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45 Free Graduate Courses You Can Take Online

Written by Grad School Center Team We are a passionate team of experienced educators and advisors at GradSchoolCenter.com, dedicated to guiding students through their graduate education journey. Our experts, with advanced degrees across various disciplines, offer personalized advice, up-to-date program information, and practical insights into application processes.

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: November 25, 2024, Reading time: 28 minutes

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A significant variable that weighs in your decision to proceed to graduate study is your tuition cost. College tuition continues to rise and weighs on students’ and families’ financial concerns, not to mention the college debt that can follow you around for a lifetime (or until it is paid off).

Grad School Center is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Grad School Costs

The average grad school tuition runs between $56,000 and $75,000 for a master’s degree and $133,340 for a doctoral degree. Despite the rising tuition costs, individuals pursue an advanced degree for reasons that help them qualify for promotions, specialize in specific knowledge and skills, and enhance job security.

The National Center for Education Statistics stated that there had been a 16% increase in master’s degrees granted and an 20% increase in doctor’s degrees conferred between the academic years 2011-2012 and 2021-2022. This, in turn, has encouraged institutions to provide more ways for those who want to earn an advanced degree.

Distance Learning for the Grad Student

Developments in distance education technology have made it possible to fit an individual’s learning around work and other responsibilities. Graduate online courses have been growing to accommodate each student’s needs. Time management can be a problem for busy professionals who are enrolled in graduate programs.

Fortunately, for people hoping to improve their resume or take a step into a new field, there is easy access to courses online today. It can be a challenge, but with online courses, graduate students get to plan their schedules and study at their convenience.

What about the cost of these online courses? They are mostly cheaper than online graduate degrees and can be taken anytime, anywhere. What’s even better is that there are free online graduate courses that are often taught by an impressive faculty using the most effective learning materials.

Various universities offer these courses, and what’s exciting is that most of them are from Ivy League schools across the nation. They are even accessible to students around the world.

Technology requirements for completing these free online graduate courses may vary, but generally, they include the most up-to-date devices, software programs, and internet browsers. Most of these online graduate courses do not need admission to college, and they don’t offer credit toward a degree. Prestigious schools and universities might offer credit courses for a limited time only.

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Free Online Graduate Courses

We’ve curated free online graduate courses offered by reputable educational institutions in the nation.

Political Economy I

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT

Students who want to learn about the effects of how political and economic forces form public policy will love this online graduate course.  You will gain a firm foundation in classical political economy.

The course requires a lot of reading materials like: 

You will need to submit assignments by writing two essays, one topic after every six sessions. The course will challenge you to be critical about the issues facing the world and how we provide for the necessities in our lives.

Quantitative Methods for Biology

Harvard University via HardvardX

Harvard University via HardvardX

Individuals who want to learn more about basic biological and medical applications will appreciate the online Quantitative Methods for Biology course. This is offered through MATLAB.

If you’re one of these individuals, you will greatly benefit from it: 

The course is taught by a first-rate Systems Biology professor. You will gain the confidence to pursue research using MATLAB on your own.

Advanced Studio on the Production of Space

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT

Architects will likely find this online graduate course helpful to their careers. The course combines liberal arts studies with creative problem-solving skills. Students also discuss concepts and meanings of the relationship among models, diagrams, and objects.

Learners immerse themselves in helping shape the future environment, development, and facilities.

You will create models of spatial production while understanding the needs of the community or environment. Assignments and readings are required to complete the online course. The assignments consist of: 

Intellectual Property Law and Policy

University of Pennsylvania via PennsylvaniaX

University of Pennsylvania via PennsylvaniaX

When about to embark on a career in Law, remember that Intellectual Property Law is one of the most important legal areas. It is continually growing and, in fact, a multi-billion dollar business.

Graduate students can take this online course that presents a thorough examination of the Intellectual Property Law and its different verticals including:

This two-part course takes a comprehensive look at the Intellectual Property Law and Policy. Students also explore modern cases and debates involving copyright and trademark issues.

Engineering Ethics

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT

Engineering graduate students may complete the Engineering Ethics course without having to go to campus. This course is essential to all engineers, no matter the level and specialization.

Also, it is one of the requirements for maintaining your license as an Engineer. Online Engineering Ethics covers the standard code of ethics, philosophy, and case study methodology.

You will gain knowledge and skills in structured moral reasoning and identify moral dilemmas related to your profession. Two sets of homework and a research project should be completed during the term. Audio and video lectures as well as reading materials are also provided.

Congenital Hypothyroidism: What Every Primary Care Provider Needs to Know

Stanford University

Stanford University

Pediatricians, family practice physicians, and primary care physicians are the course’s intended enrollees. Students adopt a case-based approach to gain practical training on congenital hypothyroidism and its management. 

The course covers the entire management process including: 

Physicians also learn best practices in parent and patient education toward optimizing adherence to the treatment plan. 

The course modules include short educational videos and role play videos of parent communication at each stage of diagnosis and management. Case-based testing and medication management scenarios provide the opportunity to assess your knowledge and learn from particular examples.

Principles and Practice of Drug Development

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Students gain an in-depth understanding of: 

Reading materials in the form of articles are provided for this online course.

You will be part of a team that will work on a project related to drug discovery and drug development for a specific illness. Your team should be able to present your progress report on week 11 and the final paper on the last session.  Lecture notes are provided.

Introduction to the Internet of Things

Stanford School of Engineering

Stanford School of Engineering

The Introduction to the Internet of Things is a short course that lets students  experience Stanford’s quality online education. Students learn through a combination of expert teaching and real-world applications. The course consists of 5 modules that can download videos for reviews on technology advancement.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a system of all devices connected to the Internet including:

Online graduate students are encouraged to submit an evaluation upon completion of the course.

Fundamentals of Probability

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Students in Probability in Engineering courses learn the best methods to examine how likely events would happen. Engineers use probability to do risk assessments when analyzing data.

You will build a foundation in probability through lecture notes, recitation notes, and recommended textbooks for additional materials.

Each student must complete: 

Although not required, students are well-advised to have proficient knowledge in multivariable calculus. Alternatively, students must have completed a course in probability and analysis as formal prerequisites.

Leadership and Influence

University of Maryland via USMx

University of Maryland via USMx

There can be no effective leadership without influence. Business management students foster their leadership and influence skills. In the process, they become successful leaders and make an impact on an organization.

Successful leaders work not only by directing and guiding their people toward fulfilling an organization’s goals. They also inspire them to follow in their footsteps.

In this course, enrollees are expected to develop an influence strategy for building confidence in employees. Credits are transferable to an online master of business administration program.

Competition in Telecommunications

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Students analyze and discuss issues involving competition in the telecommunications industry. The course covers topics in: 

Students must attend all classes and comply with all assigned readings including books, articles, and websites. Learners must also submit written reports.

Besides professors from the MIT Management School, guest speakers from leading organizations will give course lectures. Students have the great opportunity to meet and interact with respected speakers.

Applied Scrum for Agile Project Management

University of Maryland via edX

Students learn the fundamentals of Scrum, the purest and simplest approach in team management. You will learn its key philosophies, processes, and mechanics. The course answers its basics – Why, Who, How, and What – of Scrum as it’s applied in the real world. 

If you complete the program, you’ll earn 10 Professional Development Unit (PDU) credits. The Project Management Institute (PMI) recognizes these credits toward maintaining certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP).

Interactive Music Systems

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Harmonix’s Guitar Hero, Rock Band, and Fantasia: Music Evolved are some of the successful interactive musical experiences. These allow users to connect with music more deeply. Interactive Music Systems is one of the most sought-after programming and design courses at MIT.

Three of the many exciting topics in this online course are:

It uses Kivy, an application framework for Python. So, students must meet prerequisites in: 

Assignments and final project presentations are completed with your assigned team.

Advanced Bioconductor

Harvard University via HarvardX

Harvard University via HarvardX

HarvardX’s online course in Advanced Bioconductor is one of the seven-part series of Data Analysis for Life Sciences and Genomics Data Analysis programs. You can make an exciting career in the field with this online course.

You will build upon your experience with rigorous topics in: 

Students with Statistics and Biology backgrounds are advised to skip the first few courses (introductory courses).

Data Driven Decision Making

University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera

The short course is part of the series of courses on The Data Driven Manager Specialization. You will learn new concepts and reinforce your existing knowledge. Hands-on projects result in the development of job-relevant skills, too. You will earn a shareable certificate after completion. 

Student learning outcomes include: 

Project Management Life Cycle

Rochester Institute of Technology via RITx

Rochester Institute of Technology via RITx

Project Managers are required with an overwhelming amount of planning to fulfill project goals. You will receive guidance on the four phases of the project management cycle: 

A project life cycle helps managers take control of the project and recognize the various levels of effort needed for a particular project.

You will also explore diverse projects and different project cycle models appropriate to specific industries. Course enrollees should either be one of these to register for this course:

Logistical and Transportation Planning Methods

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Online graduates in civil engineering can take this course to gain a strong foundation in the Logistical and Transportation Planning Methods. This course is commonly found in civil engineering undergraduate programs, but programs with a specialization in this area are typically found at the graduate level.

Emphasis areas related to the traffic operations of transportation and service systems discussed include:

You will learn about scientific and technical concepts to address logistical and transportation problems. You will be graded through quizzes and assignments. Lecture notes are provided.

Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation

MIT via edX

If you’re interested in science and technology policy, this is among the best free online courses. The course tackles subjects like: 

There’s no need for an economics or engineering background. 

Business Analysis & Process Management

Coursera; Instructor: Mahi Ismail

Both newbies and professionals who manage small-to-medium enterprises are welcome to learn. If you’re in the field of business analysis and business process management, you’ll learn from the course, too. You’ll learn the know-how in analyzing businesses from a process perspective. In turn, you can develop vital skills in creating effective and efficient solutions to business issues. 

Machine Learning with Python: from Linear Models to Deep Learning

MIT via edX 

This is an intensive course that introduces students to machine learning. The course is part of the  MITx MicroMasters program in Statistics and Data Science. 

Student learning outcomes include: 

Applicants must be proficient in Python programming, probability theory, single and multivariable calculus, and vectors and matrices. 

Education Technology Studio

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Educational software, interactive books, and exercise are some of the tools that give new meaning to the education experience. Education Technology Studio is an innovative course that aims to provide students with the necessary knowledge to develop new structures in the education environment.

You will hone your skills in using design models, conceptualization, and strategies for managing technology in an educational setting.

Students gain exposure to new research on teaching methods and techniques using education technology. Class participation and mini- and final projects determine student’s grades.  

Advanced Cybersecurity Program Preview

Stanford University

If you’re interested in advanced security but are undecided, check out this one-hour course. You’ll get a preview of the Advanced Cybersecurity program and learn about: 

The course comes with video lectures and talks from cybersecurity experts. 

Algorithmic Design and Techniques

The University of California San Diego via UCSanDiegoX

University of California San Diego via UCSanDiegoX

Algorithmic Design and Techniques enable students to gain much-needed experience in advanced techniques and ideas for analyzing and designing algorithms. Programming and IT professionals seeking information on using algorithm designs in various contexts will find this online course perfect for their careers.

You will learn theories for turning simple tasks into big data and applying programming to genomic studies.

Prerequisites include a background in programming language and mathematics in proof by induction and proof by contradiction.

Graduate Seminar in American Politics I: Political Behavior

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

The Graduate Seminar in American Politics I: Political Behavior is offered by one of the few political science departments in the nation.

As a graduate course on mass political behavior, it focuses on: 

Class participation makes for the most significant part of your grade, along with memos and the final paper. Each student must lead a discussion in a meeting.

Computer Architecture

Princeton University

Princeton University

Individuals looking to advance their careers in Computer Science should look for strong online courses like Princeton University’s Computer Architecture.

This online course mainly covers the concepts involved in computer systems. As a learner, you will learn about computer architecture, microarchitecture, and instruction set architectures.

Other topics include:

Each topic has its video course material, and graded assignments can be accessed when you purchase the Certificate experience.

Atomic and Optical Physics I

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

 MIT OpenCourseWare

The online Atomic and Optical Physics I is offered to give online graduate students a deeper understanding of the fundamental laws of physics and a higher level of research skills.

Learning AMO physics means being able to connect theoretical methods and significant data to its related fields like astrophysics, chemistry, biology, medicine, and more.

Graded activities consist of reading and problem-solving assignments, a midterm quiz, and a term paper. Video lectures are also provided for each topic.

Sports Marketing

Northwestern University

Northwestern University

Marketing professionals who want to focus their careers on Sports Marketing can take the first step and enroll in this online course. You will acquire knowledge on how marketing, content creation, and public relations are structured to aid in business sports operations.

You can also prepare strategies to promote sports businesses effectively. Work for a professional sports team and start nurturing your passion for sports today. 

Speech Communication

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

Online graduate students attain a broad and advanced knowledge in studying communication concepts. With this course, you will develop critical and research skills while also broadening your understanding of communications.

The course covers a wide range of topics including: 

Each student must submit a term paper by the end of the course.

The Human Intelligence Enterprise

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

The Human Intelligence Enterprise is offered by the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department. It discusses the computational theories of human thinking and covers reading in artificial intelligence.

You will learn about using models to examine the fundamental issues in human knowledge and how they can influence our understanding of intelligent machines.

The course consists of 23 sessions with course readings, reports, and a final project.

Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies

Harvard University via HarvardX

Harvard University via HarvardX

If you’re looking for courses to improve your business practices, check out the Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies course. 

The course uses a multidisciplinary approach in evaluating entrepreneurial opportunities and generating original and innovative solutions to modern-day business problems.

You will learn to describe challenges in the different parts of every business, such as finance and marketing. As a result, you will learn to apply entrepreneurial ideas in different business areas and develop your comprehensive business plan.

Gendering U.S. Immigration Policy: Sociopolitical, Theological and Feminist Perspectives

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

This online course covers topics on understanding and addressing concerns of immigrant women and their role in the sociopolitical perspectives on immigration policy.

You will discuss critical topics on the concerns of the study of fairness in the various political systems and how to address women’s unique concerns. Each student must give a presentation and a blog assignment after every module.

One group project presentation is also required where you will collaborate on practices for field research. Then, a research paper is due at the end of the course. The Consortium for Graduate Studies in Gender, Culture, Women, and Sexuality (GCWS) serves as a prerequisite to this course.

Supply Chain Analytics

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MITx

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MITx

Consumers want their products and orders moved and delivered faster. As such, the supply chain manager is under pressure to meet demands.

The course is intended for business management graduate students. Their learning goals include mastering supply chain management and developing strategies to enhance an organization’s competitive advantage.

To complete this course, you must submit case studies using spreadsheets. You should demonstrate mastery of the techniques and methods in creating solutions for supply chain problems and projects.

Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions

The George Washington University

The George Washington University

The Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions course introduces students to the enhancement of knowledge in the methodologies used in clinical simulations. Nurses, physical therapists, pharmacists, educators, and other healthcare professionals are its intended audience. 

It is divided into seven modules that include videos, reading assignments, and quizzes that provide flexibility in completing the course.

These modules cover standards in best practices, development of simulation center, debriefing simulation, and simulated patient.

Mathematical Methods for Quantitative Finance

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MITx

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MITx

Applicants must have completed courses in calculus, probability and statistics, and linear algebra. Graduate students learn the skills to complete programs independently and conveniently.

Mathematical methods have been increasingly important in risk management, quantitative analysis, and computational techniques in the finance industry.

You will gain firm grounding on the application of the theory of modern financial markets and acquire additional analytical skills.

Blockchain and Money

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Blockchain and Money is an online graduate course that enables students to gain competitive knowledge in blockchain technology.

You must have a business or economic background to maximize course lessons. You will learn how blockchain affects the finance industry and discover factors and principles governing the planning and organization of a blockchain-based company.

The class starts with a review of cryptocurrency Bitcoin, its regulatory landscape, possibilities, and limitations. By the end of the course, you will present a group research paper that will count for 40% of your grade.

Buddhism and Modern Psychology

Princeton University

Princeton University

This online course draws on the bestselling author and first-rate Princeton visiting lecturer, Robin Wright, to examine the meditative practice and link Buddhist ideas about the human mind.

The concept of mindfulness in the Buddhist perspective speaks about its central premise of paying attention to the present moment.

The course will answer what Buddhism and modern psychology have in stock to cultivate essential human qualities and transform the human mind. You will gain free access to readings, videos, and lectures in this online course.

Introduction to Environmental Policy and Planning

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

This online course presents a wide range of topics on:

You will examine the techniques of forming and implementing environmental policies and learn to develop planning theory and practice. It is divided into four units:

Readings, assignments, scenario presentations, and exams are all part of the grading for this online course.

Design Thinking Fundamentals

Rochester Institute of Technology via RITx

Rochester Institute of Technology via RITx

Design thinking has become increasingly significant in businesses and organizations in the present. It helps develop creativity in creating new products, services, and experiences for consumers.

You will receive guidance on the foundation of next-level design thinking and problem-solving strategies in business management. 

You will master the knowledge you need to sustain design thinking abilities and acquire the mindset you need to develop and apply your learning in your organization.

Advanced Workshop in Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

Science and engineering writing is essential in articulating essential issues and concepts in your studies and careers.

You’ll learn to think through how to synthesize and organize your thoughts to communicate your ideas. You will draft, revise, and share your writing during the session.

Therefore, regular attendance is a must. You will be assigned to lead a group discussion or a short presentation throughout the course. This will help you develop skills on how to define the audience, use appropriate techniques in reporting, and develop articles, blogs, and videos.

 Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster

Harvard University via HarvardX

Harvard University via HarvardX

The Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster course focuses on contemporary humanitarian concerns, such as:

This is designed for students who seek to develop the skills needed to interact with the global humanitarian community.

You will be able to broaden your understanding of emerging risks and disasters by examining five case studies: Crisis in Goma (Zaire), Somalia, the Balkans, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Engage with the faculty and other humanitarian practitioners who have both academic and field experiences in relief and assistance.

Public Transportation Systems

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

The online course in Public Transportation Systems emphasizes:

Learners of this online course will work on recommended readings, problem sets, assignments, and a final exam.

Select topics in the course include:

The course assumes that learners have taken Transportation Systems Analysis: Demand and Economics.

Principles of Biochemistry

Harvard University via HarvardX

Harvard University via HarvardX

This online course introduces the concepts of cellular structure, replication, function, and metabolism. It will also provide a solid foundation for molecular interactions in the biochemical processes in cells, tissues, and organisms.

It is recommended that learners have prior exposure to college-level Introductory Biology or General Chemistry.

Students will, among others: 

Feminist Thought

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare

Feminist Thought is an online course that allows students to explore, analyze, and engage in topics related to social inequalities. It will also take you to three feminist theoretical approaches and to examine specific issues.:

Readings will include both historical and contemporary authors. Lecture notes for all sessions are provided.

CitiesX: The Past, Present, and Future of Urban Life

Harvard University via HarvardX

Harvard University via HarvardX

This online course provides a solid theoretical basis for analyzing urban planning issues, urban public policies, and the impacts of urban planning and design on infrastructures.

You will also learn: 

Learning materials include interviews and lectures from policymakers, urban planners, and city residents.

Leaders of Learning

Harvard University via HarvardX

Harvard University via HarvardX

The intensive course enables students to identify, develop, and adopt their personal theory of learning. You will also explore your place in the education sector. Indeed, the course isn’t only about leaders in learning. More importantly, it’s about being part of the world of learning and making a positive impact. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do free online graduate courses work?

A: These are online learning opportunities intended for individuals with bachelor’s degrees or pursuing master’s degrees. The wide range of topics cover business, education, and engineering, among others. These are offered for free or at no cost. But many courses are offered as part of a free trial period with the option to upgrade to a for-a-fee certificate program. 

Q: What universities and platforms offer free online graduate courses? 

A: Many accredited colleges and universities offer free online graduate courses either through their own learning platforms or through independent platforms. Examples include MIT, Harvard, and Princeton. Ask your college about its free online graduate courses, too. As for MOOCs, the most popular are edX, Coursera, OpenCourseWare, and Khan Academy. 

Q: Do free online graduate courses count toward a certificate, a degree, or continuing education credits? 

A: It depends on the college offering the courses. You must ask the course administrator or instructor whether the online course you’re taking has credits that count toward a certificate, a degree, or continuing education. 

Q: What are the benefits of taking free online graduate courses? 

A: You’ll enjoy cost savings, flexibility and convenience. More importantly, you can build your knowledge and skills without risk. 

Q: Can you receive a certificate of completion or a professional certification after completing free online graduate courses? 

A: Yes, you can get a certification of completion and add it to your LinkedIn profile, if the course allows it. Again, ask about these matters first, if these are important to you, before enrolling in a free online course.

We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.