Which is Better: MasterClass or The Great Courses?
In the vast world of online educational platforms, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your learning needs. Two prominent players in the market are MasterClass and The Great Courses. After careful comparison and analysis, I believe that MasterClass stands out as a better choice for a variety of reasons. However, to better evaluate these platforms, it's essential to understand their offerings and differences more clearly.
MasterClass - A Closer Look
MasterClass is a premium platform that focuses on master classes taught by acclaimed experts in various fields. The instructors are typically well-known individuals who have achieved significant success in their careers. While the courses are undoubtedly excellent, it's crucial to remember that you are not getting a university professor but rather figures who have made headlines and accomplished a lot. This aspect is worth considering if you value the prestige of learning from well-known names.
The Great Courses - Comprehensive and Versatile
The Great Courses (TGC) offers a more diverse range of subjects and potentially offers greater value for money. For example, TGC has a course on Photoshop priced at $99.95. This specific course is not available on MasterClass, highlighting the difference in their offerings. Additionally, TGC provides a more inclusive option for those seeking general education and certification, much like Udemy or Udacity in a different context.
Comparing Apple to Oranges
When making a comparison between MasterClass and The Great Courses, it's important to consider a more accurate benchmark. MasterClass is similar to programs like Udemy or Udacity in terms of structure and content depth. For instance, you can find courses equivalent to an MBA style program on these platforms.
Regarding content and material, The Great Courses has a broader range, especially in practical and hands-on skills. For instance, you can find a wealth of courses on topics such as photography, software, and various academic subjects. On the other hand, MasterClass heavily focuses on creative and narrative writing. While this is a strong point, it limits the coverage to specific areas.
Content Quality and Relevance
When it comes to writing courses, MasterClass shines through its roster of renowned authors. For example, well-known authors such as James Scott Bell, Neil Gaiman, Dan Brown, David Baldacci, David Mamet, David Sedaris, Doris Kearns Goodwin, James Patterson, Joyce Carol Oates, Judy Blume, Malcolm Gladwell, Margaret Atwood, RL Stine, Shonda Rhimes, and various film makers teach courses on the platform. Bell's course, for instance, is highly regarded, and you can find it priced at $235 without the sale price. However, a MasterClass one-year pass can cost $180, which includes access to all the classes.
MasterClass provides a comprehensive suite of writing courses, including master classes by prominent authors. One notable example is James Scott Bell's course. Despite the individual pricing, the value proposition of a one-year pass is compelling. However, it's worth noting that the frequency of these courses running and their availability can vary.
The Great Courses, while lacking in some creative writing courses, offers a wide range of material that is both practical and versatile. For instance, you can find a course on Photography for $99.95, which is not available on MasterClass. This breadth in offerings makes TGC a unique and valuable resource for learners.
Conclusion
Choosing between MasterClass and The Great Courses ultimately depends on your specific educational needs. If you are looking for a focused and premium experience with acclaimed experts in creative and narrative writing, MasterClass is undoubtedly superior. However, if you need a broader range of subjects and potentially better value for money, The Great Courses is a solid choice. In essence, you might need both to cover all your learning needs.
Whether you decide to go with MasterClass, The Great Courses, or a combination of both, the key is to select the platform that aligns best with your learning objectives and preferences.