What free courses are available on Coursera?

Coursera offers thousands of free courses across topics like data science , business , health , computer science , personal development , and more. While you can explore lectures and course content at no cost, some features—like assessments and certificates—may require payment.

Can I earn a certificate from a free Coursera course?

Yes, but certificates are typically not included in the free version of a course. To earn a certificate, you’ll usually need to pay for the course or apply financial aid if available. You can still learn all the material for free through audit mode.

How do I enroll in a course for free on Coursera?

To start a course for free, choose the “Audit the course” or “Enroll for free” option during sign-up. This lets you access video lectures and some assignments without payment. Look for courses labeled as “Free” or those that offer a free audit option.

What’s the difference between auditing a course and paying for one on Coursera?

Auditing a course gives you free access to the learning materials, like videos and reading content. Paying for a course unlocks graded assignments, assessments, and a certificate upon completion—which may be useful for showcasing your skills or professional development.

Are free Coursera courses from top universities?

Yes, many free courses are taught by instructors from top institutions like Stanford , Yale , University of Pennsylvania , and companies like IBM . These courses offer an accessible way to learn from leading educators and professionals around the world.

Top Free Courses - Learn Free Online

Status: Free

Caltech

Getting started in cryo-EM

Skills you'll gain: Medical Imaging, Image Analysis, Laboratory Equipment, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Biochemistry, Physics, Scientific Visualization, 3D Modeling, Mathematical Modeling

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Phases of Matter: Solid, Liquid, Gas and Beyond

Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Simulations

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Understanding Modern Physics III: Simplicity and Complexity

Skills you'll gain: Physics, Advanced Mathematics, Simulations, Engineering Calculations, Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus, Differential Equations, Physical Science, Information Architecture

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Fundamentals of Macroscopic and Microscopic Thermodynamics

Skills you'll gain: Statistical Methods, Physics, Probability Distribution, Physical Science, Chemistry, Engineering Calculations, Calculus

Exploratorium

Exploring Light: Hands-on Activities and Strategies for Teachers

Skills you'll gain: Collaboration, Educational Materials, Instructional Design, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Laboratory Experience, Constructive Feedback, Learning Strategies, Experimentation, Physics, Scientific Methods, Investigation

Universidad de los Andes

Tesoros de la Física y sus Descubridores I

Skills you'll gain: Physics, Electrical Systems, Physical Science, Mechanics, European History, Ancient History, Scientific Methods, World History, General Science and Research, Experimentation

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Las estaciones del año y el clima

Skills you'll gain: Environment, Environmental Science, Physics, Simulations, Experimentation, Mathematical Modeling, Scientific Visualization

Yale University

Journey of the Universe: The Unfolding of Life

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Liberal Arts, Environment, Biology, Creativity, Anthropology, Systems Thinking, Social Studies, Physical Science, Timelines, Cultural Diversity, Storytelling, Physics, Scientific Methods

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Physics of Light and Materials

Skills you'll gain: Physics, Mechanics, Physical Science, Trigonometry, Mathematical Modeling, Advanced Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Applied Mathematics, Integral Calculus

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Free Courses

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