When you take a public speaking class, your self-confidence will soar.

That became my reality as I enrolled in some of the best public speaking classes I would be sharing with you.

We speak everyday—when we exchange pleasantries, ask for direction, make a phone call or participate in a team discussion. 

Speaking to one, two or three people at a time isn’t a big deal. However, most people begin to develop cold feet when faced with public speaking events.

How do I begin the conversation? Should I look my audience straight in the eyes? Or should I speak by reading my notebook?.

These and many more are the questions I hear all the time about public speaking skills. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top public speaking classes out there, their features, pricing and learning processes.

What is Public Speaking?

Public speaking is the art of communicating ideas, thoughts, and messages to a group of people in a clear, engaging, and persuasive manner.

The goal of public speaking is to inform, educate, inspire, or entertain the audience. 

Effective public speaking requires preparation, organization, and rehearsal, as well as the ability to think critically, and connect emotionally with your audience.

Factors to Consider When choosing Public Speaking Classes

Before enrolling in a class, check out for the following criterias:

• Expertise of the Instructors: Research on the coaches and find out about their qualifications as well as proven track record.

• Lesson Structure: Your learning class should suit your schedule—review the flexibility of the lesson before enrolling. Is their curriculum well organized? And what is the course duration?

• Lesson Reviews and Testimonials: Check out what others have to say about a public speaking class before enrolling.

• Accessibility: Ensure the lessons platform is accessible from your location and device—online or onsite medium.

• Cost: the prices of public speaking classes vary, do your research and register for classes that suit your budget—this includes free and paid versions. 

8 Public Speaking Classes for Building Confidence

Let’s begin:

1. Speak with Impact Bootcamp

The Speak with Impact Bootcamp is hosted by SWALS Speakers Institute.

This class offers you a transformative public speaking program designed for professionals, students, and anyone looking to boost their communication skills. 

Also, it’s a two-hour weekly session aimed to increase participants’ impact, boost clarity, and help them master the art of influential communication.

Features

• Learn from seasoned speakers and coaches with practical insights.
• Engages participants in hands-on activities and real-life speaking scenarios.
• Conducted every Friday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• Covers key aspects of public speaking, including body language, storytelling, and audience engagement.
• Runs from November 2024 to December 2030.

Best Suited For:

• Students
• Teachers
• Entrepreneurs
• Managers
• Coaches
• Aspiring public speakers
• Professionals

Pricing

• Free registration

2. Toastmasters International

Toastmasters International is a global public organization dedicated to helping individuals like you improve their public speaking, communication, and leadership skills. 

For over 100 years, Toastmasters has fostered personal and professional growth in a fun, supportive club environment. 

Its members practice speaking, receive constructive feedback, and learn to express themselves confidently. 

Toastmasters has earned the trust of companies like Microsoft, Oracle, and Toyota, with clubs established worldwide.

Hence, this platform is worth adding to your list of public speaking classes to try out.

Features

• Features six learning paths in multiple languages.
• Clubs are available in-person, online, or hybrid.
• Clubs provide peer evaluation, and mentorship opportunities.
• Members gain access to public speaking tips, webinars, Toastmasters magazine, and more.

Best Suited For:

• Coaches
• Aspiring public speakers
• Professionals

Pricing

• Membership costs $60 USD semiannually, with a one-time $20 USD new-member fee. 
• Some clubs may charge additional dues. 

3.  Coursera: Dynamic Public Speaking 

The dynamic public speaking specialization is a class offered by the University of Washington.

It’s a four-course series designed to help learners master the art of creating and delivering excellent presentations. 

This course is taught by Dr. Matt McGarrity, covering real-world speech practice for diverse purposes—informative, persuasive, and ceremonial presentations.

Features

• Taught by Dr. Matt McGarrity, an experienced public speaking coach.
• Beginner-friendly, no prior experience required.
• Duration is approximately 2 months at 10 hrs/week.
• Offers a flexible online schedule with self-paced learning.
• Its key skills include communication, presentation, speechwriting, and public speaking.
• You earn a shareable certificate upon completion.

Best Suited For:

• Aspiring public speakers
• Professionals

Pricing

• Free plan

4. Udemy: Public Speaking for Beginners

Are you a beginner looking to master public speaking?

If yes, Udemy is one of my recommended public speaking classes I enjoyed enrolling. 

Udemy public speaking for beginners is worth your time and effort especially as a beginner.

When you register, you could learn how to deliver confident and engaging speeches without fear in less than 45 minutes. 

Hence, perfect for anyone seeking quick and effective results in public speaking.

Features

• You learn to give speeches, presentations, and talks effectively.
• You gain confidence in public speaking.
• Offers practical tips. 
• Suitable for beginners with no prior experience.

Best Suited For:

• Beginners
• Professionals
• Students

Pricing

• The course costs $8
• Discounts or coupon codes may further reduce the price​

5. Speechworks Public Speaking Classes

Speechworks offers professional public speaking classes helping individuals and corporate teams become confident and effective communicators.

Through its interactive workshops and personalized coaching, participants master skills in presenting, persuading, and thinking on their feet.

Features

• Intensive two-day programs for mid-to-senior executives.
• Offers a one-day program focused on delivering business presentations.
• Offers Impromptu speaker workshop.
• One-on-one sessions for high-stakes communication
• Tailored training for architect, construction, and engineering firms to secure more business opportunities.
• Offers small group sessions

Best Suited For:

• Mid-to-senior-level executives
• Women professionals
• Teams or individuals preparing for business pitches
• Professionals

Pricing

• Pricing varies based on the workshop or coaching program with some in-person class worth $1,150–$2000.

6. LinkedIn Learning: Public Speaking Foundations

LinkedIn public speaking foundations equips you with essential skills to craft and deliver excellent speeches. 

Led by Laura Bergells, this course guides beginners through preparing, structuring, and delivering presentations with confidence.

Since it comes with a free trial, it’s one of my recommended public speaking classes for learners on a tight budget.

Features

• Perfect for beginners.
• Offers two project files.
• Has 7 chapter quizzes.
• Accessible via tablet and phone.
• Certificate of completion.
• Continuing Professional Education (CPE: 2).

Best Suited For:

• Beginners
• Professionals seeking CPE credits (NASBA-approved)
• Learners pursuing personal or professional development

Pricing

• One month free trial
• Course available for team purchase

7. Fearless Presentations Workshops

Fearless Presentations® is one of the top notch public speaking classes that offers comprehensive public speaking training.

Its courses help participants conquer stage fright and become confident speakers. 

Through practical exercises, coaching, and tailored strategies, these workshops enable you to create presentations and communicate effectively in any setting.

Features

• Offers hands-on experience by practicing in front of live audiences. 
• It offers flexible, self-paced modules. 
• Customizable private sessions.
• Online courses 
• Offer lifetime access to resources and mini-courses.

Best Suited For:

• Professionals
• Individuals who want to overcome fear of public speaking
• Corporate teams 

Pricing

• Online course: $395 for lifetime access
• In-person training: prices vary by location and duration.

8. TED Masterclass

TED masterclass is one of the structured public speaking classes in the market you need to try out!

With this course, you can learn to master communication skills by identifying, developing, and sharing your best ideas with the world.

The course supports TED-Ed’s mission of creating free, high-quality educational content.

TED’s official public speaking course is now available on YouTube courses. 

Unfortunately, these courses are currently limited to the U.S.

Features

• You’ll discover what makes your ideas unique and worth sharing.
• You’ll learn to transform your ideas into engaging stories.
• You’ll learn techniques to keep listeners engaged.
• You’ll learn to build rapport with your audience to strengthen your message.
• You’ll learn to simplify complex ideas

Best Suited For:

• Professionals
• Educators
• Leaders 

Pricing

• Available for purchase via YouTube courses (U.S. only). 

Benefits of Enrolling for Public Speaking Classes

You enjoy the following benefits:

• Real-Time Practice: Public speaking classes offer you a conducive environment to practice speeches with other students.

• Offers Feedback: Constructive feedback helps you improve your public speaking skills. When you practice in a class, you can receive feedback from your instructors and fellow students.

• Networking Platform: Public speaking classes pave the way to network with like-minded individuals and expand your network.

How to Choose the Right Class

To select the right public speaking class for you, consider:

• Your Skill Level: Define your level—are you a beginner, intermediate or advanced student of public speaking?

• Your Goals: Define your goals before registering for a public speaking class—to overcome anxiety or enhance your professional skills.

• Your Budget: How much do you have to invest in learning public speaking? If on a tight budget, consider a free class first before paying for advanced lessons.

• Your Availability: Choose a course that suits your schedule and timing.

Final Thoughts on Public Speaking Classes for Building Confidence

Public speaking is a soft skill anyone can master with the right guidance and practice. 

Unfortunately, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, 75% of people experience fear of public speaking.

However, when you enroll in any of my recommended public speaking classes, you won’t have to worry about fear of public speaking. 

These classes will mentor you into speaking confidently and effectively to the right audience.

Begin your public speaking journey today by getting registered. 

What’s your favorite public speaking class? Do let me know in the comment section.

Frequently Asked Questions