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

Technical University of Denmark (DTU)

Whole genome sequencing of bacterial genomes - tools and applications

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology, Data Analysis Software, Database Development, Analysis, Data Pipelines, Data Processing, Public Health, Data Quality

Universidad ORT Uruguay

¡A Programar! Una introducción a la programación

Skills you'll gain: Software Engineering, Software Testing, Programming Principles, Game Design, Computer Programming, Debugging, Computational Thinking, Scripting, Scripting Languages, Prototyping

The Pennsylvania State University

Dairy Production and Management

Skills you'll gain: Nutrition and Diet, Manufacturing and Production, Market Dynamics, Operating Cost, Business Economics, Water Resources, Production Management, Environmental Management Systems, Environment, Molecular Biology

The University of Melbourne

Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression

Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Precision Medicine, Life Sciences, Oncology, Environment, Biology, Medical Science and Research, Pharmacology, Experimentation, Nutrition and Diet

Status: Free Trial

Duke University

MLOps | Machine Learning Operations

Skills you'll gain: MLOps (Machine Learning Operations), Pandas (Python Package), AWS SageMaker, NumPy, Microsoft Azure, Data Ethics, Application Deployment, Data Manipulation, Exploratory Data Analysis, Containerization, Data Pipelines, CI/CD, Software Testing, Data Import/Export, Amazon Web Services, Feature Engineering, Cloud Solutions, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Docker (Software), Rust (Programming Language)

The State University of New York

Practical Time Series Analysis

Skills you'll gain: Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Forecasting, R Programming, Statistical Analysis, Data Analysis, Data Visualization, Mathematical Modeling, Statistical Modeling, Predictive Modeling, Correlation Analysis, Regression Analysis, Descriptive Statistics, Statistical Inference, Software Installation

Status: Free Trial

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Business English: Basics

Skills you'll gain: Target Audience, Business Analysis, Business Communication, Communication Strategies, Analysis, English Language, Business Writing, Vocabulary, Verbal Communication Skills, Grammar

Status: Free Trial

Google

Google Advanced Data Analytics Capstone

Skills you'll gain: Regression Analysis, Data Visualization, Statistical Analysis, Advanced Analytics, Data Analysis, Business Analytics, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Predictive Modeling, Machine Learning Methods, Interviewing Skills, Portfolio Management

Status: Free Trial

Google

Google UX Design (PT)

Skills you'll gain: Adobe XD, User Experience Design, Usability Testing, Figma (Design Software), Responsive Web Design, Wireframing, Information Architecture, User Experience, Prototyping, UI/UX Research, Presentations, Design Reviews, User Story, Storyboarding, Mockups, Ideation, Software Documentation, User Research, User Centered Design, Web Design

University of Virginia

The Modern World, Part Two: Global History since 1910

Skills you'll gain: World History, International Relations, European History, Political Sciences, Social Sciences, Socioeconomics, Cultural Sensitivity, Economics, Governance

Status: Free Trial

IBM

Introduction to Cybersecurity Careers

Skills you'll gain: Cybersecurity, Technical Support and Services, Information Technology, Network Security, Cyber Security Strategy, Data Security, Computer Security Awareness Training, Cyber Security Policies

Status: Free Trial

Microsoft

Data Modeling in Power BI

Skills you'll gain: Data Analysis Expressions (DAX), Data Modeling, Star Schema, Power BI, Database Design, Data Transformation, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Performance Tuning

Political Science Courses

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Find the Best Political Science Course for Your Goals

Whole genome sequencing of bacterial genomes - tools and applications