Udacity expands into Germany

Online learning provider Udacity has launched its education and training platform in Germany.

The Bertelsmann Education Group, which owns a stake in the company, will assist Udacity in building its Germany business. Bertelsmann’s education division will support the company with market expertise, online, marketing and communications measures, and contacts for developing strategic partnerships. Since last year, Bertelsmann has been the company’s biggest strategic shareholder.

Germany, Austria and Switzerland are among Udacity’s five fastest-growing regions worldwide - with users mainly from the automotive, financial and IT sectors.

Udacity founder Sebastian Thrun said: “We see great potential for our offers in the German-speaking market – employees with IT skills and digital expertise are more needed than ever before. A partner like Bertelsmann, with its excellent international network, is an enormously appreciated asset. Together, we will continue to expand our business here and across the globe.”

Bertelsmann Education Group c.e.o. Kay Krafft said: “Education is a strategic growth sector for Bertelsmann. Our Group and Udacity share the goal of meeting the high demand for qualified IT professionals that comes with Industry 4.0 – inexpensively and to the highest professional standards.”

Udacity partners with technology companies to develop online education curriculum. Students can prepare for careers in the technology sector by acquiring certificates specific to their professional field. The company is currently active in North America, Asia and Europe, and most recently launched its services in China.