9 Best Online Education Platforms for Skills Development (Updated List 2025)
The internet is teeming with a myriad of online education platforms, fueled by the surge in digital learning. Discover the crème de la crème of the best online education platforms in this article, and learn why these platforms are considered the world's premier tools for online learning.
What we will learn together:
- Online education platforms are digital tools designed to facilitate learning through online courses, offering a wide range of educational experiences. These platforms can be categorized into learning management systems (LMS), online learning marketplaces, and specialized learning platforms, each serving distinct purposes and audiences.
- The best platforms include Disco, Coursera, Masterclass, and more, each offering a mix of free and paid courses catering to diverse learning needs. Coursera excels in university courses and professional certificates, Udemy is known for its variety and affordability, and Skillshare focuses on creative skills with project-based learning.
- Disco is the best AI-powered LMS for modern educators, equipping them with advanced tools for creating engaging learning experiences. Its AI-driven features and customizable interface make it a top choice for virtual academies, workforce upskilling, and personalized education.
What are online education platforms?
Online education platforms are software and web apps designed to facilitate digital learning. They offer a wide range of online courses, from free introductory classes to paid, in-depth programs leading to certificates or degrees, and the ability to create your own courses with an easy-to-use learning platform.
These platforms not only deliver content but also provide a comprehensive learning experience, including interactive elements, community support, and flexible schedules.
Trends in online education in 2025
The landscape of online education is continuously evolving, driven by technological advancements and changing learner needs. The eLearning industry is already a booming sector, with projections indicating that it will reach a staggering $1 trillion in valuation by 2032.
Emerging trends like artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are significantly enhancing the learning experience.
AI and personalized learning
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing personalized learning by adapting educational experiences to meet the unique needs of each learner. AI can tailor assessments based on individual performance, providing a customized learning path that optimizes student success.
This technology accelerates content creation while maintaining high-quality standards, allowing educators to focus more on building relationships with students by handling routine tasks efficiently. Discover how an AI curriculum generator can create a full curriculum in minutes:
Interactive and immersive content
Online learning platforms are increasingly incorporating immersive technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality to revolutionize educational content delivery. These advancements provide real-time, interactive experiences that significantly boost student engagement and community involvement.
By making learning more dynamic and engaging, these platforms are setting new benchmarks in the realm of online education.
What can you gain from online education platforms?
Online learning platforms offer numerous benefits, including flexibility for managing schedules, cost-effectiveness by reducing traditional education expenses, and access to a wide range of courses from professional certificates to degree programs.
Online learning platforms cater to various learning interests, making high-quality education more accessible than ever before. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, develop new skills, or explore personal hobbies, there’s an online course available to meet your needs.
Convenience and flexibility
The flexibility of online learning allows learners to study at their own pace, accommodating personal commitments and responsibilities such as work and family. Online courses and online classes can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for commuting and saving valuable time.
Additionally, instructors can streamline all content and databases in one centralized location without having to switch between different tools. This approach is flexible and convenient for both instructors and students.
Cost-effectiveness in learning products and personal learning
Online learning platforms are often more cost-effective than traditional education. They save students money on commuting expenses and reduce the need for expensive textbooks and course materials. Many platforms also offer financial aid or discounts, making high-quality education accessible to a broader audience.
Moreover, readily available LMS software is more cost-effective compared to building your own LMS, allowing organizations to scale education and cater to thousands of students within one learning platform.
Access to diverse content formats and online courses
The variety of courses available on online learning platforms is another significant benefit. Learners can choose from professional certificates, bachelor's and master's degree programs, and even doctoral degrees. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning provide thousands of courses on various subjects, offering a wealth of educational options.
Meanwhile, educators can create diverse types of content through the use of learning software, allowing them to integrate different tools into their curriculum and create various content formats from texts, images, GIFs, databases, video lectures, quizzes, and assignments.
Online education platform types
There are several types of online education platforms, each serving different purposes and audiences:
Learning Management Systems (LMS)
LMSs are primarily used by educational institutions and businesses to deliver, track, and manage training and educational courses. LMS platforms provide a structured environment where instructors can upload assignments, track student progress, and offer feedback.
Best examples: Platforms like Disco, Docebo, and 360Learning fall into this category.
Online learning marketplaces
Marketplaces where learners can choose from a vast array of online courses offered by various instructors and institutions. These platforms cater to a global audience, providing content in multiple languages accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
Best examples: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare
Specialized learning platforms
While general online learning platforms offer a broad range of courses, specialized platforms focus on specific areas of skill development or professional growth. These platforms cater to niche audiences, providing targeted learning experiences that can significantly enhance career prospects or personal skills.
They often feature instructors who are experts in their fields, ensuring high-quality education.
Best examples: Platforms like Maven Learning, LinkedIn Learning, and MasterClass offer benefits tailored to specific user bases, catering to those aiming to boost existing skills, gain tech credentials, or learn from industry icons.
Top 9 online education platforms (updated list 2025)
Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, online education platforms have experienced a significant surge in popularity. With so many options available, determining the best platforms for online learning can be challenging.
In this carefully curated list, we break down the most trusted platforms and software, ensuring you receive the best online learning experience to equip you for the future of work.
World's best learning management systems (LMS)
#1. DISCO
Disco stands out as the premier AI-powered LMS for 2025, equipping learners and educators with modern tools for the future of learning and work.
When it comes to social and modern learning, Disco is celebrated as the best online learning platform. It's a leading LMS for virtual academies, internal training, customer education, workforce upskilling, and accelerator hubs.
Disco is the most trusted AI LMS among the world's top learning organizations, including Kaplan, Toronto Board of Trade, XPRIZE, A.CRE, YSpace, HyperIsland, Course Hero, and many more.
Thanks to its innovative approach, Disco received multiple awards in 2023, including Fast Co's Most Innovative Education Startup and Edtech Startup of the Year. Supported by leading venture capital firms like GSV Ventures, Disco continues its mission to enhance digital education through its modern learning management system.
With deep customization, an AI-first approach, trainable AI models, advanced integrations and analytics, and the most intuitive interface among the best LMSs, Disco is the best AI-powered LMS you can envision for 2025. It prepares educators, learners, organizations, and enterprises for the future of work.
Key features
- AI-driven content creation and curriculum generator
- Quick, scalable branded academy launch
- Social-first features for real-time engagement
- Operational task automation and insights
- Robust reporting with AI recommendations
- Customizable, visually appealing interface
- Intuitive design, no technical expertise needed
- Consolidated platform with popular tool integrations
- Streamlined learning and community engagement
Disco offers a 14-day free trial to academies, enterprises, and L&D teams. For mid to large enterprises, book a demo to talk to our experts and get your personalized quote.
#2. DOCEBO
Docebo is a leading learning management system (LMS) renowned for its innovative approach to online learning.
Docebo distinguishes itself with its AI-powered platform, providing a comprehensive solution for corporate training and development. This platform is designed to cater to the unique needs of businesses, offering a wide range of tools that enhance the learning process and empower employees to reach their full potential.
The platform has also received multiple awards for innovation and excellence in e-learning, underscoring its commitment to delivering high-quality educational experiences. Its ability to adapt to diverse business environments and meet various training needs makes it a preferred choice for companies aiming to boost their workforce's skills and knowledge through education.
By leveraging advanced technologies and a user-friendly interface, Docebo continues to stand out as a premier platform for corporate learning and development.
Key features:
- Personalized learning experiences tailored to individual needs
- Encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among learners
- Combines online courses with traditional classroom methods
- Engages learners through interactive and rewarding content
- Provides in-depth insights into learner performance and engagement
- Offers a seamless learning experience on various devices such as mobile app and web app
Docebo provides various plans, and you must request a personalized quotation to obtain pricing details.
#3. 360LEARNING
360Learning is a collaborative LMS that empowers organizations to upskill from within.
360Learning stands out with its unique approach to collaborative learning, fostering an environment where learners can engage, create, and share knowledge seamlessly. This platform is designed to enhance the learning process by encouraging collaboration and leveraging the collective expertise of teams.
Key features:
- emphasizes peer-to-peer learning, allowing employees to create and share content, and providing a more engaging and relevant learning experience
- uses AI to suggest personalized learning paths and content, ensuring learners receive the most relevant and impactful material
- With an easy-to-use course authoring tool, instructors can quickly create engaging and interactive courses without needing technical expertise
- Real-time feedback and analytics help instructors understand learner progress and engagement, facilitating continuous improvement of course content
- Learners can access courses from any device, ensuring flexibility and convenience in the learning process
360Learning has been recognized for its innovative approach to learning and has received numerous awards, including the Brandon Hall Group Excellence Awards for Best Advance in Learning Management Technology and the Capterra Best Ease of Use Badge.
By fostering a culture of collaborative learning, 360Learning empowers organizations to unlock the full potential of their workforce, making it a preferred choice for companies looking to enhance their training and development initiatives.
360Learning provides a basic plan at $8 per user monthly, with a minimum of 100 users, totaling $800 per month.
World's best online learning marketplaces
#1. COURSERA
Coursera stands out for its extensive range of university courses and professional certificates. Partnering with prestigious institutions like Stanford and Yale, Coursera offers accredited courses that can lead to professional certifications and even online degrees.
Example Coursera Courses:
- Machine Learning by Stanford University taught by Andrew Ng
- The Science of Well-Being by Yale University
- Python for Everybody by the University of Michigan
- Introduction to Marketing by the University of Pennsylvania
- AI For Everyone by DeepLearning.AI
These courses exemplify the diverse range of subjects available on Coursera, catering to different learning interests and career goals.
This makes it one of the best online learning marketplaces for those seeking formal education and recognized qualifications. The pricing structure is flexible, with free courses available and paid options beginning as low as $9.99.
Comprehensive university courses can cost up to $2,000, which is a significant investment but often worth it for the value received. Coursera’s extensive reach, with over 87 million users worldwide, testifies to the platform’s quality and the trust it has built over the years.
#2. UDEMY
Udemy is renowned for its variety and affordability, making it a favorite among learners worldwide. With over 213,000 classes available, Udemy covers a vast array of subjects, from software skills and web development to personal development and hobbies.
The courses are self-paced, allowing learners to study according to their own schedules, which is perfect for busy professionals and students alike.
Example Udemy courses:
- The Complete Web Developer Course 2.0 by Rob Percival
- Python for Data Science and Machine Learning Bootcamp by Jose Portilla
- The Ultimate Drawing Course - Beginner to Advanced by Jaysen Batchelor and Quinton Batchelor
- Photography Masterclass: A Complete Guide to Photography by Phil Ebiner and Video School
- Microsoft Excel - Excel from Beginner to Advanced by Kyle Pew
The pricing on Udemy is also a major draw, with many courses priced around $14 and ranging from $10 to $200. This affordability, combined with a 30-day money-back guarantee, provides a low-risk way for learners to explore new subjects.
Additionally, the platform’s global reach is enhanced by its availability in 65 languages and a diverse pool of over 70,000 instructors, offering a wide range of teaching styles and expertise.
#3. SKILLSHARE
Skillshare is a haven for creatives, offering more than 35,000 project-based courses that focus on practical skills in areas like graphic design, writing, photography, and more. This platform is particularly popular among individuals seeking to enhance their creative skills, as it provides a diverse range of courses taught by industry professionals and experienced instructors.
The platform's community-driven approach fosters interaction and collaboration among learners, providing a supportive environment to share ideas and receive feedback.
This emphasis on hands-on projects and community engagement makes Skillshare an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their creative abilities and develop new skills in a practical, engaging manner.
Example Skillshare courses:
- Digital Illustration: Learn to Use Procreate by Jarom Vogel
- Creative Writing: Crafting Personal Essays with Impact by Roxane Gay
- Photography Essentials: Understanding Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO by Justin Bridges
- Graphic Design Basics: Core Principles for Visual Design by Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips
- Animation for Beginners: How to Animate a Logo by William Kesling
The platform operates on a subscription model, with a free seven-day trial to get you started, followed by a cost of $168 per year or $14 per month.
The world's best-specialized learning platforms
#1. MAVEN LEARNING
Maven Learning is a specialized online education platform designed to deliver cohort-based courses that focus on interactive, community-driven learning experiences. Maven stands out by offering courses led by top industry experts and thought leaders, providing learners with the opportunity to gain insights from those at the forefront of their fields.
Example Maven courses:
- Building a Second Brain by Tiago Forte
- Build Your Personal PM Productivity System by Tal Raviv
- The Art of Accomplishment by Joe Hudson
- The 20 Hour CEO by Christine Carrillo
- The Business of Creativity by Scott Belsky
Maven Learning courses are priced between $500 and $3,000, depending on factors such as course duration, the expertise of the instructor, and the level of interaction offered. For those interested in becoming a Maven instructor, the platform is free to join. However, Maven charges a 10% transaction fee on each sale.
#2. LINKEDIN LEARNING
LinkedIn Learning is designed for professionals seeking to enhance their business and technology skills. It offers a variety of courses that can be directly integrated into LinkedIn profiles, showcasing newly acquired skills to potential employers.
This platform is particularly useful for those looking to advance their careers by staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and strategies.
Example LinkedIn Learning courses:
- Excel Essential Training by Dennis Taylor
- Project Management Foundations by Bonnie Biafore
- Programming Foundations: Fundamentals by Simon Allardice
- Leadership Strategies for Women by Daisy Lovelace
- Digital Marketing Trends by Martin Waxman
LinkedIn Learning operates on a subscription model, with pricing set at $39.99 per month or $239.88 annually, providing access to its extensive library of courses.
#3. MASTERCLASS
MasterClass offers a unique and engaging learning experience through expertly crafted video lessons taught by industry icons across a wide array of fields, including business, leadership, culinary arts, sports, creative writing, and more.
Each course is designed to provide learners with an in-depth understanding of the subject, enriched by the personal insights and experiences of the instructors, who are leaders and pioneers in their respective domains.
Example MasterClass courses:
- Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking
- Serena Williams Teaches Tennis
- Judd Apatow Teaches Comedy
- Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing for Television
- Chris Voss Teaches the Art of Negotiation
The platform operates on a subscription model, costing $180 annually or $15 monthly, granting learners unlimited access to all courses in the MasterClass library.
This expansive access allows users to explore a multitude of subjects and gain knowledge from a diverse range of experts, making it an invaluable resource for those eager to learn from the best in the industry.
Discover 6 game-changing strategies from Section CEO Greg Shove.
Discover 6 game-changing strategies from Section CEO Greg Shove.
Final Note
Online education platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for learning and skill enhancement. From the best LMSs such as Disco and Docebo, to general platforms like Coursera and Udemy, and specialized ones like LinkedIn Learning and MasterClass, there is a wealth of options available to suit various learning needs and preferences.
The flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and diverse course offerings make online learning an attractive choice for millions of learners worldwide.
As you embark on your educational journey, consider the factors that are most important to you, such as the quality of course content, community support, and pricing. Stay informed about emerging trends like AI and immersive technologies to maximize your learning experience.
By choosing the right platform and leveraging the benefits of online education, you can achieve your learning goals and unlock new opportunities for personal and professional growth.
For educators, course creators, and organizations eager to elevate their learning initiatives, explore Disco with a 14-day free trial. Launch your branded academies and learning programs swiftly, often within a single day. For a tailored experience and pricing details, book a demo to receive a personalized quotation.
