Can I Learn IT Online?

Embarking in IT training online has the dual benefit of enabling you to achieve formal certifications in your chosen area while ensuring you have the flexibility to manage other commitments or career obligations simultaneously. Whether you are ready to work towards a career in the IT space or need IT abilities to use the software and applications relevant to your role, professionally structured programs are the best source of learning and educational materials.

Unsure about how to get IT training? The ONLC course directory provides a complete oversight of all courses, certifications, and qualifications available.

Choosing the Right Online IT Training Courses

IT is a high-growth sector, with career opportunities ranging from working as an IT specialist, focusing on cybersecurity or in-house systems coordination, to programming, machine learning, software development, and computer networking.

When discussing IT, this term covers a vast scope of potential courses and learning programs. The ideal options will depend on your knowledge level and the areas most important to your chosen position or expertise.

For example, many IT professionals begin by working towards certifications in operating systems used across much of the business space, including:

• Mac OS
• Linux OS
• Chrome OS
• Android

Once you have a thorough knowledge of these operating systems, you can study more specific areas, such as networking, security, hardware, software, operational procedures, or cloud computing. Other learning routes might relate to a programming language, with Python and JavaScript the most commonly used.

Can I get an IT job with just certifications? You can–many IT positions and professions, from web development to systems administration, help desk technicians to support specialists, require recognized certifications, often coupled with a minimum number of years of experience to apply for higher-level roles.

What Is the Most Common Entry-Level Job in IT?

Many IT experts start their careers by applying for technical support roles, working as an in-house advisor, or as part of a help desk team. Earning certifications is often beneficial for junior IT professionals because a formal achievement in a software suite or application ensures the applicant can begin work immediately, often without significant additional training.

The right pathway will vary between sectors and industries and the types of IT support provided. Holding qualifications in the most-used systems and applications ensures that technicians can deal with a broader range of inquiries or respond to more in-depth support tickets to find the suitable resolution.

Professionals working outside of the IT industry also opt to take online IT courses, enhancing their foundational knowledge of the tools, devices, and features they need to carry out their everyday tasks. For example, project managers might wish to be certified in CompTIA Project+, verifying they have the skills to handle complex projects and budgets. Alternatively, a credential such as the PMI CAPM may be advantageous, a high-demand qualification, and a stepping stone to more advanced courses.

While learning IT online is convenient for IT professionals looking to upskill and junior IT candidates aiming to secure an employment role, it is equally valuable to other careers.

How Long Does it Take to Learn IT Online?

Courses vary significantly depending on the complexity and technicality of the topic covered, the scope of the program you have chosen, and the level of expertise necessary to pass any relevant examinations or testing processes. Self-study is the better solution for students with limited time availability or hoping to complete their qualifications as quickly as possible.

Learners can log in at their convenience, work through modules at their own pace, and structure their education accordingly without disrupting other commitments. Online courses are designed to deliver the same level of knowledge as an in-person course, using functionality such as digital classrooms, accessible discussions, and downloadable or online study materials. The advantage for many is the option to utilize exercises and practical learning tasks from any device, familiarizing themselves with the features of the software or tool they are studying.

Instructor-led programs are another option that allows learners to enroll in online IT courses and follow a pre-set structure and timetable. This learning approach works well for those who find live discussions and engagements beneficial to cementing their learning, prioritizing aspects such as peer-to-peer conversations to discuss the topics covered.