Coursera Career Academy

100% Online | Self-Paced | Free to Chico State Alumni

The Chico State Alumni Association has continued its partnership with Coursera, the global online learning platform, to provide alumni free access to Career Academy.

Earn professional certificates from leading companies. Learn at your own pace with practical AI training, mobile access, and support from a global learning community.

• Who is eligible for the Coursera Career Academy program?
  All Chico State alumni and current students are eligible for free access to Coursera Professional Certificates, thanks to the generosity of the Alumni Association.
• How do I sign up and get started?
  Click the Enroll Now link on the Coursera Career Academy page and follow the instructions to claim your free access through the Alumni Association. Certificates are limited, so sign up early.
• What kinds of certificates are available?
  There are over 80 Professional Certificates to choose from, covering fields such as IT, data analytics, project management, UX design, business, and more. You can browse the full Chico State Coursera Career Academy Catalog (Google Sheet) for details.
• Is there a cost or trial period?
  No. Access for Chico State alumni and students is completely free — the usual Coursera license fee is sponsored by the Alumni Association. There is no trial period or billing.
  The current complimentary license is valid until November 2026.
• How long do I have to complete a certificate?
  Most certificates can be completed in 4 to 6 months at your own pace. The current complimentary license is valid until November 2026, and the Coursera partnership continues through 2028, allowing plenty of time to explore multiple courses and certificates.
• What does “self-paced” mean, and will I interact with other learners?
  “Self-paced” means you can start anytime and move through the material on your own schedule — no fixed class times or deadlines. You’ll also have opportunities to engage with others through course discussion forums where you can exchange feedback, share ideas, and collaborate as you learn.
• Do the Coursera certificates include AI training?
  Yes. Many Professional Certificates include practical AI training to help you work smarter and stay competitive. You’ll learn job-ready AI skills tailored to your field from industry experts.
• What happens after I finish my certificate?
  Upon completion, you’ll receive a Coursera Professional Certificate, which you can add to your résumé, LinkedIn profile, or share with employers to showcase your new skills.
• Will this certificate help me get hired?
  Many employers value Professional Certificates. Coursera data shows that 88% of employers believe certificates help candidates stand out, 72% are more likely to hire someone with one, and 77% use or consider skill-based hiring. Results vary, but these credentials can strengthen your career prospects.
• Is there a Coursera app, and is it part of the program?
  Yes! The Coursera mobile app is free for iOS and Android and fully supported as part of the Chico State Coursera Career Academy program. It lets you download courses, learn offline, and stay on track from anywhere. For details, visit the Coursera App Guide.
• Who do I contact if I have questions or need support?
  You can email Tania Miranda, Digital Engagement Coordinator, at tmiranda@csuchico.edu for program questions. For immediate assistance you can visit Coursera’s Learner Help Center.