For the Excel courses, do I need the excel program, or can I use Google sheets instead? The same goes for other spreadsheet programs that are not Microsoft

Hi Brenda, You can use Google Sheets, but you'll need to be prepared that there will be many differences.Not sure if you will enjoy the experience. If you have the right mindset, it can be done. However, you should be prepared to work through the differences between Excel and Spreasheets. Best, Ned