The Digital Governance Unit is working with Microsoft to make it easier for Oxford staff to develop their digital skills. This page gives an overview of the Microsoft training available, so you and your teams can see what’s on offer and think about which options best fit your needs.
All of the resources listed here are free to access, and Microsoft certifications are discounted if you choose to take them.
Whether you want to build confidence, improve productivity, explore new tools like data and AI, or gain professional certification, there’s something here for every role and level of experience.
How this offer fits in
Microsoft’s training offer builds capability in its own technologies through a mix of just-in-time microlearning, live sessions, structured learning and career paths, and optional certification. It combines quick, practical resources for everyday productivity with deeper opportunities for professional and technical development.
The offer complements digital skills resources already available at Oxford, such as those listed on skills.it.ox.ac.uk. Unlike general learning platforms, these resources are product-specific and designed to build practical, verifiable skills rather than broader professional knowledge.
Choosing the right Microsoft training resource
Below you’ll find a quick guide to the main Microsoft learning resources and how to use each one.
Microsoft 365 Help and Learning
Use this when you want to build confidence with everyday tools such as Word, Excel, Teams, or Outlook. It offers short, practical guides and videos to help you work more efficiently day to day.
Microsoft Learn
Explore this when you want to deepen your understanding of data, AI or other Microsoft technologies, from Excel macros and Power BI to cloud platforms and coding fundamentals.
Microsoft Enterprise Skills Initiative
Choose this if you’re interested in more formal or technical training. It provides instructor-led and self-paced courses on topics such as cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity. It provides thousands of free places in different languages and time zones, and offers structured routes that can lead to recognised accreditation. Some sessions may include promotional content from Microsoft or delivery partners.
Microsoft 365 Adoption Hub
Visit this if you support colleagues who use Microsoft 365 or lead local digital change. You’ll find playbooks, templates, and guides to help teams make better use of it.
Digital Literacy and Skills for Jobs
Start here if you’re building foundational digital confidence or considering reskilling for a career in technology. It offers short, accessible courses on essential digital and employability topics.
Contact the Digital Governance Unit
For practical questions about Microsoft training, or to share ideas on how to better leverage Microsoft for upskilling, contact Blaine Roissetter via Teams for an informal chat.
