Best Free Humanities Courses & MOOCs

Coursera

University of Barcelona

Magic in the Middle Ages (Coursera)

Humanities History

Embark on an enchanting journey through history with 'Magic in the Middle Ages', an online course designed to unravel the mysteries of magic during this transformative era. From popular spells to learned arts like alchemy, geomancy, and necromancy, this course offers a unique lens into medieval culture. Learn how Eastern influences shaped Western magical practices and explore astrology's role in medieval society. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those intrigued by the occult, this course promises an engaging and educational experience.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Astronomy History Middle Ages

Coursera

University of Pennsylvania

Ancient Philosophy: Plato & His Predecessors (Coursera)

Humanities

Dive into the rich history of Western thought with 'Ancient Philosophy: Plato & His Predecessors.' This course takes you back to ancient Greece where philosophy was born, examining the ideas of early thinkers like the Presocratic natural philosophers and leading up to the influential works of Plato. Discover how these pioneers laid the groundwork for science, religion, and philosophical discourse.

Sep 14th 2026

4 Weeks

Philosophy Ancient Greece Plato

Coursera

University of Virginia

The Modern World, Part Two: Global History since 1910 (Coursera)

Humanities Art and Culture

Embark on a journey through the tumultuous twentieth century with 'The Modern World, Part Two: Global History since 1910'. This course offers an insightful survey of global history from early 1900s to present day, examining how old ways gave way to new ideas and institutions. Understand the pivotal events that have shaped our contemporary world.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Global Crisis

Coursera

University of Virginia

The Modern World, Part One: Global History from 1760 to 1910 (Coursera)

Humanities History

Dive into 'The Modern World, Part One: Global History from 1760 to 1910' and embark on an enlightening journey through one of the most dynamic periods in human history. This course unravels the threads of political revolutions, economic transformations, and social changes that reshaped the world over a century. Whether you're a student, educator, or lifelong learner, this course provides a global perspective on how modern institutions were formed and challenged by rapid change.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Revolutions Atlantic World Industrial Revolution

Coursera

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Emotions: a Philosophical Introduction (Coursera)

Humanities Social Sciences

Dive deep into the world of emotions with 'Emotions: A Philosophical Introduction', an engaging online course that questions the nature, purpose, and existence of emotions. From understanding human emotional experiences to contemplating whether animals and even machines can feel, this course offers a unique philosophical perspective on what it means to be emotional. Learn why emotions drive our social interactions and cognitive processes, and how they shape our lives.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Emotions Emotional Awareness Emotional

Coursera

California Institute of the Arts

Ideas from the History of Graphic Design (Coursera)

Humanities

Embark on a journey through time to understand the rich tapestry of graphic design's past. This unique Coursera course offers an in-depth exploration into four critical periods or themes that have defined the evolution of design. From its inception as a recognized practice to contemporary approaches, this course will equip you with insights into why designs take their current forms and how designers have creatively addressed various challenges over the centuries.

Sep 14th 2026

4 Weeks

History Designer Graphic Design

Coursera

Yale University

Journey of the Universe: The Unfolding of Life (Coursera)

Humanities

Embark on an enlightening journey through 'Journey of the Universe: The Unfolding of Life'. This comprehensive course combines evolutionary science with history, philosophy, art, and religion to reveal the interconnectedness of all life forms. From the birth of galaxies to the evolution of human societies, this course offers a unique perspective on our cosmic origins and ecological future.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Earth Life Universe

Coursera

Yale University

The Worldview of Thomas Berry: The Flourishing of the Earth Community (Coursera)

Humanities

Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Worldview of Thomas Berry: The Flourishing of the Earth Community.' This course delves into the life, thought, and revolutionary ideas of Thomas Berry, an early advocate for ecological awareness. Explore how his 'new story' of the universe can inspire us to foster a sustainable future for our planet.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Earth Cosmology Universe

Coursera

Tel Aviv University

The History of Modern Israel - Part II: Challenges of Israel as a sovereign state (Coursera)

Humanities

Dive deep into the fascinating journey of modern Israel with 'The History of Modern Israel - Part II'. This course unravels the intricate tapestry of politics, economy, society, and culture in Israel from its inception in 1948 to present times. Learn about pivotal events and elements that have molded Israeli identity and explore how societal changes have impacted its governance and cultural landscape.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Israel Modern Israel