You don’t need a new degree to start earning — just a few skills that open doors. These courses and training programs focus on quick, low-cost learning to help you build, market, and manage your side hustle. Whether you want to learn a new skill like photograph, or to design your own flyers, learn basic bookkeeping, or handle social media like a pro, these are the skills that help you hit the ground running.
Coursera
Coursera is an online learning platform that partners with universities and companies to offer courses, specializations, and degree programs. It has both paid and free courses and certificates. Learn at your own pace with a wide range of offerings, from short, skill-based courses to multi-month specializations and full university degrees.
Udemy is an online learning and teaching marketplace with over 25,0000 courses. It offers both paid and free courses.
LinkedIn Learning is great for quick, practical skill development and has a user-friendly interface for everyday professional needs.
Learn how to create flyers, social posts, and marketing materials without hiring a designer. Canva makes it easy to promote your side hustle with professional-looking visuals.
Get a handle on your money from day one. This short course teaches you how to track income and expenses, send invoices, and keep your business books clean and simple.
Social Media for Small Business
A practical crash course on how to use Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to get noticed — even if you hate “marketing.” Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to post with purpose.
Understand how to write simple agreements, set fair rates, and protect your time. These are must-have basics for anyone offering services or creative work.
Building a Simple Website – Squarespace
Create a professional online presence without coding. Learn to build and update your own site so people can find and trust your business.
Email Marketing 101 – Mailchimp
Turn curious followers into paying customers. This course covers how to write short, effective emails that connect with people and get results.