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

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Magíster en Ciencia de Datos
Skills you'll gain: Revenue Management, Data Ethics, Customer Analysis, Descriptive Analytics, FinTech, Database Design, People Analytics, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Biostatistics, Predictive Analytics, Statistical Reporting, Unsupervised Learning, Digital Transformation, Deep Learning, Risk Analysis, Bayesian Statistics, Exploratory Data Analysis, Cloud Security, Network Model, Data Visualization
Earn a degree
Degree · 1 - 4 Years
Microsoft
R Programming Essentials with Microsoft Tools
Skills you'll gain: Version Control, GitHub, Data Manipulation, Git (Version Control System), Software Documentation, Microsoft Development Tools, Microsoft Visual Studio, Microsoft Copilot, Data Import/Export, R Programming, Statistical Reporting, Statistical Analysis, Development Environment, Data Cleansing, Integrated Development Environments, Descriptive Statistics, Programming Principles, Debugging, Data Structures
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Microsoft
Data Manipulation and Cleaning in R
Skills you'll gain: Data Manipulation, Data Cleansing, Data Wrangling, Data Quality, Data Transformation, Tidyverse (R Package), R Programming, Data Validation, Text Mining, Data Structures, Automation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of London
Bachelor of Science in Marketing
Skills you'll gain: Process Design, Global Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Statistical Analysis, Organizational Change, Integrated Marketing Communications, Advertising, Innovation, Mergers & Acquisitions, Supply Chain Management, Training and Development, Virtual Teams, Diversity and Inclusion, Databases, Cost Accounting, International Finance, Research, Branding, Economic Development, Cultural Diversity
Earn a degree
Degree · 1 - 4 Years
Status: New
Google Cloud
Intégrer des applications avec Gemini 1.0 Pro sur Google Cloud
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Microsoft
Indexing, Performance Optimization & Functions in SQL Server
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course
Status: New
Google Cloud
Google Cloud에서 생성형 AI 앱 만들기
Skills you'll gain:
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Microsoft
Relational Database Design and Advanced Querying
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course
Microsoft
JavaScript Data and Applications
Skills you'll gain: Ajax, Node.JS, React.js, JSON, Javascript, Application Development, Application Programming Interface (API), Web Applications
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
Whizlabs
Information System Auditing, Governance and Management
Skills you'll gain: Audit Planning, Enterprise Architecture, IT Management, Compliance Auditing, Information Technology, Compliance Management, Regulatory Compliance, Auditing, Risk Management, Internal Controls, Governance, Continuous Monitoring, Risk Analysis, Quality Assurance, Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), Workforce Management
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Microsoft
Statistical Analysis and Advanced Techniques
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course
Microsoft
Exploratory Data Analysis and Visualization
Skills you'll gain:
Beginner · Course