Are you finding it tough to manage your team, drive projects, or step into higher-level roles?
Leadership skills are the key to breaking through those barriers, and they’re more crucial than ever as workplaces shift to hybrid environments and employee expectations evolve. Leadership development is more than climbing the corporate ladder; it’s about influencing outcomes, inspiring others, and steering your organisation toward success.
According to NextEdge Learning, investing in leadership development courses can accelerate your career growth and equip you with the tools to handle team dynamics, negotiations, and strategic decision-making.
Whether you’re already in a management role or aspiring to lead, there’s a course for you.
In 2025, leadership skills will no longer be a luxury but a necessity. As businesses adapt to remote work, digital transformation, and a rapidly changing market, leaders must evolve with the times. Whether you’re leading a startup or a corporate team or simply want to get promoted, developing your leadership skills will give you a significant edge.
Let’s explore some of the best online leadership courses that will sharpen your leadership toolbox and position you for success in 2025.
The Top Leadership Courses for 2025
Here is the list of top leadership courses for 2025:
- MBA in a Box: Business Lessons from a CEO
- Leadership: Practical Leadership Skills by Chris Croft
- Leadership Development with Dekker Fraser (Fortune 100 MBA)
- Leadership: Leading When You’re Not in Charge by Steve Ballinger
- The Science of Leadership by Gregory Caremans
- Team Management, Leadership & Team Building Master Class by Lawrence Miller
- Business Strategy Execution – Agile Organisation Design by Lawrence Miller
Here’s the formatted table for your document:
| Course Name | Instructor | Rating | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA in a Box: Business Lessons from a CEO | 365 Careers | 4.6/5 | 11.5 hours | $109.99 |
| Leadership: Practical Leadership Skills | Chris Croft | 4.6/5 | 3 hours | $69.99 |
| Leadership Development (Fortune 100 MBA) | Dekker Fraser, MBA, Neelisha Singhal, Jyra Galosmo | 4.7/5 | 5.5 hours | $59.99 |
| Leadership: Leading When You’re Not in Charge | Steve Ballinger, MBA | 4.5/5 | 3 hours | $54.99 |
| The Science of Leadership | Gregory Caremans – Brain Academy | 4.5/5 | 3 hours | $84.99 |
| Team Management, Leadership & Team Building | Lawrence M. Miller, Institute for Leadership Excellence | 4.5/5 | 16.5 hours | $69.99 |
| Business Strategy Execution – Agile Organisation Design | Lawrence M. Miller, Institute for Leadership Excellence | 4.7/5 | 11 hours | $79.99 |
1. MBA in a Box: Business Lessons from a CEO
If you’ve ever dreamed of having an MBA but don’t want to invest years (or a hefty tuition), then MBA in a Box: Business Lessons from a CEO is your ideal shortcut. This course is a comprehensive, practical alternative to formal business education, allowing you to acquire essential business knowledge at a fraction of the time and cost of a traditional MBA.
Why Take This Course?
This leadership skills online course compresses years of business education into 11.5 hours of interactive video content. With lessons ranging from strategy and marketing to finance and HR management, it’s designed to give you a broad understanding of business operations—perfect for budding entrepreneurs, business executives, or managers wanting to enhance their leadership repertoire.
The course focuses on real-world business situations, using case studies, real examples, and practical exercises to ensure you can apply what you learn. You won’t just absorb theories—you’ll gain the skills needed to tackle real-life business challenges.
Key Features:
- Created by a Top Business Leader: The course instructor is the CEO of an eight-figure business that blends real-world experience with MBA-level theory.
- Gamebook Feature: MBA in a Box includes a Gamebook that simulates real-world decision-making challenges. It makes the learning process interactive by allowing you to “play” as a business leader.
- Practical Skills: Learn how to perform a SWOT analysis, apply Game Theory, calculate financial statements and master negotiations.
- Comprehensive Business Knowledge: Cover all the essentials, from setting up the 4 Ps of marketing to reading financial statements and understanding leadership principles.
Course Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Instructor | 365 Careers |
| Rating | 4.6/5 |
| Students Enrolled | 112,387 |
| Duration | 11.5 hours of on-demand video |
| Price | $109.99 (often discounted on Udemy) |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Languages | English, Arabic, 15 others |
| Last Updated | 09/2024 |
| Key Topics | Business Strategy, Marketing, HR Management, Financial Statement Analysis, Decision Making & Negotiation |
| Unique Features | Includes interactive Gamebook, case studies, real-world scenarios |
If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, start-up founder, or business executive, this course will give you an all-around view of why some companies (and people) succeed when doing business while others fail.
What You’ll Learn:
- Start your own company from scratch.
- Gain the same business acumen as MBA graduates from top business schools.
- Perform industry analysis, SWOT analysis, and market segmentation.
- Master financials, including P&L, balance sheets, and cash flows.
- Become a skilled negotiator and understand decision-making frameworks.
- Apply best practices in managing people, from recruitment to motivation.
2. Leadership: Practical Leadership Skills by Chris Croft
If you’re looking for practical, no-nonsense leadership advice, Chris Croft’s Practical Leadership Skills course is the way to go. It’s packed with actionable leadership techniques that you can apply immediately, no matter your industry.
Why This Course Stands Out
This best-seller doesn’t just teach theory. It dives deep into real-world leadership skills, such as delegation, motivation, and leadership styles, making it highly relevant for professionals managing small teams or large organisations. Chris Croft, a seasoned leadership coach, brings humour, practical tips, and real-life examples to keep you engaged throughout the course.
Key Features:
- Real-World Examples: Chris Croft includes tons of relatable, practical advice you can apply immediately. He uses humour and wit to make the lessons enjoyable.
- Leadership for All: Whether you’re in a formal management position or leading in less obvious ways, this course helps you make an impact.
- Short and Sweet: The 3-hour course length makes it accessible to anyone, even those with packed schedules.
- Versatile Leadership: Learn how to delegate effectively, motivate your team, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Course Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Instructor | Chris Croft |
| Rating | 4.6/5 |
| Students Enrolled | 247,529 |
| Duration | 3 hours of on-demand video |
| Price | $69.99 |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Languages | English, Arabic, 13 others |
| Last Updated | 03/2024 |
| Key Topics | Leadership styles, Delegation, Motivation, Conflict Resolution |
| Unique Features | Humorous, practical examples, short course, real-world application |
What You’ll Learn:
- Delegate effectively to empower your team.
- Build a motivated and engaged workforce.
- Understand various leadership styles and when to apply each.
- Balance leadership with a healthy work-life dynamic.
- Involve your team in decision-making processes to boost morale and efficiency.
With over 247,000 students enrolled, this course is well-suited for managers aiming to perfect their leadership techniques. Plus, Croft’s entertaining teaching style will keep you engaged throughout.
3. Leadership Development with Dekker Fraser (Fortune 100 MBA)
This leadership development program is designed for professionals who are looking to transition into executive roles. Taught by Dekker Fraser, a Fortune 100 executive with leadership experience from top-tier firms like Sony and Google, this course is packed with advanced leadership lessons.
What Makes It Unique?
Dekker Fraser’s Leadership Development course offers a data-driven approach, blending real-world leadership experiences with academic insights from elite institutions like Columbia Business School and the Kellogg School of Management. You’ll learn the ins and outs of leadership, with a focus on executive presence, team management, and soft skills development.
Key Features:
- Data-Backed Leadership: Learn decision-making, communication, and team management skills based on real-world experience and academic leadership research.
- Highly Rated: The course holds a strong 4.7/5 rating from 22,036 students.
- Executive Presence: Learn how to project confidence, manage teams, and lead with influence.
- In-Depth Content: The course includes over 5.5 hours of video content, as well as quizzes, articles, and downloadable resources to help reinforce your learning.
Course Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Instructor | Dekker Fraser, MBA, Neelisha Singhal, Jyra Galosmo |
| Rating | 4.7/5 |
| Students Enrolled | 22,036 |
| Duration | 5.5 hours of on-demand video |
| Price | $59.99 |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Languages | English, Arabic |
| Last Updated | 09/2024 |
| Key Topics | Executive Presence, Team Management, Leadership Soft Skills, Data-Driven Decision Making |
| Unique Features | Leadership frameworks from Fortune 100 experience, data-backed advice |
What You’ll Learn:
- Executive presence and gravitas—how to lead with authority and influence.
- Team management and leadership skills for maximum effectiveness.
- Data-driven decision-making.
- Leadership soft skills, including communication and persuasion.
- Strategies for rising up the corporate ladder.
This course pulls from Dekker Fraser’s direct leadership experience and solid academic foundations, making it a powerful tool for aspiring executives and managers.
4. Leadership: Leading When You’re Not in Charge by Steve Ballinger
Being a leader doesn’t always mean being in a position of authority. If you’re someone who’s required to lead projects or people without being “the boss,” this leadership skills online course by Steve Ballinger will resonate with you. It’s ideal for employees who want to lead from the middle or those who see themselves moving into leadership roles in the future.
Key Features:
- Lead Without Title: Learn how to influence and motivate teams when you’re not the official leader.
- Ideal for Career Growth: The skills taught can enhance your career prospects by positioning you as a key player in any team environment.
- Flexible Learning: This course covers leadership techniques that can be applied across various industries, regardless of your current role.
Course Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Instructor | Steve Ballinger, MBA |
| Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Students Enrolled | 41,294 |
| Duration | 3 hours of on-demand video |
| Price | $54.99 |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Languages | English, French |
| Last Updated | 08/2023 |
| Key Topics | Leading without authority, Team Engagement, Personal Influence |
| Unique Features | Focus on leadership from any position, career growth opportunities |
What You’ll Learn:
- How to lead effectively, even if you’re not the boss.
- Principles of leadership that can help you rally a team to achieve great goals.
- How to gain support from management and peers.
- How can you increase your leadership confidence and take more initiative?
This course is perfect for those who find themselves leading in informal capacities, such as project managers, team leads, or those looking to step into leadership without the formal title.
5. The Science of Leadership by Gregory Caremans
Based on insights from neuroscience and psychology, The Science of Leadership is an excellent choice for those interested in the behavioural side of leadership. It combines leadership theory with scientific research, offering a fresh perspective on how to lead effectively.
Why This Course?
It explores what motivates people, how cognitive biases affect leadership, and how to communicate effectively with different personalities. By understanding the brain’s role in decision-making, you can tailor your leadership approach to maximise team performance.
Key Features:
- Scientific Approach: The course dives deep into neuroscience and psychology, teaching you how to influence others and improve team dynamics.
- Focus on Team Management: Learn how to apply brain-based strategies to manage teams effectively.
- Practical Lessons: The lessons focus on practical leadership skills you can immediately apply to your work environment.
Course Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Instructor | Gregory Caremans – Brain Academy |
| Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Students Enrolled | 46,490 |
| Duration | 3 hours of on-demand video |
| Price | $84.99 |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Languages | English, Arabic, 6 others |
| Last Updated | 11/2022 |
| Key Topics | Leadership Neuroscience, Motivation, Cognitive Biases, Communication |
| Unique Features | Scientific approach to leadership, brain-based strategies |
What You’ll Learn:
- How the brain affects leadership, motivation, and communication.
- How to deal with cognitive biases and subconscious belief systems.
- Tools to manage yourself and others for higher engagement.
- How to switch to your “prefrontal brain” for better focus, creativity, and problem-solving.
This course is ideal for managers who want to dive deeper into the psychology of leadership and apply these principles in their work environments.
6. Team Management, Leadership & Team Building Master Class by Lawrence Miller
Team Management, Leadership & Team Building Master Class by Lawrence Miller is perfect for those seeking comprehensive training in managing self-directed and hybrid teams. With over 16 hours of video content, this course offers in-depth coverage of leading teams to high performance.
Why This Course?
It’s one of the most comprehensive leadership courses available, focusing on team dynamics, problem-solving, and lean management principles. Miller uses his 45 years of experience implementing team management in various organisations to teach you everything from conflict resolution to hybrid team management.
Key Features:
- Extensive Content: Over 16.5 hours of content, 12 articles, 70 downloadable resources, and assignments to help you practice what you’ve learned.
- Practical Tools: Includes self-assessments, problem-solving tools, and lean management techniques.
- Hybrid Team Management: Learn how to lead hybrid or remote teams effectively.
Course Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Instructor | Lawrence M. Miller, Institute for Leadership Excellence |
| Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Students Enrolled | 39,022 |
| Duration | 16.5 hours of on-demand video |
| Price | $69.99 |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Languages | English, French |
| Last Updated | 04/2023 |
| Key Topics | Self-Directed Teams, Hybrid Team Management, Problem-Solving, Lean Management |
| Unique Features | Extensive content, includes 3 e-books, lean management principles |
What You’ll Learn:
- How to manage both in-person and remote teams effectively.
- Principles of lean management and team dynamics.
- Problem-solving and conflict-resolution techniques.
- How to lead self-directed teams toward continuous improvement.
If you’re managing a team or looking to improve your team leadership skills, this course offers an extensive curriculum and practical resources to help you succeed.
7. Business Strategy Execution-Agile Organisation System Design by Lawrence Miller
This course focuses on the execution of business strategies, offering an agile approach to creating high-performing teams and organisational systems. Lawrence Miller pulls from his extensive experience in lean management and business strategy to deliver a robust course on strategic execution.
Why This Course?
It’s one of the few leadership courses that blend strategy execution with agile methodology, making it ideal for leaders looking to drive their organisations to success in a rapidly changing market.
Key Features:
- Agile Strategy Execution: Learn how to create agile, adaptable organisations that can respond to changing markets.
- Holistic Approach: Covers strategy, organisational culture, and leadership development in one comprehensive course.
- Interactive Exercises: Includes exercises and real-world case studies to help reinforce the lessons.
Course Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Instructor | Lawrence M. Miller, Institute for Leadership Excellence |
| Rating | 4.7/5 |
| Students Enrolled | 23,485 |
| Duration | 11 hours of on-demand video |
| Price | $79.99 |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Languages | English, Indonesian, 3 others |
| Last Updated | 03/2020 |
| Key Topics | Agile Business Strategy, Organisational Alignment, Cultural Transformation |
| Unique Features | Includes strategy frameworks, real-world case studies |
What You’ll Learn:
- How to create an agile organisation that can execute business strategy effectively.
- How to align technical, social, and economic systems for maximum performance.
- How to engage employees in strategy execution and build a sustainable company culture.
This course is perfect for business leaders looking to transform their organisation’s culture and capabilities to execute business strategies more effectively.
Why These Leadership Courses Are Worth Taking
In 2025, leadership development is more crucial than ever as organisations deal with the challenges of remote work, global markets, and changing employee expectations. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an aspiring manager, investing in the right course can shape your professional journey.
But what makes these top leadership courses the best picks for 2025? Let’s dive into the details.
Diverse Topics for Every Leader
These courses stand out due to their wide-ranging topics, making them suitable for any type of leader. Whether you’re after practical advice on team management, mastering business strategy, or understanding the science behind leadership, there’s a course to match your goals.
- Varied subjects: Courses like MBA in a Box cover broad topics such as strategy, finance, and marketing, while others like The Science of Leadership focus on behavioural aspects of leadership.
- Cater to all roles: Whether you’re an entrepreneur, mid-level manager, or executive, each course addresses leadership skills tailored to specific roles.
- Targeted learning: If you’re leading a team but don’t have a formal title, Leadership: Leading When You’re Not in Charge is perfect for you. If you’re aiming for an executive role, Leadership Development with Dekker Fraser is built to develop advanced leadership skills.
Expert Instructors with Real-World Experience
Who you learn from is just as important as what you learn. The instructors in these courses bring decades of leadership experience, guiding you through lessons they’ve applied in their own successful careers. These aren’t just theoretical lessons—they’re real-world strategies that have been tested and refined.
- CEO and Fortune 100 instructors: Learn from top-tier professionals like Dekker Fraser, a Fortune 100 executive, or 365 Careers, led by an eight-figure business CEO.
- Proven success: Instructors like Chris Croft bring over 20 years of leadership training experience to the table, helping you learn through humour, practical examples, and actionable steps.
- Industry insights: Whether you’re learning from Lawrence Miller, an expert in lean management, or Steve Ballinger, who specialises in leading from non-authoritative positions, you’ll gain valuable insights from leaders who’ve done it all.
Actionable Lessons with Real-world Applications
Unlike some leadership courses that stick to vague theories or motivational content, these courses provide clear, actionable steps you can implement immediately. They focus on giving you practical strategies that apply directly to your job.
- Hands-on learning: Courses like MBA in a Box feature an interactive Gamebook that simulates real-world business challenges, giving you a safe environment to test your decision-making skills.
- Bite-sized, applicable tips: Chris Croft’s Practical Leadership Skills course is packed with quick, easy-to-implement strategies such as delegation techniques, motivational tips, and leadership styles you can adapt to your team.
- Tailored for leaders at all levels: Steve Ballinger’s Leading When You’re Not in Charge equips you with strategies to influence your team, even if you don’t hold a formal leadership position, ensuring you can drive success from any role.
- Data-driven methods: Courses like Leadership Development with Dekker Fraser provide techniques backed by research and corporate experience, making them ideal for professionals aiming to climb the executive ladder.
Build Critical Leadership Skills for Career Success
Building leadership skills isn’t just about personal growth—it’s a strategic career move that can propel you forward. Leadership roles are often linked to higher salaries, better job security, and faster promotions.
- Career acceleration: MBA in a Box provides the same business acumen as a traditional MBA, positioning you for managerial or executive roles without the cost or time investment of a full program.
- Boost earning potential: MBA graduates earn significantly more than their peers, and MBA in a Box delivers many of the same benefits in a condensed, affordable format.
- Prepared for hybrid work environments: Courses like Team Management, Leadership & Team Building Master Class by Lawrence Miller focus on leading hybrid teams, which is essential in today’s increasingly flexible work environments.
Why Now Is the Time to Invest in Leadership Development
As organisations adapt to globalisation, digital transformation, and remote work, the need for skilled leaders is greater than ever. Leadership development in 2025 is not just an option—it’s a necessity.
- Remote work challenges: The shift to remote and hybrid work environments means leaders must now manage teams that are dispersed across various locations. Courses like Team Management, Leadership & Team Building Master Class address these challenges, teaching you how to lead effectively in these dynamic conditions.
- Changing employee expectations: Employees today expect more from their leaders—flexibility, empathy, and transparency. Courses like The Science of Leadership help you develop the emotional intelligence and cognitive awareness necessary to lead modern teams.
- Evolving business landscapes: As markets shift and businesses become more agile, leaders need to stay ahead. Business Strategy Execution – Agile Organisation Design by Lawrence Miller focuses on creating agile, high-performing teams that can adapt to change quickly.
Final Takeaway: Invest in Leadership for Long-Term Success
Taking any of these leadership courses is more than just a resume booster—it’s a step towards long-term career success. These courses provide you with the skills that can make or break your future in leadership.
- Real-world application: Each course is designed to ensure that what you learn can be implemented right away, no matter your role or industry.
- Career growth: Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, transitioning into a leadership role, or just wanting to be more effective in your current position, these courses offer the tools you need to succeed.
- Skill diversification: From mastering team dynamics in hybrid workplaces to becoming more self-aware through leadership neuroscience, you’ll develop a versatile skill set that future-proofs your career.
Ready to Get Started?
No matter where you are on your leadership journey, these courses will guide you to become a stronger, more effective leader. Start by exploring NextEdge Learning’s extensive library of courses today, and take the first step toward your leadership goals.
Explore NextEdge’s leadership courses and upgrade your career today!
FAQs
Which leadership course is best for beginners?
For beginners, MBA in a Box offers a comprehensive foundation covering all the key areas of business and leadership, making it an excellent starting point.
Are these courses suitable for people in non-managerial roles?
Absolutely! Leadership: Leading When You’re Not in Charge is perfect for those looking to lead without formal authority.
Can I take these courses at my own pace?
Yes, all the courses listed offer on-demand videos, meaning you can learn at your own pace, making them ideal for busy professionals.
What’s the best course for aspiring executives?
Leadership Development with Dekker Fraser is tailored for those aiming for executive roles and includes leadership principles taught at top business schools.
