Learn with 2U GetSmarter: Online Courses and Certifications

What if you could gain career-boosting skills without spending years in a traditional classroom? In today’s fast-moving job market, learning new abilities quickly is more valuable than ever. That’s where specialized online programs come in.

Leading the way in professional upskilling, 2U GetSmarter partners with top universities worldwide. It offers career-focused courses in high-demand fields like leadership and disruptive technologies. The goal? To make quality education accessible to everyone, everywhere.

With over 230 courses available across 195 countries, learners can choose programs that fit their goals. Unlike traditional degrees, these short courses focus on practical skills employers want right now.

Key Takeaways

Professional upskilling through non-degree online programs
Focuses on practical, career-relevant skills
Partners with 18+ world-class universities
230+ courses available globally
Mission to make education accessible worldwide

Advance Your Career with 2U GetSmarter Online Short Courses

Short-term learning can fast-track your career growth. 2U GetSmarter programs blend flexibility with industry relevance, letting you upskill without pausing your life.

A serene, modern workspace with a large desk showcasing various online course materials. In the foreground, a laptop displays course modules and certification programs, surrounded by neatly organized textbooks, tablets, and stationery. The middle ground features a person intently studying, their face illuminated by the soft, natural lighting filtering through large windows. In the background, a bookshelf and potted plants create a tranquil, professional atmosphere. The overall scene conveys a sense of focused learning and personal development, reflecting the opportunity to advance one's career through online short courses.

Flexible, Industry-Relevant Programs

Choose from multiple start dates every 3-4 weeks. Cohort-based learning keeps you engaged with peers and instructors.

Time commitments range from 2-week microcourses to 27-week comprehensive stacks. Spend just 6-8 hours weekly to build skills employers value.

6- to 12-Week Non-Degree Certificates

Trending short courses include Oxford’s AI Programme and MIT Sloan’s AI Strategy, both completed in 6 weeks. Curricula are updated using real-time job market data.

With a 95% completion rate, the model works. Dedicated support ensures you stay on track, 24/7.

Invest in your future today—no degree required.

Why Choose 2U GetSmarter for Online Learning?

Not all online courses deliver real career impact—here’s what sets this platform apart. combines data-driven course design with round-the-clock support to ensure your learning translates into results.

A team of diverse individuals gathered in a modern, well-lit office setting, tending to the needs of online learning students. In the foreground, a group of attentive support agents, each with a friendly demeanor and a laptop, ready to assist. The middle ground features a sleek, minimalist workspace with ergonomic chairs and desks, creating a professional and welcoming atmosphere. In the background, a large window overlooking a bustling city skyline, symbolizing the global reach and accessibility of the online learning platform. The overall mood is one of efficiency, empathy, and a commitment to student success.

Data-Driven Course Selection

Courses are built using proprietary market analysis. This ensures every program aligns with employer needs and emerging trends like AI and fintech.

Take Ed F., who leveraged a fintech course to pivot careers. The curriculum’s real-world focus helped him implement strategies immediately at work.

24/7 Student Success Support

A dedicated team assists with technical and academic hurdles. Whether it’s midnight or a weekend, help is always a click away.

The mobile-optimized platform uses interactive technology to keep students engaged. Spend 8-12 hours weekly for optimal skill retention—flexible enough for busy schedules.

Partnered with World-Class Universities

Top-tier universities bring unmatched expertise to online professional development. These collaborations ensure courses meet the highest academic standards while delivering practical skills for today’s workforce.

A majestic aerial view of an expansive university campus, with grand neo-gothic architecture, verdant lawns, and towering spires reaching towards a cloudless azure sky. The foreground features a central quad lined with ancient oak trees, students strolling leisurely between ornate stone buildings. The middle ground showcases modern research facilities and state-of-the-art lecture halls, while the background is dotted with historic libraries and administrative centers, all exuding an atmosphere of academic excellence and timeless tradition. The lighting is warm and golden, casting a soft, scholarly glow over the entire scene, conveying a sense of prestige, innovation, and intellectual pursuit.

Collaborations with Top Institutions

Learn from faculty at Oxford, MIT, and Cambridge Judge Business School. Over 18 leading universities co-develop curricula, blending cutting-edge research with industry needs.

Programs like the Oxford Executive Leadership (8 weeks) and MIT AI for Business are designed by experts. Each course undergoes rigorous university-led accreditation.

Academic Rigor Meets Cutting-Edge Technology

Universities contribute subject mastery, while edtech innovations enhance engagement. Interactive platforms and real-world case studies bridge theory and practice.

With global reach across 195 countries, this partnership model makes elite education accessible. Whether you’re in business or tech, these courses prepare you for what’s next.

A Proven Learning Model for Real-World Success

What makes an online learning program truly effective in today’s competitive job market? It’s a blend of completion rates, relevance, and real-world impact. Unlike traditional MOOCs with 90%+ dropout rates, this model boasts a 95% completion rate—proof it works.

A modern office interior with a large window overlooking a city skyline. In the foreground, a group of young professionals are engaged in a collaborative learning session, surrounded by whiteboards, laptops, and neatly organized stationery. The lighting is warm and natural, casting a soft glow on the scene. In the middle ground, a sleek, minimalist desk holds an open textbook and a cup of coffee, symbolizing focused study. The background features a vibrant cityscape, hinting at the real-world applications of the knowledge being acquired. The overall atmosphere is one of productivity, innovation, and a proven pathway to success.

High Completion Rates

Cohort-based learning keeps students engaged. Peer networks and dedicated support create accountability. The result? Learners stay motivated from start to finish.

Traditional MOOCs often lack structure. Here, interactive tools and weekly milestones guide progress. Over 83% of graduates report career advancement within six months.

Hyper-Relevant Skill Development

Curricula are refreshed every six months using job market data. AI, fintech, and leadership courses stay ahead of trends. Fortune 500 companies trust these programs for employee training.

Learners gain future-proof skills they can apply immediately. Case studies and simulations bridge theory and practice. This isn’t just learning—it’s career transformation.

Explore In-Demand Course Categories

Professionals today need skills that match rapidly evolving industries—discover the most sought-after online courses. Whether you’re aiming for leadership roles or tech expertise, these programs deliver practical knowledge for immediate impact.

Vibrant and engaging online course categories displayed in a visually compelling layout. A stylized grid of thumbnails showcasing a diverse range of popular and in-demand topics such as business, technology, design, personal development, and more. The thumbnails feature eye-catching graphics, bold colors, and clean typography. The composition has a dynamic, modern feel with a sense of depth and dimensionality, drawing the viewer's attention to the breadth of educational opportunities available. Warm, soft lighting casts a welcoming glow, inviting the viewer to explore the captivating world of online learning.

Leadership and Management Programs

Build business acumen with courses like Oxford’s 23-week Senior Leadership Program. Women’s Strategic Leadership (21 weeks) empowers professionals to drive organizational change. These programs blend theory with real-world case studies.

Disruptive Technology and AI Courses

AI enrollments grew 35% year-over-year, reflecting soaring demand. A 6-week short course in AI for Healthcare or Machine Intelligence for Business keeps you ahead. MIT’s Supply Chain Management AI program merges technology with logistics expertise.

Business Strategy and Sustainability

From 8-week Sustainability Management to Real Estate Economics, these courses address modern challenges. Emerging fields like Geopolitics (6 weeks) and Data Storytelling (2-week microcourse) cater to niche interests.

With flexible formats and industry-aligned curricula, these programs help professionals stay competitive. Choose a path that aligns with your goals—and start learning today.

Success Stories from GetSmarter Graduates

Real-world success speaks louder than promises—here’s how graduates are transforming their career paths. From landing promotions to leading global initiatives, these stories prove the power of targeted upskilling.

A group of diverse, confident graduates in formal attire standing together, beaming with pride and accomplishment. Warm, natural lighting illuminates their faces, casting a glow that radiates success and fulfillment. The graduates stand in a stylish, modern setting, perhaps a university campus or an elegant conference hall, the background blurred to keep the focus on their triumphal expressions. The graduates' postures convey a sense of unity, camaraderie, and shared achievement, reflecting the rewarding journeys that have led them to this momentous milestone.

Career Transformations

Ed F., a fintech course alumnus, secured major investments for his startup by applying course strategies. “The real-world focus helped me implement changes at work immediately,” he shares.

Another standout: A Supply Chain Management graduate now leads Amazon’s sustainability efforts. Their certification provided the credentials to pivot into a high-impact role.

Industry Recognition

Programs are endorsed by PMI, HRCI, and other accrediting bodies. Over 30% of students are sponsored by employers, signaling industry trust.

Graduates report an average 22% salary increase post-certification. The alumni team spans 195 countries, offering exclusive networking and resources.

85% of learners achieve promotions within six months
Corporate partnerships validate course relevance
Global alumni network fosters lifelong connections

Conclusion: Start Your Learning Journey Today

Ready to boost your career with in-demand skills? Top universities offer flexible online short courses designed for real-world impact. With high completion rates and expert support, 2U GetSmarter model makes education accessible.

Explore courses in leadership, AI, and business strategy. Flexible payment options and corporate sponsorships make learning affordable. Late registration for upcoming cohorts is still open—act now.

Join 500,000+ professionals who transformed their careers. Search available courses today and take the next step toward success.

FAQ

How long do the online short courses take to complete?

Courses typically run between 6 to 12 weeks, offering flexible schedules to fit your career and personal commitments.

What kind of support is available for students?

You get 24/7 access to a dedicated support team, ensuring help is always available when you need it.

Are these courses recognized by employers?

Yes, programs are designed with industry leaders and universities to ensure skills align with real-world demands.

Can I balance a full-time job while taking a course?

Absolutely. The flexible learning model allows you to study at your own pace without disrupting your work schedule.

What types of skills will I gain from these courses?

You’ll develop hyper-relevant skills in areas like leadership, AI, business strategy, and sustainability—all in high demand.

Do I receive a certificate upon completion?

Yes, you earn a non-degree certificate from a top university, validating your expertise in the subject.

How are course topics selected?

Programs are data-driven, focusing on emerging trends and skills gaps identified by industry experts.

What makes these courses different from other online programs?

The blend of academic rigor, cutting-edge technology, and real-world applicability sets them apart for career growth.