Udemy is one of the largest and most well-known online learning platforms, offering a vast library of courses on various subjects, from programming and business to personal development and creative skills.
Since its launch in 2010, Udemy has grown significantly, serving millions of students and educators around the world.
Whether you’re looking to upskill, change careers, or simply learn something new, Udemy offers courses to suit a wide range of interests and goals.
In this Udemy review, we’ll break down the key features of Udemy, its pros and cons, and whether it’s the right platform for both learners and instructors.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Vast Course Library | Over 200,000 courses covering a wide array of topics, from tech to wellness. |
| Affordable Pricing | Many courses are affordable, and frequent discounts and sales are available. |
| Lifetime Access | Once you purchase a course, you have lifetime access, allowing you to learn at your own pace. |
| Instructor-Led Content | Courses are created and taught by industry experts and professionals. |
| Mobile Access | Udemy has a mobile app, so you can learn on the go on both iOS and Android devices. |
| Certificates of Completion | You receive a certificate of completion at the end of each course, though it’s not accredited. |
| Diverse Learning Materials | Courses often include video lectures, quizzes, assignments, and downloadable resources. |
| Student Reviews | Course reviews and ratings from students help gauge the quality of the course. |
Pros of Udemy
- Wide Course Selection
Udemy’s biggest strength lies in its extensive course catalog. With over 200,000 courses, you can find training in almost any topic imaginable. Whether you’re interested in learning a new programming language, picking up business skills, or exploring creative hobbies like photography or painting, Udemy has a course for you. - Affordability
Udemy frequently runs sales, with discounts sometimes slashing course prices by up to 90%. This makes high-quality education accessible to people who may not have the budget for more expensive alternatives. - Lifetime Access
One of the standout features of Udemy is lifetime access. Once you purchase a course, you can return to it whenever you like, allowing you to learn at your own pace without worrying about deadlines or expiration dates. - Ease of Use
Udemy’s platform is easy to navigate, making it user-friendly for both beginners and seasoned learners. The course pages are well-organized with clear descriptions, pricing information, and student reviews. - Mobile Learning
With the Udemy mobile app, you can learn on the go. The app allows you to download courses for offline viewing, which is great for people who may not always have access to the internet. - Instructor Diversity
Courses are created and taught by experts from all over the world. This diversity brings a variety of perspectives and teaching styles, enriching the learning experience.
Cons of Udemy
- Inconsistent Course Quality
While Udemy has plenty of excellent courses, the platform’s open marketplace model means anyone can create and sell a course. This can lead to varying levels of quality. It’s important to read reviews and check the instructor’s credentials before purchasing a course. - Non-Accredited Certificates
Although Udemy offers certificates of completion, they are not accredited. This means that while they may be a great way to showcase your skills, they may not be recognized by educational institutions or employers looking for formal qualifications. - Lack of Cohesive Learning Paths
Udemy doesn’t offer structured learning paths like some other platforms. While there are comprehensive courses, they may not be as in-depth or sequential as those on platforms like Coursera or edX, which focus on university-level courses and specializations. - Sales Tactics
Some users have noted that Udemy’s frequent discounting can make the original prices feel inflated. Many courses are almost perpetually on sale, leading some to question the true value of the content when not discounted.
Udemy Course Creation for Instructors
For instructors, Udemy provides an accessible platform to create and sell courses. You don’t need to be a professional educator to publish a course—anyone with expertise in a particular area can share their knowledge. Instructors earn a percentage of the course revenue, with Udemy handling the hosting, delivery, and marketing of the course.
Pros for Instructors:
- Easy to use course creation tools.
- Large potential audience.
- Udemy handles payments, marketing, and hosting.
Cons for Instructors:
- Udemy takes a significant cut of the revenue, particularly when courses are sold through Udemy’s promotions.
- Limited control over pricing and discounts.
Is Udemy the Right Platform for You?
Udemy is an excellent platform for learners looking for an affordable and flexible way to gain new skills.
Its vast course catalog, user-friendly interface, and lifetime access to content make it an attractive option for casual learners and hobbyists.
However, those looking for more structured, accredited courses may prefer other platforms like Coursera or edX.
For instructors, Udemy offers a straightforward way to share knowledge and earn money from online courses.
However, the competitive landscape and revenue-sharing model mean it might not be as profitable compared to selling courses on your own platform.
FAQs about Udemy
1. Is Udemy free?
While Udemy offers free courses, the majority of the courses are paid. However, they frequently run promotions, offering significant discounts on many courses.
2. Are Udemy courses accredited?
No, Udemy’s certificates of completion are not accredited. While they can demonstrate completion of a course, they don’t hold formal recognition from educational institutions or employers.
3. Can I access my Udemy courses after completion?
Yes, Udemy offers lifetime access to courses, meaning you can return to the material at any time after purchase.
4. How does Udemy pricing work?
Courses on Udemy are typically priced individually, but the platform frequently runs sales, where you can find courses heavily discounted.
5. Can I use Udemy on mobile?
Yes, Udemy has a mobile app for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to learn on the go. You can also download courses for offline viewing.
6. Can I get a refund on Udemy courses?
Yes, Udemy has a 30-day refund policy, so if you are unsatisfied with a course, you can request a refund within 30 days of purchase.
Conclusion
Udemy remains one of the top online learning platforms, thanks to its extensive course catalog, affordability, and accessibility.
It’s ideal for anyone looking to learn a new skill at their own pace without the constraints of a traditional classroom setting.
However, due to the varying quality of courses and lack of accredited certification, it’s essential to research and select courses carefully.
For instructors, Udemy offers a great platform to reach a global audience, but the revenue-sharing model means it’s crucial to weigh the benefits before deciding.
For more information or to browse Udemy’s extensive catalog of courses, you can visit Udemy’s homepage.
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Benjamin Shemesh is an ecommerce enthusiast and a digital marketing expert.
He loves surfing the ocean
