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40 Best Information Technology Courses Online

Rankings of IT degrees, e-learning programs, free beginner courses, and courses with certificates.

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Start or boost a tech career with an IT course online. Job opportunities are available in app development, big data, business analysis, cybersecurity, data science, software development, systems admin, web development, and more.

Whether you're a beginner or a professional, there is something for everyone on these lists. Let's break down the options to choose from, including online university degrees, e-learning courses, and free courses for beginners. Here are 40 of the best online IT courses.

Index of IT Courses Online

Top 10 Training Courses for Beginners

We searched far and wide for the best IT courses for beginners. You can start these extended and short courses anytime. All have high ratings where reported. Some of them are free, or at least free to audit (browse through without assessment). You'll need to pay if you want a certificate of completion.

Provider Course Name Cost Topic Duration
Coursera Google IT Support Professional Certificate A$75/m Computer hardware, troubleshooting, customer service, networking, operating systems, security; CompTIA A+ exam preparation 100+ hours
Skillshare Technology Classes Online A$20/m IT basics, including web development, HTML, CSS, web design, JavaScript <15 mins to >60 min
edX IT Fundamentals: Programming Free / A$109 Logic behind computer programs, object-oriented programming, data types and structures, file types, database management 3 weeks, 3–6 hours per week
edX IT Fundamentals: Cybersecurity Free / A$109 Intellectual property, privacy and threats in cybersecurity, ICT and globalization, e-commerce, business strategy 3 weeks, 3–6 hours per week
Codeacademy Introduction to IT Free Computer basics, networks, operating systems and applications, software development, databases, cybersecurity 10 hours
CareerFoundry Data Analytics Short Course Free Data cleaning, descriptive statistics, data visualization, storytelling with data 2.5 hours
Udemy IT for beginners A$26.99 Basic IT concepts, software development, front-end and back-end development, application design, databases, cloud computing 1.5 hours
Udemy Absolute Beginners Guide to Cyber Security A$16.99 Cybersecurity concepts and terminology, basic IT concepts, cyber attacks and defense tactics 4.5 hours
Udemy Microsoft Excel from Beginner to Advanced A$79.99 Excel basics, functions, automation, data management, PivotTables, dynamic formulas 21 hours

Coursera - Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Google IT Support Professional Certificate is beginner-level preparation for an entry-level IT job in under six months. No degree or experience required. The program has 5 modules to provide foundational IT skills, including computer hardware, troubleshooting, customer service, networking, operating systems, and security. Content is interactive, including hands-on labs and assessments. It's developed by Google employees. The course serves as prep for the CompTIA A+ certification exam. You'll need a Coursera subscription, with as estimated cost of A$75 per month.

Skillshare - Technology Classes Online

Access a wide range of short beginner courses in IT with Skillshare's Online Technology Classes. They range in length from under 15 minutes to over an hour. Categories include web development, programming, HTML, CSS, web design, JavaScript, game design, product management, coding, and data science. Platform memberships cost A$20+ per month after a free trial.

edX – IT Fundamentals: Programming

IT Fundamentals for Business Professionals: Programming is a free, self-paced, 3-week course designed to introduce professionals with no IT background to the basics of software programming. You'll cover topics such as the logic behind computer programs, object-oriented programming, data types and structures, file types, database management and SQL language, and web development concepts including HTML, XML, CSS and JavaScript. Students learn how to interact with IT specialists and pass the CLEP ISCA exam. A verified certificate is available for a A$109 fee. The course is part of a larger series designed to introduce non-IT professionals to the world of Information Technology.

edX – IT Fundamentals: Cybersecurity

IT Fundamentals for Business Professionals: Cybersecurity and social implications is part of a series of 5 introductory courses. The series provides non-technical professionals with basic IT knowledge to interact more effectively with IT specialists in their company. For this course, students explore cybersecurity concepts related to intellectual property, privacy, and threats, as well as the effects of ICT on globalization, e-commerce, and business strategy. The training is self-paced and takes 3 weeks to complete, with 3-6 hours of study per week. It is free to audit (browse through). For a verified certificate, the price is A$109, which includes graded assignments and exams.

Codeacademy – Introduction to IT

Introduction to IT is a free course for beginners. It's self-paced, with approximately 10 hours to complete, and requires no prior knowledge. Topics include computer basics, networks, operating systems and applications, software development, databases, and cybersecurity The program contains six lessons, one project, and seven quizzes, providing hands-on learning through an online interactive platform. Upon completion, a certificate is available with a paid plan, which costs around A$25 per month. The creator, Alex DiStasi, is a curriculum developer in computer science. Reviews from learners are positive, with comments about an interactive and practical nature.

CareerFoundry – Data Analytics Short Course

Data Analytics Short Course is a free 5-day program delivered to your email inbox, with one 15-minute tutorial per day. The course is designed for beginners and covers topics such as data cleaning, descriptive statistics, data visualisation, and storytelling with data. Each tutorial has a video introduction, a written lesson, a hands-on task, and an interactive quiz. It's self-paced and takes around 15 minutes per tutorial. As well as being cost-free and commitment-free, no prerequisites are required. If you love the course and want to pursue a career in data analytics, CareerFoundry offers a full Data Analytics Program that takes you from beginner to a job-ready data analyst in as little as five months.

Udemy – IT for beginners | IT for dummies

IT for beginners | IT for dummies | IT for non-IT is designed for non-technical professionals who work in an IT environment. The aim is to improve your understanding of basic IT concepts and the software development process. Topics include front-end and back-end development, application design, databases, cloud computing, and IoT. The course is taught by Maaike van Putten, a professional software developer and IT trainer. It has a 4.4 rating out of 5 from 1,477 ratings, and has been taken by over 5,200 students. You can study this for a one-time fee of $26.99, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Udemy – Absolute Beginners Guide to Cyber Security

Absolute Beginners Guide to Cyber Security 2023 - Part 1 covers topics such as malware, hacking, encryption, phishing, worms, biometrics, and more. The course is intended for those interested in becoming cyber security professionals or students who want to have well-rounded knowledge of the basic concepts used in information security. Priced at A$69.99, the course has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 and has been taken by over 82,000 students. Included are 4.5 hours of on-demand video, 4 articles, 1 downloadable resource, and a certificate of completion.

Udemy – Microsoft Excel from Beginner to Advanced

Microsoft Excel - Excel from Beginner to Advanced is suitable for anyone looking to improve their Excel skills, regardless of prior knowledge. The course includes 21 hours of on-demand video, 12 articles, and 51 downloadable resources. Topics include: building a solid foundation, managing large sets of data, using Excel's most popular functions, creating dynamic reports with PivotTables, auditing Excel worksheet formulas, and automating tasks with Macros and VBA. The course has a 4.7 rating out of 5 from over 357,000 ratings and has been completed by over 1.2 million students. It's available from Udemy for A$79.99.

10 Best Online Learning Platforms for Tech

Online learner at computer

As an IT professional, continuous learning and upskilling are essential. Online learning platforms have become a popular and flexible way to acquire new skills and knowledge, and there are many options to choose from. Here, we narrow down the top 10 course platforms for tech professionals. User ratings statistics from G2 were used to inform this rankings list.

1. Pluralsight Skills

Pluralsight Skills is a subscription-based platform providing video-based courses and hands-on learning opportunities to IT professionals. The extensive course library includes cloud computing, cybersecurity, and software development. Progress tracking and interactive assessments are included.

2. LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning offers a vast library of online courses on various IT topics, including web development, data science, and programming. Features include personalised recommendations, certificates of completion, and access to instructors for Q&A.

3. Coursera

Coursera is a well-known site that partners with universities and organisations to offer IT courses, specialisations, and degree programs. Programs span multiple areas of IT, including data science, programming, and cybersecurity.

4. CBT Nuggets

CBT Nuggets offers IT pros access to video courses and virtual labs by subscription. The platform focuses on IT certifications and provides training for cloud computing, network infrastructure, and security. It also offers progress tracking and practice exams.

5. Cloud Academy

Cloud Academy trains users in cloud computing, DevOps, and cybersecurity. Interactive labs, assessments, and quizzes help students improve their skills and prepare for certifications.

6. Udacity

Udacity develops practical skills in areas such as AI, data science, and cloud computing. Programs feature projects, mentor support, and career services.

7. A Cloud Guru

A Cloud Guru delivers subscription-based training for cloud computing professionals. Different cloud platforms and tools are covered, including AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. It also provides hands-on labs and quizzes for learners to apply their knowledge.

8. ITPro

ITPro is a subscription service that provides on-demand courses, labs, and practice exams. IT fields covered include security, networking, and project management.

9. GoSkills

GoSkills delivers online training in areas such as Excel, project management, and cybersecurity. Courses include practical exercises, quizzes, and progress tracking. Learners can earn certificates of completion.

10. INE

INE has courses on cloud computing, cybersecurity, networking, and more. The platform provides virtual labs, practice exams, and quizzes, along with instructor-led training and boot camps.

10 Best Degree Fields at Australian Universities

Australian universities offer a huge range of courses in IT, including bachelor's and master's degrees, and specialisations in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cyber security. Online study options provide flexibility and convenience.

Graduates come away with a university degree or other qualification, along with skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen field. Let's explore what's in demand in Australia.

Degrees from Australian Universities

10 Certificates and Diplomas from Australia

Launch or further your career in Information Technology with a fully accredited certificate or diploma. You can study online for all of these courses, which we selected for program quality and the value of the qualification.

Each vocational course provides a pathway into an IT career, with qualification strength rising from Cert III, to Cert IV, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma. The Australian Government and state governments often provide subsidies for such programs, including apprenticeship discounts.

Lumify Learn - Certificate III in Information Technology

The ICT30120 Certificate III in Information Technology is a 12-month online program that covers ICT disciplines such as web development, programming, and networking. It includes 12 units and 3 streams: Supporting Clients and Systems, Configure and Support User Environments, and Cyber Security and Development. Fees can be paid as an upfront payment of $3,825, with loan options available. Potential jobs include Help Desk Officer, ICT Operations Support, Network Support Officer, ICT Technician, and Web Developer.

Certificate III in Information Technology – ICT30120

Certificate III in Information Technology (ICT30120) is a versatile Australian qualification that builds skills for different ICT roles. The average duration is ten months, and the average course fee is $4,384. The program consists of 12 units: six core units and six elective units. The core subjects develop foundational skills in areas such as programming, database management, web development, cybersecurity, and project management. The elective units are divided into seven groups, covering areas such as animation, basic cloud computing, basic cyber awareness, digital media, generalist IT support, IT work-ready skills, and networking. There are no entry requirements.

Certificate IV in Cyber Security – Holmesglen

Certificate IV in Cyber Security (22603VIC) is an online, self-paced 16-unit program that takes 18 months part-time to complete. It provides practical skills and knowledge to work in a technical support role in a cyber security operations center. Topics include: identifying and reporting system vulnerabilities, network security basics, web security, and programming in Python. Graduates can work as a cyber security support officer, desktop support technician, security PEN tester, and more. The cost is $9,657 for full fee, $3,785 for government-subsidised, and $757 concession. The course is validated by leading IT companies, including Cisco Networking Academy, Microsoft Academy, and AWS Academy.

Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) – Upskilled

ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) is a nationally recognised course that prepares you for job roles like network administrator or computer technician. Get trained up in installing and managing small scale networks, troubleshooting and configuring IT equipment, and resolving common issues for clients. The course is offered online, with flexible study options available, and takes an average of 12-18 months to complete. It comprises of 20 units of competency. The course fee is $3,240, with flexible payment plans available. Students are able to connect and build rapport with their online trainers.

Certificate IV in Information Technology – ICT40120

ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology is a more advanced version of the Cert III course, developing a wider range of ICT skills and knowledge. Specialisations are available in database development, database maintenance, gaming development, networking, programming, systems administration support, and web development. The program consists of 7 core units and 13 elective units, with an average duration of 15 months and average course fee of $7,283. You'll gain skills in tech problem-solving, coding, cyber security, IP compliance, and emerging technologies. No entry requirements apply.

Diploma of Information Technology – AIICT

ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology offers three specialist streams: IT Networking, Website Development, and Cyber Security. The 100% online program can be completed in 18 months and includes 20 units divided into 4 streams. Students build knowledge and skills in categories such as cybersecurity, web development, cloud computing, networking, digital marketing, and more. Students can pay upfront for $5,175, with alternative payment options available. All courses are instructor-led. The program has been developed with industry bodies to meet market demands and prepare students for current and future job opportunities.

Diploma of Information Technology – TAFE Digital

ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology at TAFE Digital NSW is delivered online and has a duration of 1 year and 6 months. The course covers topics such as strategic planning, software development, network security, and project management. Packaged specialty units are available to meet industry demands. Students are required to commit at least 10 hours per week to class time and an additional 5 hours per week to self-study. The program has a full fee of $10,000 but free courses are possible for NSW residents. Students can access a range of support services to help them succeed, including career counselling and technical assistance.

Diploma of Information Technology – Monarch Institute

Diploma of Information Technology (ICT50220) from Monarch Institute offers two specialisations: front and back-end development, and cyber security and advanced networking. Students get free access to Pluralsight. The diploma is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework. With flexible learning options and expert guidance, students can develop the skills that employers want in the rapidly growing field of information technology. The course costs $4,250 upfront (20% discount) or $5,100 paid over 26 weeks. Government funding is available for eligible students in Victoria.

Diploma of Information Technology – ICT50220

ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology is designed for individuals with significant experience and/or training who are looking to specialise further. Fourteen specialisation are available in fields such as advanced networking, programming, web development, cyber security, and more. The program consists of 20 units, including 6 core units and 14 elective units. While there are no formal entry requirements, students are advantaged from having an IT certificate or experience in using IT networking technologies. The average course fee is $11,342 and the duration is 15 months. The qualification is available as an Australian Apprenticeship.

Advanced Diploma of Information Technology – ICT60220

ICT60220 Advanced Diploma of Information Technology is a higher-level qualification than other TAFE and vocational credentials in this field. Students are trained for more advanced and complex roles in the IT industry. You can develop skills in areas such as advanced data management, cyber security, full-stack web development, programming, IT strategy, systems analysis, and telecommunications network engineering. Programs contain 16 units, including 6 core units and 10 electives. Entry requirements are flexible but may include relevant work experience or previous ICT training. The course typically takes 16 months to complete and costs an average of $11,448.

† Online courses are available in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Gold Coast, Newcastle. Australia-wide.