• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Log In
Join for Free
  • Browse
  • Self Defense

Self Defense Courses

Self-defense courses can help you learn situational awareness, basic striking techniques, and effective escape strategies. You can build skills in defensive tactics, conflict de-escalation, and personal safety planning. Many courses introduce tools like pepper spray, personal alarms, and self-defense keychains, demonstrating how these items can enhance your safety and confidence in various environments.


Popular Self Defense Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    C

    Case Western Reserve University

    Introduction to International Criminal Law

    Skills you'll gain: Trial Preparation, Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Legal Proceedings, Litigation and Civil Justice, International Relations, Legal Strategy, Diplomacy, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Public Safety and National Security, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Intelligence Collection and Analysis, Interactive Learning, Case Studies, Student Engagement

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    4K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    E

    EC-Council

    Cybersecurity Attack and Defense Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Penetration Testing, Network Security, Threat Modeling, Mobile Security, Cloud Security, Public Key Infrastructure, Vulnerability Assessments, Cryptography, Security Controls, Threat Detection, Cybersecurity, Authorization (Computing), Security Awareness, Cloud Computing, Encryption, Malware Protection, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Identity and Access Management, Cyber Attacks, Data Integrity

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    776 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    E

    EDUCBA

    Personality Development & Self Growth

    Skills you'll gain: Tenacity, Persistence, Personal Attributes, Persona Development, Personal Development, Human Development, Self-Awareness, Case Studies, Resilience, Overcoming Obstacles, Growth Mindedness, Lifelong Learning, Psychology, Cognitive flexibility, Social Sciences, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Diversity, Sociology, Social Work, Goal Setting

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    Self-Care Essentials: Embrace & Nurture the Real You

    Skills you'll gain: Growth Mindedness, Positivity, Self-Awareness, Personal Development, Goal Setting, Resilience, Mindfulness, Empowerment, Persistence, Self-Motivation, Action Oriented, Courage, Visionary, Creative Thinking, Creativity, Digital Design, Overcoming Obstacles, Graphical Tools, Color Theory, Storytelling

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Preview
    Preview
    S

    Starweaver

    Network Defense Strategies

    Skills you'll gain: Network Security, Network Planning And Design, VPN Clients, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Cyber Security Strategy, Network Architecture, Firewall, Security Controls, Network Monitoring, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN), Threat Management, Threat Detection, Continuous Monitoring, Authentications, Wireless Networks, Authorization (Computing), Identity and Access Management, Encryption, Incident Response

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    G

    Google

    Google AI Essentials

    Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Prompt Patterns, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Productivity Software, Information Systems Security Assessment Framework (ISSAF), Operational Efficiency, Business Process Automation, Data Security, Critical Thinking, Analysis, Innovation

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    17K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    E

    EDUCBA

    Ethical Hacking with Kali Linux: Analyze & Defend

    Skills you'll gain: Penetration Testing, Malware Protection, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Exploitation techniques, Cybersecurity, Threat Detection, Email Security, Vulnerability Assessments, Human Factors (Security), Network Analysis

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    American Psychological Association

    Discover Yourself, Build Relationships, and Navigate Groups

    Skills you'll gain: Self-Awareness, Relationship Building, Personal Development, Psychology, Relationship Management, Self-Motivation, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Diversity, Behavior Management, Decision Making, Goal Setting, Sociology, Culture, Social Sciences, Interpersonal Communications, Cognitive flexibility, Critical Thinking, Mindfulness, Research, Case Studies

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    42 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Toronto

    Self-Driving Cars

    Skills you'll gain: Computer Vision, Image Analysis, Control Systems, Automation, Deep Learning, Simulation and Simulation Software, Software Architecture, Safety Assurance, Artificial Neural Networks, Global Positioning Systems, Hardware Architecture, Systems Architecture, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Artificial Intelligence, Estimation, Algorithms, Machine Learning Methods, Mathematical Modeling, Predictive Modeling, Machine Learning Algorithms

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    3.5K reviews

    Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Preview
    Preview
    A

    Adobe

    Job Applications Essentials

    Skills you'll gain: LinkedIn, Interviewing Skills, Critical Thinking, Adobe Acrobat, Creativity, Design, Presentations, Branding, Storytelling, Communication, Professional Development, Professional Networking, Self-Awareness, Digital Communications

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Psychological First Aid

    Skills you'll gain: Triage, Crisis Intervention, Active Listening, Rapport Building, Emergency Response, Trauma Care, Psychiatric Assessments, Interpersonal Communications, Personal Care, Mental Health, Stress Management, Patient Referral

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    20K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    G

    Google

    IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts

    Skills you'll gain: IT Security Architecture, Information Systems Security, Network Security, Computer Security, Application Security, Cybersecurity, Security Awareness, Encryption, Data Security, Cryptography, Security Management, Authorization (Computing), Threat Management, Firewall, Network Administration, Identity and Access Management, Threat Detection, Hardening, Malware Protection, Wireless Networks

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    26K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

1234…167

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular self defense courses

  • Introduction to International Criminal Law: Case Western Reserve University
  • Cybersecurity Attack and Defense Fundamentals: EC-Council
  • Personality Development & Self Growth: EDUCBA
  • Self-Care Essentials: Embrace & Nurture the Real You: Skillshare
  • Network Defense Strategies: Starweaver
  • Google AI Essentials: Google
  • Ethical Hacking with Kali Linux: Analyze & Defend: EDUCBA
  • Discover Yourself, Build Relationships, and Navigate Groups: American Psychological Association
  • Self-Driving Cars: University of Toronto
  • Job Applications Essentials: Adobe

Frequently Asked Questions about Self Defense

Self-defense refers to a set of techniques and strategies that individuals use to protect themselves from physical harm or imminent danger. It involves using physical, mental, and verbal skills to counteract and avoid potential threats or attacks. Self-defense techniques can vary, but some common ones include striking, blocking, grappling, and escaping from dangerous situations.

Self-defense skills are crucial to ensure personal safety and can be valuable for people of all ages and genders. Learning self-defense not only provides individuals with the ability to protect themselves but also helps boost confidence, develop situational awareness, and improve physical fitness.

If you are interested in learning self-defense, there are numerous options available. You can find local martial arts schools that offer self-defense classes, join community workshops or seminars, or even explore online courses and tutorials. It's essential to choose a learning method that suits your preferences and goals, whether you prefer in-person training or a more flexible virtual learning environment.

Remember, self-defense is about empowering oneself and taking proactive steps to ensure personal safety.‎

To develop effective self-defense skills, here are some key areas you could focus on:

  1. Martial arts: Learning martial arts can equip you with valuable self-defense techniques. Consider disciplines such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Krav Maga, Karate, Taekwondo, Muay Thai, or Boxing.

  2. Situational awareness: Being aware of your surroundings is crucial. Practice observing and evaluating potential risks or threats in different environments.

  3. Verbal and non-verbal communication skills: Effective communication can help de-escalate confrontational situations. Learn how to assertively communicate, set boundaries, and diffuse conflicts.

  4. Physical fitness: Enhance your overall fitness level, as it can significantly improve your ability to defend yourself. Focus on cardio endurance, strength training, flexibility, and agility.

  5. Mental resilience: Develop mental toughness, self-confidence, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Psychological preparedness can greatly aid in self-defense situations.

  6. Self-defense gadgets: Familiarize yourself with various self-defense tools like pepper spray, personal alarms, or tasers. Understand their proper usage and laws regulating them in your area.

  7. First aid and basic medical training: Learning basic first aid skills can be invaluable in emergencies, allowing you to promptly respond to injuries and provide help.

Remember, self-defense is not just about physical techniques but also about awareness, prevention, and making smart decisions to ensure your safety.‎

With self-defense skills, you can explore various job opportunities in personal safety and security fields. Some potential career options include:

  1. Self-defense Instructor: You can become a certified self-defense instructor and teach others the techniques and strategies to protect themselves in dangerous situations. This role can be fulfilled through private instruction, community centers, fitness centers, or working with organizations focused on personal safety.

  2. Security Guard: Self-defense skills can be an asset for individuals working as security guards. Companies and institutions often require their security personnel to have knowledge of self-defense techniques to handle confrontational situations or to protect themselves and others when necessary.

  3. Law Enforcement Officer: Self-defense skills can be valuable for individuals pursuing a career in law enforcement. Police officers and other law enforcement professionals must be well-versed in techniques to protect themselves and others while apprehending suspects or dealing with potentially dangerous situations.

  4. Personal Protection Specialist: With proper training in self-defense, you can work as a personal protection specialist or bodyguard. This role involves ensuring the safety and security of clients, particularly high-profile individuals or those at risk, by employing self-defense tactics if necessary.

  5. Martial Arts Instructor: Self-defense skills are centered around martial arts techniques. By refining your skills, you can become a martial arts instructor and teach self-defense along with other martial arts disciplines to individuals of all ages and skill levels.

  6. Security Consultant: As a security consultant, your self-defense skills can be utilized to assess and advise on the security measures of various establishments, such as businesses, schools, or public spaces. Your expertise can help identify vulnerabilities and recommend improvements to enhance safety.

Remember that these careers may require additional qualifications, certifications, or licenses depending on the specific job and location.‎

People who are interested in personal safety and want to learn practical skills to protect themselves and others are best suited for studying self-defense. Additionally, individuals who are looking to improve their physical fitness, build confidence, and develop discipline can also benefit from studying self-defense. It is important to note that self-defense is suitable for people of all ages and genders, as it focuses on techniques and strategies that can be adapted to different individuals' abilities and strengths.‎

Here are some topics related to Self Defense that you can study:

  1. Krav Maga: Learn about this Israeli martial art which focuses on real-world self-defense techniques.

  2. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Study this grappling martial art that emphasizes ground fighting and self-defense.

  3. Kickboxing: Explore the techniques and principles of this hybrid martial art that combines karate and boxing.

  4. Personal Safety and Awareness: Learn strategies to increase your personal safety through situational awareness and self-defense techniques.

  5. Martial Arts Philosophy: Dive into the philosophy and principles behind various martial arts, including self-defense aspects.

  6. Conflict Resolution: Develop skills to prevent and deescalate potentially dangerous situations through effective communication and conflict resolution techniques.

  7. Women's Self Defense: Study self-defense techniques tailored specifically for women, considering their unique vulnerabilities and physical differences.

  8. Weapons Defense: Learn how to defend yourself against various weapons commonly encountered in real-world scenarios.

  9. Fitness for Self Defense: Explore fitness routines and exercises specifically designed to improve your strength, speed, and agility for self-defense purposes.

  10. Crime Prevention: Understand the principles and strategies to avoid becoming a victim of crime, including personal safety measures and home security.

Remember, it's always advised to seek practical training in a controlled environment for optimal learning and application of self-defense techniques.‎

Online Self Defense courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Self-defense refers to a set of techniques and strategies that individuals use to protect themselves from physical harm or imminent danger. It involves using physical, mental, and verbal skills to counteract and avoid potential threats or attacks. Self-defense techniques can vary, but some common ones include striking, blocking, grappling, and escaping from dangerous situations.

Self-defense skills are crucial to ensure personal safety and can be valuable for people of all ages and genders. Learning self-defense not only provides individuals with the ability to protect themselves but also helps boost confidence, develop situational awareness, and improve physical fitness.

If you are interested in learning self-defense, there are numerous options available. You can find local martial arts schools that offer self-defense classes, join community workshops or seminars, or even explore online courses and tutorials. It's essential to choose a learning method that suits your preferences and goals, whether you prefer in-person training or a more flexible virtual learning environment.

Remember, self-defense is about empowering oneself and taking proactive steps to ensure personal safety. skills. Choose from a wide range of Self Defense courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Self Defense, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

Other topics to explore

Arts and Humanities
338 courses
Business
1095 courses
Computer Science
668 courses
Data Science
425 courses
Information Technology
145 courses
Health
471 courses
Math and Logic
70 courses
Personal Development
137 courses
Physical Science and Engineering
413 courses
Social Sciences
401 courses
Language Learning
150 courses

Coursera Footer

Skills

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data Analytics
  • Digital Marketing
  • English Speaking
  • Generative AI (GenAI)
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Power BI
  • Project Management
  • Python

Certificates & Programs

  • Google Cybersecurity Certificate
  • Google Data Analytics Certificate
  • Google IT Support Certificate
  • Google Project Management Certificate
  • Google UX Design Certificate
  • IBM Data Analyst Certificate
  • IBM Data Science Certificate
  • Machine Learning Certificate
  • Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Certificate
  • UI / UX Design Certificate

Industries & Careers

  • Business
  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Education & Teaching
  • Engineering
  • Finance
  • Healthcare
  • Human Resources (HR)
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Marketing

Career Resources

  • Career Aptitude Test
  • Examples of Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews
  • High-Income Skills to Learn
  • How Does Cryptocurrency Work?
  • How to Highlight Duplicates in Google Sheets
  • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
  • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
  • Preparing for the PMP Certification
  • Signs You Will Get the Job After an Interview
  • What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Coursera

  • About
  • What We Offer
  • Leadership
  • Careers
  • Catalog
  • Coursera Plus
  • Professional Certificates
  • MasterTrack® Certificates
  • Degrees
  • For Enterprise
  • For Government
  • For Campus
  • Become a Partner
  • Social Impact
  • Free Courses
  • Share your Coursera learning story

Community

  • Learners
  • Partners
  • Beta Testers
  • Blog
  • The Coursera Podcast
  • Tech Blog

More

  • Press
  • Investors
  • Terms
  • Privacy
  • Help
  • Accessibility
  • Contact
  • Articles
  • Directory
  • Affiliates
  • Modern Slavery Statement
  • Do Not Sell/Share
Learn Anywhere
Download on the App Store
Get it on Google Play
Logo of Certified B Corporation
© 2025 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
  • Coursera Facebook
  • Coursera Linkedin
  • Coursera Twitter
  • Coursera YouTube
  • Coursera Instagram
  • Coursera TikTok