Planning courses can help you learn project scheduling, resource allocation, risk management, and strategic goal setting. You can build skills in creating timelines, managing budgets, and assessing project feasibility. Many courses introduce tools like Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and project management software, which help you visualize progress and streamline workflows. You'll also explore methods for effective communication and collaboration, ensuring that all team members are aligned and informed throughout the planning process.

Skills you'll gain: Project Management, Project Planning, Communication Planning, Project Documentation, Milestones (Project Management), Project Schedules, Risk Management, Cost Management, Budgeting, Estimation, Procurement, Stakeholder Communications, Strategic Thinking
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain Planning, Demand Planning, Customer Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain, Capacity Planning, Production Planning, Materials Management, Forecasting, Performance Measurement, Microsoft Excel, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Statistical Methods, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Data Analysis, Regression Analysis
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Architectural Drawing, AutoCAD, Architectural Design, Technical Drawing, Drafting and Engineering Design, Computer-Aided Design, Conceptual Design, Construction Estimating, Functional Design, Spatial Analysis, Technical Documentation, Requirements Analysis, Cost Estimation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Virginia
Skills you'll gain: Plan Execution, Organizational Strategy, Business Strategy, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Strategic Leadership, Strategic Decision-Making, Strategic Thinking, Governance, Analysis, Corporate Strategy, Business Analysis, Competitive Analysis
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Virginia
Skills you'll gain: Stakeholder Analysis, Planning, Project Planning, Earned Value Management, Project Risk Management, Scheduling, Stakeholder Management, Risk Management, Project Management, Project Scoping, Project Schedules, Risk Analysis, Dependency Analysis, Agile Methodology, Kanban Principles
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Demand Planning, Forecasting, Supply Chain Planning, Sales Management, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Supply Chain Management, Planning, Estimation, Trend Analysis, Decision Making, Performance Measurement, Microsoft Excel
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Project Closure, Work Breakdown Structure, Earned Value Management, Configuration Management, Project Portfolio Management, Negotiation, Communication Planning, Project Management Life Cycle, Project Risk Management, Project Management, Project Schedules, Agile Methodology, Project Controls, Project Implementation, Product Roadmaps, Scheduling, Project Planning, Risk Management, Team Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Business Strategy, Organizational Leadership, Business Planning, Accountability, Business Management, Leadership and Management, Management Training And Development, Team Leadership, Business Leadership, Strategic Planning, Business, Competitive Analysis, Strategic Thinking, Corporate Strategy, Leadership Development, Business Administration, Strategic Leadership, Organizational Strategy, Employee Coaching, People Development
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Traffic Flow Optimization, Architectural Design, Sustainable Development, Stormwater Management, Building Codes, Community Development, Land Development, Public Works, Sustainable Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Transportation Operations, Civil Engineering, Case Studies, Environmental Engineering, Building Design, Economic Development, Land Management, Sustainable Design, Sustainable Technologies, Environmental Science
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Earned Value Management, Project Controls, Project Planning, Project Management Software, Cost Management, Budget Management, Performance Reporting, Process Improvement and Optimization, Configuration Management, Dashboard, System Configuration, Data Import/Export, Data Visualization
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Work Breakdown Structure, Project Planning, Project Management, Planning, Leadership
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Skills you'll gain: Financial Planning, Investments, Budgeting, Risk Management, Goal Setting, Cash Management, Finance, Smart Goals, Insurance, Financial Management, Credit Risk
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Planning is the process of setting objectives and determining a course of action to achieve those objectives. It is crucial because it provides direction, helps allocate resources efficiently, and allows for the anticipation of potential challenges. In various fields, effective planning can lead to better decision-making and improved outcomes, whether in business, project management, or personal development.
Jobs in planning can vary widely depending on the industry. Common roles include project manager, urban planner, financial planner, and marketing strategist. Each of these positions requires a unique set of skills and knowledge related to planning processes, making them essential for organizations aiming to achieve their goals efficiently.
To excel in planning, you need a combination of analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Familiarity with tools and methodologies specific to your area of planning, such as project management software or financial forecasting techniques, is also beneficial. Additionally, critical thinking and adaptability are vital as plans often need to be adjusted based on new information or changing circumstances.
Some of the best online planning courses include the Project Management and Planning Specialization and the Planning a Digital Marketing Strategy Specialization. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical skills that can help you succeed in various planning roles.
Yes. You can start learning planning skills on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in planning, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn planning, start by identifying your area of interest, whether it's project management, financial planning, or urban planning. Enroll in relevant online courses, participate in discussions, and apply what you learn through practical projects or case studies. Consistent practice and seeking feedback will enhance your understanding and skills.
Typical topics covered in planning courses include goal setting, resource allocation, risk management, and performance evaluation. Courses may also explore specific methodologies like Agile planning or financial forecasting, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to create effective plans in various contexts.
For training and upskilling employees, the Agile Excellence with Scrum: Planning, CI, Backlog Mastery Specialization and the Planning & Control with Oracle Primavera PPM Professional Specialization are excellent choices. These programs focus on practical skills that can enhance team efficiency and project outcomes.