This is a bundle of these 29 courses
About this course
Welcome to the SOMAH Academy!
The SOMAH Workforce Development Team has curated a list of free courses to give you a broad overview of the solar industry. These courses equal around 41 hours, are self study, and are designed to be taken at your own pace. Once you complete all of the courses, you can apply to participate in a SOMAH paid job training opportunity.
Benefits of participating in a SOMAH paid job training opportunity include:
- Hands-on training to complement courses and previous work experience
- Gain experience in different parts of the installation process (PV installation, project design/engineering, PV commissioning and maintenance)
- Access to career development resources and events
- Add multifamily, and residential project to your resume
- Potential on-the-job interview
When you are ready to start applying, you’ll need to sign up for the Job Training Portal by completing the Job Trainee Intake Form. Once you have set up your account you will be able to browse job training opportunities and upload your resume for contractors to view.
If you have any questions, please contact the Workforce Development team at workforce@calsomah.org or 510-913-9402.
Subjects covered
Solar
Design and Installation
Workforce & Learning
Bundle outline
29 courses
5 minutes
of video lectures
Course 1 •
6
modules
Solar Power 101
Course 1 •
6
modules
Solar Power 101
Module 1 • 2 assignments
RENEWABLE ENERGY OVERVIEW PART I - INTRODUCTION
Module 1 • 2 assignments
RENEWABLE ENERGY OVERVIEW PART I - INTRODUCTION
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Module 2 • 7 assignments
RENEWABLE ENERGY OVERVIEW PART II - ENERGY SUBSIDIES: GOVERNMENT & FINANCE
Module 2 • 7 assignments
RENEWABLE ENERGY OVERVIEW PART II - ENERGY SUBSIDIES: GOVERNMENT & FINANCE
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Module 3 • 2 assignments
RENEWABLE ENERGY OVERVIEW PART III - TECHNOLOGIES OVERVIEW
Module 3 • 2 assignments
RENEWABLE ENERGY OVERVIEW PART III - TECHNOLOGIES OVERVIEW
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Module 4 • 17 assignments
INTRODUCTION TO SOLAR ENGINEERING
Module 4 • 17 assignments
INTRODUCTION TO SOLAR ENGINEERING
Topics for this week include: An introduction to solar technology, photovoltaics, hybrid systems, net metering, and energy storage.
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Module 5 • 5 assignments
PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM ISSUES AND INTRODUCTION TO SOLAR FINANCE
Module 5 • 5 assignments
PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM ISSUES AND INTRODUCTION TO SOLAR FINANCE
Topics for this week include: Power purchase agreements (PPAs), leasing, lending, the state of the art, environmental drivers, the Clean Air Act, climate change, and funds.
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Module 6 • 8 assignments
STORAGE, INTERCONNECTION AND MICROGRIDS
Module 6 • 8 assignments
STORAGE, INTERCONNECTION AND MICROGRIDS
Topics for this week include: Codes and standards (UL, NABCEP, SRCC), local permitting studies, house value studies, remote diagnostics, quick deploy systems, modular and inter-operable systems, aesthetics, and blending with high-value energy efficiency and other renewables.
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Course 2 •
2
modules
Introduction to Solar PV Design, Installation and Code
Course 2 •
2
modules
Introduction to Solar PV Design, Installation and Code
Module 1 • 4 assignments
Introduction to Sean White, HeatSpring, NABCEP, and this Course
Module 1 • 4 assignments
Introduction to Sean White, HeatSpring, NABCEP, and this Course
Let's get started! In this opening module you'll meet Dr. Sean White, the lead instructor for the course (you will also meet Bill Brooks later in the course).
Here we talk about the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and why it is so relevant today. You will learn how to get a NABCEP Certification and how to study for and pass the NABCEP exams.
One of Sean's learning techniques, is making sure everyone has fun and that the class information is memorable. These classes are definitely upbeat!
Enjoy!
Sean
Here we talk about the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and why it is so relevant today. You will learn how to get a NABCEP Certification and how to study for and pass the NABCEP exams.
One of Sean's learning techniques, is making sure everyone has fun and that the class information is memorable. These classes are definitely upbeat!
Enjoy!
Sean
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Module 2 • 10 assignments
Introduction to Solar PV Design
Module 2 • 10 assignments
Introduction to Solar PV Design
Becoming a great solar PV and energy storage sage takes a deep understanding of electricity, engineering, and construction. We don't cover all of those things here - but we give you just enough to be dangerous. Work your way through this series of assignments, and you'll be on your way to becoming a solar PV and energy storage guru.
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Course 3 •
1
modules
Understanding Residential and Commercial Energy Storage
Course 3 •
1
modules
Understanding Residential and Commercial Energy Storage
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Energy Storage and Renewable Energy—Is the Technology Right for You or your Business?
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Energy Storage and Renewable Energy—Is the Technology Right for You or your Business?
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Course 4 •
1
modules
5 Things You Should Know About Silicon PV Panels
Course 4 •
1
modules
5 Things You Should Know About Silicon PV Panels
Module 1 • 7 assignments
5 Things You Should Know About Silicon PV Panels
Module 1 • 7 assignments
5 Things You Should Know About Silicon PV Panels
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Course 5 •
1
modules
Selling the Sun
Course 5 •
1
modules
Selling the Sun
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Selling the Sun
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Selling the Sun
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Course 6 •
5
modules
Solar Career Pathways
Course 6 •
5
modules
Solar Career Pathways
Module 1 • 3 assignments
Welcome to the course!
Module 1 • 3 assignments
Welcome to the course!
Meet the instructor and learn about course objectives.
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Module 2 • 3 assignments
Why choose the solar industry?
Module 2 • 3 assignments
Why choose the solar industry?
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Module 3 • 2 assignments
Solar Career Map
Module 3 • 2 assignments
Solar Career Map
Learning how to use the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) Solar Career Map.
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Module 4 • 19 assignments
Professional Perspectives
Module 4 • 19 assignments
Professional Perspectives
We catch up with professionals across the solar energy industry to hear about their jobs, their experience, and career advice.
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Module 5 • 3 assignments
Skills for the Industry and Opportunities to Learn
Module 5 • 3 assignments
Skills for the Industry and Opportunities to Learn
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Course 7 •
5
modules
Fundamentals: Solar PV
Course 7 •
5
modules
Fundamentals: Solar PV
Module 1 • 4 assignments
Electricity Basics and PV Module Technical Information
Module 1 • 4 assignments
Electricity Basics and PV Module Technical Information
Before diving into the world of solar photovoltaic systems, it's essential to establish a solid understanding of the electrical principles that underpin how these systems work. In this module, Electricity Basics and PV Module Technical Information, we'll start from the ground up — covering foundational concepts like voltage, current, resistance, and power — and then connect those principles directly to how solar PV modules generate, carry, and deliver electricity. You'll also explore the key technical specifications found on a PV module's datasheet, giving you the knowledge to evaluate and compare modules with confidence. Whether you're brand new to electricity or just need a refresher, this module sets the stage for everything that follows in the course.
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Module 2 • 4 assignments
Solar PV System Components
Module 2 • 4 assignments
Solar PV System Components
A solar PV system is made up of much more than just the panels — it's a carefully coordinated collection of components that work together to safely capture, convert, and deliver solar energy. In this module, Solar PV System Components, we'll take a look at the key parts that make up a PV system, including modules, inverters, racking and mounting hardware, and more. You'll learn what each component does, how it fits into the overall system, and why proper selection and installation matters. By the end of this module, you'll be able to identify the major components of a solar PV system and understand the role each one plays in keeping the system running safely and efficiently.
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Module 3 • 3 assignments
Types of PV Systems and Safety
Module 3 • 3 assignments
Types of PV Systems and Safety
Not all solar PV systems are built the same — from grid-tied rooftop installations to off-grid systems in remote locations, each configuration comes with its own design considerations and unique set of hazards. In this module, Types of PV Systems and Safety, we'll explore the most common types of PV systems, including grid-direct, battery-based, and hybrid systems, and discuss where and why each type is used. We'll discuss the safety practices and precautions that anyone working with or around PV systems must understand. Solar systems involve serious electrical hazards, and a strong safety foundation isn't just good practice — it's essential.
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Module 4 • 6 assignments
Installation Standards and Best Practices
Module 4 • 6 assignments
Installation Standards and Best Practices
Installing a solar PV system the right way means more than just getting the panels on the roof — it means following the codes, standards, and best practices that ensure every installation is safe, reliable, and built to last. In this module, Installation Standards and Best Practices, we'll walk through the key regulations and guidelines that govern PV installations, including relevant sections of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and industry standards that installers are expected to know and follow. We'll also cover practical best practices for workmanship, system layout, and documentation that separate a quality installation from one that creates problems down the road.
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Course 8 •
1
modules
Investing in a Solar Project: Get Tax Benefits and Do Good
Course 8 •
1
modules
Investing in a Solar Project: Get Tax Benefits and Do Good
Module 1 • 6 assignments
How to Invest in a Solar Project: Get Tax Benefits and Do Good for the World
Module 1 • 6 assignments
How to Invest in a Solar Project: Get Tax Benefits and Do Good for the World
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Course 9 •
1
modules
Photovoltaic Systems and the 2014 National Electric Code (NEC)
Course 9 •
1
modules
Photovoltaic Systems and the 2014 National Electric Code (NEC)
Module 1 • 13 assignments
2014 NEC Material
Module 1 • 13 assignments
2014 NEC Material
Please Note that the NABCEP Certification Exam is based on the 2017 NEC.
This material covers the 2014 NEC which may still be applicable in some states.
Also related to the NABCEP exam NABCEP may only have 1 question that would have a different answer based on the 2014 vs. 2017 NEC from what I have heard. The 2017 NEC question asked about the Rapid Shutdown array boundary. In the 2017 NEC it is 1 foot and in the 2014 NEC it was not defined as the array boundary, however it was 10 feet. Another thing that could be different is the temperature adder that was in the 2014 NEC for conduit over a rooftop in sunlight has been removed in the 2017 (& 2020) NEC. If you have time and are planning to sit for a NABCEP Certification exam, I would say to study this material, however some students get worried that they are studying the 2014 NEC when preparing for a 2017 NEC exam. I have even seen 2014 NEC questions on the NABCEP Inspector exam that was supposed to be 2017 based.
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Course 10 •
1
modules
Battery Capacity - The Basis of Storage
Course 10 •
1
modules
Battery Capacity - The Basis of Storage
Module 1 • 5 assignments
Video, Resources, Call-In Information, and Questions
Module 1 • 5 assignments
Video, Resources, Call-In Information, and Questions
In this module, you'll watch the video lecture, check out the supporting resources, and download an MP3 recording of a 1-hour Q+A call with Christopher LaForge.
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Course 11 •
1
modules
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): energy storage & solar tax credits
Course 11 •
1
modules
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): energy storage & solar tax credits
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): energy storage & solar tax credits.
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): energy storage & solar tax credits.
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Course 12 •
1
modules
Overview of Electric Distribution Systems
Course 12 •
1
modules
Overview of Electric Distribution Systems
Module 1 • 5 assignments
Overview of Electric Distribution Systems
Module 1 • 5 assignments
Overview of Electric Distribution Systems
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Course 13 •
1
modules
Beyond Zero Net Energy: PV + Storage
Course 13 •
1
modules
Beyond Zero Net Energy: PV + Storage
Module 1 • 1 assignments
Video Lecture
Module 1 • 1 assignments
Video Lecture
In this module, Marc Rosenbaum looks at the potential for battery storage to greatly increase the fraction of a house’s annual load that can be served onsite by solar electricity if battery storage is added. Can we get closer to the Holy Grail of a 100% autonomous, renewably powered house?
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Course 14 •
1
modules
Qualifying Commercial Solar Leads & Projects
Course 14 •
1
modules
Qualifying Commercial Solar Leads & Projects
Module 1 • 6 assignments
Qualifying Commercial & Industrial Leads
Module 1 • 6 assignments
Qualifying Commercial & Industrial Leads
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Course 15 •
4
modules
Career Opportunities and Resources for Women in Solar
Course 15 •
4
modules
Career Opportunities and Resources for Women in Solar
Module 1 • 1 assignments
Welcome to the Course!
Module 1 • 1 assignments
Welcome to the Course!
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Module 2 • 1 assignments
Women in Solar Policy - Webinar
Module 2 • 1 assignments
Women in Solar Policy - Webinar
This archived webcast from 2016 features women leaders in solar policy discussing their career journeys and the challenges of that era. While specific policies have evolved significantly, their insights on breaking into the field, building coalitions, and navigating male-dominated spaces remain valuable.
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Module 3 • 7 assignments
Professional Perspectives from Women in the Industry
Module 3 • 7 assignments
Professional Perspectives from Women in the Industry
We catch up with women across the solar energy industry to hear about their jobs, their experience, and career advice.
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Module 4 • 7 assignments
Resources for Women in Solar
Module 4 • 7 assignments
Resources for Women in Solar
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Course 16 •
8
modules
IronRidge’s Installing on Pitched Roof – Comp Shingle – Course
Course 16 •
8
modules
IronRidge’s Installing on Pitched Roof – Comp Shingle – Course
Welcome • 3 assignments
Orientation Materials
Welcome • 3 assignments
Orientation Materials
This is a free course. We take pride in our free courses, but keep in mind that this is only a taste of what we do in a full HeatSpring course. You can get started immediately after you enroll.
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Module 1 • 5 assignments
Introduction to Solar PV
Module 1 • 5 assignments
Introduction to Solar PV
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Module 2 • 6 assignments
Introduction to Roofing Systems
Module 2 • 6 assignments
Introduction to Roofing Systems
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Module 3 • 13 assignments
Rail-Based Racking
Module 3 • 13 assignments
Rail-Based Racking
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Module 4 • 6 assignments
Marking Array Dimensions
Module 4 • 6 assignments
Marking Array Dimensions
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Module 5 • 11 assignments
Installing Attachments
Module 5 • 11 assignments
Installing Attachments
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Module 6 • 9 assignments
Flush Mount Racking
Module 6 • 9 assignments
Flush Mount Racking
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Module 7 • 5 assignments
Wire Management
Module 7 • 5 assignments
Wire Management
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Module 8 • 7 assignments
Module Installation
Module 8 • 7 assignments
Module Installation
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Conclusion • 4 assignments
Feedback and Additional Resources
Conclusion • 4 assignments
Feedback and Additional Resources
This is our last module but you still have access to the all of course materials so keep working and you'll be able to complete the course at your own pace. Enjoy the course and keep in touch!
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Course 17 •
2
modules
Utility-Scale Solar PV and Distribution Voltage Challenges
Course 17 •
2
modules
Utility-Scale Solar PV and Distribution Voltage Challenges
Module 1 • 3 assignments
Utility-Scale Solar PV and Distribution Voltage Challenges
Module 1 • 3 assignments
Utility-Scale Solar PV and Distribution Voltage Challenges
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Module 2 • 6 assignments
Optional Q&A Discussion
Module 2 • 6 assignments
Optional Q&A Discussion
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Course 18 •
1
modules
Unconventional Solar Applications
Course 18 •
1
modules
Unconventional Solar Applications
Module 1 • 7 assignments
Unconventional Solar Applications - WEBINAR
Module 1 • 7 assignments
Unconventional Solar Applications - WEBINAR
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Course 19 •
1
modules
Resilient Community Microgrids: An Introduction
Course 19 •
1
modules
Resilient Community Microgrids: An Introduction
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Resilient Community Microgrids: An Introduction
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Resilient Community Microgrids: An Introduction
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Course 20 •
1
modules
Introduction to Zero Net Energy Buildings
Course 20 •
1
modules
Introduction to Zero Net Energy Buildings
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Introduction to Zero Net Energy Homes (Lecture)
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Introduction to Zero Net Energy Homes (Lecture)
In this module you can access the course lecture and a PDF copy of the corresponding slides.
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Course 21 •
1
modules
Commercial Photovoltaic Design - Integrating Commercial Scale Storage
Course 21 •
1
modules
Commercial Photovoltaic Design - Integrating Commercial Scale Storage
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Lecture Video
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Lecture Video
In this module, you'll listen to Christopher LaForge's lecture where he'll teach you ways in which commercial scale storage will affect the market for commercial clients, some of the major players currently in the expanding field and the different ways small utilities will benefit from this scale of storage added to Commercial PV arrays.
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Course 22 •
1
modules
Accurately Calculate the "Avoided Cost" of A Solar Project
Course 22 •
1
modules
Accurately Calculate the "Avoided Cost" of A Solar Project
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Accurately calculating – avoided cost of solar
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Accurately calculating – avoided cost of solar
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Course 23 •
1
modules
Low Carbon Building
Course 23 •
1
modules
Low Carbon Building
Module 1 • 5 assignments
Low Carbon Building: Getting to Real Zero
Module 1 • 5 assignments
Low Carbon Building: Getting to Real Zero
In this module, you'll watch the lecture video and check out a couple of supplementary resources.
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Course 24 •
1
modules
NEM Paired Storage: Why it Matters
Course 24 •
1
modules
NEM Paired Storage: Why it Matters
Module 1 • 2 assignments
NEM Paired Storage: Why it Matters
Module 1 • 2 assignments
NEM Paired Storage: Why it Matters
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Course 25 •
1
modules
Why Solar Plus Storage?
Course 25 •
1
modules
Why Solar Plus Storage?
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Why Solar + Storage
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Why Solar + Storage
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Course 26 •
1
modules
Solar Ready vs Solar Right
Course 26 •
1
modules
Solar Ready vs Solar Right
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Solar Ready vs Solar Right
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Solar Ready vs Solar Right
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Course 27 •
1
modules
Future-proofing Solar PV savings with Energy Storage
Course 27 •
1
modules
Future-proofing Solar PV savings with Energy Storage
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Future-proofing Solar PV savings with Energy Storage
Module 1 • 2 assignments
Future-proofing Solar PV savings with Energy Storage
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Course 28 •
1
modules
The Kroska Case Study: Solar PV Systems with Storage
Course 28 •
1
modules
The Kroska Case Study: Solar PV Systems with Storage
Module 1 • 1 assignments
Watch Christopher LaForge's Free Lecture
Module 1 • 1 assignments
Watch Christopher LaForge's Free Lecture
Watch 'The Kroska Case Study: Solar PV Systems with Storage' here.
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Course 29 •
1
modules
Construction Communication Methodology
Course 29 •
1
modules
Construction Communication Methodology
Module 1 • 6 assignments
Construction Communication Methodology
Module 1 • 6 assignments
Construction Communication Methodology
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Continuing Education Units
Approved for the following CEUs
- NABCEP Advanced Credit Hours
- NABCEP NEC
- NABCEP JTA
- NABCEP RE Elective
- NABCEP PV Associate Renewal
- IronRidge Solar PV Installation Certification
NABCEP Registered Provider
This course counts towards the training requirements for taking NABCEP professional certification exams and CEUs for renewing all certifications.
Authors
Frequently asked questions
Full FAQHow does this course work?
This bundle of courses is delivered entirely online. After you enroll, the courses will be added to your Account. There's a recommended progression to follow, but you have the flexibility to access the materials in whatever order you prefer. Pre-order courses are available on launch date. The courses are self-paced and you can set your own schedule to complete the materials. You can begin the lecture videos and other course materials as soon as you enroll. After successfully completing the course, you will be able to generate a certificate of completion.
How long do I have access to the materials?
For free courses there is no guarantee for how long the course materials will be available.
Is there a certificate of completion?
Yes, when you complete a course in this bundle you are eligible for a certificate of completion from HeatSpring. You can download your certificate as soon as you have completed all of the course requirements. Students can easily share their verified certificates on their LinkedIn profiles using our LinkedIn integration.
Can I register multiple people?
Yes, this is a free course so you can share this page with other people from your team.