LinkedIn Learning provides a variety of online training courses and videos covering topics like business, creative, and technology skills. With over 16,000 courses taught by industry experts, LinkedIn Learning aims to help professionals gain new skills and advance their careers.
How Much Do LinkedIn Learning Courses Cost?
LinkedIn Learning courses are not free. There are paid subscription plans that provide access to the full course library. Here are the main pricing options:
- Individual subscription: $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year
- Business subscription: Pricing varies based on number of seats; enterprise pricing available
- Free month trial: Get full access free for the first month
So while there is a free trial available, to continue accessing courses after the first month, a paid subscription is required. There is no option currently for accessing the full LinkedIn Learning library for free.
What Does a LinkedIn Learning Subscription Include?
A LinkedIn Learning subscription provides access to the full library of over 16,000 expert-led courses. Key features and benefits include:
- Stream courses on desktop, mobile, or apps
- Download courses for offline viewing
- English and multi-language course options
- New courses added each week
- Exercise files to supplement courses
- Earn certifications to showcase skills
- Integration with LinkedIn profile and networking
Subscriptions provide unlimited access so you can take as many courses as you want during your subscription period. Business subscriptions allow you to assign seats to multiple team members.
Topics Covered in LinkedIn Learning Courses
LinkedIn Learning offers courses across a diverse range of professional topics including:
| Topic | Example Courses |
|---|---|
| Business | Business strategy, leadership, project management, HR |
| Creative | Design, photography, video, music production |
| Technology | Programming languages, data science, cloud computing |
| Software | Microsoft Office, Tableau, Photoshop |
There are beginner level courses for those just getting started as well as more advanced training for experienced professionals. The platform makes it easy to identify courses for your skill level.
Most Popular LinkedIn Learning Paths
LinkedIn Learning organizes related courses into Learning Paths to help guide you through developing top professional skills. Here are some of the most popular Learning Paths on the platform:
- Become a Data Analyst
- Become a Project Manager
- Become a Software Developer
- Become a Graphic Designer
- Business Communications
The Learning Paths feature lets you efficiently focus on gaining the core skills for in-demand roles. They provide a curriculum of 10-30 courses to take in recommended order.
Instructors Teaching LinkedIn Learning Courses
What makes LinkedIn Learning stand out is its instructors. Courses are taught by true industry practitioners, not just trainers. Some of the top instructors include:
- Chris Croft – Business Strategy
- Miles Santo – Photography
- Britt Andreatta – Leadership & Management
- Alexis Puig – Visual Effects
- Morten Rand-Hendriksen – Web Development
With real-world professionals teaching the latest tactics in their fields, the courses go beyond just theory. LinkedIn vets instructors carefully so you learn from the best.
Course Formats and Learning Experience
Courses use a combination of learning formats to engage you and help concepts stick. The learning experience includes:
- Video tutorials demonstrating concepts
- Practice exercises to apply techniques
- Quizzes to check understanding
- Discussion forums for connecting with peers
- Certificates earned upon course completion
Most courses range from 1-6 hours long so you can progress through them at your own pace. Downloadable exercise files let you follow along and get hands-on with important software and tools.
Benefits of LinkedIn Learning
Here are some of the main benefits of using LinkedIn Learning for professional development:
- Relevant skills – Courses are kept updated and cover today’s most in-demand business, tech, and creative skills.
- Expert guidance – Learn from industry experts who work in the fields they teach.
- Trusted content – High quality, vetted courses designed for actionable learning.
- Convenient access – Learn anytime, on any device, with mobile apps.
- Affordable – Lower cost compared to traditional in-person training and workshops.
- Efficient learning – Clearly defined courses make it easy to zero in on the skills you need.
- Credentials – Certifications validate your new skills to employers.
For professionals looking to develop their skills, LinkedIn Learning provides a flexible and cost-effective training solution backed by LinkedIn’s reputation.
Best Uses for LinkedIn Learning
Here are some examples of how professionals can make the most of LinkedIn Learning for their career goals:
- Gain skills for a career switch – Take courses tailored for your new field like software development, design, or data analytics.
- Advance in your current role – Expand your skills in management, communications, strategy, and more.
- Remain marketable – Keep your professional skills and industry knowledge up-to-date.
- Prepare for certifications – Use courses to study for professional certs like the PMP or CPA.
- Sample a new field – Take intro courses to safely explore a potential career pivot.
- Be an asset at work – Bring fresh skills to make you more valuable to your employer.
- Make a great impression – Add certifications to your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Whether looking to expand your skills, switch roles, or boost job prospects, LinkedIn Learning provides flexible, affordable training.
Tips for Getting the Most from LinkedIn Learning
Follow these tips to maximize the impact of LinkedIn Learning:
- Take Learning Paths – Follow structured sets of courses to master high-demand skills.
- Apply skills at work – Use on-the-job projects to reinforce what you learn.
- Earn credentials – Complete exams and assignments to get certificates to showcase skills.
- Join discussions – Participate in course forums to connect with other learners.
- Download materials – Reference exercise files when not connected online.
- Review key concepts – Re-watch challenging sections and re-take quizzes.
- Learn consistently – Commit to learning for a set time each week.
- Stay organized – Use playlists to track courses and stay on learning path.
Leveraging these best practices helps ensure you fully retain new skills from each course.
Alternatives to LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning is not the only online learning platform available. Here are some alternatives and how they compare:
| Platform | Price | # of Courses | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Udemy | Free or paid courses ($10-$200 each) | 183,000+ | Wide variety of courses, frequent discounts |
| Skillshare | $169 annually | 39,000+ | Focuses on creative skills like design, photography |
| Pluralsight | $45/month | 7,000+ | Specialized in tech skills like programming, IT ops |
| edX | Free or paid ($99-$300 per course) | 2,500+ | University-level courses, certificates available |
While alternatives exist, LinkedIn Learning stands out with its strong focus on professional workplace skills, high production value content, and seamless LinkedIn integration.
Wrapping Up
LinkedIn Learning provides access to thousands of professional development courses taught by industry experts. While LinkedIn Learning is not free, paid subscriptions provide unlimited access to high-quality, in-demand courses that can help take your career to the next level.
With flexible access, structured learning paths, and invaluable instruction, LinkedIn Learning is a smart choice for any professional looking to expand their skills, stand out to employers, and maximize their career potential.
