Google Career Certifications: What They Are & Why You Should Care

The huge conglomerate that is Google has found yet another way to serve the masses. This time in the form of educational programs that result in professional certificates. They call them Google Career Certifications, and acquiring one can open many doors.

Digital skills are becoming essential for employees nowadays. Google's training teaches you all the skills you need and then some. Unlike other programs, Google's is super accessible—being 100% online.

We're going to explore all the details of these certifications and what you can expect after earning one.

Google's Professional Certificates:

1. IT Support

2. Data Analytics

3. Project Management

4. UX Design

5. Android Development

It's not a huge list, but these skills are in high demand. Not to mention, the pay you can expect for any of those careers is respectable. Now there are few things you should know about this opportunity. Let's start with how the courses work.

How Do Google Certification Courses Work?

First and foremost, all the courses are run through a platform called Coursera (except the android development course). Don't get confused though, the courses are developed and supported by Google. Coursera simply serves as a host.

Next, you should know there is a time commitment associated with Google Career Certifications. Google suggests students will spend under 10 hours a week of flexible studying. However, you are free to learn and complete the courses at your own pace.

Following Google's recommendations, you can expect to complete the courses in 6 months. Of course, it's possible to complete them in more or less time. It all depends on the student.

Lastly, you should be aware of the costs which, all things considered, are reasonable. To take a course, you're going to need a subscription from Coursera which is $39 a month (Google doesn't make any money).

Don't let the cost steer you away! For one, financial aid is available for programs. More importantly, let's put the cost into perspective. If it takes you 6 months to get a Google certification, you will have paid $234.

Instead of making students pay for the course upfront, it's subscription-based. That way, if one month in, you realize it's not for you, you can cancel and you'll have only spent $39.

You'll see the money is more than well spent when considering the salary for entry-level positions.

What Happens After You're Certified?

Google doesn't just leave you stranded after you complete a course. You'll have access to a resume-building tool, career networking support, mock interviews, and more. Notably, you'll be able to get your foot the door in with over 150 top employers through the Google Employer Consortium.

That's just fancy phrasing for Google's employer network. I must say, the network is an amazing opportunity as their employers are seeking people who have  Google certifications. It's Google's way of helping you realize an ROI (return on investment).

So, you complete a course, become certified, start a job search, get hired, and start working...Or you could choose a different route; be sure to check out the bonus at the end of the article to find out what that route is!

It's time we get to the juicy part, the pay.

How Much Can I Make With A Google Career Certification?

The entry-level salary figures Google provides are extremely competitive. They may even surprise you considering the amount of time it takes to obtain a Google Certification. Here is what you can expect to earn:

IT Support | Entry Level |$50,800

Data Analytics | Entry Level |$67,900

Project Management |Entry Level | $59,000

UX Design |Entry Level | $58,600

Android Development | Entry Level | $81,940

As you can see, the certifications will more than pay for themselves. Those figures are what many bachelor’s degree educated job seekers hope to earn. However, these certifications take six months, while a bachelor’s degree takes 4 years.

I’d say, if college or the military isn’t for you, Google career certifications could be the next best thing.

Again, you’re not relegated to getting the certification and seeking an employer. Here’s the other option.

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