7 Alternatives To MasterClass

From time to time, we all enjoy the challenge of learning something new. Whether it be learning how to cook a specific type of cuisine or taking a course on how to start a business, there is always something to learn. But in the past, this usually involved attending physical workshops, enrolling in classes or even hunting down a mentor.

These days, you can learn just about anything from the comfort of your home thanks to online platforms. These have absolutely exploded in popularity because they offer an affordable, convenient way to learn a new hobby or expand your skillset.

 

Learning On Your Own Terms

 

People love online learning platforms like MasterClass because of the freedom they have. You don’t need to stick to a schedule and you can learn at your own pace in your own time. Of course, life gets busy sometimes but with these online courses, you can usually pick up right where you left off.

You can also learn in a format that supports your learning style whether it be listening to lectures while driving to work or watching visual videos breaking down concepts.

It’s a flexible and more sustainable way of learning and usually at a fraction of the cost than if you were to go down the traditional education route.

 

7 Alternatives To MasterClass

 

MasterClass is one of the top platforms in the online learning space. Its high-quality content is taught by industry experts, think Gordon Ramsey for cooking and Serena Williams for teaching tennis.

The platform’s celebrity factor is definitely a drawcard, but it may not necessarily be the best learning option for you. If you’re after step-by-step teaching, industry-specific skills or getting the best value for money, here are a few alternatives to check out.

 

1. Udemy

 

 

Udemy is a popular online learning platform that offers more than 210,000 courses. From coding and website development to photography and marketing, its courses cover a vast range of skills. The courses’ instructors are all highly qualified and you can reach out to them directly if you have any questions about the course.

There is no subscription required, you pay for each course individually and once you have, you get lifetime access to it. The platform often runs sales and you can purchase courses at a discounted rate, making it an affordable option.

 

2. Skillshare

 

 

Skillshare is a learning platform loved by creatives. It offers thousands of video lessons that are short and bite-size across marketing, graphic design and illustration. The instructors are all real-world professionals with hands-on experience in their respective fields, giving the courses an authentic feel.

In addition to project-based lessons, learners can engage in an interactive community with feedback and discussions to further their learning. The platform has an affordable subscription model and will often provide free trials.

 

3. Coursera

 

 

If you want to achieve professional credentials or advance your career further, Coursera is the platform to use. It partners with top universities including Yale and Stanford in addition to globally-recognised businesses like Google for career-focused learning.

Users are able to obtain certificates and even full degrees in some cases and the courses are more structured with assignments and deadlines. While it may not be the best fit for those just wanting to learn a new hobby, it’s great for university-level learning for those serious about their careers.

 

 

 

4. Thinkific

 

Thinkific is a platform that is a little different because you get to be the teacher. It’s used by entrepreneurs, coaches and business owners to build and sell their own online courses so that you can take your expertise and turn it into knowledge for others in your industry.

The course builder itself is user-friendly and easy to navigate with plenty of branding options for customisation. It also has a free plan so you can familiarise yourself with the platform first.

 

5. Teachable

 

 

Teachable is another tool for building and selling online courses. It offers an opportunity for writers, creators and professionals to monetise their skills and knowledge, teaching students all over the world. For those who are taking courses, it has a professional interface that is easy to use.

The platform can also be integrated with e-mail and payment tools to allow course owners to manage everything in one place and there are both free and paid options available.

 

6. LinkedIn Learning

 

 

LinkedIn Learning is ideal for professionals who want to grow in their current careers. Its content is highly career-driven with a specific focus on tech skills, business leadership and communication. The platform is also integrated with your personal LinkedIn profile for potential employers to see the courses you have done.

In addition to personalised learning suggestions, the courses are tailored around job skills that are currently in-demand and are often included in LinkedIn Premium.

 

7. Domestika

 

 

Domestika is a curated learning platform for creatives like designers, artists and DIY enthusiasts. The platform focuses on learning that is very hands-on and visual, giving learners deep insight into branding, illustration and interior design.

Similarly to Udemy, courses are purchased individually and are very reasonably priced. Users can also access downloadable resources and add projects to their portfolio of work.