What are the best political science courses on Coursera?

Top options include Political Economy of Institutions and Development from Universiteit Leiden , Moral Foundations of Politics from Yale University , and Understanding Political Concepts from the Università di Napoli Federico II . These courses explore political theory, governance , global politics, and public institutions.

Can I study political science for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many political science courses offer a free audit option, which allows you to access video lectures and readings at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a political science course?

You’ll learn how governments function, how political systems are structured, and how public policy is created and implemented. Topics may also include political ideologies, international relations , comparative politics, and the role of institutions and citizens in shaping political outcomes.

Do I need a background in history or law to take a political science course?

No prior background is required for most introductory courses . Many are designed for general learners and start with foundational concepts. More advanced or specialized courses may build on prior knowledge in law , economics , or history .

Can Coursera’s political science courses help with academic or career goals?

Yes. These courses are valuable for learners preparing for university study, professionals in public service, educators, or anyone interested in policy , governance , or international affairs. Earning a certificate can support applications for academic programs or enhance your understanding of current global issues.

Top Political Science Courses - Learn Political Science Online

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Find the Best Political Science Course for Your Goals

University of Colorado Boulder
Semiconductor Photonics Graduate Certificate
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Power Electronics, Display Devices, Control Systems, Computer Displays, Electronic Systems, Systems Design, Technical Design, Electronics, Electronic Components, USB, Electrical Systems, Electrical Power, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Electronic Hardware, Equipment Design, Electric Power Systems, Electronics Engineering, Systems Analysis, Electrical Engineering
Credit offered
Graduate Certificate · 6 - 12 Months
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
JavaScript Data and Applications
Skills you'll gain: Javascript, Application Programming Interface (API), JSON, Restful API, Web Applications, Performance Tuning, Software Testing, Unit Testing, Debugging, Maintainability
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
R Programming Essentials with Microsoft Tools
Skills you'll gain: GitHub, Data Manipulation, Git (Version Control System), Software Documentation, Microsoft Development Tools, Microsoft Visual Studio, Microsoft Copilot, Data Import/Export, R Programming, Statistical Reporting, Statistical Analysis, Data Cleansing, Integrated Development Environments, Programming Principles, Debugging, Data Structures
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Google Cloud
Responsible AI for Developers: Fairness & Bias - Polski
Skills you'll gain: Data Ethics, Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Open Source Technology, Google Cloud Platform, Tensorflow
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
SQL Foundations
Skills you'll gain: Microsoft SQL Servers, SQL, Transact-SQL, Data Transformation, Relational Databases, Data Manipulation, Databases, Database Management, Microsoft Copilot, Generative AI, Data Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Coursera
Pixels with Purpose: Lo-Fi to Hi-Fi Design in Sketch
Skills you'll gain: Mockups, Prototyping, User Interface (UI), User Interface (UI) Design, Design, Design Elements And Principles, Wireframing, UI Components, User Experience Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Design Software, User Centered Design
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
JavaScript Development Tools and React
Skills you'll gain:
Intermediate · Course
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Statistical Analysis and Advanced Techniques
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Advanced Data Applications and Integration
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course
Status: New
Whizlabs
Azure AI & ML: Optimize Language Models for AI Applications
Skills you'll gain: MLOps (Machine Learning Operations), Microsoft Azure, Prompt Engineering, Application Deployment, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Data Pipelines, Applied Machine Learning, Large Language Modeling, Continuous Monitoring, Generative AI, Performance Tuning
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Coursera
From Concept to Critique: Prototyping with Sketch
Skills you'll gain: User Experience Design, Design Reviews, Prototyping, Interaction Design, Mockups, UI/UX Research, Wireframing, Usability Testing, User Flows
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Universidad de los Andes
Analítica de datos: visualización, predicción y toma de decisiones Certificado MasterTrack®
Skills you'll gain: Network Analysis, Data Storytelling, Predictive Modeling, Data Presentation, Marketing Analytics, Cash Flows, Product Marketing, Matplotlib, Financial Data, Financial Statement Analysis, Portfolio Management, Data Cleansing, Advertising, Applied Machine Learning, Statistical Machine Learning, Random Forest Algorithm, Operations Research, Natural Language Processing, Mathematical Modeling, Systems Analysis
Credit offered
Mastertrack · 6 - 12 Months