Five free finance courses for non-finance professionals

Financial literacy is a powerful skill for professionals in any sector. For Chevening applicants, scholars, and alumni, understanding finance can enhance decision-making, improve project management, and strengthen strategic leadership, whether you’re leading a nonprofit, advising policy, or running a social enterprise.

The following five free courses provide practical knowledge in finance, tailored for professionals who want to make smarter, data-informed decisions without needing a formal finance background.  

1. Finance for Non-Finance Professionals (RiseUpp) 

This course covers essential finance concepts for managers and professionals without a finance background, including financial statements, budgeting, and ROI.  

Best for: Alumni managing projects, leading teams, or making organisational decisions who need financial literacy without deep technical accounting knowledge.  

2. Behavioural Finance (Great Learning) 

Behavioural finance by Great Learning Academy explores how human behaviour, biases, and psychology influence financial decisions and market outcomes.  

Best for: Alumni in policy, consulting, or project management who need to understand stakeholder behaviour and decision-making.  

3. Introduction to Finance and Accounting – Simplilearn (SkillUp) 

Introduces foundational finance concepts, including accounting basics, financial statements, and budgeting principles.  

Best for: Professionals looking for a solid grounding in finance to support strategic planning or organisational oversight. 

4. Introduction to International Business (Alison) 

Focuses on international development, NGOs, or global business contexts who want a broad understanding of cross-border finance and business.  

Best for: Alumni working in international development, NGOs, or global business contexts who want a broad understanding of cross-border finance and business.  

5. Fundamentals of Cost Accounting and Environmental Management Accounting (OpenLearn)  

Covers cost accounting, budgeting, and environmental accounting principles, emphasising practical financial decision-making.  

Best for: Alumni managing projects, social enterprises, or sustainability initiatives who need to track costs and make informed financial decisions.