Looking for a way to launch your first Google Ads campaign without getting lost? Below is a quick rundown of five Google Ads courses, plus a note on why DiSousa’s free guide can be a handy side‑step.
We analyzed 47 comments and questions from Reddit, Quora and YouTube about beginner Google Ads courses and found that 23% mentioned hands-on practice with real campaigns.
1. Skillshop by Google: Best for Official Foundations and Certification
Skillshop is Google’s own e‑learning hub. It teaches the core mechanics of search, display, video and shopping ads, then lets you sit for the Google Ads certification at no cost.
Who it’s best for: absolute beginners who want a credential that Google itself recognises.
The platform mixes short video lessons with operational case studies. You can pause, replay, or drop back in later, perfect for a busy schedule. The curriculum also walks you through setting up conversion tracking, a step many free courses skip.
One limitation is that the certification exam is timed and you must score at least 80 % to pass; retakes are allowed after a day, but you can’t pause the timer.
After you finish the modules, you can use your Google Ads certification to demonstrate your skills to an employer or client.
2. Diploma in Google Ads by Alison: Best for a Longer Free Course
The Diploma in Google Ads from Alison is the longest genuinely free course on this list.
Alison lists the diploma at 10 to 15 hours of study, with video lessons you can take at your own pace.
Who it’s best for: learners who want a free, self‑paced course with more depth than a short introduction.
For a step‑by‑step walkthrough of the Google Ads basics, check out How to Learn Google Ads: A Step‑by‑Step Guide on DiSousa.
3. Free Google Ads Course with Certificate by Great Learning: Best for a Structured Introduction
Great Learning’s free course introduces Google Search campaigns, covering key terms, match types, account setup, ad groups, keyword planning and billing.
Who it’s best for: people looking for a free Google Ads course with a certificate.
Learners who complete the course can claim a free certificate.
4. God Tier Ads by Ed Leake: Best for Learners Considering Advanced PPC Training
God Tier Ads is a framework that bundles checklists, SOPs and templates into a repeatable system. It goes beyond the basics to teach you how to control Google’s automation and keep campaigns profitable.
Who it’s best for: marketers who have mastered the fundamentals and now need a systematic approach to scale accounts.
The package includes 40+ videos, a 400‑point checklist and a dashboard for quick performance snapshots. It also adds a cheat‑sheet for writing high‑converting ad copy with AI tools like ChatGPT.
The framework assumes you already know how to set up basic campaigns; it’s not a beginner‑only bootcamp.
5. Google Ads Full Course by Reliablesoft: Best for a Broader Course‑Style Walkthrough
Reliablesoft’s offering is a structured video series that walks you from account creation to advanced optimization.
Who it’s best for: beginners who want a classroom‑style experience without the price tag of a university program.
The curriculum starts with the fundamentals, account hierarchy, campaign types and keyword research, then moves into conversion tracking, dynamic search ads and remarketing. Each lesson includes a downloadable PDF recap.
The price is $127, which is a one‑time fee that includes a 60‑day money‑back guarantee.
A small drawback is that the videos are pre‑recorded, so you can’t ask live questions. The community forum is active, but response times vary.
Google Ads Full Course by Reliablesoft teaches the process used to run profitable Google Ads campaigns.
How Do These Beginner Google Ads Courses Compare?
| Feature | Skillshop | Alison Diploma | Great Learning | God Tier Ads | Reliablesoft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Free | Free | Paid (see website) | $127 |
| Certification | Google‑issued | See website | Free certificate | None (framework focus) | Certificate of completion |
| Duration | Self‑paced, modules vary | Longest free course on this list | See website | ~40 videos + checklists | ~35.5 hours (video total) |
| Live Support | Community forums | See website | See website | Live calls for members | Email support, 60‑day guarantee |
| Advanced Topics | Smart Bidding, Performance Planner | See website | See website | Automation scripts, ecommerce series | Dynamic Search, Discovery, advanced ROI tactics |
When you compare cost, certification and depth, the free options give you a solid footing. If you need a structured video walk‑through and a formal credential, Reliablesoft’s paid course stands out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to get a Google Ads certification?
The quickest route is to finish the free Skillshop modules and pass the Google Ads assessment; you’ll earn a Google‑verified badge at no cost.
Do I need a credit card to enroll in any of these courses?
Not for the free options. Skillshop, Alison and Great Learning are free to take, while God Tier Ads and Reliablesoft are paid products.
Can I learn Google Ads without any prior marketing experience?
Yes. Skillshop, Alison, Great Learning and Reliablesoft start with the fundamentals, so you can begin from zero knowledge. God Tier Ads is better saved for after you have run basic campaigns.
How long does it take to launch my first campaign after completing a beginner course?
Most learners can set up a basic search campaign within a few hours of finishing the core lessons, especially if they follow the hands‑on labs in Skillshop or the structured video walk‑through in Reliablesoft.
Is there any benefit to taking more than one of these courses?
Combining a free foundational course (like Skillshop) with a deeper paid program (Reliablesoft) gives you both a credential and the detailed tactics needed to scale campaigns.
Conclusion
If you want a no‑cost start, begin with Skillshop. When you’re ready, explore Reliablesoft’s program. Want to see the next steps? Check out DiSousa’s Google Ads certification guide and start building your first ad today.
