Technical SEO is a cornerstone of modern digital marketing, ensuring that websites are structured in a way that allows search engines to crawl, index, and understand content effectively. In 2020, the demand for technical SEO expertise surged as businesses recognized the value of optimizing their digital presence. This article explores the most relevant and effective technical SEO training options from 2020, providing insights into course structures, learning objectives, and the value each course brings to learners. Whether you're a beginner seeking foundational knowledge or an advanced practitioner looking to refine your skills, this guide offers a comprehensive overview to help you choose the right training path.
Understanding the Core of Technical SEO
Technical SEO involves optimizing a website's infrastructure to improve its visibility in search engine results. This includes ensuring that websites are easily crawlable by search engine bots, are accessible to users, and are built using best practices that align with search engine algorithms. Key components of technical SEO include site speed optimization, mobile-first indexing, proper use of structured data, and ensuring that the site is free of technical errors like broken links or incorrect redirects.
A well-structured technical SEO training program will teach learners how to diagnose and fix these issues, as well as how to use tools like Google Search Console, Ahrefs, and SEMrush to monitor and improve site performance. It will also cover topics such as server log analysis, XML sitemaps, and the implementation of SEO-friendly URL structures. For businesses and marketers, mastering technical SEO is essential to improving organic traffic and ensuring that their content is discoverable by the right audience.
Evaluating Training Options: A Comparative Overview
When it comes to choosing a technical SEO training course, learners must consider several factors, including the course's duration, cost, certification, and the level of expertise required. The following table provides a high-level comparison of some of the most popular technical SEO training programs from 2020, including both free and paid options:
| Course | Cost | Duration | Certification | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technical SEO Course By Ahrefs | Free | 1.5 hours | No | Beginners |
| Technical SEO Training By Alison | Free | 8 hours | Yes | Beginners |
| Technical SEO Course By Semrush | Free | 5 hours | Yes | Beginners |
| Introduction to Technical SEO By Coursera | Free | 40 minutes | No | Beginners |
| Technical SEO Full Course By Reliablesoft | $89 | 10 hours | Yes | Intermediate |
| Technical SEO Training By Yoast | $99 | 4 hours | Yes | Beginners |
| Advanced Technical SEO Course By CXL | $299 | 2 hours 24 minutes | Yes | Intermediate |
| Advanced Technical SEO Training By Brighton SEO | $399 | 8 hours | No | Advanced |
| SEO Training Masterclass 2025 by Alex Genadinik | $109.99 | 18+ hours | Yes | Beginners |
This comparison highlights the diversity of training options available in 2020, ranging from free, introductory courses to more advanced, in-depth training programs. Each course has its unique strengths and is tailored to different learning goals and budgets. For example, the Ahrefs and Semrush courses offer a solid foundation in technical SEO concepts without any cost, making them ideal for beginners. On the other hand, the Brighton SEO and CXL courses are better suited for those with existing SEO knowledge who want to expand their technical expertise.
A Deep Dive into Top Technical SEO Training Programs
1. Technical SEO Course By Ahrefs
The Ahrefs Technical SEO course is a free, beginner-friendly program that introduces learners to the basics of technical SEO. It's ideal for individuals who are new to the field and want to understand the fundamental concepts without investing a lot of time or money.
What You'll Learn:
- The importance of technical SEO
- How search engines work
- How to identify and fix technical SEO issues
- Best practices for website structure and performance
Duration and Format:
The course consists of 1.5 hours of video content and is structured into short, digestible lessons. It's hosted on the Ahrefs blog and is accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is best suited for beginners, marketers, and website owners who want a quick overview of technical SEO concepts. It’s not designed for advanced learners or those looking for in-depth technical training.
2. Technical SEO Training By Alison (Free)
Alison's Technical SEO training is another excellent free resource that offers a more structured learning experience. The course is CPD (Continuing Professional Development) accredited, which adds value for those looking to build a professional resume or portfolio.
What You'll Learn:
- The fundamentals of technical SEO
- How to use Google Search Console
- How to fix common technical SEO issues
- Best practices for website optimization
Duration and Format:
The course lasts for 8 hours and is divided into multiple modules. It includes video lectures, tutorials, and a final certification exam.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is ideal for beginners who want a more comprehensive learning experience. It’s also suitable for those who need a CPD-accredited certification for professional development purposes.
3. Technical SEO Course By Semrush (Free)
Semrush’s Technical SEO course is part of their broader SEO training program and is designed to help learners understand the technical aspects of SEO in the context of digital marketing.
What You'll Learn:
- The role of technical SEO in digital marketing
- How to use Semrush tools for site audits
- How to identify and fix technical SEO issues
- Best practices for site structure and performance
Duration and Format:
The course is 5 hours long and includes video lectures, interactive exercises, and a final certification exam. It’s accessible through the Semrush blog.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is best for beginners and intermediate learners who are already familiar with basic SEO concepts and want to deepen their technical knowledge using Semrush tools.
Exploring Advanced Technical SEO Training
For learners who have already mastered the basics and are ready to take their skills to the next level, several advanced technical SEO training programs were available in 2020. These courses are designed for those who manage SEO for large, complex websites and require in-depth knowledge of technical SEO concepts and tools.
1. Advanced Technical SEO Training By Brighton SEO
The Brighton SEO training program is a high-level course that covers advanced technical SEO topics such as crawlability, server log analysis, and international SEO. It’s ideal for those with existing SEO knowledge who want to expand their expertise.
What You'll Learn:
- Advanced technical SEO concepts
- Server log analysis using Python
- Mobile-first indexing and international SEO
- HTTPS and schema implementation
Duration and Format:
The course is 8 hours long and includes live sessions led by Tom Pool, a well-known SEO expert. It’s not offered as a self-paced course.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is best for intermediate to advanced learners who want to gain hands-on experience with technical SEO tools and techniques. It’s particularly useful for SEO professionals working with large websites.
2. Advanced Technical SEO Course By CXL
CXL’s Advanced Technical SEO Course is a comprehensive program that delves into the technical aspects of SEO, including URL structure, crawl-ability, XML sitemaps, and structured data markup.
What You'll Learn:
- Technical SEO basics and advanced concepts
- How to optimize URL structures
- How to block search engines from accessing certain website areas
- How to create and optimize XML sitemaps
- How to use structured data and schemas
- How to handle SEO for multilingual websites
Duration and Format:
The course is 2 hours and 24 minutes long and is delivered through video lectures and written content. It’s designed for self-paced learning.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is ideal for intermediate and advanced learners who are ready to dive deep into technical SEO. It’s particularly useful for those managing SEO for large, complex websites.
3. SEO Training Masterclass 2025 by Alex Genadinik (Udemy)
Alex Genadinik’s SEO Training Masterclass is one of the most comprehensive and well-structured technical SEO courses available on Udemy. It’s suitable for beginners and includes a certificate of completion.
What You'll Learn:
- Technical SEO fundamentals
- How to become a freelance SEO specialist
- How to build an SEO agency
- How to get a full-time SEO job
- Best practices for website optimization
- Advanced technical SEO strategies
Duration and Format:
The course is 18+ hours long and includes over 280 video lectures divided into 44 sections. It’s self-paced and includes a certificate of completion.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is ideal for beginners who want a comprehensive, structured learning experience. It’s also suitable for those looking to build a career in SEO or start an SEO agency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Technical SEO Training
As with any field of study, learners often have questions about technical SEO training. Here are some of the most common questions and answers based on the courses discussed in this guide.
1. Are there free technical SEO courses available?
Yes, there are several free technical SEO courses available, including the Ahrefs, Semrush, and Alison courses. These are ideal for beginners who want to learn the basics without any cost.
2. Do I need prior SEO knowledge to take a technical SEO course?
Most beginner-friendly technical SEO courses do not require prior SEO knowledge. However, advanced courses like the Brighton SEO and CXL programs assume a basic understanding of SEO concepts.
3. Can I get certified in technical SEO?
Yes, several technical SEO courses offer certifications upon completion. These include the Alison, Udemy, and Yoast courses. Certifications can be valuable for professional development and job applications.
4. How long should I expect to spend on a technical SEO course?
The duration of technical SEO courses varies from 40 minutes (Coursera) to 18+ hours (Udemy). The amount of time you should dedicate to a course depends on your learning goals and the course's complexity.
5. Are there any technical SEO training programs specifically for using SEO tools?
Yes, the Yoast and Semrush courses focus on using specific SEO tools for technical SEO tasks. These courses are ideal for learners who want to become proficient in using these tools for website optimization.
Choosing the Right Technical SEO Training for You
Selecting the right technical SEO training program depends on your learning goals, experience level, and budget. For beginners, free courses like those offered by Ahrefs, Semrush, and Alison provide a solid foundation. For those seeking more advanced training, courses like the Brighton SEO and CXL programs offer in-depth technical knowledge and hands-on experience. If you're interested in building a career in SEO or starting an SEO agency, the Udemy course by Alex Genadinik is an excellent investment.
When choosing a course, it's also important to consider the format—whether it's self-paced or live—and whether it includes a certification. Certifications can add value to your resume and demonstrate your commitment to professional development. Additionally, some courses offer access to exclusive tools or discounts on SEO software, which can be a significant advantage for learners looking to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
Final Thoughts
Technical SEO is a critical skill for anyone involved in digital marketing, website management, or content creation. In 2020, the availability of diverse training options made it easier than ever for individuals to learn and master technical SEO concepts. Whether you're a beginner seeking foundational knowledge or an advanced practitioner looking to refine your skills, there's a technical SEO training program that can help you achieve your goals.
By evaluating the cost, duration, certification, and content of each course, learners can make an informed decision about which training program best suits their needs. With the right training, you can optimize your website's performance, improve search engine visibility, and drive more organic traffic. The key is to stay committed to learning, practice regularly, and apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. With dedication and the right resources, you can become a technical SEO expert and take your digital marketing skills to the next level.