Want to acquire new skills to boost your resume without having to pay hundreds of dollars? Here’s a handpicked list of free online courses to help you learn and save money!
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Free online courses represent a dynamic shift in the landscape of education, offering a myriad of advantages that cater to the evolving needs of modern learners. Firstly, these courses provide unmatched flexibility, enabling individuals to tailor their learning experiences to fit seamlessly into their busy schedules. Whether balancing work commitments, familial responsibilities, or personal interests, learners can access course materials and lectures at their convenience, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-directed learning.
Furthermore, the accessibility afforded by free online courses transcends geographical boundaries, ensuring that education is not limited by location. Students from diverse backgrounds and corners of the globe can access high-quality educational resources, contributing to a more inclusive and globally connected learning community. This accessibility promotes cultural exchange and fosters a rich tapestry of perspectives within virtual classrooms, enriching the learning experience for all participants.
Moreover, free online courses leverage innovative teaching methodologies and interactive technologies to engage learners in dynamic and immersive learning experiences. From multimedia resources to virtual simulations and collaborative tools, these courses offer a breadth of learning modalities that cater to various learning styles and preferences. This innovative approach to education not only enhances retention and comprehension but also cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills essential for success in the 21st century.
Animation
Pixar in a Box
Created and offered by Pixar through the Khan Academy, a non-profit organization that provides online courses for free, this online course provides not only an insider’s peek into one of the world’s best animation studios and its workflow, but also a comprehensive overview of creating a 3D animation. Taught by the very people who made your favorite films, the program offers short clips and exercises on basic theories, such as the principles of storytelling, and all of the technical skills, such as rigging, environmental and character modeling and rendering.
- College credits: NO
- Price: Free
- Financial aid or scholarships: NO
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: Approximately 70 hours
- Languages: English with English subtitles
- Vendor: Khan Academy
Architecture
The Architectural Imagination
Offered by Harvard University, this course will help you understand both the aesthetic and technical features of architecture. Through lectures and hands-on exercises in drawing and modeling, you will gain not only the theoretical, but also practical understanding of architecture.
- College credits: NO — Verified Certificate only
- Price: FREE, but in order to receive a certificate, you need to pay $99
- Financial aid or scholarships: NO
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: 10 weeks (3–5 hours per week)
- Languages: English
- Vendor: edX
Sustainability in Architecture: An Interdisciplinary Introduction
Offered by the Polytechnic University of Valencia in Spain, this course offers an interdisciplinary approach to sustainability in architecture. You will learn how to evaluate the sustainability performance of buildings made of different types of materials, assess energy use, and ultimately develop a conceptual neighborhood model adequate for analysis and urban policy assessment. Note that this course is for intermediate level students.
- College credits: NO — Verified Certificate only
- Price: FREE, but in order to receive a certificate, you need to pay $50
- Financial aid or scholarships: NO
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: 4 weeks (3-4 hours per week)
- Languages: English
- Vendor: edX
Fundamentals of 3D Architectural Visualization
As more architects are relying heavily on 3D modeling software to visualize their conceptual spaces, this program offers the basic concepts of architectural visualization. Using Blender, a free and open source computer animation software, this course will explain and demonstrate basic concepts and practices very thoroughly that even complete beginners will be able to follow through immediately.
- Number of courses: 2 courses
- College credits: NO — Professional Certificate only
- Price: FREE, but in order to receive a certificate, you need to pay $98
- Financial aid or scholarships: NO
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: 4 weeks per course (4–6 hours per week)
- Languages: English
- Vendor: edX
Excel
Introduction to Data Analysis Using Excel
Offered by Rice University, this Excel course is designed both for those with very little knowledge of Excel and those who use Excel regularly but wish to enhance their skills. Throughout the course, you will learn the fundamentals, including how to format rows and columns and how to use basic functions in Excel. And, gradually, the course content will get more difficult. By the end of the course, you’ll be able to analyze data, you’ll know various Excel functions, and you’ll be able to create advanced graphs and charts that illustrate the data you’ve entered, among other things.
- College credits: NO — Course Certificate only
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Course Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarship: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: Approximately 12 hours
- Languages: English with subtitles in English and Arabic
- Vendor: Coursera
Drawing
Drawing Nature, Science and Culture: Natural History Illustration 101
Offered by The University of Newcastle in Australia, this course teaches how to draw nature. You will not only learn the principles of natural history illustration, such as sketch development and proportion, but will also be guided step-by-step by two instructors teaching at the university. You will learn how to observe both artistically and scientifically and replicate it on paper by hand.
- College credits: NO — Verified Certificate only
- Price: FREE, but in order to receive a certificate, you need to pay $49
- Financial aid or scholarships: NO
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: 6 weeks (3–6 hours per week)
- Languages: English
- Vendor: edX
Graphic Design
Graphic Design
Offered by the University of Colorado Boulder, this Graphic Design course is the second course included in the Effective Communication: Writing, Design, and Presentation Specialization. Upon completion, those who take this course will develop the skills to effectively create graphics that could be added to and improve the quality of presentations displayed on PowerPoint and other mediums.
- College credits: NO — Course Certificate only
- Price: Free to enroll, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarships: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: 7 hours
- Languages: English with subtitles in English, Italian, and Arabic
- Vendor: Coursera
Graphic Design Specialization
Offered by the California Institute of the Arts, this Graphic Design Specialization is a 5-course path structured to teach you the foundational tools that you will need to grow as a graphic designer. Upon completion, you will understand how to “communicate through image-making and typography,” and you will learn “everything you need to know to work in interface design, motion graphics, and editorial design,” among other things.
The 5 courses:
Course 1: “Fundamentals of Graphic Design”
Course 2: “Introduction to Typography”
Course 3: “Introduction to Imagemaking”
Course 4: “Ideas From the History of Graphic Design”
Course 5: “Brand New Brand” — A capstone project
- College credits: NO
- Price: Free to enroll
- Financial aid or scholarships: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: Approximately 14 hours
- Languages: English with English subtitles
- Vendor: Coursera
Java
Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization
Offered by Duke University, this Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization is a 5-course path structured to teach you the basics so that you can take your “first step towards a career in software development.” Specifically, you can expect to learn core programming concepts, how to write programs to solve complex problems, how to test and debug your programs, and much more. Upon completion of the specialization, you will earn a certificate which you can show to prospective employers!
The 5 courses:
Course 1: “Programming Foundations with JavaScript, HTML and CSS”
Course 2: “Java Programming: Solving Problems with Software”
Course 3: “Java Programming: Arrays, Lists, and Structured Data”
Course 4: “Java Programming: Principles of Software Design”
Course 5: “Java Programming: Build a Recommendation System”
- College credits: NO — Course Certificate only
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Course Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarship: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: Approximately 128 hours
- Languages: English with subtitles in English and Korean
- Vendor: Coursera
Object Oriented Programming in Java Specialization
Offered by Duke University and the University of California San Diego, this 4-course specialization is designed for those who already have programming experience in at least one other language, such as Python, JavaScript, or something similar. Throughout this specialization, you can expect to learn how to design programs that can manage large amounts of data, how to program with graphical user interfaces, and you’ll gain experience with BlueJ and Eclipse, which are two common Java development environments. Additionally, once you complete this course, you’ll be eligible to receive a certificate that can increase your employment perspectives.
The 4 courses:
Course 1: “Java Programming: Solving Problems with Software”
Course 2: “Java Programming: Arrays, Lists, and Structured Data”
Course 3: “Object Oriented Programming in Java”
Course 4: “Data Structures and Performance”
- College credits: NO — Course Certificate only
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Course Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarship: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: Approximately 140 hours
- Languages: English with subtitles in English, Korean, German, and Chinese
- Vendor: Coursera
Photography
Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR Specialization
Offered by the Michigan State University, this beginner program teaches the most fundamental concepts of photography, such as image composition and control of exposure. Regardless of the type of your camera, whether a smartphone or DSLR, this course will prepare you for both practical and creative works.
- Number of courses: 5 courses
- College credits: NO — CEU (Continuing Education Units)
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarships: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: Approximately 7 months (suggested 4 hours per week)
- Languages: English with English subtitles
- Vendor: Coursera
Web Development
Introduction to Web Development
Offered by UC Davis, this Introduction to Web Development course is designed to start you on a path toward future studies in web development and design, no matter how little experience or technical knowledge you currently have. By the end of this course, you’ll be able to create dynamic web pages using a combination of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, apply essential programming language concepts when creating HTML forms, select an appropriate web hosting service, and publish your webpages for the world to see.
- College credits: NO — Course Certificate only
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Course Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarship: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Time needed for completion: Approximately 15 hours
- Languages: English with subtitles in English & Spanish
- Vendor: Coursera
Web Design for Everybody (Basics of Web Development and Coding) Specialization
Offered by the University of Michigan, this Web Design for Everybody Specialization will teach you how to write syntactically correct HTML5 and CSS3, and how to create interactive web experiences with JavaScript. Mastering this range of technologies will allow you to develop high-quality web sites that work seamlessly on mobile, tablet and large screen browsers.
- Course load: 5 courses
- College credits: NO — Certificate only
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarship: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Hours needed for completion: Approximately 3 months (7 hours/week)
- Languages: English with subtitles in English & Serbian
- Vendor: Coursera
Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT
Offered by Vanderbilt University, this course comprises six modules dedicated to mastering the use of large language models like ChatGPT. As these models play an increasingly pivotal role, comparable to the impact of smartphones, they can perform tasks ranging from tutoring in math to writing software applications. The focus of the course is on teaching users to harness the full potential of these AI tools, highlighting their emergent intelligence and reasoning capabilities. A significant part of the training revolves around “prompts” — natural language instructions to which these models respond. Despite their transformative potential, many users struggle with crafting effective prompts. The course is designed to remedy this, introducing students to the art of prompt engineering. Starting with basics, the curriculum progresses to more complex prompt writing, equipping students to utilize AI in diverse fields such as writing, gaming, planning, and programming. No prior expertise is needed except for rudimentary computer skills. By the end, students will be adept at using AI models across various aspects of work and daily life.
- Course load: 6 courses
- College credits: NO — Certificate only
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarship: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Hours needed for completion: Approximately 3 months (7 hours/week)
- Languages: E
- Vendor: Coursera
Machine Learning Specialization
This Machine Learning Specialization offered by the University of Washington provides a comprehensive introduction to the dynamic and in-demand field of Machine Learning. Designed for practical application, this specialization is structured around a series of case studies that cover key areas such as Prediction, Classification, Clustering, and Information Retrieval. Participants will develop the skills to analyze complex datasets, enhance systems for continual improvement, and create intelligent applications capable of making data-driven predictions.
Applied Learning Project:
Learners actively engage with the material by applying machine learning algorithms—predictive, classification, clustering, and information retrieval—to real datasets. The courses also incorporate Python programming, ensuring participants gain hands-on experience in machine learning implementation.
Course Overview:
- Machine Learning Foundations: A Case Study Approach – An 18-hour course with a focus on foundational machine learning concepts through case studies.
- Machine Learning: Regression – A 22-hour course dedicated to regression techniques in machine learning.
- Machine Learning: Classification – This 21-hour course dives deep into classification methodologies.
- Machine Learning: Clustering & Retrieval – Focuses on clustering and retrieval methods, essential for structuring unlabelled data and retrieving information.
This specialization is ideal for those looking to build practical, real-world machine learning skills that are crucial for tackling today’s big data challenges across various applications.
- Course load: 4 courses
- College credits: NO — Certificate only
- Price: FREE to audit, but there’s a fee to earn and buy a Certificate
- Financial aid or scholarship: YES
- Mobile learning: YES
- Self-paced learning: YES
- Flexible deadlines: YES
- Hours needed for completion: Approximately 8 months (7 hours/week)
- Languages: E
- Vendor: Coursera
- Prerequisites: You should possess some familiarity with computer programming; the majority of assignments in this Specialization utilize the Python programming language. This Specialization is tailored for scientists and software developers eager to broaden their expertise into data science and machine learning. However, it is also suitable for anyone with fundamental math and programming abilities who is interested in extracting insights from data.
Data Science Specialization
This 10-part Specialization, offered through Johns Hopkins via Coursera, provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of data science. By the end of this series, paid participants will earn a Career Certificate, which they can add to their LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV, share on social media, or highlight in performance reviews.
Specialization Overview:
The curriculum is designed to equip learners with the essential skills needed across the entire data science pipeline—from framing the right questions and data manipulation, to data analysis and creating compelling visualizations to communicate findings. It covers a wide range of foundational topics necessary for a successful data science career.
Capstone Project:
In the culminating Capstone Project, students will utilize real-world data to create a data product, applying the skills and tools they’ve learned throughout the course. This project not only consolidates learning but also enables students to demonstrate their proficiency in data science by building a portfolio of work.
Course Details:
- The Data Scientist’s Toolbox (18 hours): An introduction to the essential tools of data science.
- R Programming (57 hours): Comprehensive training in R, a key programming language for data analysis.
- Getting and Cleaning Data (19 hours): Focuses on how to handle data effectively, a crucial step before analysis.
- Exploratory Data Analysis (54 hours): Techniques for exploring data to discover patterns and insights.
- Reproducible Research (7 hours): Principles and practices for conducting and presenting research that others can verify and build upon.
- Statistical Inference (54 hours): Understanding the principles of drawing conclusions from data.
- Regression Models (53 hours): Focuses on building and understanding regression models.
- Practical Machine Learning (8 hours): Applying machine learning techniques to practical problems.
- Developing Data Products (10 hours): Creating apps, reports, and other products that deliver insights from data.
- Data Science Capstone (Duration variable): A project integrating skills from all the courses by solving a real-world data science problem.
This Specialization is ideal for those seeking to formalize their data science skills, transition into a data-focused career, or enhance their ability to extract actionable knowledge from large datasets.
Benefits for College Students
Free online courses offer a plethora of benefits for college students pursuing a bachelor’s degree. These benfeits cater to the diverse needs and preferences of learners in the digital age. Firstly, they provide unparalleled flexibility, allowing students to customize their learning schedules to fit around their other commitments, whether it be work, family, or extracurricular activities. This flexibility empowers individuals to take control of their education, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-discipline. Moreover, online classes transcend geographical barriers, granting access to high-quality education to students regardless of their location. This democratization of education not only promotes inclusivity but also enhances cultural exchange and diversity within virtual classrooms.
Additionally, the digital nature of online classes fosters innovation in teaching methodologies, leveraging multimedia resources, interactive simulations, and collaborative tools to engage learners in dynamic and immersive learning experiences. Furthermore, online classes often offer cost-effective alternatives to traditional education, eliminating expenses associated with commuting, accommodation, and physical textbooks and other course materials. This affordability makes education more accessible and reduces financial barriers to learning.
Lastly, online classes promote environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with commuting and physical infrastructure, contributing to a greener and more eco-friendly educational landscape. In essence, online classes revolutionize education by offering flexibility, accessibility, innovation, affordability, and sustainability, empowering learners to thrive in the digital era.
Here are the top benefits of online courses:
1. Flexibility
One of the most significant benefits of online courses is their flexibility. Traditional college classes often have fixed schedules, which can conflict with work, family commitments, or other responsibilities. Online courses allow students to access lectures, assignments, and discussions at any time, from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility empowers students to tailor their study schedule to fit their individual needs, making it easier to balance academics with other obligations.
2. Accessibility
Free online courses break down geographical barriers, allowing students to access high-quality education regardless of their location. This is particularly beneficial for students who live in rural areas or areas with limited access to traditional colleges. Additionally, online courses cater to students with disabilities by providing accommodations such as closed captioning, screen readers, and adjustable text sizes, ensuring that all students have equal access to educational opportunities.
3. Cost-effectiveness
Pursuing a degree can be expensive, with tuition, textbooks, and other fees adding up quickly. Free online courses are not only free to take, but they also eliminate expenses such as commuting, campus facilities, and housing. Furthermore, online students can often continue working while studying, allowing them to earn an income and offset the cost of their education. Additionally, even when a student may opt to pay ofr an online course, there are low-cost open educational resources (OER), further reducing the financial burden on students.
4. Diverse Learning Opportunities
Online courses offer a wide range of subjects and specializations, allowing students to explore their interests and pursue unique learning paths. This diversity enables students to customize their education to align with their career goals and personal passions. Additionally, online courses may feature guest lectures, virtual field trips, and multimedia resources that enhance the learning experience and provide exposure to different perspectives and cultures.
5. Self-paced Learning
Online courses often allow for self-paced learning, enabling students to progress through the material at their own speed. This is particularly beneficial for students with varying learning styles and abilities, as they can spend more time on challenging concepts while moving quickly through familiar material. Self-paced learning also promotes autonomy and self-discipline, valuable skills that are highly sought after by employers.
6. Enhanced Technology Skills
In today’s digital age, proficiency in technology is essential for success in both academia and the workforce. Online courses provide students with opportunities to develop and enhance their technological skills, including proficiency in learning management systems, video conferencing tools, and online collaboration platforms. These skills are transferable and highly valuable in a variety of professional settings, making online students more competitive in the job market.
7. Networking Opportunities
Contrary to popular belief, online courses offer robust networking opportunities for students. Virtual discussions, group projects, and online forums facilitate interaction and collaboration among classmates, allowing students to build relationships and expand their professional network. Additionally, online courses often attract students from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations, enriching the learning experience and exposing students to different perspectives and ideas. These skills further motivate college students to pursue careers in project management, digital marketing, business management, web development, and so much more.
7. Hedge your AI Risk with Free Online Courses
For students worried about their jobs being replaced by artificial intelligence (AI), online courses offer valuable reassurance and practical solutions. These courses provide opportunities to acquire new skills and knowledge relevant to emerging technologies. By participating in online courses, students can gain expertise in areas that complement and enhance their existing skills, making them more competitive in the job market.
Additionally, online courses often incorporate AI content and tools, enabling students to familiarize themselves with AI concepts and applications. This proactive approach not only equips students with the skills needed to adapt to technological advancements but also instills confidence in their ability to thrive in an AI-driven workplace. Moreover, online courses offer flexible and accessible learning options, allowing students to balance their education with other commitments while preparing for the future job market. Overall, online courses serve as a proactive strategy for students to mitigate concerns about job displacement by AI, empowering them to take control of their career trajectories and remain competitive in an evolving workforce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, free online courses provide college students with a host of advantages, such as flexibility, accessibility, cost savings, and a diverse range of learning options. These courses enable self-paced learning, improve technology skills, and offer valuable networking opportunities. By utilizing these benefits, students can reach their academic and career objectives, maintain a balanced work-life schedule, and fully realize their potential for success.
The free online courses mentioned in this article are just a small taste of the free courses you can find through TUN’s free online course search engine. Additionally, you can use TUN AI to find even more free online courses from all of the major online learning platforms.
For online courses from top schools like Yale University, University of Michigan, and Johns Hopkins University, check out TUN’s Online Class Search Engine.
