A full fledged degree can take years to complete a worthy investment for students just starting out, but not always ideal for a working professional juggling deadlines, meetings, and personal commitments. If you want to upskill fast without putting your life on hold, the solution is clear: online short term courses.

These programs are flexible, focused, and can lead to career boosting skills in just a few weeks or even days. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, a salary bump, or a career pivot, the best short term courses can make that happen.

In this guide, we’ll explore UniAthena’s Online Short Courses from the Basics of Data Science to Mastering Accounting, and from Diploma in Artificial Intelligence to Executive Diploma in Procurement & Contract Management, all designed to fit neatly into your busy schedule.

1. Basics of Data Science

Data powers every modern business decision. If you want to step into one of the world’s most in-demand fields, start with the Basics of Data Science.

In just 4–6 hours, you’ll learn how to transform raw numbers into actionable insights using fundamental analytics tools and techniques. This course is perfect for beginners and ends with a CIQ, UK certification a solid addition to your LinkedIn profile.

2. Executive Diploma in Machine Learning

Machine Learning is no longer the future it’s the present. This Executive Diploma in Machine Learning walks you through ML models, pattern recognition, and predictive analytics.

The best part? You can complete it in 2–3 weeks of flexible learning and be ready to contribute to real-world AI projects. It’s perfect for tech enthusiasts aiming to advance into more impactful, higher-value roles.

3. Diploma in Artificial Intelligence

AI is revolutionizing sectors from healthcare to finance, fueling an unprecedented demand for skilled AI professionals. This Diploma in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a 1–2 week course covering AI fundamentals, core algorithms, and practical applications.

By the end, you’ll be prepared to step into AI-focused roles or enhance your current career with AI-driven insights.

4. Mastering Accounting

Finance is the backbone of any business. The Mastering Accounting course gives you the expertise to create accurate financial statements, evaluate a company’s performance, and make informed, data-driven business decisions.

In just a few hours, you’ll walk away with CIQ, UK certification and the confidence to navigate the accounting world perfect for managers, entrepreneurs, and finance-focused professionals.

5. Basics of Digital Marketing

If your business isn’t online, you’re invisible. The Basics of Digital Marketing course will show you how to reach, engage, and convert customers in the digital age.

In just 4–6 hours, you’ll gain mastery of social media strategy, SEO fundamentals, and campaign analytics, finishing with a CIQ, UK certificate to showcase your skills.

6. Diploma in Financial Risk Management

Risk is unavoidable—but it’s also manageable. The Diploma in Financial Risk Management course teaches you to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in banking, finance, and corporate settings.

This 1–2 week program is a must-have for professionals who want to safeguard company assets and build resilience.

7. Mastering Product Management

From concept to launch, product managers orchestrate it all. The Mastering Product Management course condenses the essentials market research, product strategy, and lifecycle management into just one week.

Graduate with an AUPD certification and the expertise to lead product teams with clarity and confidence.

8. Mastering Supply Chain Management

Supply chains are the vital networks that keep the global economy running smoothly. In Mastering Supply Chain Management, you’ll learn to optimize operations, manage risks, and improve efficiency.

This one-week course includes a CIQ, UK certificate and is ideal for logistics managers or anyone looking to break into SCM.

9. Executive Diploma in Procurement & Contract Management

Every successful business relationship starts with a well-managed contract. This Executive Diploma in Procurement & Contract Management will teach you vendor relations, legal basics, and negotiation strategies in 2–3 weeks.

It’s a perfect choice for procurement officers, project managers, and aspiring contract specialists.

10. Diploma in Environment Health and Safety Management

Workplace safety goes beyond compliance it’s a collective responsibility.The Diploma in Environment Health and Safety Management prepares you to identify hazards, enforce safety protocols, and promote a culture of health and safety.

In 1–2 weeks, you’ll gain skills valued across manufacturing, construction, and corporate sectors.

Spotlight: Short-Term Courses for Professionals in India

India’s job market is evolving rapidly, with companies seeking highly skilled professionals who can adapt fast. Short-term certifications are now seen as a smart investment for career growth—especially in industries like tech, finance, and digital marketing.

From Bengaluru’s IT hubs to Mumbai’s financial centers, recruiters value practical skills over just formal degrees. UniAthena’s Online Short Courses give Indian professionals the edge they need offering globally recognized certificates, flexible schedules, and the ability to learn from anywhere, even during a chai break.

Conclusion

The world of work is changing, and the winners will be those who keep learning, keep adapting, and keep growing. Whether it’s Basics of Data Science, Mastering Accounting, or Diploma in AI, these best short term courses give you career-ready skills fast.

And the best part? Many are free to learn, so the only thing you risk is missing out if you don’t start now.

Bonus Tips

Tech-forward careers are booming. Explore Data Science, ML, and AI for the best long-term ROI.

If leadership roles call to you, consider Mastering Product Management or Mastering Supply Chain Management.