Introduction
In a fast-paced, digitally-driven world, professionals are constantly looking for ways to upskill without sacrificing full-time jobs. That’s where GetSmarter comes in — a premium online learning platform offering university-certified short courses designed for working professionals.
Founded in South Africa and now a part of 2U Inc., GetSmarter partners with top-tier universities like Harvard, MIT, Oxford, and the University of Cape Town to deliver high-quality, career-relevant education. Whether you’re aiming to pivot into a new industry or sharpen your existing skills, GetSmarter is tailored for lifelong learners who value credentials from globally recognized institutions.
Who Should Use GetSmarter?
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Mid-level to senior professionals
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Entrepreneurs and executives
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Individuals looking for accredited university-backed courses
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Learners seeking flexible but structured learning formats
Platform Highlights
GetSmarter stands out by combining academic rigor with workplace relevance. Here are its most notable features:
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🎓 University-Backed Certifications
Courses are developed in partnership with leading global universities. On completion, learners receive a verified digital certificate. -
👨🏫 Industry-Expert Instructors & Faculty
You’ll learn from renowned university faculty and industry leaders. -
⏱ Flexible Yet Structured Learning
Courses follow a fixed schedule but allow self-paced weekly progress, ideal for busy professionals. -
📈 Career-Focused Outcomes
Many courses include real-world case studies and projects that are directly applicable to your job. -
💬 Supportive Learning Environment
Access to success managers, discussion forums, and peer feedback. 
User Experience
GetSmarter offers a clean, professional, and intuitive user interface. The platform is web-based and accessible across devices, although there is no mobile app as of now.
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Navigation: Courses are organized with weekly modules, making it easy to track progress.
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Accessibility: Fully responsive on desktop and mobile browsers.
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Engagement: Includes video lectures, quizzes, assignments, and collaborative discussion boards.
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Personal Dashboard: Tracks your grades, deadlines, and upcoming activities.
Course Quality
GetSmarter offers short courses across business, finance, law, healthcare, technology, and leadership — each designed to be completed in 6–12 weeks.
Strengths:
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Curated Academic Quality: Every course undergoes rigorous development in partnership with top universities.
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Updated Curriculum: Courses reflect current trends, real-world challenges, and practical solutions.
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Engaging Materials: Expect a mix of video, infographics, articles, and interactive content.
Who It’s Best For:
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Professionals looking to advance in their career or switch roles
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Managers needing leadership or digital transformation skills
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Entrepreneurs wanting to understand finance, strategy, or innovation
Pricing and Plans
GetSmarter does not offer free courses, and pricing can be steep — but it reflects the university-level quality and certification.
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💰 Course Pricing: Ranges between $500 to $3,000 USD, depending on the institution and subject.
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🔐 No Subscription Model: You pay per course.
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💳 Payment Plans Available: Some courses offer the option to pay in installments.
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🎓 Certificate Included: A digital certificate is issued after successful completion.
Is It Worth It?
Yes — if your goal is career advancement, skill validation, or access to elite university faculty without enrolling full-time.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
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Certified by world-renowned universities
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High-quality course design and content
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Excellent student support services
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Structured but flexible schedule
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Great for working professionals
❌ Cons
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No free courses or trials
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Premium pricing
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No mobile app
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Limited interactivity compared to some MOOC platforms
Learners View Verdict
GetSmarter is a premium online learning platform for serious professionals. It’s ideal for those who value high-impact education and want certifications from top global universities without attending in person.
If you’re on a budget, there are cheaper options. But if academic pedigree, real-world relevance, and certification matter, GetSmarter delivers exceptional value. Our review, based on real users and personal testing, confirms that the platform’s courses are worth the investment for career growth.
⭐ Final Rating: 4.6/5
👉 Explore GetSmarter now on their official site.
FAQs
1. Is GetSmarter legit and accredited?
Yes. GetSmarter partners with accredited universities such as Harvard, Oxford, and MIT to offer certified short courses.
2. Do GetSmarter certificates have value?
Absolutely. These are university-issued certificates and can be shared on LinkedIn or resumes.
3. Can I get a refund from GetSmarter?
Yes, they have a refund policy — usually within 7 days of the course start date. Always check course-specific terms.
4. Is there a GetSmarter mobile app?
No mobile app yet, but the platform is mobile-friendly via browser.
5. Are there any discounts available?
Occasionally, limited-time discounts or scholarships may be offered. You can sign up for their newsletter to stay informed.
