What is a Cohort-Based Course?

A cohort-based course is an online program where a group of learners moves through the curriculum together on a fixed schedule. Instead of consuming lessons solo, students learn live, collaborate, and hold each other accountable—ideal for transformational topics that benefit from guidance and feedback.

Why Creators Launch Cohorts

• Command premium pricing compared to purely self-paced courses
• Deliver stronger outcomes, leading to better testimonials and referrals
• Build community energy that powers future alumni communities
• Collect live feedback to iterate curriculum before turning it into a scalable digital product
• Add a mid-to-high tier rung to your value ladder

Core Components

1. Kickoff & Onboarding: Set expectations, define goals, and connect learners
2. Weekly Rhythm: Blend live workshops, pre-work, and community touchpoints
3. Assignments & Hot Seats: Create opportunities for practice and real-time coaching
4. Support Layer: Private forum, DM access, or office hours for in-between questions
5. Graduation Plan: Showcase wins, offer next steps, and invite students into ongoing communities

Operating Tips

• Cap group size to preserve intimacy; consider 15–30 students per cohort
• Use a clear communication hub (Slack, Circle) with content moderation guidelines
• Automate reminders, replays, and resource delivery with your automation stack
• Survey students each week to spot friction early and adjust pacing
• Offer alumni upgrades—continuity membership, advanced cohorts, or group coaching

Marketing a Cohort

• Launch with a waitlist, free webinar, or challenge to warm leads
• Highlight outcomes, success metrics, and the live access students receive
• Use scarcity authentically—limited seats, start dates, and personalized support
• Share behind-the-scenes updates via building in public content to attract future cohorts