A content management system (CMS) is essential to position a brand, a business, or a project on the web. When it comes to CMSs, few tools are as popular as WordPress. Online WordPress courses are a great way to learn WordPress, which can be extremely useful whether you are a web developer, content manager, or search engine optimization (SEO) expert.
This article is a comprehensive guide to the best WordPress courses online and the most popular free WordPress courses on the market. It also provides advice on choosing the best courses and discusses WordPress certification options.
What Is WordPress?
WordPress is an open-source content management software (CMS) used to create and host websites. Some of its most notable features are a plugin architecture, templates or “themes,” and an easy-to-use dashboard that allows anyone to create and upload content on the Internet regardless of their programming skills. Expertise in WordPress can help you improve your site’s visibility and rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs).
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Attending an Online WordPress Courses
Which Aspects of WordPress Would You Like to Learn?
When you look at online WordPress courses, you should be clear on which aspects of WordPress you want to learn. This will help you narrow down your choices and invest your time and effort in the best WordPress course online that is guaranteed to teach you what you want to learn.
Online courses typically focus on a single topic. For instance, you might be looking to learn more about using an SEO plugin, so you might go for online courses that teach you Yoast SEO. Or you might want to learn about working with specific templates. In that case, go for online courses that focus on that content type.
Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn WordPress?
Yes, attending a coding bootcamp is an excellent way of learning WordPress. There are plenty of bootcamps out there that either focus on WordPress or cover it as part of a broader web development curriculum.
The best WordPress bootcamps do much more than teach you the technical skills needed to land a well-paying job as a WordPress developer. You’ll also have access to a network of hiring partners and receive the support of mentors that will guide you during the job search and beyond.
The Best Online WordPress Courses: An Overview
If you’re interested in taking online WordPress courses, keep reading. We’ve curated a detailed list of our top WordPress courses online, including price, length, and whether they offer a certificate of completion. You’ll find a great variety of WordPress online training and WordPress tutorials for beginners.
Provider | Course | Price | Length | Certificate |
Boolean Careers | Full-Time Software Development | $4,500 | 6 months | No |
LinkedIn Learning | WordPress Essential Training | $34.99 | 3 hours | Yes |
LinkedIn Learning | WordPress SEO | $29.99 per month | 75 minutes | Yes |
OSTraining | The Beginners Guide to WordPress | $59 per year | 1 hour | Yes |
QuickStart | Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp | $5,400 | 6 months | No |
Udemy | How To Make a WordPress Website – Elementor Page Builder | $19.99 | 1.5 hours | Yes |
Udemy | The Complete WordPress Website Business Course | $199.99 | 22 hours | Yes |
WP Apprentice | WordPress Essentials | $15 per month | N/A | Yes |
WP101 | WordPress 101 | $19 per month | 140 minutes | Yes |
WP Sessions | Your First WordPress Plugin | $149 per year | 2.35 hours | No |
Coursera | Build a Full Website using WordPress | Free | 2 hours | No |
Eudonix | Learn Complete WordPress Security From Scratch | Free | 2.5 hours | No |
WP Courses | Kickstart Your Idea and Start Blogging | Free | N/A | No |
WPShout | Learn WordPress Development: The Basic Course | Free | N/A | No |
Yoast | WordPress for Beginners: How to Make a WordPress Website | Free | 4 hours | No |
The Best Online WordPress Classes, Courses, or Training
The best WordPress courses online will provide you with the knowledge, tools, and skill level to become a successful developer or SEO professional. Keep reading to find more details about the best WordPress courses online that you can take to pick up new skills.
Full-Time Software Development | Boolean Careers
- Learning Format: Live and online
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: HTML, JavaScript, jQuery, PHP (OOP), SQL, WordPress
Boolean offers one of the most comprehensive web development courses out there. In this course, you will learn basic and advanced web development concepts and skills and the latest tools on the market. You will learn HTML, CSS, Git, JavaScript, jQuery, PHP, SQL, ORM, Laravel, REST, and Vue.js. WordPress is also an important part of the curriculum.
Key Takeaway: The biggest strength of this course is the wide number of topics and skills covered in the curriculum.
WordPress Essential Training | LinkedIn
- Learning Format: Online
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: WordPress basics, navigating the admin area, customizing site settings, using plugins and themes
This online WordPress course offers lifetime access to students. It includes 45 videos that will teach you how to launch, customize, and manage your own site with WordPress. You will also learn how to add widgets and themes and resolve common issues that may come up as you create your site.
Key Takeaway: This course offers hours of video content to help you master the basics of WordPress.
WordPress SEO | LinkedIn Learning
- Learning Format: Standalone class
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Workflows, ecommerce, plugin development, WordPress
This program is offered by Linkedin Learning and is part of the learning path Mastering Digital Marketing. This is one of the best WordPress courses online where you will learn to boost your visibility in Google and social media networks. In addition, you will be introduced to powerful plugins that will help you drive more visitors to your website.
Key Takeaway: This is an ideal course to learn the basics of SEO, it will teach you to use WordPress to rank higher in SERPs.
Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp | QuickStart
- Learning Format: Full-time bootcamp
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Python programming, Bash scripting, networking, information security fundamentals, WordPress
QuickStart partners with a range of universities to offer online IT bootcamps. Its Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp can be accessed through Florida Atlantic University, Colorado State University, and James Madison University, to name a few.
In this program, you will learn JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Node.js, jQuery, MySQL, Git, Python, and Express.js as well as responsive design. WordPresss is also present in the curriculum. This bootcamp will allow you to work on real-world projects that you will be able to add to your portfolio. It also includes weekly coaching sessions with a mentor in the field.
Key Takeaway: This is a great educational option to gain the skills needed to land an entry-level position in the field.
The Beginners Guide to WordPress | OSTraining
- Learning Format: Standalone course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: WordPress basics, WordPress SEO, WordPress API
This course is ideal for people who are completely new to this powerful CMS. This WordPress training covers everything you need to get started, including how to install it, how to navigate the dashboard, and how to create pages and use the media library.
Key Takeaway: This is an excellent WordPress training course that comes with a money-back guarantee if you find it didn’t meet your expectations or help you reach your goals.
Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp | QuickStart
- Learning Format: Full-time bootcamp
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Python programming, Bash scripting, networking, information security fundamentals, WordPress
QuickStart partners with a range of universities to offer online IT bootcamps. Its Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp can be accessed through Florida Atlantic University, Colorado State University, and James Madison University, to name a few.
In this program, you will learn JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Node.js, jQuery, MySQL, Git, Python, and Express.js as well as responsive design. WordPress is also present in the curriculum. This bootcamp will allow you to work on real-world projects that you will be able to add to your portfolio. It also includes weekly coaching sessions with a mentor in the field.
Key Takeaway: This is a great WordPress training to gain the skills needed to land an entry-level position in the field.
How To Make a WordPress Website – Elementor Page Builder | Udemy
- Learning Format: Online
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: WordPress themes, Elementor
This online WordPress course is designed for intermediate users who already understand how to navigate the WordPress dashboard and are ready to create sites by implementing templates. It will walk you through the steps you need to take to create a site using Elementum, a popular theme.
Key Takeaway: This is the perfect WordPress training for students ready to implement themes to create their websites.
The Complete WordPress Website Business Course | Udemy
- Learning Format: Course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: WordPress installation, hosting and servers, theme development, website building, image editing, plugins
This is one of the best WordPress courses online if you want to take a deep dive into the platform. You will learn to create all types of commercial websites, set up server and hosting environments, and even debug and troubleshoot your website using WordPress.
Key Takeaway: This WordPress training was been taken by nearly 75,000 students and most of them had a good experience.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
WordPress Essentials | WP Apprentice
- Learning Format: Self-paced standalone class
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Content creation, media, customization, managing comments, settings
This course will help you become a confident WordPress user through a series of short and easy-to-digest lessons. You will cover basic concepts such as the difference between WordPress.com and WordPress.org and using the dashboard, as well as more advanced topics like using widgets and plugins.
Key Takeaway: This is a great WordPress training for complete beginners, and the monthly subscription to WP Apprentice will give you unlimited access to group coaching sessions and special forums.
WordPress 101 | WP101
- Learning Format: Video tutorials
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: WordPress SEO, content creation, blocks, site customization, site management
By the time you are done with this online WordPress course, you’ll be able to quickly and confidently build and manage your own WordPress site. It consists of a series of video tutorials, each building from the one that came before. The difficulty level of this course is perfect for complete beginners.
In the first lessons, you will learn to create new posts, add images, and embed a PDF file. Toward the end of the program, you’ll explore how to use the media library, manage comments, and add new users.
Key Takeaway: This course will teach you all you need to know to master the basics of WordPress.
Your First WordPress Plugin | WP Sessions
- Learning Format: Course
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: PHP, plugins, WordPress hooks, metaboxes, basic JavaScript, APIs, widgets, internationalization
This course covers a wide variety of topics, from hooks to APIs. You’ll learn WordPress coding standards and build supporting functions and plugin files from scratch. The final lessons cover advanced topics like saving widget data, translating a plugin using Poedit, and submitting a plugin to WordPress.org. You’ll also cover JavaScript and CSS.
Key Takeaway: Take this course if you are interested in writing WordPress plugin training.
Free Online WordPress Courses
Free online classes are a great way to learn the basics of any topic. Free WordPress courses can introduce you to the fundamentals, and help you decide whether a career as a WordPress developer is right for you. Keep reading to find out more about the best free WordPress classes online.
Build a Full Website using WordPress | Coursera
- Learning Format: Online, project-based
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Website building with WordPress
This online WordPress course is provided by Coursera and you can enroll for free. It is project-based. You will learn through practice and become able to create a site on WordPress from scratch. You’ll learn to add widgets and links. By the end, you will have a project to showcase to potential clients or employers.
Key Takeaway: Through this hands-on WordPress training you will learn how to create a simple site from scratch.
Learn Complete WordPress Security From Scratch | Eudonix
- Learning Format: Online
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Building secure WordPress websites
This online WordPress course was designed with safety in mind. It will teach you the tools and strategies you need for a safe site so hackers do not mess with your online business.
Key Takeaway: This course focuses on safety protocols to protect your WordPress site.
Kickstart Your Idea and Start Blogging | WP Courses
- Learning Format: Online, text-based
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Create a blog using WordPress
This WordPress online course will walk you through the basics of creating a site that is geared specifically toward blogging. It will guide you through the process of deciding a creative route, determining your audience, and building a site that fits those goals.
Key Takeaway: This WordPress training will help you start a blog.
Learn WordPress Development: The Basic Course | WPShout
- Learning Format: Standalone class
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: WordPress essentials, server-side development, client-side development, hooks
If you are new to WordPress, this free course is an ideal option to get you up and running. You’ll start right at the very beginning by learning exactly what WordPress is and end by tackling theme development. Along the way, you’ll learn about the key programming languages, server-side and client-side development, and the hook system.
Key Takeaway: This is a short course that will introduce you to the basics of WordPress at no cost.
WordPress for Beginners: How to Make a WordPress Website | Yoast
- Learning Format: Video tutorial
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Blogging, branding, content SEO, security, site structure, WordPress
Yoast is one of the most popular SEO companies in the world, and they created Yoast Academy to help you master this subject. In this free course, you will be introduced to WordPress and learn how to customize a site and use the Block Editor. Naturally, you will also learn about all the WordPress functions and tools that you can leverage to improve your SERP ranking.
Key Takeaway: This course caters specifically to SEO professionals, although it also covers general topics.
Best Web Development Course Providers
Many well-known companies offer excellent online WordPress for all types of learners, from absolute beginners trying to learn the fundamentals to advanced learners hoping to deepen their knowledge on specific topics. Keep reading to learn more about the best web development course providers.
WP101
WordPress 101 was created to provide learners with video tutorial series. Most of the content is focused on helping complete beginners. Since 2008, they’ve helped over three million users master WordPress to create their own websites.
WP Apprentice
WP Apprentice offers a wide variety of online WordPress courses to help both beginners and advanced users. This site is full of resources for students who do not have a technical background and need to create simple websites or learn to manage websites created by someone else.
WPSessions
WPSessions provides learners with video tutorials covering all the essentials of WordPress. These online courses teach students how to build effective websites, find clients, and grow their business. Users can sign up for a membership to gain access to content created by industry experts from all over the world.
Udemy
Udemy is a well-known platform providing users with courses on a wide variety of topics. It is a great place to find online WordPress courses covering everything from the fundamentals to advanced topics such as using themes or creating plugins to use on your sites.
Yoast
Yoast is a popular company focused on SEO. It is also the creator of a highly popular WordPress plugin, the Yoast SEO plugin. Courses on this site focus on the best SEO practices you should implement to help your sites rank well and reach your target audience.
WordPress Course Certificates vs Certifications
WordPress certifications and certificates are a great way to demonstrate your WordPress knowledge, but it’s important that you understand the difference between a certificate and a professional certification.
A certificate, or certificate of completion, is usually the result of an educational process. It is given out by an educational institution as proof that the student has completed a course or program.
A professional certification, on the other hand, is awarded by a neutral, standard-setting institution to show that the student has mastered a particular skill or tool, and usually require you to pass a skill test. The best WordPress certifications serve as a testament to your talents as a WordPress developer and will help boost your resume more than a certificate.
Importance of WordPress Certifications
WordPress certifications are a testament to your expertise with this platform and will help you stand out in the job market. If you are serious about your WordPress career, adding a professional certification to your resume is a must. When it comes to WordPress, the most important certification providers are the WordPress Foundation, Yoast, and WPMU DEV.
Online WordPress Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?
You can learn WordPress through different education options. In this article, we have included standalone classes, courses, and training to learn WordPress. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks.
If you are interested in learning a specific skill, such as using the block editor, it is best to take a standalone class designed specifically for that purpose. On the other hand, if you want to learn a wider range of skills and delve deeper into this platform, you’ll be better served by taking a course, which usually contains several units or classes.
Finally, a training program is a longer course of study that will prepare you for a career in WordPress development and equip you with the skills needed to land an entry-level position. The bootcamps discussed in this article fall into this category.
How to Choose the Right Online WordPress Course, Class, or Training Program
Online WordPress courses can be a fantastic way to learn the basics and start developing websites. Classes and training programs of different levels of difficulty are available online in great numbers, which makes it hard to choose. Keep reading to learn the things you need to focus on to choose the right online WordPress course for you.
Choose a Reputable Provider
When choosing a WordPress course, class, or training, the main factor you should consider is the provider. Look for bootcamps, learning platforms, or universities that have a good reputation in the field of web development. When possible, choose an education provider that is accredited by relevant state or national agencies.
Read the Curriculum Beforehand
Before choosing a course or program, make sure to take a long look at the curriculum. You want to make sure that it is aligned with your needs, covering the topics that you are interested in and that will help you meet your professional goals. For example, if you are an SEO professional, you want a course that focuses on the WordPress features that will help you rank higher in Google.
Consider Additional Services
Not all courses are created equal. Some of the programs on this list offer tempting additional services that can help you a lot if you are pursuing a career as a WordPress professional. For example, some of the bootcamp programs we highlighted include career services such as one-on-one mentorship, access to a hiring network, and workshops to prepare for interviews.
Research the Instructor
An important step to take is to do some research on the person teaching the course or training. Do they have a reputation for being experts in the field? The best online WordPress courses are taught by experts who have a strong following and a strong track record of creating successful websites.
Choose the Right Course Format
You should opt for online WordPress courses that are taught in the right format according to your needs, time availability, and learning preference. If you prefer videos, opt for a course that focuses on that.
If you learn better by reading, choose a course that is mostly text-based. If you want interaction with other students, choose a course that provides a platform so you can engage with other learners.
Why You Should Take Online WordPress Courses or Classes
Investing time and money in a WordPress course or class is a good idea if you are a web developer, content manager, and social media manager. Even copywriters and SEO experts can benefit from becoming proficient with this tool.
Learning how to use WordPress efficiently to upload content to a website or improve a site’s ranking in Google search results can open the door to countless professional opportunities. It can even lead to a high-paying career as a professional WordPress developer. If you are interested in web development or content management, then signing up for a WordPress course is a wise decision.
Online WordPress Courses FAQ
Learning WordPress can open many doors, especially if you work in the tech industry. Many types of professionals can benefit from being proficient with WordPress. Knowing how to quickly and efficiently upload content to a site using WordPress is a skill that’s useful as a web developer, copywriter, social media manager, content manager, and SEO expert.
How long will it take to learn basic WP skills?
On average, it takes about a week to master the WordPress fundamentals. It might take you longer depending on how many hours a day you dedicate to learning, the type of course or learning resource you select, and your ability to deal with technology.
Are free WordPress courses worth It?
Yes, free WordPress courses are worth it. Even if they don’t offer the depth or support of paid courses, they can still help you become familiar with the fundamentals and decide whether WordPress is a skill you truly want to master.
Are online WordPress courses important for professional development?
Yes, online WordPress courses are important for professional development, especially if you want to launch a career as a website developer or SEO expert. Online WordPress courses can equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to start building sites for yourself and for clients.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.