Skip to main content
  1. Market Insights
  2. Digital
  3. eServices
  4. Online Education

Professional Certificates - Worldwide

Worldwide
  • Revenue in the Professional Certificates market is projected to reach US$6.04bn in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2028) of 8.56%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$8.39bn by 2028.
  • In the Professional Certificates market, the number of users is expected to amount to 70.6m users by 2028.
  • User penetration will be 0.7% in 2024 and is expected to hit 0.9% by 2028.
  • The average revenue per user (ARPU) is expected to amount to US$115.00.
  • In global comparison, most revenue will be generated United States (US$1.96bn in 2024).
  • With a projected rate of 2.3%, the user penetration in the Professional Certificates market is highest United States.

Definition:

Professional Certificates are a type of credential, typically delivered by an industry body, to demonstrate/acknowledge/verify a person’s ability to perform a job-related function. This definition includes professional certificates offered through institutions (CFA, PMI) and online study courses (Kaplan, Becker).

Additional Information

Data includes revenue figures in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV), Users, average revenue per user (ARPU), and user penetration rate. User and revenue figures represent B2C services.

In-Scope

  • Professional certifications offered through professional institutions (CPA, CFA, PMP)
  • Companies offering online study prep strictly for a professional certification (BARBRI, Kaplan, Becker)

Out-Of-Scope

  • Micro and alternative credentials offered through third-party platforms (Udacity nanodegrees, Coursera specializations, Udemy certificates)
  • Study prep offered by third-party platforms (Udemy, Coursera, edX).
Online Education: market data & analysis - Cover

Market Insights report

Online Education: market data & analysis

Study Details

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: The chart “Comparable Estimates” shows the forecasted development of the selected market from different sources. Please see the additional information for methodology and publication date.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Analyst Opinion

    The Professional Certificates market is experiencing significant growth worldwide, driven by changing customer preferences and the increasing demand for specialized skills in the global job market.

    Customer preferences:
    Customers are increasingly seeking professional certificates to enhance their skills and improve their career prospects. These certificates provide individuals with the opportunity to gain expertise in specific areas and demonstrate their competence to potential employers. The flexibility of professional certificates, which can be completed online or in-person, appeals to individuals who want to upskill or reskill while balancing work and personal commitments. Additionally, the shorter duration of professional certificate programs compared to traditional degree programs makes them more accessible and appealing to individuals seeking to quickly acquire new skills.

    Trends in the market:
    One of the key trends in the Professional Certificates market is the increasing focus on digital skills. As technology continues to evolve, there is a growing demand for professionals who are proficient in areas such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital marketing. Professional certificate programs that offer training in these areas are witnessing significant growth as individuals recognize the importance of these skills in the modern job market. Another trend in the market is the rise of industry-specific certificate programs. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with specialized knowledge and skills in their respective industries. As a result, professional certificate programs that cater to specific industries, such as healthcare, finance, and technology, are gaining popularity. These programs provide individuals with the opportunity to gain industry-specific expertise and improve their chances of securing employment or advancing in their careers.

    Local special circumstances:
    In different countries and regions, there are unique factors influencing the development of the Professional Certificates market. For example, in emerging economies, such as India and China, there is a growing middle class seeking to improve their job prospects and increase their earning potential. Professional certificates offer a cost-effective way for individuals in these countries to acquire new skills and compete in the global job market. In developed countries, where the job market is highly competitive, individuals are turning to professional certificates to differentiate themselves from their peers. The focus on specialized skills and industry-specific knowledge is particularly prominent in these markets, as employers seek candidates who can immediately contribute to their organizations.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    The growth of the Professional Certificates market is also influenced by macroeconomic factors such as globalization and technological advancements. Globalization has increased the demand for professionals who can work across borders and adapt to different cultural and business environments. Professional certificates provide individuals with the opportunity to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a globalized economy. Technological advancements have also played a significant role in the development of the Professional Certificates market. Online learning platforms and digital tools have made it easier for individuals to access professional certificate programs from anywhere in the world. The convenience and flexibility offered by these platforms have contributed to the increasing popularity of professional certificates. In conclusion, the Professional Certificates market is experiencing significant growth worldwide due to changing customer preferences, the increasing demand for specialized skills, and the influence of macroeconomic factors such as globalization and technological advancements. As individuals seek to enhance their skills and improve their career prospects, professional certificate programs are becoming an increasingly popular choice.

    Users

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) and represent what consumers pay for these products and services. The user metrics show the number of customers who have made at least one online purchase within the past 12 months.

    Modeling approach / Market size:

    Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use annual financial reports of the market-leading companies, third-party studies and reports, as well as survey results from our primary research (e.g., the Statista Global Consumer Survey). In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, GDP per capita, and internet connection speed. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

    Forecasts:

    In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing. The main drivers are internet users, urban population, usage of key players, and attitudes toward online services.

    Additional notes:

    The market is updated twice a year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. GCS data is reweighted for representativeness.

    Digital

    Access more Market Insights on Digital topics with our featured report

    Online Education: market data & analysis - BackgroundOnline Education: market data & analysis - Cover

    Key Market Indicators

    Notes: Based on data from IMF, World Bank, UN and Eurostat

    Most recent update: Sep 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Contact

    Get in touch with us. We are happy to help.