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The 100 Most Popular Online Courses 2025 Edition Class Central

Leo Migdal
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the 100 most popular online courses 2025 edition class central

Using Class Central data and enrollment numbers to find the 100 most popular online courses of the year. In 2024, the most popular online course out of 5,300 launched across the top MOOC platforms is Google’s AI Essentials on Coursera. With over 900,000 enrollments, this single course had more enrollments than the combined total of all new courses launched on edX, FutureLearn, and Swayam in the same year. More than a decade has passed since a few Stanford professors decided to offer their courses online for free. These courses later became known as MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), and 2012 was dubbed the “Year of the MOOC.” What’s unique about this edition is that the majority of the courses are from companies, not universities—a significant shift from when MOOCs were first popularized.

I built this list following a well defined methodology: In 2024, the most popular online course out of 5,300 launched across the top MOOC platforms is Google's AI Essentials on Coursera. With over 900,000 enrollments, this single course had more enrollments than the combined total of all new courses launched on edX, FutureLearn, and Swayam in the same year. More than a decade has passed since a few Stanford professors decided to offer their courses online for free. These courses later became known as MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), and 2012 was dubbed the "Year of the MOOC." What's unique about this edition is that the majority of the courses are from companies, not universities—a significant shift from when MOOCs were first popularized.

I built this list following a well defined methodology: First, I went through the Class Central database and made a list of all the courses that were offered for the first time ever in 2024, on the four platforms below. There were 5300 such courses. Did you know the global e-learning market is projected to hit nearly $400 billion by 2026, doubling its size from 2019? That’s some serious growth! – source.

With e-learning booming like never before, there’s never been a better time to jump in and create your own online courses or info products. But with so many trending niches popping up, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll share my favorite high-demand niches for online courses and info products that are set to thrive in 2025. Let’s dive in! In addition to these niches, there are many other topics that you can explore for your online course.

In 2025, online education has reached a new level of maturity, combining interactive technologies, AI-driven personalization, and micro-certifications to meet the dynamic needs of learners. Whether you’re a student, working professional, or a career switcher, the ability to upskill online is more powerful—and more accessible—than ever before. In this post, we’ll explore the best online courses to learn in 2025, covering both free and paid options that offer high value and global recognition. The digital economy is evolving rapidly. Automation, artificial intelligence, climate technology, and remote work have transformed job roles across every sector. To remain competitive and adaptable, continuous learning has become essential.

Here’s why online learning is dominating: Flexibility: Learn on your schedule, anywhere in the world. Affordability: Access high-quality courses for free or at low cost. Diverse Offerings: From AI and data science to mental health and leadership, there’s something for everyone. If you’re wondering which are the best online courses to take in 2025, you’re not alone. With technology evolving at lightning speed, industries are transforming faster than ever.

Traditional college degrees are no longer enough to stay competitive. Employers now seek candidates with specialized skills, and online learning has become the fastest way to gain them. From AI Courses and Data Science Courses to Cybersecurity Courses and Digital Marketing Courses, the global e-learning industry is projected to surpass $350 billion by 2025 (source: Wikipedia – E-learning). This explosive growth means more opportunities for learners, but it also raises one important question: Which courses are truly worth your time and money? In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 high-demand online courses in 2025 that can boost your skills, improve your employability, and help you achieve long-term career growth. Artificial Intelligence is no longer science fiction—it’s everywhere.

From chatbots to self-driving cars, AI is shaping how businesses and societies operate. Taking AI Courses in 2025 gives you a competitive edge in industries such as healthcare, finance, e-commerce, and education. Pro Tip: Pair your AI skills with Data Science Courses for even greater career opportunities. 💡 Millions of people are logging in after hours, not to binge Netflix—but to binge learning. From AI to wellbeing, online courses are reshaping careers, boosting confidence, and opening doors that once required degrees or years of experience. But here’s the big question: which courses are people actually taking—and which one is right for you?

📈 Over 900,000 learners in 2024—more than all new courses on edX, FutureLearn, and Swayam combined. 💡 What it’s about: A beginner-friendly introduction to artificial intelligence. Learners discover what AI can (and can’t) do, explore everyday use cases, and gain hands-on experience with simple AI tools—designed to help professionals apply AI in their jobs immediately. 👉 Proof that AI skills are now the #1 priority for learners everywhere. The global demand for online courses has shown dynamic shifts across programming, marketing, and design domains. While "online marketing courses" consistently dominate search interest, "online design courses" exhibit steady growth, and "online programming courses" display periodic surges.

Seasonal fluctuations, particularly in late 2024 and early 2025, highlight strategic opportunities for course providers to align offerings with learner priorities. "Online marketing courses" maintained the highest search volume throughout the period, peaking at 70 in August 2025, while "online programming courses" saw a notable spike to 20 in the same month. "Online design courses" grew steadily, reaching 67 in August 2025. Notable dips occurred in November 2024 (all categories dropped by 10–15% from prior peaks), likely reflecting post-holiday demand lulls 1. 1. Prioritize Marketing Course Development: With sustained dominance (e.g., 70% search share in August 2025), expand content around advanced digital marketing strategies and certifications.

2. Leverage Seasonal Peaks: Capitalize on May–June 2025 demand surges (e.g., +47% for marketing courses) with targeted promotions. 3. Optimize Programming Course Visibility: Despite lower overall volume, programming courses saw a 100% YoY increase from August 2024 (10) to August 2025 (20). Focus on beginner-friendly pathways to attract new learners.

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Using Class Central Data And Enrollment Numbers To Find The

Using Class Central data and enrollment numbers to find the 100 most popular online courses of the year. In 2024, the most popular online course out of 5,300 launched across the top MOOC platforms is Google’s AI Essentials on Coursera. With over 900,000 enrollments, this single course had more enrollments than the combined total of all new courses launched on edX, FutureLearn, and Swayam in the sa...

I Built This List Following A Well Defined Methodology: In

I built this list following a well defined methodology: In 2024, the most popular online course out of 5,300 launched across the top MOOC platforms is Google's AI Essentials on Coursera. With over 900,000 enrollments, this single course had more enrollments than the combined total of all new courses launched on edX, FutureLearn, and Swayam in the same year. More than a decade has passed since a fe...

I Built This List Following A Well Defined Methodology: First,

I built this list following a well defined methodology: First, I went through the Class Central database and made a list of all the courses that were offered for the first time ever in 2024, on the four platforms below. There were 5300 such courses. Did you know the global e-learning market is projected to hit nearly $400 billion by 2026, doubling its size from 2019? That’s some serious growth! – ...

With E-learning Booming Like Never Before, There’s Never Been A

With e-learning booming like never before, there’s never been a better time to jump in and create your own online courses or info products. But with so many trending niches popping up, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll share my favorite high-demand niches for online courses and info products that are set to thrive in 2025. Le...

In 2025, Online Education Has Reached A New Level Of

In 2025, online education has reached a new level of maturity, combining interactive technologies, AI-driven personalization, and micro-certifications to meet the dynamic needs of learners. Whether you’re a student, working professional, or a career switcher, the ability to upskill online is more powerful—and more accessible—than ever before. In this post, we’ll explore the best online courses to ...