Do you want to learn digital marketing?
First, let me tell you how this post came about.
It has been more than ten years since we last met with Mr. Kennedy, my former high school friend. We met in Nairobi on Saturday evening. After exchanging pleasantries, the conversation gravitated slowly toward our occupations.
Ken is a teacher. So, when I reminded him that I am a digital marketer, I expected the teacher in him to respond with a question. And sure he did.
“Collins, what is the best place to learn digital marketing in 2024?” He asked. “What a brilliant question,” I responded. “No one has ever asked me that before!”
At that moment, I realized that if Ken needed this information, then you too might find it helpful.
Therefore, in this article, we will explore the top online platforms where you can start to learn digital marketing regardless of your occupation or location.
Are you ready?
Related article: 7 Secrets You Must Know Before Owning a Website
Top Online Learning Platforms Offering Digital Marketing Courses
Digital marketing gives every professional in every occupation a voice. It can take you and your brand from complete obscurity to extraordinary popularity.
Here are the top 29 online platforms to learn digital marketing in 2024:
1. YouTube
YouTube is at the top of the list because you are familiar with it and because it is free.
You will find hundreds if not thousands of free digital marketing videos from global experts, scholars, and industry leaders on YouTube.
While it is okay to use YouTube for entertainment, it would help to know that you can also use it to learn digital marketing in 2024.
Example
Pros
- Free access
- Highly engaging visual content
- Videos are available in 76 languages
- Over two billion active users worldwide
Cons
- No certifications
- Content quality varies
2. Google Digital Garage
The next outlier in this space is Google Digital Garage. This garage is your go-to place if you want to add digital marketing to your skills arsenal for free, in a structured learning environment.
The most notable course in the Google Digital Garage is the Fundamentals of Digital Marketing. It was created by Google’s top trainers and is accredited by The Open University.
It is the place where most digital marketers start their careers. Being a tech giant in this field, you can be sure that Google will equip you with this essential skill in 2024.
Pros
- Free access
- High-quality content
- Certificate endorsed by Google
Cons
- Basic-level knowledge
- Self-paced learning requires more self-discipline
3. Coursera
Figure 1.0: A Coursera Certificate.
Coursera is another interesting learning platform that collaborates with prestigious universities and professors to offer top-notch digital marketing skills.
It offers Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) including the Digital Marketing Specialization by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Professional Certificate.
Pros
- Affordable
- A broad inventory of courses to select from
- High-quality and relevant digital marketing content
- Certification upon completion
Cons
- Course quality may vary
- You need self-discipline
4. Alison
Alison is one of my best learning platforms.
It is the place where I learned WordPress website development. It was founded in 2007. Since then, Alison has empowered more than 40 million learners worldwide with various skills including digital marketing.
You can master the Essentials of Digital Marketing and Lead Generation, Social Media Marketing, Marketing Analytics, and Google Advertising.
Alison’s courses will take you from an amateur to a novice digital marketer in a matter of days.
Pros
- Earn a certification
- Cost-free learning model
- Flexible learning
- Connect with learners worldwide
Cons
- Occasional outdated content
- You may need more specialized resources
5. Simplilearn
Simplilearn is accredited by more than 40 bodies that oversee curriculum development.
It equips learners with digital skills such as search engine optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing (SMM), Pay-Per-Click (PPC), web analytics, and brand management.
If you are a beginner, you should enroll for the free Introduction to Digital Marketing Fundamentals before moving to more advanced concepts.
Pros
- Live videos from instructors
- Mobile app access
- Globally recognized certificates
Cons
- Some courses need premium subscriptions
6. CareerFoundry
Figure 2.0: CareerFoundry learner testimonial
CareerFoundry has so many positive reviews on Trustpilot. It promotes tech skills through various programs, such as the Digital Marketing Program.
It is a comprehensive program covering the basic tenets of digital marketing including content marketing, SEO, email marketing, SMM, and multi-channel marketing.
Unlike the other platforms, CareerFoundry offers one-to-one personalized coaching.
Pros
- Personal career coaching
- Over 90% of their graduates land jobs
- Has some free short courses
Cons
- Can be quite costly
- Not suitable for advanced learners
7. HubSpot Academy
The HubSpot Academy is an industry leader in inbound marketing, sales, and customer service. It is popular for bite-sized lessons, single-topic courses, and comprehensive certifications.
A course like the Digital Marketing Certification Course will amplify your brand’s organic reach using a solid digital marketing strategy.
Some of the skills you can acquire at HubSpot Academy include SEO, email marketing, and content marketing.
Its beauty lies in its universally recognized digital marketing certifications. You can approach any digital marketing agency for a job and they will take you seriously.
Pros
- Quality content from industry experts
- Free access to all courses
- Digital certification upon course completion
- Study at your own pace
Cons
- Lack of face-to-face interaction
- Some courses are lengthy.
8. LinkedIn Learning
If you are my friend then I have already told you countless times to create a LinkedIn account, Have I not? You see, with a LinkedIn account, it is not all about connections but also about access to a library of more than 21000 courses.
This other side of LinkedIn is called LinkedIn Learning.
It is a critical professional development tool.
Their digital marketing training courses cover Search Engine Optimization (SEO), social media management, content marketing, and PPC advertising.
Pros
- High-quality content
- Expert instructors
- Affordable
- Prepares you for certification assessment
Cons
- Some content should be updated
9. Moz Academy
The Moz Academy was created to teach digital marketers and SEOs how search engines and Google Algorithm updates work.
These are experienced professionals and instructors who update their content regularly to reflect the most recent digital marketing trends and practices.
They have put together several courses for you.
You can enroll for SEO Essentials Certification, Keyword Research Certification, Local SEO Certification, or Technical SEO Certification.
Pros
- Comprehensive SEO courses
- Up-to-date content
- Expert instructors
- Practical training
Cons
- Can be costly
- Content can be found elsewhere on the web
10. Digital Marketing Institute
If you want to enhance your digital marketing skills at a globally recognized organization, you should consider the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI).
Their courses are thorough and cut across all skill levels. Amateurs and advanced learners can learn about GA4, Social Media Marketing, e-commerce, and email automation.
The American Marketing Association as well as the entire digital marketing industry have endorsed DMI.
Since its creation, the organization has certified more than 70,000 learners worldwide.
Pros
- Global Recognition
- Comprehensive digital marketing courses
- Flexible learning
- Expert instructors
Cons
- Some courses are pricey
11. Google Analytics Individual Qualification
Do you want to track digital campaigns and improve the user experience of website users?
Then this is the course you need.
The Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ) certificate will teach you basic and advanced concepts of Universal Analytics.
You will learn how to set up properties, report metrics, and track conversions. The course will also teach you audience segmentation.
Being from Google, GAIQ guarantees your credibility in digital analytics.
Pros
- Free of charge
- Comprehensive digital analytics knowledge
- Practical exercises
Cons
- Time intensive
- Certification is renewed periodically
12. IIDE – Indian Institute of Digital Education
IIDE is the most trusted digital marketing institute in India but it has also attracted learners from more than 10 countries worldwide.
Their mission is to equip learners with the skills, knowledge, and mindset required to excel in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Google Ads and Analytics, and Email Marketing.
You don’t have to go to India to learn at IIDE. You can enroll online. The courses are recognized by India’s government initiative – the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC).
Pros
- A placement record of 95% after certification
- Over 250+ industry expert trainers
- A wide international community
Cons
- Quality education comes at a price
- Courses move swiftly
13. Udemy
Udemy’s digital marketing courses are practical and you can apply them as you learn.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned marketer, you’ll find a suitable course at Udemy.
For example, I took several MOOCs at Udemy in 2021, including a certificate in Adobe Photoshop CC and the Fundamentals of Photography.
However, the instructors can often forget the learner’s level of knowledge and pack too much information in a few minutes. You may need to slow down the video playback or watch the content a few more times to understand some key concepts.
Pros
- Some courses are free
- Hundreds of digital marketing courses
- Learn at your own pace
Cons
- You may need to pay for quality courses
- Intensive learning
14. Udacity
Unlike Coursera, Udemy, and Alison, the Udacity online learning platform focuses on career development in the technology industry only.
The Udacity platform works alongside Microsoft and Google to disseminate critical tech skills that are in high demand such as digital marketing and data analysis.
If you want a 360-degree understanding of digital marketing, you can begin your Digital Marketing Nanodegree Program at Udacity.
Pros
- Top-quality content
- Over 200 free courses
- Access to career services like LinkedIn and GitHub review
Cons
- Some nanodegrees require a fee or a subscription
- Time commitments may range from one to six months
15. Springboard
Thousands of people have benefited globally from Springboard’s digital marketing courses. Springboard aims to bridge theory and practice through holistic and goal-oriented learning.
Some of the digital marketing courses you can start today include Data Analytics and other tech-related courses such as UI/UX Design and cybersecurity.
The mentors engage with learners through regular video calls. However, it is your responsibility to set clear learning objectives, track your progress, and seek timely mentorship.
Pros
- Practical projects
- Skills validation certificate
- Personalized guidance from mentors
Cons
- The cost can be quite steep
- Some topics may need supplementation
16. Thinkful
The Thinkful digital marketing boot camp will make you an expert in just three months.
The course will equip you with the skills to start a career in Search Engine Optimization, Content Marketing, Social Media Marketing, pay-per-click (PPC), and Email Marketing.
Alumni from Thinkful work in prestigious tech companies such as Google, IBM, and Amazon.
Over 80% of their graduates secure jobs after certification and attract five-figure salaries.
Pros
- A large community of fellow learners and expert instructors
- Personalized mentorship
- Access to career coaching and job placement
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires significant commitment
17. Copyblogger
This site was launched in January 2006 to help you venture into content marketing successfully. It offers a wide range of free educational content under content marketing and copywriting.
For example, you can learn the best practices of content, traffic, or conversions. You will learn how to write compelling landing pages, drive traffic, and boost your email revenue.
Start learning at Copyblogger and grow your brand with proven content marketing principles.
Pros
- Rich digital marketing courses
- Free access
- Practical
Cons
- Novices can find the course content pretty basic
- Lack of regular course updates
18. SE Ranking
SE Ranking is like the online shop of SEO.
It was launched in 2014 to enhance the online presence of businesses through search engine optimization, competitor analysis, and comprehensive reporting.
The platform is used by more than half a million people worldwide.
SE ranking academy can equip you with the skills you need to track keyword rankings, analyze competitor strategies, audit websites, and manage social media campaigns effectively.
Its recent integration with Artificial Intelligence makes it a valuable learning resource for amateurs as well as expert digital marketers.
Pros
- Comprehensive SEO toolset
- User-friendly interface
- Accurate data
- Regular updates
Cons
- Mastering all features may take some time
- Limited free trial
19. Hackr.io
Launched in 2016, Hackr.io has become a popular resource among programming and digital marketing students. The platform boasts over 500,000 users globally.
Hackr.io sifts through online courses and brings the most valuable ones to the forefront. You will get access only to the most effective and up-to-date resources.
Some digital marketing courses to learn at Hackr.io include SEO, content marketing, social media marketing, PPC advertising, and email marketing.
Pros
- Free to use
- Wide range of digital marketing topics
- Course quality is vetted by the community
Cons
- Some courses are outdated
- Course quality varies
20. WordStream’s PPC University
Most of the platforms we’ve talked about so far are generalists. They offer every digital marketing course you can think of from SEO to analytics.
However, WordStream is a more specialized online University focusing only on pay-per-click advertising (PPC) courses.
Here, you will learn the principles and best practices of PPC, Google AdWords, Facebook Advertising, SMM, and Conversion Rate Optimization.
Although some people may not find their website visually appealing, WordStream’s PPC University is a valuable resource. Use it to learn digital marketing in 2024.
Pros
- Free access
- Interactive learning through quizzes and exercises
- Practical tips that are easy to implement
Cons
- Limited digital marketing topics
- Lack of instructor support
21. Great Learning Academy
Great Learning Academy is an online educational platform offering several free courses to learners worldwide. It launched in 2013 and is a critical resource if you are looking to acquire new digital skills or enhance existing ones in 2024.
The Academy boasts over 4 million learners in various courses, including digital marketing. A course like Google Analytics can help you track and optimize any website’s performance.
Their primary value proposition is accessibility and comprehensiveness. They offer free courses designed by industry experts, covering both foundational and advanced topics.
Pros
- Comprehensive course content
- Certification upon course completion
- Free access
- Expert instructors
Cons
- Advanced courses are fewer
- No personalized feedback
22. SEMrush Academy
SEMrush is a well-respected name in the digital marketing industry.
Their educational platform is called SEMrush Academy.
They offer a range of free courses designed to help you learn digital marketing. For example, I learned How to Craft High-Impact Digital Advertising Campaigns at Semrush Academy in December 2023. It equipped me to run very profitable Google Ads.
You can also learn other aspects of digital marketing such as SEO fundamentals, content marketing, PPC advertising, and competitive analysis and market research.
Pros
- Beginner to advanced level digital marketing courses
- Taught by industry leaders
- Free certification
- Up-to-date content
Cons
- Certificates expire after one year
- You’ll learn using Semrush tools only
23. Ahrefs Academy
Ahrefs was launched in 2019. Their online digital marketing academy has free and paid courses focusing on SEO, content marketing, and data analysis.
Ahrefs Academy offers high-quality, expert-led digital marketing courses that are practical and directly applicable to real-world business scenarios.
Certifications from Ahrefs Academy are recognized in the industry. Therefore, if you finish a course, the certificates will enhance your credibility as a professional.
Pros
- Expert instructors
- Free access
- Certification
- Comprehensive course content
Cons
- Courses rely heavily upon Ahrefs tools
- Require significant time investment
24. Yoast SEO Academy
Yoast SEO Academy is an educational platform created by one of the leading SEO plugin providers for WordPress. The Academy will equip you with the skills you need to optimize websites effectively and improve your brand’s online presence.
I am currently enrolled in a Search Engine Optimization course at Yoast Academy, which has allowed me to make big improvements to our website’s off-page, on-page, and white-hat SEO.
The academy’s credibility lies in its reputation in the SEO industry and its team of experienced SEO professionals who design and deliver the courses.
Pros
- Wide range of digital marketing topics
- Actionable lessons
- Certifications
- Regular course updates
Cons
- Non-WordPress users may find the it irrelevant
- Time commitment
25. Neil Patel SEO Course
Neil Patel is arguably the most influential digital marketer today.
He designed an extensive online program to teach you the fundamentals and advanced strategies of SEO and digital marketing.
The Neil Patel SEO Course will take you from keyword research and on-page optimization to link building and analytics, for free.
Pros
- Expert insights
- Practical examples
- Comprehensive content coverage
Cons
- Time-consuming
26. Skillshare
Skillshare operates on a subscription model that allows you to access thousands of courses taught by global digital marketing professionals and experts.
The platform is known for its community-driven approach. You can interact with your teachers for a more dynamic and collaborative learning experience.
Some digital marketing courses you can learn digital marketing fundamentals at Skillshare, including, SMM, Content Marketing, Google Analytics, and Facebook Advertising.
Pros
- Affordable
- Many digital marketing courses
- Learn at your own pace
Cons
- It has a subscription model
- Anyone can become an instructor
27. edX
edX is an online learning platform founded by Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2012.
It offers high-quality courses from top universities and institutions around the world. You can gain knowledge in digital marketing through edX from the comfort of your home.
It partners with prestigious institutions, ensuring the quality and relevance of its courses.
One recent development is edX’s collaboration with Google to offer career certificates, enhancing the employability of its learners.
Pros
- Courses from globally recognized universities
- Verified certificates
- Access to a broad range of specializations
- Learn at your own pace
Cons
- Some verified courses can be expensive
- Limited live interaction with instructors
Start Your Digital Marketing Course Today
Digital marketing is one of the top skills you can master to scale any business online in 2024. However, many people do not know where to start.
I hope you’ll find one of the 27 digital learning platforms that resonates with you.
If you found my article helpful, please, like, comment, and share it with your friends and networks.
Also, feel free to contact us with your digital marketing queries and concerns.
