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.

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Find the Best Political Science Course for Your Goals

Universidad de los Andes
Maestría en Gerencia de la Ingeniería
Skills you'll gain: Project Management Life Cycle, Conflict Management, Organizational Strategy, Project Closure, Product Management, Business Modeling, Systems Thinking, Prototyping, Engineering Management, Strategic Decision-Making, Project Management Institute (PMI) Methodology, Feasibility Studies, Team Oriented, Financial Statements, Technology Strategies, Asset Management, Environmental Management Systems, Agile Methodology, Operations Research, Project Risk Management
Earn a degree
Degree · 1 - 4 Years
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
SQL Foundations
Skills you'll gain: Microsoft SQL Servers, SQL, Transact-SQL, Databases, Database Management Systems, Relational Databases, Data Transformation, Data Manipulation, Data Access, Query Languages, Generative AI, Data Presentation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Microsoft R Programming for Everyone
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Microsoft SQL Server
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
JavaScript Data and Applications
Skills you'll gain: Software Testing, Application Programming Interface (API), Ajax, Javascript, JSON, Unit Testing, Maintainability, Restful API, Debugging, Web Applications, Performance Tuning
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
JavaScript Development Tools and React
Skills you'll gain: Maintainability, React.js, Debugging, Application Development, JavaScript Frameworks, Web Development Tools, Software Testing, Code Review, Software Development Tools, Application Security, Software Development
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Google Cloud
Intégrer des applications avec Gemini 1.0 Pro sur Google Cloud
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, Google Cloud Platform, Artificial Intelligence, Application Development, Cloud Applications, Application Programming Interface (API), Development Testing
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Data Manipulation and Transactions in SQL Server
Skills you'll gain: Transaction Processing, Database Management, Microsoft SQL Servers, Operational Databases, SQL, Data Manipulation, Relational Databases, Data Integrity, Generative AI, Performance Tuning
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Universidad de los Andes
Maestría en Ingeniería de Software
Skills you'll gain: User Story, Cloud-Native Computing, Continuous Deployment, Software Testing, API Design, Process Analysis, Stakeholder Management, Game Design, Agile Project Management, Dashboard, Ideation, Internet Of Things, Angular, Android Development, Security Requirements Analysis, Maintainability, Microservices, Cloud Applications, Probability & Statistics, Machine Learning Methods
Earn a degree
Degree · 1 - 4 Years
Status: New
Google Cloud
Networking in Google Cloud: Hybrid and Multicloud - Français
Skills you'll gain: Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Google Cloud Platform, Multi-Cloud, Hybrid Cloud Computing, Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Computing, General Networking, Network Routing, Wide Area Networks, Network Infrastructure, Network Security
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Google Cloud
Usar o BigQuery ML para inferência
Skills you'll gain: Analytics, Data Analysis, Big Data, Applied Machine Learning, Statistical Inference, Google Cloud Platform, Machine Learning Methods, SQL
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Microsoft
Advanced Data Applications and Integration
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course