How to Become an IT Specialist: 12 Online Academies from Harvard, Google, AWS, Cisco, and Others

CS50x
Free online computer science course from Harvard University, considered one of the best introductory programming programs in the world. The course introduces students to algorithms, data structures, C and Python languages, SQL, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Flask. CS50x helps students learn to think like engineers, write clean code, and create a final project that can be added to their portfolio.

freeCodeCamp
One of the largest free online schools for web development and Data Science. Students complete projects, take tests, and receive free certificates in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, machine learning, and other topics. An excellent option for practical skill-building and portfolio development.

LinkedIn Learning
A vast library of courses on IT, business, and soft skills. Courses are taught by practicing professionals. You can progress from programming basics to advanced data analytics, earning a certificate that can be added to your LinkedIn profile. Useful for building a personal brand and job hunting.

Huawei ICT Academy
An international educational program that collaborates with universities in more than 170 countries and offers online and offline courses on network technologies, 5G, IoT, AI, and cloud solutions. Students can study for free, receive discounts on HCIA/HCIP exams, participate in global Huawei ICT Competition contests, complete practical labs, and use simulators to hone their skills.

Cisco Networking Academy
A global educational initiative by Cisco, offering free online and offline courses on networks, cybersecurity, IoT, Python, AI, Data Science, and analytics. The program is suitable for beginners and those looking to build an IT career: from introductory courses and practice in Cisco Packet Tracer to career tracks for network technicians and cybersecurity analysts.

JetBrains Academy
Learning at JetBrains based on real projects — students create chatbots, blogs, currency converters, and more complex applications, integrating with JetBrains IDEs. The platform helps beginner developers build a portfolio, prepare for interviews, and complete assessments on algorithms and OOP. Students and teachers can use professional JetBrains IDEs for free.

AWS Academy
Amazon Web Services' educational program helps university and college students master cloud technologies and prepare for AWS certifications. The program provides a free curriculum, Learner Lab, access to AWS-trained instructors, and a 50% discount on exams. Graduates gain a competitive advantage in the job market and can search for jobs directly through AWS Educate partner channels.

Google Digital Garage
A free educational platform from Google where you can take online courses on digital skills: marketing, analytics, online advertising, coding basics, productivity, and soft skills. Courses are available for beginners, including video lessons, tests, and interactive tasks. The platform helps students and young professionals enhance their skills for careers or business, prepare for interviews, and learn how to promote projects online.

Microsoft Learn / Microsoft Learn for Students
A platform for learning digital and cloud technologies, including free online courses, practical labs, step-by-step documentation, and certification for Microsoft products. Students can learn at their own pace, participate in virtual events, review code examples, and prepare for international exams, whose certificates are valued by employers.

IBM SkillsBuild
A free educational platform from IBM that helps students, teachers, and beginners master modern technologies and develop skills for IT careers. Courses cover artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud technologies, software development, data analysis, and job-seeking skills.

Oracle Academy
Oracle's global initiative provides students, teachers, and educational institutions with free access to learning materials, software, and resources for studying programming, databases, Java, and cloud technologies. The platform supports curriculum development, offers practical labs, application development courses, and preparation for Oracle Certified professional exams.

Meta Blueprint
An educational platform from Meta where you can take free and paid courses on digital marketing, social media advertising, targeting, and analytics. Courses help entrepreneurs, marketers, and students learn to create effective ad campaigns, attract customers, and grow their businesses online.