Top Online Microsoft Courses to Take in 2025 [Free Certifications Included]

In today’s fast-evolving digital world, acquiring tech skills is more essential than ever especially in Nigeria, where the unemployment rate rose to 37.7% in 2024. Upskilling with globally recognized Microsoft certifications can give you a competitive edge and open doors to new job opportunities.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, Microsoft offers free online courses with certifications to help you boost your resume and advance your career. Here are the top Microsoft courses to take in 2025, all with free certification options.

Why Microsoft Certification Matters in 2025

Microsoft certifications validate your technical skills in specific domains such as cloud computing, data science, AI, productivity tools, and cybersecurity. Employers trust these certifications, often prioritizing candidates who hold them.

Benefits include:

• Increased job opportunities
• Better salary prospects
• Recognition in your industry
• Pathway to remote and international roles

Top Online Microsoft Courses with Free Certification

1. Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

Learn the basics of cloud computing, Azure architecture, security, pricing, and services. Perfect for beginners.

• Level: Beginner
• Duration: Self-paced
• Platform: Microsoft Learn

2. Introduction to Programming with Python

Learn Python from scratch using Microsoft’s interactive learning platform. Great for aspiring software developers, data scientists, or AI professionals.

• Level: Beginner
• Duration: Self-paced
• Platform: Microsoft Learn

3. Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

Covers Microsoft 365 services including Teams, SharePoint, Outlook, and OneDrive. Ideal for remote workers and admin professionals.

• Level: Beginner
• Duration: Self-paced
• Platform: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

4. Introduction to Data Science in Azure

Explore data analysis, data wrangling, visualization, and machine learning using Microsoft Azure.

• Level: Intermediate
• Duration: Self-paced
• Platform: Data Science in Azure

5. Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals

Covers AI concepts like machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision using Microsoft services.

• Level: Beginner–Intermediate
• Duration: Self-paced
• Platform: Azure AI Fundamentals

6. Microsoft Power BI Desktop Fundamentals

Learn how to build dashboards and create visual reports for business intelligence using Power BI.

• Level: Beginner
• Duration: Self-paced
• Platform: Power BI Fundamentals

7. Introduction to Azure DevOps

Understand DevOps principles and how to use Azure Boards, Pipelines, and Repos to automate and manage software projects.

• Level: Intermediate
• Duration: Self-paced
• Platform: Azure DevOps

Best Platforms to Learn Microsoft Courses for Free

Microsoft Learn

• Official Microsoft platform
• Self-paced modules and certification paths
• Ideal for both beginners and professionals
  Visit Microsoft Learn

edX – Microsoft Partner Courses

• University-level courses with real-world projects
• Topics include AI, security, cloud, and DevOps
  Explore Microsoft on edX

LinkedIn Learning

• Short courses in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and more
• Add completed certifications directly to your LinkedIn profile
  Browse Microsoft Courses on LinkedIn

Udemy (Look for Free Deals)

• Affordable courses in Microsoft Excel, Azure, and Microsoft 365
• Often includes quizzes, practical examples, and community support
  Find Microsoft Courses on Udemy

How to Choose the Right Microsoft Course

Before enrolling, consider the following:

• Relevance to your career goals
• Your current skill level
• Certification availability
• Course reviews and ratings
• Practical exercises and real-world projects

Stay updated with the latest job vacancies, remote job alerts, graduate trainee roles, and tips to grow your career.

Source Links:

• Microsoft Learn
• edX – Microsoft Courses
• LinkedIn Learning
• Udemy Microsoft Courses