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

Universitat de Barcelona

Magic in the Middle Ages

Skills you'll gain: European History, World History, Art History, Research, Investigation, Cultural Diversity

Status: Free Trial

University of Washington

Machine Learning: Regression

Skills you'll gain: Regression Analysis, Predictive Modeling, Supervised Learning, Statistical Modeling, Applied Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, Feature Engineering, Machine Learning, Statistical Methods, Python Programming, Data Manipulation, Linear Algebra, Algorithms

University of Zurich

An Intuitive Introduction to Probability

Skills you'll gain: Probability, Probability Distribution, Probability & Statistics, Descriptive Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Statistical Methods, Risk Analysis, Finance

UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)

Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets

Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Physics, Experimentation, Engineering Calculations, Applied Mathematics, Physical Science, Systems Of Measurement, Mathematical Modeling, Estimation

Status: Free Trial

University of California, Davis

Introduction to Web Development

Skills you'll gain: Version Control, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), GitHub, Git (Version Control System), HTML and CSS, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Web Design and Development, Web Development, Web Design, Web Content, Front-End Web Development, Web Servers, Image Analysis, Semantic Web, Cloud Hosting, Browser Compatibility

Status: Free Trial

University of Alberta

Design Patterns

Skills you'll gain: Model View Controller, Software Design Patterns, Software Design, Unified Modeling Language, Object Oriented Design, Code Review, Software Architecture, Programming Principles, Maintainability, Software Technical Review, Java, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Android Development

Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica

Introdução ao Controle de Sistemas

Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Process Control, Systems Design, Systems Engineering, Systems Analysis, Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics, Performance Testing, Differential Equations

Status: Free Trial

IBM

Introduction to HTML, CSS, & JavaScript

Skills you'll gain: HTML and CSS, Bootstrap (Front-End Framework), Front-End Web Development, Responsive Web Design, Web Development, Web Design, Javascript, Web Applications, Scripting, Browser Compatibility, Application Programming Interface (API)

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Cómo hacer una tesis

Skills you'll gain: Writing, Research Design, Research Methodologies, Research Reports, Writing and Editing, Research, Science and Research, Qualitative Research, Timelines, Ethical Standards And Conduct

Status: Free Trial

Google Cloud

API Design and Fundamentals of Google Cloud's Apigee API Platform

Skills you'll gain: API Design, Restful API, API Gateway, Application Programming Interface (API), Cloud API, Application Lifecycle Management, Proxy Servers, Software Design Documents, Software Documentation, Authentications

DeepLearning.AI

الذكاء الاصطناعي للجميع

Skills you'll gain: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Artificial Neural Networks, Deep Learning, Team Building, Data Ethics, Business Solutions, Machine Learning, Business Transformation, Data Science, Business Strategy, Data Literacy

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

VLSI CAD Part I: Logic

Skills you'll gain: Computational Logic, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Theoretical Computer Science, Data Structures, Verification And Validation, Computer Architecture, Algorithms, Computer Engineering, Programming Principles, Mathematical Software, Graph Theory, Software Development Tools

Political Science Courses

Filter by

Subject
Required

Language
Required

Learning Product
Required

Level
Required

Duration
Required

Skills
Required

Subtitles
Required

Educator
Required