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

Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
FPGA Design for Embedded Systems
Skills you'll gain: Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Design, Electronic Systems, System Design and Implementation, Embedded Systems, Electronics Engineering, Eclipse (Software), Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Electronics, Program Development, Integrated Development Environments, Computer Architecture, Hardware Architecture, Software Development, Embedded Software, Verification And Validation, Debugging, Computer Engineering, Programming Principles, Development Testing
Build toward a degree
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
1.7K reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
Scrimba
Intro to Supabase
Skills you'll gain: Web Applications, Full-Stack Web Development, Database Development, Database Management, Query Languages, Real Time Data, Javascript, User Interface (UI)
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Packt
Master ChatGPT & OpenAI APIs – Build AI Tools in Python
Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, ChatGPT, OpenAI, Generative AI, Large Language Modeling, Python Programming, Artificial Intelligence, Technical Communication, Natural Language Processing, Application Programming Interface (API), Application Development, User Interface (UI)
Intermediate · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
Universidades Anáhuac
Visualización de datos efectiva
Skills you'll gain: Interactive Data Visualization, Data Storytelling, Data Presentation, Infographics, Data Visualization Software, Data Analysis, Graphic and Visual Design, Information Architecture, Multimedia, Design Elements And Principles, Timelines, User Centered Design
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Whizlabs
Design and Implement Processes and Communications
Skills you'll gain: Azure DevOps, DevOps, Agile Methodology, Continuous Delivery, Collaborative Software, Process Driven Development, Microsoft Azure, Continuous Integration, Application Performance Management, Version Control
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Packt
C# Object-Oriented Programming for Beginners in C# and .NET
Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Object Oriented Design, C# (Programming Language), Programming Principles, .NET Framework
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Packt
Advanced Development, Deployment, and Cloud Integration
Skills you'll gain: ASP.NET, Application Deployment, Microsoft Azure, Cloud Applications, Software Architecture, Scalability, Authentications, User Interface (UI), .NET Framework, Software Design, Maintainability, UI/UX Strategy, Model View Controller, Secure Coding, Application Servers, Microsoft SQL Servers, Database Development, Debugging, Data Validation
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Coursera Instructor Network
GenAI for Patient Scheduling & Appointment Management
Skills you'll gain: ChatGPT, Practice Management Software, Technology Roadmaps, Patient Flow, Generative AI, Prompt Engineering, Business Process Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Software As A Service, Patient Registration, Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Health Informatics, Health Technology
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Coursera
Portfolio Power: Compelling UX Case Studies in Sketch
Skills you'll gain: User Experience Design, User Experience, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, User Centered Design, UI/UX Research, Storytelling, Usability Testing, Technical Design, Prototyping, Mockups, Wireframing
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Google Cloud
Vertex AI と Flutter による生成 AI エージェントの構築
Skills you'll gain: Flutter (Software), Generative AI, Generative AI Agents, Mobile Development, Google Cloud Platform, Artificial Intelligence
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Packt
The Blender 4 Ultimate Guide
Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, Computer Graphics, Content Management, Virtual Environment, File Management, Computer Graphic Techniques, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Generative AI, ChatGPT, Design, Graphical Tools, Design Elements And Principles, Functional Design, Creative Design
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
Packt
Salesforce Certified AI Associate Certification
Skills you'll gain: Salesforce Development, Salesforce, Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), AI Personalization, Data Quality, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software, Predictive Analytics, Data Management, ChatGPT, Data Capture, Generative AI, Business Ethics, Customer Engagement
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular political science courses

FPGA Design for Embedded Systems: University of Colorado Boulder
Intro to Supabase: Scrimba
Master ChatGPT & OpenAI APIs – Build AI Tools in Python: Packt
Visualización de datos efectiva: Universidades Anáhuac
Design and Implement Processes and Communications: Whizlabs
C# Object-Oriented Programming for Beginners in C# and .NET: Packt
Advanced Development, Deployment, and Cloud Integration: Packt
GenAI for Patient Scheduling & Appointment Management : Coursera Instructor Network
Portfolio Power: Compelling UX Case Studies in Sketch: Coursera
Vertex AI と Flutter による生成 AI エージェントの構築: Google Cloud

Political Science Courses