Communication skills courses can help you learn effective verbal and nonverbal communication, active listening, persuasive speaking, and conflict resolution techniques. You can build skills in crafting clear messages, adapting your communication style to different audiences, and using feedback constructively. Many courses introduce tools like presentation software, video conferencing platforms, and collaboration apps, which enhance your ability to convey ideas and engage with others in various settings.
University of Pennsylvania
Skills you'll gain: Active Listening, Communication, Communication Strategies, Persuasive Communication, Verbal Communication Skills, Interpersonal Communications, Business Communication, Strategic Communication, Trustworthiness, Rapport Building, Goal Setting, Relationship Building, Non-Verbal Communication, Cooperation, Negotiation, Competitive Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Georgia Institute of Technology
Skills you'll gain: Sales Presentation, Presentations, Business Writing, Business Correspondence, Verbal Communication Skills, Public Speaking, Cultural Diversity, Business Communication, Professional Networking, Cultural Sensitivity, Writing, English Language, Vocabulary, Intercultural Competence, Language Learning, Communication, Interpersonal Communications, LinkedIn, Web Content, Social Media Content
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

LearnKartS
Skills you'll gain: Verbal Communication Skills, Active Listening, Interpersonal Communications, Communication, Influencing, Communication Strategies, Public Speaking, Business Communication, Emotional Intelligence, Professionalism, Rapport Building, Business Correspondence, Virtual Teams, Non-Verbal Communication, Empathy, Teamwork, Overcoming Obstacles, Conflict Management, Self-Awareness, Adaptability
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Active Listening, Social Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Empathy, Interpersonal Communications, Conflict Management, Cultural Diversity, Non-Verbal Communication, Relationship Building, Self-Awareness, Communication, Adaptability
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Washington
Skills you'll gain: Negotiation, Proposal Writing, Presentations, Sales Presentation, Verbal Communication Skills, Persuasive Communication, Event Planning, Peer Review, Business Communication, Business Writing, Taking Meeting Minutes, Public Speaking, Business Planning, Microsoft PowerPoint, Meeting Facilitation, Business Correspondence, Professional Networking, Data Visualization, English Language, Setting Appointments
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Active Listening, Interpersonal Communications, Conflict Management, Constructive Feedback, Social Skills, Trustworthiness, Relationship Building, Business Communication, Collaboration, Communication, Communication Strategies, Professional Development, Assertiveness, Influencing, Non-Verbal Communication, People Management
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Active Listening, Problem Solving, Presentations, Collaboration, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Root Cause Analysis, Interpersonal Communications, Conflict Management, Constructive Feedback, Communication, Social Skills, Virtual Teams, Collaborative Software, Teamwork, Public Speaking, Persuasive Communication, Professional Development, Professionalism, Workflow Management, Accountability
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: Persuasive Communication, Storytelling, Influencing, Communication, Leadership, Verbal Communication Skills, Stakeholder Communications, Public Speaking, Communication Strategies, Interpersonal Communications, Meeting Facilitation, Executive Presence, Strategic Communication, Discussion Facilitation, Team Leadership, Active Listening
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Rice University
Skills you'll gain: Presentations, Technical Communication, Verbal Communication Skills, Executive Presence, Public Speaking, Engineering Documentation, Business Communication, Concision, Crisis Management, Scientific Visualization, Persuasive Communication, Interpersonal Communications, Communication, Meeting Facilitation, Electronic Media, Communication Strategies, Intercultural Competence, Report Writing, Writing, Technical Documentation
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Washington
Skills you'll gain: Public Speaking, Persuasive Communication, Presentations, Verbal Communication Skills, Microsoft PowerPoint, Communication, Storytelling, Motivational Skills, Constructive Feedback, Driving engagement, Performing Arts, Concision, Drive Engagement, Action Oriented, Communication Strategies, Target Audience, Writing, Non-Verbal Communication, Composure, Leadership
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Communication, Public Speaking, Constructive Feedback, Professional Development, Self-Awareness
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Business Writing, Presentations, Peer Review, Infographics, Graphic Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Business Correspondence, Public Speaking, Business Communication, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Verbal Communication Skills, Design, Visual Design, Storytelling, Writing, Organizational Skills, Project Design, Data Presentation, Concision, Microsoft PowerPoint
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Communication skills refer to the ability to convey information effectively and efficiently, whether through speaking, writing, or non-verbal cues. These skills are crucial in both personal and professional contexts, as they facilitate understanding, collaboration, and relationship-building. Strong communication skills can lead to better teamwork, enhanced problem-solving, and increased productivity, making them essential for success in any career.‎
A variety of jobs require strong communication skills across different industries. Roles such as public relations specialists, marketing professionals, human resources managers, and customer service representatives all depend heavily on effective communication. Additionally, positions in education, healthcare, and leadership roles also benefit from strong communication abilities, as they often involve conveying complex information clearly and persuasively.‎
To develop effective communication skills, you should focus on several key areas. These include active listening, which helps you understand others better; verbal communication, which involves articulating your thoughts clearly; and non-verbal communication, which encompasses body language and facial expressions. Additionally, learning to adapt your communication style to different audiences and contexts is vital for effective interaction.‎
There are numerous online courses available to enhance your communication skills. Some notable options include the Effective Communication Skills course, which covers essential techniques for effective dialogue, and the Active Listening: Enhancing Communication Skills course, which focuses on improving listening abilities. For those in technical fields, the Communication Skills for Engineers Specialization offers tailored content.‎
Yes. You can start learning communication skills on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in communication skills, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning communication skills can be approached through various methods. Start by enrolling in online courses that focus on different aspects of communication. Practice regularly by engaging in conversations, participating in group discussions, or even joining public speaking clubs. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers can help you identify areas for improvement and reinforce your progress.‎
Typical topics covered in communication skills courses include verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, conflict resolution, persuasive speaking, and effective writing. Courses may also address specific contexts, such as workplace communication, negotiation skills, and intercultural communication, providing a well-rounded foundation for effective interaction.‎
For training and upskilling employees, courses like Impactful Workplace Communication for Career Launch and Teamwork Skills: Communicating Effectively in Groups are particularly beneficial. These courses focus on enhancing collaboration and communication within teams, which is essential for a productive work environment.‎