Updated April 21, 2022

100 Free Ivy League Courses You Can Take Right Now

If you’re considering taking a class or want to learn something new to advance your career or just because you’re interested, you cannot go wrong with free courses that you can take online. 

Coursera alone has hundreds of free online courses taught by professors from any Ivy League school of your choice, including Ivy League universities such as Harvard University. Taking a class is easy — simply sign up and you can begin to learn at your own pace. There’s no stress involved.

So, if you have a few free hours in your week, take your pick from this curated list of 100 free courses taught by Ivy League professors from universities such as Harvard University and start delving into topics that interest you.

For ease of reference, we’ve categorized them broadly so, if you prefer, you can jump to the sections you’re interested in. If you take the time to browse the list, though, you may come across a topic that piques your interest and take you on another path. 

Arts and Humanities

Journey of the Universe: A Story for Our Times – Yale University

Introduction to Classical Music – Yale University

Greek and Roman Mythology – University of Pennsylvania

Introduction to Ancient Egypt and Its Civilization – University of Pennsylvania

Ancient Philosophy: Plato & His Predecessors – University of Pennsylvania

Modern & Contemporary American Poetry (“ModPo”) – University of Pennsylvania

Ancient Philosophy: Aristotle and His Successors – University of Pennsylvania

Roman Architecture – Yale University

Wonders of Ancient Egypt – University of Pennsylvania

Age of Cathedrals – Yale University

Effective Altruism – Princeton University

A Journey through Western Christianity: from Persecuted Faith to Global Religion (200 – 1650) – Yale University

Music and Social Action – Yale University

American Education Reform: History, Policy, Practice – University of Pennsylvania

Philosophy of Science – University of Pennsylvania

Business

Business Foundations – University of Pennsylvania

Business and Financial Modeling – University of Pennsylvania

Entrepreneurship – University of Pennsylvania

Foundations of Positive Psychology – University of Pennsylvania

Lending, Crowdfunding and Modern Investing – University of Pennsylvania

Construction Management – Columbia University

Fintech: Foundations & Applications of Financial Technology – University of Pennsylvania

Business Strategies for A Better World – University of Pennsylvania

Regulatory Compliance – University of Pennsylvania

Culture-Driven Team Building – University of Pennsylvania

Finance & Quantitative Modeling for Analysts – University of Pennsylvania

Intellectual Property Law – University of Pennsylvania

Financial Markets – Yale University

Introduction to Negotiation: A Strategic Playbook for Becoming a Principled and Persuasive Negotiator – Yale University

Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content – University of Pennsylvania

More Introduction to Financial Accounting – University of Pennsylvania

Design: Creation of Artifacts in Society – University of Pennsylvania

Social Impact Strategy: Tools for Entrepreneurs and Innovators – University of Pennsylvania

Crowdfunding – University of Pennsylvania

Computer Science

Algorithms, Part I – Princeton University

Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies – Princeton University

Algorithms, Part II – Princeton University

Gamification – University of Pennsylvania

Computer Science: Algorithms, Theory, and Machines – Princeton University

Computational Thinking for Problem Solving – University of Pennsylvania

Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose – Princeton University

Analysis of Algorithms – Princeton University

Data Science

Business Analytics – University of Pennsylvania

A Crash Course in Causality: Inferring Causal Effects from Observational Data – University of Pennsylvania

Causal Inference – Columbia University

Causal Inference 2 – Columbia University

Health

Bats, Ducks, and Pandemics: An Introduction to One Health Policy – Princeton University

The Business of Health Care – University of Pennsylvania

Healthcare Law – University of Pennsylvania

Introduction to Psychology – Yale University

Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body Is Telling Us – University of Pennsylvania

Everyday Parenting: The ABCs of Child Rearing – Yale University

Anatomy of the Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis – Yale University

Moralities of Everyday Life – Yale University

Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremeties – Yale University

Introduction to Breast Cancer – Yale University

Essentials of Global Health – Yale University

Introduction to Dental Medicine – University of Pennsylvania

The Oral Cavity: Portal to Health and Disease – University of Pennsylvania

Social Norms, Social Change II – University of Pennsylvania

Addiction Treatment: Clinical Skills for Healthcare Providers – Yale University

Feeding the World – University of Pennsylvania

HI-FIVE: Health Informatics For Innovation, Value & Enrichment (Clinical Perspective) – Columbia University

HI-FIVE: Health Informatics For Innovation, Value & Enrichment (Administrative/IT Perspective) – Columbia University
HI-FIVE: Health Informatics For Innovation, Value & Enrichment (Social/Peer Perspective) – Columbia University

Language Learning

English for Career Development – University of Pennsylvania

English for Business and Entrepreneurship – University of Pennsylvania

English for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – University of Pennsylvania

English for Journalism – University of Pennsylvania

English for Media Literacy – University of Pennsylvania

Math and Logic

Calculus: Single Variable Part 1 – Functions – University of Pennsylvania

Single Variable Calculus – University of Pennsylvania

Calculus: Single Variable Part 2 – Differentiation – University of Pennsylvania

Calculus: Single Variable Part 4 – Applications – University of Pennsylvania

Calculus: Single Variable Part 3 – Integration – University of Pennsylvania

Analytic Combinatorics – Princeton University

Personal Development

Achieving Personal and Professional Success – University of Pennsylvania

The Science of Well-Being – Yale University

Managing Emotions in Times of Uncertainty & Stress – Yale University

East Asian Religions and Ecology – Yale University

South Asian Religions and Ecology – Yale University

Applying to U.S. Universities – University of Pennsylvania

Physical Science and Engineering

Robotics – University of Pennsylvania

Computer Architecture – Princeton University

The Age of Sustainable Development – Columbia University

MOS Transistors – Columbia University

Imagining Other Earths – Princeton University

Exploring Renewable Energy Schemes – University of Pennsylvania

Social Sciences

Social Policy for Social Services & Health Practitioners – Columbia University

Social Norms, Social Change I – University of Pennsylvania

An Introduction to American Law – University of Pennsylvania

Economics of Money and Banking – Columbia University

Moral Foundations of Politics – Yale University

A Law Student’s Toolkit – Yale University

The Global Financial Crisis – Yale University

American Contract Law I – Yale University

Microeconomics: The Power of Markets – University of Pennsylvania

Paradoxes of War – Princeton University

Introduction to Key Constitutional Concepts and Supreme Court Cases – University of Pennsylvania

Microeconomics: When Markets Fail – University of Pennsylvania

Network Dynamics of Social Behavior – University of Pennsylvania

America’s Written Constitution – Yale University

America’s Unwritten Constitution – Yale University

Arts and Culture Strategy – University of Pennsylvania

American Contract Law II – Yale University

Orchestrating Whole Classroom Discussion – University of Pennsylvania

Free Courses You Can Take Online from Harvard University

Here are 30 of the best free online courses taught by professors at Harvard University that are available through edX.

Free Courses on Computer Science & Programming from Harvard University

CS50: Introduction to Computer Science

CS50’s Web Programming with Python and JavaScript

CS50’s Introduction to Game Development

Free Courses on Business from Harvard University

Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles

Technology Entrepreneurship: Lab to Market

Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies

Free Courses on Humanities from Harvard University

The Path to Happiness: What Chinese Philosophy Teaches Us about the Good Life

Women Making History: Ten Objects, Many Stories

Rhetoric: The Art of Persuasive Writing and Public Speaking

Free Courses on Art & Design from Harvard University

Pyramids of Giza: Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology

The Architectural Imagination

Beethoven’s 9th Symphony and the 19th Century Orchestra

Free Courses on Science from Harvard University

The Einstein Revolution

Energy Within Environmental Constraints

Backyard Meteorology: The Science of Weather

Free Courses on Health and Medicine from Harvard University

The Health Effects of Climate Change

Improving Global Health: Focusing on Quality and Safety

Strengthening Community Health Worker Programs

Free Courses on Data Science from Harvard University

Causal Diagrams: Draw Your Assumptions Before Your Conclusions

Principles, Statistical and Computational Tools for Reproducible Data Science

Free Courses on Mathematics from Harvard University

Calculus Applied!

Introduction to Probability

Free Courses on Social Sciences from Harvard University

American Government: Constitutional Foundations

U.S. Political Institutions: Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy

Introduction to American Civics

For more free courses from Harvard University, check out this link.

The Importance of Taking Advantage of Free Online Courses from Ivy League Colleges

The digital age has brought transformative changes to education, making high-quality learning more accessible than ever. One of the most notable innovations in this space is the rise of free online courses from prestigious institutions, particularly Ivy League colleges such as Harvard University. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and others offer free online courses and allow anyone with an internet connection to access world-class education at no cost. The importance of leveraging these resources is multifaceted, touching on personal development, career advancement, and the democratization of knowledge. Below are key reasons why individuals should take advantage of free online courses from universities such as Harvard University.

1. Access to High-Quality Education

Ivy League schools such as Harvard University and Columbia University are synonymous with academic rigor, distinguished faculty, and cutting-edge research. These institutions offer free online courses and therefore democratize access to top-tier education that was previously reserved for a privileged few. Students from all over the world, regardless of their socio-economic background, can now learn from the same professors who teach at some of the world’s most prestigious universities. For learners who might not otherwise be able to afford tuition or who live in remote areas, these online courses provide a direct line to a high-quality education without the barrier of geographic location or financial limitations.

2. Enhancement of Career Prospects

In today’s competitive job market, having specialized knowledge or certifications can be a significant advantage. Free online courses from universities such as Harvard University cover a wide range of topics, from data science and artificial intelligence to business management, philosophy, and public health. These courses provide individuals with an opportunity to acquire in-demand skills that are highly valued by employers. Even though completing a course doesn’t necessarily result in a formal degree, many employers recognize the credibility of Ivy League schools like Harvard University and the quality of education they offer. Moreover, completing an Ivy League course—especially in a field like computer science, economics, or leadership—can bolster a resume and signal to potential employers that a candidate is proactive, self-disciplined, and committed to lifelong learning.

3. Opportunities for Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning

Education is no longer confined to traditional age groups or set timelines. As the world changes rapidly, the need for continual skill acquisition and personal growth has never been more pronounced. Online courses from Ivy League institutions such as Harvard University offer an excellent opportunity for lifelong learners to stay intellectually engaged, explore new areas of interest, and refine existing knowledge. Whether you’re looking to pivot to a new field, explore a subject outside of your professional domain, or simply satisfy your curiosity, these courses provide flexible, accessible, and high-quality content.

4. Flexibility and Convenience

One of the most appealing aspects of online learning is the flexibility it offers. Free online courses from Ivy League colleges such as Harvard University are typically self-paced, allowing learners to complete assignments, watch lectures, and participate in discussions on their own schedules. This level of flexibility is ideal for working professionals, busy parents, or anyone with limited time. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your expertise in your current career or simply broaden your knowledge in a specific area, these courses can be taken from anywhere in the world, allowing you to learn at your own pace without the constraints of traditional classroom settings.

5. Global Networking Opportunities

Despite being online, many free online courses foster interaction with a global community of learners. Discussion forums, group projects, and peer-to-peer feedback create opportunities for networking, idea exchange, and collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This not only enhances the learning experience but can also provide valuable professional connections. In many cases, online platforms offer certificates of completion, which can be shared on professional networking sites like LinkedIn, further expanding one’s visibility and credibility within a global professional network.

6. Self-Discipline and Motivation

Taking an online course requires a level of self-discipline and intrinsic motivation, qualities that are highly valued in both academic and professional environments. Engaging with challenging material, keeping up with deadlines, and maintaining a consistent study schedule help to develop time management and problem-solving skills. These courses also encourage a growth mindset, as learners are often tasked with applying theoretical concepts to real-world problems. By taking these courses, individuals can improve not just their knowledge but also their capacity for independent learning and self-motivation—traits that are critical in any field of work.

7. Cost-Effectiveness and Financial Accessibility

The financial burden of higher education can be prohibitive, especially for individuals who do not have access to scholarships or financial aid. Free online courses offer an equitable alternative for learners to acquire education without the burden of tuition fees, textbook costs, or housing expenses. While some platforms may offer paid certificates or credentials, the core content remains free, allowing individuals to learn valuable skills without incurring debt. In some cases, even those who do choose to pay for a verified certificate from an Ivy League institution such as Harvard University may find the cost to be far more affordable than traditional college courses.

8. Broader Impact on Society

The democratization of education through free online courses has broader social implications. It helps reduce educational inequality by providing quality learning opportunities to individuals in developing countries or marginalized communities. Moreover, it can foster a more informed and educated global citizenry, with learners gaining exposure to a range of global issues, cutting-edge research, and diverse perspectives. As more people gain access to education, we may see long-term societal benefits such as increased social mobility, more equitable access to opportunities, and a greater emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based problem solving.

Conclusion

Taking advantage of free online courses from Ivy League colleges such as Columbia University and Harvard University offers an unparalleled opportunity to access high-quality, flexible, and cost-effective education. These courses not only enhance individual career prospects but also promote lifelong learning and personal growth. They serve as powerful tools in the democratization of knowledge, making elite education available to anyone with an internet connection. Whether for professional development, academic exploration, or personal enrichment, these courses represent a significant opportunity to engage with world-class academic content and further one’s educational and career goals—without the financial burden of traditional higher education.

In a rapidly evolving world, those who take advantage of a free online course, especially from an Ivy League school like Harvard University will not only gain valuable skills but will also be well-positioned to succeed in an increasingly competitive global job market.

Note that individual courses on Coursera are FREE to audit, which includes all course lectures. Paying for a course, though, will give you access to quizzes, projects and a shareable Course Certificate upon completion. All Specializations can be started for FREE with a 7-day trial.