Written by
Janosch Herrmann
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FutureLearn is a British online learning platform founded in 2012, offering a diverse range of courses developed by over 175 university partners globally. With more than 10 million learners, it's designed for students seeking full online degrees or university-level courses without the need for individual instructors.
Advantages of FutureLearn
FutureLearn stands out with its wide array of courses from top universities around the world, making it a prime choice for those looking to expand their knowledge with high-quality educational content. The platform is also known for its affordability, offering free access to many courses initially, with an option to upgrade to paid courses for extended features and certifications.
Disadvantages of FutureLearn
While FutureLearn offers many advantages, its limited free course access might be a drawback for users seeking long-term free educational resources. Additionally, the platform's course catalog, though extensive, may not cover all niche subjects, prompting some learners to seek alternatives with more specialized offerings.
FutureLearn
8.5
FutureLearn alternatives
Coursera
8.8
8.8
Coursera is a popular online learning platform that partners with top universities and organizations worldwide to offer a wide range of courses, specializations, and degrees. Similar to FutureLearn, Coursera provides access to university-level education, but with a larger course catalog and more comprehensive offerings in professional and technical skills.
- Extensive course catalog
- Offers professional certificates
- Flexible learning schedules
- Subscription can be pricey
- Some courses only in English
edX
8.6
8.6
edX is a massive open online course provider created by Harvard and MIT. It hosts online university-level courses in a wide range of disciplines to a worldwide student body, including some courses at no charge. It also offers MicroMasters, Professional Certificates, and Master's Degrees.
- Courses from prestigious universities
- Free courses available
- Offers full degrees and professional certificates
- Some courses can be expensive
- Limited personal interaction
Udemy
9.0
9.0
Udemy is a global online learning platform that offers a vast array of courses across various fields, from technology and business to personal development and hobbies. Unlike FutureLearn, which focuses on university-led courses, Udemy allows anyone to create and publish a course, making it a hub for practical, real-world skills and self-paced learning.
- Wide variety of courses
- Self-paced learning
- Frequent discounts
- Variable course quality
- No accredited degrees
LinkedIn Learning
8.7
8.7
LinkedIn Learning, formerly known as Lynda.com, is an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses focused on professional development. It provides courses in business, technology, and creative fields, designed to help users enhance their skills and advance their careers. Unlike FutureLearn, which focuses on university-style courses, LinkedIn Learning offers more practical, skill-based courses that are often shorter and more focused on specific skills.
- Skill-based courses
- Courses for career advancement
- Flexible learning schedule
- Less academic focus
- Subscription required
Skillshare
8.3
8.3
Skillshare is an American online learning community for people who want to learn from educational videos. The courses, which are not accredited, are available through subscription. The majority of courses focus on interaction rather than lecturing, with the primary goal of learning by completing a project. Skillshare is particularly useful for artists, designers, and other creative professionals who are looking to improve their skills or learn new techniques.
- Project-based learning
- Wide variety of creative courses
- Supports learning by doing
- Affordable pricing
- Community-driven learning
- Not accredited
- Limited offerings outside creative fields
Udacity
8.2
8.2
Udacity is an online learning platform that specializes in technology and data science courses, offering 'Nanodegree' programs designed to provide job-ready skills. Unlike FutureLearn, which offers a broad range of university-partnered courses, Udacity focuses on tech-specific skills in collaboration with industry leaders like Google and Microsoft.
- Industry-relevant tech courses
- Partnerships with tech giants
- Project-based learning
- Higher cost
- Narrower course focus
Khan Academy
7.2
7.2
Khan Academy is a non-profit educational organization that provides free online courses, lessons, and practice exercises. It covers a wide range of subjects from mathematics to arts and humanities. The platform is well-known for its comprehensive, easy-to-understand tutorials and interactive exercises that cater to learners of all ages.
- Free access to all content
- Interactive exercises
- Self-paced learning
- Less focus on higher education courses
- No accredited degrees