you can choose from on the edX online platform:
Stand-Alone Courses
edX offers individual courses covering 100+ topics. These are great for people who want to focus on a single topic or learn a specific skill. Course levels range from basic material in a subject to advanced subjects. You can access the course for free for a limited amount of time. The upgraded fee-based courses give you unlimited access to the course material, access to graded assignments and tests and support services. You will receive a certificate upon completing the program.
edX Micro-Bachelors
This is a great option for anyone who wants a cheaper pathway to earning their bachelor’s degree. It’s also great option for anyone looking to advance their career or pivot into a different path. EdX offers micro-bachelor programs in the following areas:
edX Micro-Masters
Similar to the micro-bachelor’s, EdX’s micro-master’s program is an affordable way to earn master’s level college credit. EdX offers micro-masters programs in the following areas:
edX XSeries
The edX XSeries is a series of courses in consisting of 2 or more courses in a given subject. This is a great option for anyone looking to develop a deeper understanding of a subject of their choice. Some examples of the courses offered within the XSeries includes
edX Professional Certificates
EdX offers professional certificate programs which are comprised of anywhere between two to six courses. These programs are great if you’re looking to upskill to improve your career. They are also great for anyone who wants to learn a new subject.
Master’s Degrees
edX offers full master’s degrees from accredited universities around the world. The degrees are affordable, offered entirely online and taught by professors at some of the most renowned institutions in the world.
How Does edX Differ from Coursera and Udemy?
While Coursera and Udemy work in partnership with many top education providers, edX was created and is organized by two of the most prestigious universities in the world. This significantly increases the platform’s appeal to prospective employers.
When comparing edX and Coursera, two leading online learning platforms, it is essential to consider various factors, such as course offerings, pricing and payment options, and the overall learning experience. Both platforms provide a wide range of subject areas and unique courses, but it is crucial to explore each platform’s catalog to identify which one offers the specific programs you are interested in.
Pricing and payment options differ between edX and Coursera. While edX mainly operates on a pay-per-course model, Coursera offers subscription-based pricing for some of its course series and Specializations. Both platforms provide financial assistance and scholarships to eligible learners, ensuring accessibility to quality education for all.
The learning experience on both platforms is also an important aspect to consider. Factors such as platform interface, usability, and the quality of course materials and instruction can impact a learner’s overall satisfaction and success. While personal preferences may vary, exploring user reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the learning experiences offered by edX and Coursera.
Other advantages of edX compared to Coursera and Udemy include:
- A wider range of programs. Coursera specializes in programs that prepare individuals for tech careers, and Udemy’s focus also leans towards tech, finance, and marketing. However, in addition to programs in these areas, edX offers a huge variety of academic subjects such as literature, law, sciences, and economics. These subjects are typically harder to find high-level online study programs for.
- Availability of free programs. edX offers over 2,000 free courses, which makes it unique among MOOC providers. These courses are provided through institutions like Harvard University without an expensive tuition, which reinforces the company’s goal of providing high-level education for learners of any means.
- More options at a higher level. A major limitation of Coursera and Udemy is that they can only offer a few advanced degree programs. However, edX offers many full online Master’s programs in addition to its wide range of affordable certificate programs. It also offers micro-degree programs. These micro-degrees are known on edX as MicroBachelor’s and MicroMaster’s programs, which provide targeted learning at the level you’d find in a college degree.
Benefits of Learning Through edX’s Programs
EdX offers numerous advantages for adult learners and non-traditional students seeking accessible, affordable, and career-enhancing education. Flexibility and accessibility are at the core of edX learning, as the platform allows for self-paced learning and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This enables learners to manage their education alongside personal and professional commitments.
Another significant benefit of edX is its affordability. Many courses offer free access to course materials, and the platform provides cost-effective certificate programs that enable learners to showcase their acquired skills and knowledge. This cost-saving aspect is particularly appealing to those looking to advance their careers without incurring significant financial burdens.
Lastly, edX learning helps expand career opportunities by allowing learners to gain new skills and credentials. Moreover, the platform fosters networking and collaboration opportunities through interaction with instructors and fellow students, which can lead to valuable connections in one’s chosen field.
Below we highlight the key benefits of learning through edX.
- Accreditation at the highest level. Harvard University and MIT provide many of the courses available on the online learning platform. These are massive names in education that will be recognized and respected by any employer. edX also collaborates with other big names in higher education, such as the University of California Berkeley and Boston University.
- Choose your level. Whether you’re looking to start from scratch learning an employable skill like coding in Python or looking to advance your career to the next level with an online master’s degree, edX has a pathway for you. The range of education levels available from this edX is unparalleled in online learning. This also means that you can study successive programs through the learning platform, gradually building up your knowledge base from beginner to expert.
- 24/7 availability. Content on many programs is available 24/7 and can be studied at your own pace. This is ideal for adult learners with full-time jobs, as a major obstacle to reskilling is finding the time for coursework. This 24/7 availability also makes programs on the MicroBachelor’s and MicroMaster’s degrees more accessible to students who wish to pursue a masters education while also balancing work and family life.
- Education from top experts. The courses are designed and taught by leading experts in a wide variety of fields. This means that you’ll be learning from the best, which is appealing to prospective employers.
- Professional certificates. Although a major advantage of edX is the broad range of academic courses it offers, it also provides high-level professional certificates designed to appeal to employers.
Navigating edX Classes
When exploring edX classes, it is essential to find the right course that aligns with your learning goals. Browsing the course catalog and utilizing filters and search features can help narrow down suitable options, allowing you to make informed decisions. EdX offers an extensive range of courses and subject areas, so spending time on research ensures you find the perfect fit for your educational journey.
Enrolling in edX courses is a straightforward process. Once you have identified the course you wish to take, you can register and choose between auditing the course for free or pursuing a verified track that comes with a certificate upon completion. The verified track typically involves a fee, but it provides additional benefits, such as graded assignments and a shareable certificate.
Managing your edX account is simple and user-friendly, allowing easy access to course materials and the ability to track progress and grades. Staying organized and keeping track of your performance can help you achieve success in your chosen courses.
Are There Pre-Requisites You Need Prior to Enrolling?
Some online courses offered by edX will require you to have a certain level of knowledge before you apply. For example, you’ll need evidence of previous learning before being accepted for a full master’s degree (this could also have been obtained through edX).
That being said, many courses are available to learners of any level and don’t require an application. The platform offers a learning experience that suits the knowledge level and needs of all kinds of users. For more information about the requirements for enrolling in these courses, browse the list of available programs.
Cost to Enroll in an edX Program
In addition to the 2,000+ free programs offered by the platform, edX offers many accredited, affordable courses that provide a high level of education or training. The cost varies depending on the program offered and the subject — you can find out more by clicking on a course.
Advanced programs like master’s degrees will naturally cost more than entry-level certificates but are still very affordable courses compared to the amount you’d have to spend paying high tuition rates at some colleges. The Micro courses also mean that you can obtain a college-level learning experience in a specific area without paying for the cost of a full degree.
Maximizing Your edX Experience
To make the most of your edX experience, it is crucial to adopt effective online learning strategies, such as time management and scheduling, as well as active engagement and participation. By setting aside dedicated study time and actively engaging with course materials, you can enhance your learning outcomes and overall satisfaction.
Leveraging edX resources can also contribute to a successful learning experience. Utilize discussion forums and course FAQs to clarify doubts, share insights, and learn from others. Connecting with instructors and peers can not only deepen your understanding of the course material but also expand your professional network.
Finally, applying your newfound knowledge and skills is essential for reaping the full benefits of your edX experience. Showcase your achievements on your resume and LinkedIn profile to attract potential employers and demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning. Furthermore, consider pursuing further education and career opportunities to build on your edX experience and advance your professional journey.
Key Takeaways
edX offers perhaps the most diverse range of online learning experiences of any MOOC provider. With everything from free courses for beginners to master’s degrees available for an affordable rate, people of all skill levels have opportunities to reskill and build a diverse portfolio of qualifications.
edX’s online learning platform makes it possible to build your knowledge from entry-level to expert on your own schedule rather than attend weekly courses out of your normal routine. Overall, anybody looking for online courses from esteemed providers at affordable rates should definitely consider the opportunities edX offers.
For a list of other top platforms, check out the article Best Online Learning Platforms for Career Growth