The 7 Best Google Certificates in 2024

Digital Marketing & E-Commerce

A beginner-level course focused on modern marketing strategies. Useful in a rapidly-evolving digital marketing landscape, but one of the speaker’s least favorites among the Google options.

This certificate teaches Python programming, Git version control, and IT automation skills essential for streamlining workflows and managing complex IT systems efficiently.

According to a LinkedIn article, the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 10% increase in demand for marketing jobs by 2026, surpassing the average growth rate for all professions. Particularly, digital marketing positions are expected to grow by 6% by 2032, indicating an above-average job growth trajectory. This surge is driven by the demand for expertise in digital campaign management, content creation, and the utilization of AI in marketing strategies.

Individuals looking to kickstart a career in digital marketing or e-commerce, especially those interested in understanding customer behavior, optimizing online campaigns, and driving business growth. Even those that are interested in the most basic social media campaigns, seo specialization, and other micro-aspects are more than welcome to begin their journey here.

Based on their website, 6 months at 10 hours a week is the expected completion time. However, if you are someone that has previous experience or you just plan on blasting through the entire curriculum, finishing it around a 3-month period is highly feasible.

According to Glassdoor.com, Digital Marketers earn about $55K – $103K/yr. Below are a few specific roles and their salary range:

• SEO Specialist – $50K – $92K/yr
• Email Specialist– $42K – $67K/yr
• SMM Specialist – $47K – $79K/yr

The course content is regularly updated to reflect the latest trends, ensuring learners acquire relevant knowledge applicable to real-world scenarios. With expert instructors providing valuable insights and guidance, graduates emerge ready for roles in digital marketing, e-commerce management, and online advertising, making this course a valuable investment for career advancement in these dynamic fields.

IT Automation

Teaches Python, Git, and IT automation. In-demand skills with over 530,000 US-based job postings.

This certificate teaches Python programming, Git version control, and IT automation skills essential for streamlining workflows and managing complex IT systems efficiently.

According to an article from Cambridge Health Institute, technology continues to advance rapidly, creating a demand for experts to fill tech-based positions and help organizations keep pace with these advancements. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this growth, with businesses increasingly relying on technology to support initiatives like remote work and enhanced online customer experiences. 

Additionally, Forbes mentions a forthcoming retirement boom, as baby boomers reach retirement age by 2030, highlighting the need for individuals with technical skills to fill the roles left vacant by retirees.

Aspiring IT professionals or individuals already in IT roles looking to enhance their automation skills and stay competitive in the job market are the kinds of people that will most definitely benefit from this certificate. 

According to Glassdoor, IT professionals earn about $72K – $128K/yr.

The specific roles are as follows:

• Automation Associates earn around $60K – $111K/yr.
• IT Software Developer earn around  $89K – $145K/yr.
• And even high ranking titles such as IT Director that earns around $166K – $273K/yr may begin with this certification.

Estimate from Coursera is around 6 months at 10 hours a week. One testimony stated that he/she finished this course in just 4 weeks.

This certificate stands out for its focus on practical skills in Python programming and IT automation, aligning with industry demands and providing learners with hands-on experience in relevant technologies.

Associate Android Developer

This is not technically a Google certificate, but good for mobile app development skills with high demand in the market.

The Associate Android Developer course provides practical training in Android app development, covering app functionality such as messaging, multitasking, connectivity, and media services, along with user interface design, data management, debugging, and testing for error-free app development.

According to Buildfire.com, mobile apps are projected to generate more than $935 billion in revenue in 2024, with the Apple App Store offering 1.96 million apps and the Google Play Store providing access to 2.87 million apps for download.

Individuals interested in specializing in Android app development, particularly aspiring mobile app developers or those with programming experience, can benefit from this course to build scalable and user-friendly applications. It’s important to note that eligibility for certification is age-dependent: those under 13 cannot take the exam, while individuals aged 13-17 may do so with parental consent. However, individuals aged 18 and above are eligible for certification without any age-related restrictions.

Based on Glassdoor’s data, Associate Android Developers earn around $93K – $159K/yr. While mobile application developers in general earn around $84K – $144K/yr. 

Here are some of the rules when taking the examination of this certification:

• Exam retake policy:

                      -If you fail on your first attempt, wait 14 days before retaking.

                      -If you fail on your second attempt, wait two months before retaking.

                      -After three failed attempts, wait one year before retaking.

• Strong and reliable internet connection required for the exam.
• Exam is timed with an 8-hour limit. The task was said to be doable according to this testimony, however, studying for the said exam proved to be a challenge according to this testimony.
• You can manually submit the exam if finished early; otherwise, it auto-submits after 8 hours.
• Auto-submitting does not cause automatic failure.

There were, however, some negative concerns about seeing your exam’s result. This comment states that it basically is up to the certification what happens to your test once submitted.

The Google Associate Android Developer certification is uniquely valuable due to its practical focus on essential Android app development skills, including hands-on experience with tools like Android Studio, app design, user interface development, data management, debugging, and testing, all aligned with current industry trends. With Google’s global recognition and affiliation, certificate holders gain access to career advancement opportunities and the latest resources and support.

UX Design

User experience design skills. A more intense certificate, likely requiring additional portfolio-building to get hired.

The Google UX Design Professional Certificate covers the design process from empathizing with users and defining pain points to creating wireframes, prototypes, and conducting testing, alongside teaching UX research fundamentals and applying concepts such as user-centered design, accessibility, and equity-focused design, culminating in the development of a professional UX portfolio featuring diverse end-to-end projects.

According to information from UXdesigninstitute’s website and CompTIA’s State of the Tech Workforce Report, tech jobs are expected to grow at nearly double the rate of all other jobs over the next decade, with UX and UI positions projected to increase by 4.7%. 

Although there was a notable 71% drop in UX design openings from 2022 to 2023, it’s important to note that this represents only a 23% decrease from 2018 to 2023, indicating a more stable and maturing trajectory for the UX industry in the long term.

The ideal candidate for this certificate includes aspiring UX designers, graphic designers, web developers, product managers, or anyone looking to transition into the UX design field and create impactful digital solutions.

According to Glassdoor, UX Designer makes $81K – $137K/yr. On the other hand, UX researchers make $98K – $169K/yr. More specific roles such as Interaction Designer and Information Architect  earn $92K – $145K/yr and $125K – $185K/yr respectively.

According to Coursera, it takes 6 months at 10 hours a week to finish this certification. However, this testimony stated that you can finish this certification faster but building your portfolio will definitely take time. Still, more comments really backed up the idea of being able to finish it less than Coursera’s estimated time duration.

What sets this certificate apart is its practical approach, real-world projects, and guidance from industry experts, ensuring graduates have a strong foundation in UX design principles and methodologies, making them highly sought-after in the digital design landscape. Plus, with this certification, you slowly build a killer portfolio that boosts your shot at getting hired.

Project Management

This course will prepare you for project management jobs (over 70,000 entry-level openings). This is a popular choice due to its broad applicability.

The Google Coursera Project Management Professional Certificate equips students with essential practices and skills for entry-level project management roles, covering effective project documentation and Agile methodologies like Scrum. Taught by experienced professionals, the course emphasizes strategic communication and problem-solving through real-world scenarios, ensuring practical learning for aspiring project managers.

According to Coursera, the job growth rate for computer and information managers in the United States is projected to be 11% from 2020 to 2030. Additionally, the Project Management Institute (PMI) forecasts a robust international growth of 33% for project manager roles, translating to approximately 22 million new jobs by 2027.

This certificate is ideal for aspiring project managers, team leads, business analysts, and professionals looking to enhance their project management skills and excel in project-centric environments. Basically, anybody who has or intends to have leadership skills and an inherent passion for seeing projects through will benefit from this certification.

According to Glassdoor, project managers earn around $81K – $140K/yr while associate project managers take home $60K – $93K/yr. Lead roles such as Director of Program Management earns around $159K – $274K/yr.

Coursera estimates that it will take 6 months at 10 hours a week. However, some people managed to finish it in just a few weeks. Some even found a job after finishing the certification at their own pace.

The Google Project Manager Professional Certificate provides a unique value proposition by offering comprehensive training in essential project management skills such as change management, strategic thinking, career development, organizational culture, risk management, quality management, project execution, agile management, problem-solving, coaching, Scrum, influencing, effective communication, stakeholder management, business writing, project charter creation, procurement strategies, task estimation, and project planning techniques. 

Data Analytics

This is considered one of the best Google certificates with numerous job openings. The Google Data Analytics Certificate provides comprehensive training in data analysis for junior or associate data analysts, covering key skills like data cleaning, analysis, and visualization using tools such as spreadsheets, SQL, R programming, and Tableau. Participants learn how to effectively organize and analyze data, create visualizations, and communicate data insights through dashboards and presentations.

According to an article made by Noble Desktop, the global data analytics market is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach $133 billion by 2026 from $23 billion in 2019. This surge underscores the high demand for qualified Data Analysts, supported by promising job prospects as evidenced by data analytics being ranked as the number-one job in America in 2022. 

Looking ahead, the Global Big Data Analytics Market is expected to reach $105 billion by 2027, with a projected 25% growth in hired Data Analysts and over 10,000 job openings anticipated, especially in metropolitan areas, from 2020 to 2030.

Individuals seeking to enter the data analytics field or those looking to enhance their data analysis skills to advance their careers in areas such as business intelligence, data science, or data engineering, including employees planning to upskill for companies in need of data analysts will greatly benefit from this certification.

From Glassdoor’s data, data analysts earn around $62K – $104K/yr. On the other hand, data scientists may earn around $112K – $194K/yr. For people that are actually planning to go for the highest ranks, the Chief Data Officer role pays $324K – $605K/yr.

6 months at 10 hours a week is the estimated learning time frame from Coursera. If you have prior experience or you just have a knack for data, these two people from Reddit reported that it can be finished in just a few months, way less than Coursera’s estimate.

What makes the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate unique yet highly relevant is its comprehensive coverage of essential data analysis skills, practical application of industry-standard tools like SQL, Tableau, and Excel, and the inclusion of a portfolio project. Moreover, the certificate’s alignment with the high demand for data analysts, potential for career advancement in various industries, and global recognition as a top certification make it a standout choice for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the data analytics field.

IT Support

One of the best-known Google certificates, this offers a strong foundation with many entry-level jobs available, especially help desk roles.

The Google IT Support Professional Certificate covers foundational skills in IT support, including troubleshooting, customer service, networking, operating systems, system administration, and security. Participants will gain skills required to succeed in entry-level IT jobs, such as computer assembly, wireless networking, installing programs, and end-to-end customer support.

The certificate is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in IT support, including recent graduates, career changers, and those seeking to gain foundational IT skills to advance in their current roles. It is also beneficial for those interested in learning about customer service, network protocols, cloud computing, encryption techniques, and debugging.

Here are some of the most common roles and their respective pay ranges according to Glassdoor: 

IT Specialists earn $61K – $108K/yr

Help Desk Technicians earn $44K – $65K/yr
Database Administrators earn $85K – $138K/yr.

The estimate from Coursera is around 6 months at 10 hours a week. However, people with IT knowledge managed to finish this certification in just days! Well, coming from the fact that this is perfect for entry level roles, veterans in the field would think of this cert as a piece of cake.

What sets this certificate apart is its association with Google, a renowned tech company, and its focus on providing a strong foundational understanding of IT support skills, making graduates well-prepared for entry-level roles and future career growth in the IT industry. Additionally, the certificate covers a wide range of skills including customer service, network protocols, cloud computing, encryption algorithms, and debugging, making it a comprehensive and valuable certification for aspiring IT professionals.

Why You Should Consider Google Certificates

There are too many benefits for too little cost. Seems too good to be true, but actually- it just is. From ensuring that you earn the necessary skills, to saving way more time and money than going to college, and even being able to access job boards due to Google and Coursera’s connection! All it takes is for you to enroll and finish a few courses.

Now, you may be wondering if the certification actually leads you to jobs. Well, this reddit comment is about a railroad worker who eventually landed a job working at a help desk and then moved on to automation. Another one stated that he/she didn’t finish his/her degree but got a job as Junior Systems Specialist.

Basically, it can be understood that although some have actually found jobs using just the Google Certifications alone, continued professional development will inevitably lead you to more offers and opportunities. At the end of the day, the professional scene is always about “who can add value”, and whatever the degree it may be- these Google certifications can help you build your professional self up.

Things to Consider

Certificates are valuable assets, yet they aren’t universally suitable across all professions. Industries like medicine, law, and engineering mandate specific degrees due to legal or regulatory demands. Likewise, competitive fields such as finance and management consulting favor candidates with advanced degrees from renowned institutions. While certificates offer great alternatives, they’re not foolproof substitutes for diplomas.

While these certificates are more affordable and can be completed much faster than a college degree, it’s important to recognize that they still demand effort and ongoing professional development to succeed in the career paths they open up. Simply earning a certificate does not guarantee job qualifications. It necessitates dedication, self-discipline, and a dedication to continuous learning and improvement. Certificates should complement your qualifications and experience, forming part of a comprehensive strategy for professional growth and advancement.

Key Points About Google Certificates

College education can cost up to $80,000, while bootcamps typically range around $10,000. However, certifications hosted on platforms like Coursera are more affordable, averaging between $30 to $50 per month. According to bestcolleges.com, the average total cost for a year of college, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses, is approximately $36,436, totaling around $146,000 over four years. This stark difference in costs makes it clear that certifications can be a more cost-effective option, especially considering the potential student debt associated with traditional college education. 

Also, the following information about these certificates’ benefits can be seen on the coursera certifications’ web pages:

Upon completion, individuals gain access to a private job board on Coursera, featuring job postings from more than 150 reputable companies. Also, leaders at 3,800+ companies (such as Loreal, Proctor and Gamble, and more) develop their talent with Coursera. These exclusive access enhances opportunities for graduates to explore career options and secure employment with well-established organizations.

Furthermore, the ability to list Coursera certifications on platforms like LinkedIn, even while in progress, significantly boosts visibility to recruiters and potential employers. This proactive approach increases the chances of being noticed by industry professionals and opens doors to exciting career prospects.

Notably, statistics reveal that over 75% of Coursera graduates in the United States experience positive career changes within just six months of completing their certifications. This rapid impact underscores the effectiveness of Coursera’s programs in facilitating career advancement and transformation for individuals seeking professional growth and development.

Conclusion

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of remote work and technological advancements, Google Certificates have emerged as vital assets. They are not just in-demand but are purposefully designed to address the growing need for skilled professionals in specific roles. These certificates play a pivotal role in bridging the gap in the workforce by providing individuals with the necessary skills and expertise.

Whether you have a diploma or not, as long as you have the capability to learn like a sponge and adapt to the latest trends and technologies, these certifications are changing the professional field as we speak.

So if you’re interested in starting a career in tech, or you’re planning a major career change, head on to Coursera today and start learning to earn!