‘Online courses’ is a concept that was hardly known a decade ago. But today, more than 900 universities have launched 13,000+ online courses which are being taken by students all over the world (as per Class Central report). The rise in the competition has increased the need of upgrading oneself to stay ahead of the curve. And online courses have made it possible to up-skill and re-skill yourself from the comfort of your home. In India, factors such as a constant increase of mobile penetration, connectivity and affordable data have contributed towards the rise of e-learning over the years.

Some of the domains which have become popular among students are Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Data Science, Data Analysis, Big Data, Cyber Security, cognitive skills for business courses and many more. Here are some of the important subjects which will add value to your overall academic/professional career.

Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning:

AI and ML have been gaining massive importance as several companies across industries are using these technologies to improve their products and services, evaluate business models, and enhance their decision-making process. It has become one of the most happening skill-set in the tech industry. Industry experts consider this as one of the most important parameters to introduce innovative ideas in doing business and thus, change the way work in done across sectors. According to LinkedIn, AI specialist will be the second most sought-after profession in the coming years.

Data Science:

A lot of businesses these days depend on Data Science to extract and analyse important data from relevant sources so that it can be used to measure success and build a robust futuristic strategy. Employers are looking for candidates with this skill-set so that companies can create better innovations with the data available with them. A data scientist can help an organization in product innovation by analysing and drawing insights from within the conventional designs. Courses in this field offer an in-depth knowledge on statistics, maths and computer science. Hence, the knowledge of a data scientist extends from data visualization to data mining and also information management.

Big Data:

Big data analytics is important for organizations to harness the data and utilize it to identify new opportunities. Organizations have started realizing the fact that if they can capture major chunks of data that streams into their business, they can apply analytics and get significant value from it. Hence, knowledge in this field makes an individual future-ready.

Blockchain:

Blockchain is a concept which has gained importance in a world where everything is online. It refers to a digital ledger of transactions that is duplicated and distributed across the entire network of computer systems on the blockchain. This technology is used by industries like insurance, banks, stock markets and many more. This field is emerging way and how. Currently, though it is confined to financial transactions but there are huge possibilities for it to grow across different verticals and industries. Knowledge in this field will push your career to its next level.

Cyber Security:

The outbreak of the pandemic has compelled the world to shift to an online module of working. Schools, colleges and universities are imparting knowledge with the help of digital platforms. Corporates are working from remote locations. In the midst of this scenario, cyber security is gaining massive importance to protect all forms of data online. Experts in this field will be in demand more than ever before. Hence, it is time to upgrade yourself with cyber security courses to be job-ready and relevant in the market as a cyber-security analyst.

So far we spoke of some of the important courses for all the techies of the world. Now, let’s move on to some other interesting courses which can sharpen your skills as a professional.

Digital Marketing:

Digital marketing courses teaches you how to build, leverage and sustain a brand’s online reputation across various digital platforms. These days, it is extremely important to make a digital presence to reach out to a wide range of target audience. Businesses are shifting from their traditional routes to new-age route for making an impact. Hence, it is becoming mandatory to know the techniques of doing so. It helps you add creativity and logic in the way you reach out to your audience.

Financial Management:

This is an important aspect in every business environment. It refers to the strategic planning, organizing, controlling and utilizing financial undertakings in an organization. Knowledge in this field definitely adds value to your overall experience and helps you make judicious financial decisions for an organization.

Effective Problem-Solving & Decision Making:

Problem-solving and decision making are critical skills for every professional. Employers are looking to hire people with strong cognitive skills such as creativity, critical thinking, decision-making and complex information processing. Such courses provide tools and tactics for working in a real world problems and equips you for the professional environment. A problem-solving attitude and fast decision making are very important in a dynamic environment.

As the world is re-aligning to combat various challenges, talent will be the key differentiator in supporting economies worldwide. Your ability to be self-reliant and independent will drive you to contribute towards a brighter tomorrow.