Explore the best online language courses
Learn a new language online with courses from top universities through edX. Build skills in Spanish, French, Italian, English, and more as you work toward fluency and earn a certificate.
Key takeaways
- Learn a new language through edX courses from universities and institutions, with verified certificates.
- Choose beginner, intermediate, or advanced options in languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, Mandarin, and more.
- Use course features such as lessons, practice activities, discussion forums, progress tracking, and graded assignments to build toward greater fluency over time.
Popular language courses with certificates
What is the best way to learn a language online?
One of the best ways to learn a new language online is to start with structure, then build a consistent practice routine. Learning a language can feel both exciting and daunting, so courses with clear syllabi, weekly goals, and practice activities can help you make steady progress in vocabulary, grammar, listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
edX brings together language courses from universities and institutions around the world, including Oxford, the Sorbonne, the University of Montréal, and other global partners. Universities and institutions design course curricula, and you can choose to pursue a verified certificate.
Why learn a new language?
- Learning a new language can help you connect with colleagues, clients, and partners in multilingual or global business settings.
- Building second-language skills allows you to travel, relocate, or lead international projects with cultural awareness.
- A second language can support growth in your current role or open paths in fields such as education, translation, media, travel, and international business.
Browse online Language Certificates
Find new interests and advance your career opportunities
Stand out in your field
Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.
Learn at your own pace
On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.
Earn a valuable credential
Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.
Certificates
Careers you can pursue with a second language
Language skills can support careers that involve communication across cultures, travel, education, or international services.
Depending on your goals, you may use a second language as a core job requirement or as an added skill that helps you work with broader audiences.
Explore some careers and their salary expectations from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Interpreter and translator
Interpreters and translators convert spoken, signed, or written communication from one language to another for individuals, businesses, hospitals, government agencies, and other organizations.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree and proficiency in at least two languages.
- BLS median annual salary (2024): $59,440
Interpreter and translator
Interpreters and translators convert spoken, signed, or written communication from one language to another for individuals, businesses, hospitals, government agencies, and other organizations.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree and proficiency in at least two languages.
- BLS median annual salary (2024): $59,440
Why learn a language online with edX
edX helps learners around the world grow their skills and careers. Join our learning community today!
Trusted by leading institutions
Hear what other learners have to say
I'm a fan of edX's new way of learning. Thousands of people can study from anywhere in the world. It's a wonderful idea.
How to start learning a language
One accessible way to start learning a new language is to enroll in an online course that fits your level, schedule, and goals. edX delivers introductory, intermediate, and advanced online courses in languages such as French, Japanese, Italian, and Spanish. Individual courses typically take 2-6 weeks, while Professional Certificates can be completed in 2-10 months.
As you review your options, pay attention to how each course is taught. A course with self-paced lessons, practice activities, discussion forums, or graded assignments may be a better fit if you want structure without a fixed classroom schedule. Use the steps below to begin building your language skills.
1. Start with foundational language courses
A beginner course can help you build grammar, vocabulary, and simple sentence patterns while giving your learning some structure. Outside the course, surround yourself with the language through music, shows, podcasts, or reading. Your reason for learning matters, too. For example, travel, work, or reading goals may each point you toward a different starting place.
Featured courses
1. Start with foundational language courses
A beginner course can help you build grammar, vocabulary, and simple sentence patterns while giving your learning some structure. Outside the course, surround yourself with the language through music, shows, podcasts, or reading. Your reason for learning matters, too. For example, travel, work, or reading goals may each point you toward a different starting place.
Featured courses
Learn another language online with edX
To start learning a new language today, sign up for an online course. Through edX, you can learn:
