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Explore top online business communications courses

No matter your field or role, you'll almost certainly use communication skills in your work as a business professional. Grow your business communication skills with edX online courses.

Key takeaways

  • Learn business communications online through flexible edX courses that fit your schedule and career goals.
  • Choose a business communications program by comparing curriculum, cost, duration, and flexibility.
  • Build practical skills to expand your capabilities, fill an educational gap, and stay up to date with industry standards.

Popular online business communications courses with certificates

What is business communications?

Business communications involve delivering information about an organization's operations from one party to another. It encompasses any organizational communication, from in-person conversations and emails to pitch decks, marketing materials, and stakeholder reports.

There are two types of business communication:

  • Internal: Internal communications are messages exchanged within an organization. This type of business communication may include strategy documents, consumer data, and employee meetings.
  • External: External communications are messages sent from a company to consumers. Public-facing business communications help companies create name recognition and spread the word about their offerings or services.

Why learn business communications?

  • Develops transferable skills: Business communications are essential in nearly every industry, and studying this subject could make you a more competitive job applicant.
  • Creates safe workplaces: Effective business communication, especially internal, helps people feel psychologically safe to express themselves, according to Amy C. Edmondson, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School.
  • Sways public opinion: Business communication informs the public about your offerings and builds public awareness.
  • Reduces mistakes: Strong communication keeps your teammates on the same page regarding strategies, projects, and goals.
  • Builds stakeholder relationships: Communicating well and often with your stakeholders can make them feel more confident about their investments.

Browse online Business Communications Certificates

Find new interests and advance your career opportunities

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Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

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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

What jobs require strong business communication skills?

Public relations specialist

Public relations specialists are responsible for shaping an organization's or a public figure's reputation. They use business communications to publish information that builds a positive public perception.

  • Median annual salary (2024): $69,780
  • Job growth outlook (2024-34): +5%

Why learn business communications online with edX

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How to get started in business communications

Ready to build stronger communication skills for the workplace? Explore flexible online business communication courses on edX and begin developing the tools you need to succeed in today's professional environment.

1. Learn the fundamentals of business communications

A strong foundation in core communication principles helps you convey your ideas clearly and collaborate effectively. Explore these courses to begin developing essential business communication skills.

Featured courses


Explore business communications programs

How to choose the best business communications program for you

edX offers a range of business communications programs to fit different goals and schedules. Start by defining your objectives, learning preferences, and career direction, then compare curriculum, flexibility, duration, cost, and real-world outcomes to choose the right program.

Professional certificate
Who is it best for?
Professionals looking to advance, pivot careers, or build job-ready skills
Typical duration
2-10 months
Cost range
Varies by program, starting at $500
What you can learn
Career-aligned skills across 30+ subjects through 300+ programs, with flexible, stackable learning you can apply immediately
Individual courses
Who is it best for?
Learners exploring a topic, building foundational knowledge, or adding credentials to their resume
Typical duration
2-6 weeks
Cost range
Free access to course materials, with certificates starting at $50
What you can learn
Communication skills across fundamentals, writing, presentations, and business applications
Executive education
Who is it best for?
Experienced professionals and leaders aiming to deepen expertise and stay competitive
Typical duration
6-20+ weeks
Cost range
Varies by program, starting at $2,500
What you can learn
Advanced communication frameworks, executive presence, and skills in storytelling, leadership communication, and negotiation

Frequently asked questions

What are the different types of business communication?

Business communications encompasses all of the information shared with two types of audiences:

  • Internal stakeholders like executives, managers, and other employees
  • External parties like media outlets, investors, and consumers
Why are business communication skills important in the workplace?

Business communication skills help you clearly share your ideas, collaborate effectively with others, and prevent misunderstandings. Strong business communication skills support your professional relationships and improve overall productivity and team performance.

What can you learn from business communication courses?

In business communication courses, you'll learn strategies for effective internal and external communications and explore how business communications work. You can also learn about different communication styles and determine when each is appropriate.

Plus, you can gain essential business communication skills like:

  • Storytelling
  • Active listening
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Messaging
  • Audience
  • Speechwriting
  • Presenting data
  • Visual design
How long does it take to learn business communication?

Learning business communication skills can take weeks to months, depending on your starting point and effort. While some people progress quickly, the length of time it takes to master these skills varies, depending on the amount of practice and real-world experience you have.

What are the benefits of taking online vs. on-campus business communication programs?

Online business communication courses can benefit individuals who want to advance their careers on a schedule that fits their needs. For example, on edX, you can take courses from Cambridge University without being in Cambridge, England. Or, you can learn asynchronously to finish coursework on your own timeline.

Are online business communication courses credible?

Yes, online business courses are credible, especially if the curriculum is backed by a trusted university or organization, such as Harvard University and Google, both of which offer courses on edX.