Online classes for adult learners

Working adults upgrading skills, career changers, hobbyists and sometimes small employers paying for staff training.

Course fees per learner, usually for a 4 to 8 week series. Repeat enrollments, group discounts and private tutoring add-ons bring in extra revenue.

• Teaching adults clearly
• Subject knowledge you can show
• Basic video and scheduling tools

• Check whether your state regulates private schools if you teach job training or offer certificates or diplomas
• Be careful not to promise jobs or credentials you cannot back up
• Check sales tax rules on online tuition in your state
• Consider general liability or professional liability insurance
• Only use materials and software you have the right to use

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on the video and scheduling tools you choose, your course materials and how you promote your classes. Only use materials and software you have the right to use.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $3,000, depending on your subject, class size, pricing and how often you run courses. The estimate assumes roughly 6 or more hours a week.

Check whether your state regulates private schools if you teach job training or offer certificates or diplomas. Avoid promising jobs or credentials you cannot back up. Also check sales tax rules on online tuition and consider liability insurance.