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

Find the Best Political Science Course for Your Goals

Status: Free Trial
Duke University
Data Visualization and Communication with Tableau
Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Dashboard, Tableau Software, Data Visualization, Business Analytics, Statistical Visualization, Business Process, Business Process Improvement, Presentations, Data Visualization Software, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Data Analysis, Graphing, Stakeholder Communications, Data Manipulation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
3.2K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Meditation: A way to achieve your goals in your life
Skills you'll gain: Self-Awareness, Personal Development, Growth Mindedness, Mindfulness, Positivity, Goal Setting, Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, Stress Management, Relationship Building, Cognitive flexibility
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Johns Hopkins University
Exploratory Data Analysis
Skills you'll gain: Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Visualization, Plot (Graphics), Ggplot2, Dimensionality Reduction, Data Visualization Software, R Programming, Scatter Plots, Graphing, Box Plots, Data Analysis, Histogram, Statistical Analysis, Unsupervised Learning, Color Theory
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
6.1K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Duke University
Java Programming: Arrays, Lists, and Structured Data
Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Structures, Java, Software Engineering, Algorithms, Encryption, Programming Principles, Data Analysis, Web Servers, Statistical Methods, File Management, Debugging
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
3.2K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Google
Go Beyond the Numbers: Translate Data into Insights
Skills you'll gain: Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Storytelling, Data Visualization Software, Data Presentation, Data Transformation, Data Ethics, Tableau Software, Data Manipulation, Data Cleansing, Data Analysis, Stakeholder Communications, Matplotlib, Pandas (Python Package), Jupyter, Data Validation, Python Programming
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
797 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Yonsei University
Introduction to TCP/IP
Skills you'll gain: TCP/IP, Network Protocols, Network Routing, Network Security, General Networking, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Network Architecture, System Configuration, Network Analysis
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
2.8K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
DeepLearning.AI
AI Python for Beginners
Skills you'll gain: Large Language Modeling, Prompt Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Jupyter, Python Programming, Data Analysis, ChatGPT, Application Development, Generative AI, Scripting, Automation, Computer Programming, Application Programming Interface (API)
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
118 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
The University of Edinburgh
The Truth About Cats and Dogs
Skills you'll gain: Behavior Management, Cultural Diversity, Scientific Methods, Non-Verbal Communication, General Science and Research, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Biology
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
2.4K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Alberta
Software Processes and Agile Practices
Skills you'll gain: Agile Methodology, Kanban Principles, Agile Software Development, Software Development Methodologies, Software Development Life Cycle, Scrum (Software Development), Software Engineering, Process Driven Development
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
5.3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Johns Hopkins University
Single Page Web Applications with AngularJS
Skills you'll gain: Angular, JavaScript Frameworks, Unit Testing, Ajax, Cloud Applications, Web Applications, Front-End Web Development, Javascript, Application Programming Interface (API), Model View Controller, Web Services, Software Architecture, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), UI Components
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.9K reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Alfaisal University | KLD
إدارة الفعاليات | Events Management
Skills you'll gain: Event Management, Event Planning, Event Marketing, Advertising, Safety and Security, Marketing Communications, Advertising Campaigns, Budget Management, Expense Management, Program Evaluation, Human Resources Management and Planning, Return On Investment, Communication Strategies, Goal Setting
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
103 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
Applied Text Mining in Python
Skills you'll gain: Text Mining, Natural Language Processing, Pandas (Python Package), Scikit Learn (Machine Learning Library), Data Processing, Feature Engineering, Data Manipulation, Data Cleansing, Unsupervised Learning, Supervised Learning
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
3.8K reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks