All these are local Malaysian programmes. However, there are many international learning platforms which are fast developing.
One such learning platform is Udacity.
Udacity is an online learning platform that trains students for in-demand, technology-based careers. It offers both short online courses and Nanodegree programmes in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, business, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, and programming.
Udacity, Inc. is an American for-profit educational organisation founded by Sebastian Thrun, David Stavens, and Mike Sokolsky offering massive open online courses.
What is Udacity Nanodegrees?
Udacity Nanodegrees are online certificate programs that can typically last anywhere from 3-6 months, similar to edX MicroMasters or Coursera MasterTracks.
They’re flexible and meant to work with your schedule, so you can learn at your own pace. All the programs also come with projects for hands-on learning and technical mentors in case you get stuck.
One unique benefit to Udacity Nanodegrees is the career development resources students receive at the end, including help with optimizing resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and Github portfolios after completing the program.
How much does Udacity cost?
Udacity’s Nanodegree programs normally cost anywhere from US $678 to $2,034 (without sale discounts applied), depending on the program and length of training.
There are flexible payment options available, such as paying per month instead of all at once.
Additionally, Udacity offers several scholarships for its online programmes. You can browse for further details.
According to Thrun, the origin of the name Udacity comes from the company’s desire to be “audacious for you, the student”. While it originally focused on offering university-style courses, it now focuses more on vocational courses for professionals.
Udacity is the outgrowth of free computer science classes offered in 2011 through Stanford University.
Thrun has stated he hopes half a million students will enroll, after an enrollment of 160,000 students in the predecessor course at Stanford, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, and 90,000 students had enrolled in the initial two classes as of March 2012.
ADVERTISEMENT
As of 28 April 2014, Udacity has 1.6 million users in 12 full courses and 26 free courseware.
In 2014, the Georgia Institute of Technology launched the first “massive online open degree” in computer science by partnering with Udacity and AT&T; a complete master’s degree through that program costs students US $7,000.
In October 2017, Udacity along with Unity, launched ‘Learn ARKit’ program which could help developers improve their AR application building skills.
In the same month, Google partnered with Udacity to launch a new scholarship initiative for aspiring Web and Android application developers.
While not yet profitable as of February 2018, Udacity is valued at over $1 billion having raised $163 million from noted investors included Andreessen Horowitz, Drive Capital, and Alphabet’s venture capital arm, GV.
Can I get a certificate from Udacity?
When you complete a Nanodegree programme, Udacity verifies both your compliance with their policies and your identity before awarding you a credential of completion.
Udacity does not provide certificates for free courses.
Is Udacity recognised by employers?
Udacity’s courses and Nanodegrees are not accredited and cannot be transferred to educational institutions.
ADVERTISEMENT
However, course completion certificates and capstone projects still hold value among employers. You can use a completion certificate or capstone project to bolster your resume or job-ready portfolio.
Career Tips
If you are a working adult and wish to learn the latest computer related skills such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, business, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, and programming etc. it would be good to explore about learning these skills at Udacity.
Q and A
If you have a question write to: [email protected]
