Acting courses can help you learn character development, script analysis, improvisation techniques, and stage presence. You can build skills in emotional range, voice modulation, and physical expression, enhancing your ability to connect with audiences. Many courses introduce tools like scene breakdowns, rehearsal techniques, and performance feedback methods that help you refine your craft and prepare for various acting roles.

University of London
Skills you'll gain: Performing Arts, Literacy, Oral Expression, Self-Awareness, Verbal Communication Skills, Analytical Skills, Storytelling, Creativity, Mindfulness, Adaptability
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of London
Skills you'll gain: Oral Expression, Public Speaking, Verbal Communication Skills, Assertiveness, Self-Awareness, Communication, Personal Attributes, Composure, Interpersonal Communications, Executive Presence, Emotional Intelligence, Respiration
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

California Institute of the Arts
Skills you'll gain: Peer Review, Cinematography, Videography, Video Production, Storyboarding, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Editing, Design Elements And Principles, Storytelling, Creativity
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

California Institute of the Arts
Skills you'll gain: Adobe Premiere, Peer Review, Cinematography, Video Editing, Videography, Video Production, Post-Production, Storyboarding, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Editing, Creativity, Media Production, Visual Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Design Elements And Principles, Storytelling, Creative Design, Content Creation, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Personal Development
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Adobe Premiere, Video Production, Videography, Post-Production, Video Editing, Storyboarding, Storytelling, Cinematography, Adobe Creative Cloud, Media Production, Editing, Writing, Graphic and Visual Design, Scripting, Multimedia, Timelines, File Management, Creativity, Quality Assurance
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Washington
Skills you'll gain: Public Speaking, Persuasive Communication, Presentations, Verbal Communication Skills, Communication, Storytelling, Infographics, Peer Review, Motivational Skills, Constructive Feedback, Driving engagement, Performing Arts, Concision, Diagram Design, Action Oriented, Trustworthiness, Communication Strategies, Writing, Non-Verbal Communication, Composure
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skillshare
Skills you'll gain: Cinematography, Videography, Video Production, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Photography, Post-Production, Storyboarding, Storytelling, Creativity, Podcasting, Content Creation, Image Quality, Music
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skillshare
Skills you'll gain: Adobe After Effects, Animations, Video Production, Post-Production, Video Editing, Motion Graphics, Storyboarding, Ideation, File Management, Content Creation, Cinematography, Timelines, Graphics Software, Creativity, Color Matching
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

California Institute of the Arts
Skills you'll gain: Active Listening, Empathy, Assertiveness, Communication, Business Communication, Interpersonal Communications, Planning, Goal Setting, Mindfulness, Public Speaking, Communication Strategies, Influencing, Leadership, Business Leadership, Presentations, Team Building, Emotional Intelligence, Composure, Empowerment, Initiative and Leadership
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skillshare
Skills you'll gain: Adobe After Effects, Motion Graphics, Animations, Video Editing, Post-Production, Musical Composition, Video Production, Timelines, Typography, Media Production, Scripting, Performance Tuning
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

L&T EduTech
Skills you'll gain: Engineering Calculations, Structural Engineering, Structural Analysis, Construction Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction, Engineering Analysis, Building Codes, Engineering Practices, Engineering, Materials science, Conceptual Design, Engineering Design Process, Architecture and Construction, Maintenance, Repair, and Facility Services, Finite Element Methods, Property Maintenance, Continuous Monitoring, Hydraulics, Failure Analysis
Advanced · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)
Skills you'll gain: Performing Arts, Culture, International Relations, World History, Cultural Diversity, Art History, Social Studies, Intercultural Competence, Music History, Public History, Media and Communications, Research
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Acting is the art of performing in front of an audience, whether on stage, in film, or on television. It involves portraying characters, conveying emotions, and telling stories through physical expression and vocal delivery. Acting is important because it fosters empathy, creativity, and communication skills. It allows individuals to explore different perspectives and connect with others on a deeper level, making it a vital part of culture and entertainment.‎
A career in acting can lead to various job opportunities, including roles in theater, film, television, and even voice acting for animation or video games. Actors may also find work in commercials, corporate training videos, and live performances. Beyond traditional acting roles, skills in acting can be beneficial in fields such as public speaking, teaching, and even corporate roles where presentation skills are essential.‎
To succeed in acting, you need a combination of skills, including strong communication abilities, emotional intelligence, and creativity. Understanding character development, script analysis, and improvisation are also crucial. Additionally, physical skills such as movement, voice modulation, and stage presence can enhance your performances. Training in these areas can help you become a more versatile and effective actor.‎
Some of the best online acting courses focus on foundational skills, character study, and performance techniques. For instance, Discover Acting offers insights into the basics of acting, helping you understand the craft and develop your unique style. Other courses may cover specific techniques, such as method acting or improvisation, allowing you to explore various approaches to performance.‎
Yes. You can start learning acting skills on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in acting, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning to act is a mix of understanding the craft and getting hands-on experience. You can start by taking online courses to learn the fundamentals of acting and performance techniques. From there, practice as much as possible—join workshops, participate in community theater, or record yourself performing monologues. Getting feedback from others and learning alongside peers can help you improve faster and build confidence as an actor.‎
Acting courses typically cover a range of topics, including character development, script analysis, voice and speech training, movement, and improvisation. You may also explore the history of theater and film, different acting techniques, and the business side of acting, such as auditioning and networking. These topics provide a comprehensive understanding of the craft and prepare you for various performance opportunities.‎
For training and upskilling employees or the workforce, acting courses that focus on communication, teamwork, and presentation skills can be particularly beneficial. Courses that emphasize role-playing and improvisation can help employees develop confidence in public speaking and enhance their ability to collaborate effectively. Investing in such training can lead to improved interpersonal skills and a more dynamic workplace.‎