Competitive strategy courses can help you learn market positioning, competitive analysis, value proposition development, and strategic planning. You can build skills in identifying industry trends, assessing competitor strengths and weaknesses, and crafting effective business strategies. Many courses introduce tools like SWOT analysis, Porter’s Five Forces, and business model canvases, that support evaluating market dynamics and shaping strategic decisions.
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)
Skills you'll gain: Business Strategy, Game Theory, Strategic Thinking, Competitive Analysis, Strategic Partnership, Product Strategy, Strategic Decision-Making, Market Dynamics, New Business Development, Market Opportunities, New Product Development, Market Analysis, Product Development, Innovation, Coordination
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Illinois Tech
Skills you'll gain: Business Strategy, Competitive Analysis, Strategic Thinking, Business Strategies, Corporate Strategy, Innovation, Organizational Strategy, Market Dynamics, Market Analysis, Resource Management, Value Propositions, Strategic Decision-Making, Market Opportunities, Business Analysis, Case Studies
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)
Skills you'll gain: Mergers & Acquisitions, Customer Retention, Business Research, Business Strategy, Organizational Structure, Organizational Strategy, Peer Review, Game Theory, Strategic Thinking, Competitive Analysis, Strategic Partnership, Consulting, Product Strategy, Report Writing, Business Consulting, Growth Strategies, Organizational Development, Organizational Effectiveness, Strategic Decision-Making, Research Reports
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

ESSEC Business School
Skills you'll gain: Data-Driven Marketing, Marketing Analytics, Business Analytics, Statistical Programming, Forecasting, Peer Review, Statistical Methods, Data Presentation, Predictive Analytics, Customer Analysis, Case Studies, R (Software), Information Technology, Analytical Skills, Digital Transformation, Advanced Analytics, Marketing Strategies, Complex Problem Solving, Data Synthesis, R Programming
Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Skills you'll gain: Business Strategy, Business Strategies, Business Planning, Organizational Strategy, Strategic Thinking, Corporate Strategy, Strategic Planning, Strategic Leadership, Strategic Decision-Making, Competitive Analysis, Business Modeling, Market Analysis, Resource Management, Value Propositions
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Copenhagen Business School
Skills you'll gain: Strategic Thinking, Business Strategy, Business Strategies, Strategic Decision-Making, Strategic Planning, Strategic Leadership, Organizational Strategy, Corporate Strategy, Technology Strategies, Competitive Analysis, Global Marketing, Case Studies, Plan Execution, Market Dynamics
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: Business Strategy, Strategic Thinking, Business Strategies, Customer Analysis, Organizational Strategy, Strategic Marketing, Growth Strategies, Corporate Strategy, Competitive Analysis, Business Planning, Market Analysis, Strategic Decision-Making, Market Opportunities, Value Propositions, New Business Development, Organizational Effectiveness, Analysis, Innovation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Pennsylvania
Skills you'll gain: Customer experience strategy (CX), Brand Strategy, Brand Management, Branding, Retail Sales, Marketing Strategies, Customer Analysis, Customer Insights, Brand Loyalty, Brand Awareness, Cross-Channel Marketing, Global Marketing, Market Trend, Consumer Behaviour, Competitive Analysis, Self Service Technologies, Innovation, E-Commerce, Corporate Sustainability
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of London
Skills you'll gain: Marketing Planning, Marketing Strategies, Marketing Strategy and Techniques, Strategic Marketing, Competitive Analysis, Marketing Effectiveness, Market Analysis, Marketing, Marketing Management, Market Dynamics, Target Market, Auditing, Analysis, Target Audience, Business Analysis Tools
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)
Skills you'll gain: Game Theory, Competitive Analysis, Business Strategy, Strategic Thinking, Strategic Partnership, Product Strategy, Market Dynamics, Strategic Decision-Making, Market Opportunities, New Product Development, Market Analysis, Innovation, Coordination
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Strategic Planning, Growth Strategies, Strategic Communication, Business Consulting, Management Consulting, Stakeholder Communications, Verbal Strategic Communication, Contingency Planning, Competitive Analysis, Market Analysis, Market Share, Market Research, Scenario Testing, New Business Development, Portfolio Management
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: Competitive Analysis, Product Strategy, Competitive Intelligence, Market Analysis, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Product Knowledge, Product Management, Business Strategy, Strategic Thinking, Market Research, Strategic Decision-Making, Business Analysis, Company, Product, and Service Knowledge, Gap Analysis, Market Dynamics
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Competitive strategy refers to the actions and decisions that a business undertakes to gain a competitive advantage in its industry. It involves understanding the market landscape, identifying competitors, and determining how to position a company effectively to attract customers and outperform rivals. This strategic approach is crucial because it helps organizations navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and ensure long-term sustainability in a competitive environment.
Careers in competitive strategy can vary widely across industries. Some potential job titles include strategic analyst, business development manager, market research analyst, and product manager. These roles often involve analyzing market trends, developing strategic plans, and implementing initiatives that enhance a company's competitive position. Professionals in this field are essential for guiding organizations in making informed decisions that align with their strategic goals.
To excel in competitive strategy, several key skills are essential. These include analytical thinking, market research proficiency, strategic planning, and effective communication. Additionally, understanding financial metrics and having a grasp of competitive analysis tools can significantly enhance your ability to develop and implement successful strategies. Continuous learning and adaptability are also important, as market dynamics can change rapidly.
There are numerous online courses available for those interested in competitive strategy. Some notable options include the Competitive Strategy course, which provides foundational knowledge, and the Advanced Competitive Strategy course for those looking to deepen their understanding. Additionally, the Competitive Strategy and Organization Design Specialization offers a comprehensive curriculum for learners seeking a structured approach.
Yes. You can start learning competitive strategy on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in competitive strategy, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
Learning competitive strategy involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Start by enrolling in foundational courses that cover key concepts and frameworks. Engage with case studies to see how strategies are applied in real-world scenarios. Additionally, participating in discussions and networking with peers can provide diverse perspectives and enhance your understanding.
Typical topics covered in competitive strategy courses include market analysis, competitive positioning, strategic planning frameworks, and the evaluation of business models. Courses may also explore case studies of successful companies, the role of innovation in strategy, and the impact of digital transformation on competitive dynamics.
For training and upskilling employees in competitive strategy, courses like the Competitive Strategy and Organization Design Specialization and the Business Strategy Specialization are excellent choices. These programs provide comprehensive insights and practical tools that can help teams develop effective strategies tailored to their organizational goals.