An MS Office certificate course provides skills in applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and options range from basic productivity training to official, globally recognized certifications like the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS). MOS certifications are available at Associate and Expert levels and demonstrate a candidate's proficiency to employers. You can find courses on general training platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning, or through official Microsoft resources.  

Types of courses

• General training courses: These courses focus on providing comprehensive skills for productivity in the Microsoft Office suite. They are available on various online learning platforms and are good for building fundamental knowledge. 
• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification: This is the official Microsoft-recognized certification that validates your skills in specific Office applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 
• Levels: Certifications are available at Associate and Expert levels, with options for specific versions like Microsoft 365 Apps or Office 2019. 
• Exam format: The certification is earned by passing exams that test your ability to apply skills in real-world situations using project-based questions within the applications. 
• Recognition: Earning a MOS certification provides a globally recognized credential and a Credley badge to share with employers. 

How to choose a course

• For basic skills: If your goal is to improve overall productivity, a general training course from platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning is a good choice. 
• For official validation: If you want a credential that is officially recognized by Microsoft and valued by employers, pursue the official Microsoft Office Specialist certification. 
• For career advancement: Consider the MOS Associate or Expert certifications, as they can be stacked to achieve Master status and demonstrate a high level of proficiency. 
• For college credit: The MOS certification is backed by the American Council on Education (ACE), allowing students to potentially earn college credit