Self-development courses can help you learn time management, emotional intelligence, effective communication, and goal-setting strategies. You can build skills in self-reflection, resilience, and motivation techniques that enhance personal growth. Many courses introduce tools like journaling apps, productivity planners, and mindfulness practices that support your journey toward self-improvement and help you implement the skills you acquire.

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: Self-Awareness, Leadership Development, Personal Development, Lifelong Learning, Adaptability, Willingness To Learn, Self-Motivation, Emotional Intelligence, Change Management, Goal Setting
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Colorado System
Skills you'll gain: Growth Mindedness, Emotional Intelligence, Resilience, Goal Setting, Self-Motivation, Personal Development, Smart Goals, Self-Awareness, Overcoming Obstacles, Productivity, Positivity, Lifelong Learning, Culture, Community Development, Cultural Diversity, Adaptability, Creativity, digital literacy, Intercultural Competence, Diversity Awareness
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Duke University
Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Trustworthiness, Personal Integrity, Compassion, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Optimism, Aesthetics, Positivity, Growth Mindedness, Resilience, Art History, Liberal Arts, Performing Arts, Teaching, Community Development, Creativity, Self-Awareness, Discussion Facilitation, Music, Leadership
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Tenacity, Persistence, Personal Attributes, Persona Development, Personal Development, Human Development, Self-Awareness, Case Studies, Resilience, Empathy & Emotional Intelligence, Overcoming Obstacles, Growth Mindedness, Lifelong Learning, Psychology, Psychological Evaluations, Applied Behavior Analysis, Cognitive flexibility, Social Sciences, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Diversity
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Arizona State University
Skills you'll gain: Empathy, Positivity, Growth Mindedness, Optimism, Stress Management, Resilience, Compassion, Goal Setting, Overcoming Obstacles, Personal Development, Emotional Intelligence, Empowerment, Social Skills, Time Management, Persistence, Courage, Adaptability, Self-Awareness, Independent Thinking, Organizational Skills
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Personal Development, Resilience, Self-Awareness, Mental Concentration, Accountability, Overcoming Obstacles, Self-Motivation, Persistence, Productivity, Emotional Intelligence, Growth Mindedness, Time Management, Positivity, Optimism, Stress Management, Initiative and Leadership, Personal Attributes, Decision Making, Engineering Management, Goal Setting
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

American Psychological Association
Skills you'll gain: Self-Awareness, Personal Development, Psychology, Self-Motivation, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Diversity, Goal Setting, Cognitive flexibility, Critical Thinking, Mindfulness, Scientific Methods
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Pennsylvania
Skills you'll gain: Influencing, Active Listening, Negotiation, Communication, Communication Strategies, Persuasive Communication, Verbal Communication Skills, Contract Negotiation, Trustworthiness, Leadership, Interpersonal Communications, Business Communication, Strategic Communication, Relationship Building, Initiative and Leadership, Professional Networking, Innovation, Growth Mindedness, Personal Development, Optimism
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Growth Mindedness, Self-Awareness, Personal Development, Goal Setting, Empowerment, Action Oriented, Self-Motivation, Overcoming Obstacles, Positivity, Resilience, Prioritization, Mindfulness
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Arizona State University
Skills you'll gain: Public Speaking, Presentations, Storytelling, Communication, Verbal Communication Skills, Communication Strategies, Verbal Strategic Communication, Concision, Goal-Oriented, Planning
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Self-Awareness, Personal Development, Human Development, Psychology, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Diversity, Adaptability, Social Sciences, Sociology, Goal Setting
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Tenacity, Persistence, Personal Attributes, Personal Development, Self-Awareness, Case Studies, Emotional Intelligence, Growth Mindedness, Resilience, Empathy & Emotional Intelligence, Overcoming Obstacles, Psychological Evaluations, Applied Behavior Analysis, Cognitive flexibility, Psychology, Goal Setting
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Self-development refers to the conscious pursuit of personal growth and improvement in various aspects of life, including emotional, intellectual, and social dimensions. It is important because it empowers individuals to enhance their skills, boost their confidence, and achieve their personal and professional goals. Engaging in self-development can lead to greater job satisfaction, improved relationships, and a more fulfilling life overall.
Jobs in self-development can vary widely, ranging from personal coaches and motivational speakers to corporate trainers and human resources professionals. These roles often focus on helping others achieve their potential, whether through one-on-one coaching, workshops, or organizational development initiatives. Additionally, skills in self-development can be beneficial in roles such as project management, education, and counseling.
To effectively engage in self-development, individuals should focus on skills such as emotional intelligence, communication, time management, and critical thinking. Additionally, cultivating a growth mindset and resilience can significantly enhance one's ability to adapt and thrive in various situations. Learning how to set and achieve goals is also crucial for personal growth.
Some of the best self-development courses online include options like Building and Managing Superior Skills and Introduction to Self-Determination Theory: An approach to motivation, development and wellness. These courses provide valuable insights and practical strategies for personal growth and motivation.
Yes. You can start learning self development on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in self development, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
Learning self-development can be approached through various methods, including online courses, reading self-help books, attending workshops, and engaging in reflective practices like journaling or meditation. Setting specific goals and regularly assessing progress can also enhance the learning experience, making it more structured and effective.
Topics typically covered in self-development courses include goal setting, time management, emotional intelligence, communication skills, and personal finance. Additionally, courses may explore mindfulness, resilience, and strategies for overcoming obstacles, providing a well-rounded foundation for personal growth.
For training and upskilling employees, courses like Accelerate: Professional Development with an Advanced Degree Specialization can be particularly beneficial. These programs focus on enhancing professional skills and fostering a culture of continuous learning within organizations.