Free Online Colonialism Courses & MOOCs

Coursera

Lund University

African development – from the past to the present (Coursera)

Economics & Finance Social Sciences

Discover how Africa has evolved economically over centuries in 'African Development: From Past to Present'. This course takes you on an enlightening journey through Sub-Saharan Africa’s history, examining the influences of pre-colonial societies, colonial rule, post-independence liberalization, and contemporary challenges. Gain insights into the factors that have shaped modern-day Africa and explore future prospects for the continent.

Jun 1st 2026

5-12 Weeks

Economic Social Sciences Global Economy

Coursera

Johns Hopkins University

Ongoing U.S. Settler Colonialism & Native Peoples Teach-Out (Coursera)

Social Sciences

Dive into a critical examination of U.S. society as a current settler colonial nation with this enlightening teach-out. Gain insights into the lives and cultures of contemporary Indigenous Peoples/Native Nations and understand how settler colonialism affects everyone today.

May 18th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Colonialism Native Americans Critical Thinking

FutureLearn

The University of Newcastle, Australia

Indigeneity as a Global Concept (FutureLearn)

Health & Society Social Sciences

Dive into the fascinating world of indigenous cultures with 'Indigeneity as a Global Concept'. This FutureLearn course offers an in-depth exploration of the contemporary social, cultural, economic, and political situations faced by indigenous peoples globally. Over three weeks, you'll gain valuable insights into their diverse experiences and contributions to our interconnected world.

Jul 19th 2021

3 Weeks

Economic Political Cultural

First Peoples to the Early Republic: Born in Colonialism (Canvas.net)

Canvas Network

Seattle Central Community College

First Peoples to the Early Republic: Born in Colonialism (Canvas.net)

Humanities

Embark on a journey through history with 'First Peoples to the Early Republic: Born in Colonialism.' This course offers an insightful exploration of Native American cultures under colonial influence, European colonization efforts, particularly by the British in North America. You'll also uncover the pivotal events leading up to and following the War for Independence against Britain, including the framing of the U.S. Constitution and the emergence of political parties during the early republic era.

No sessions available

No Information

History Colonialism Republic

Saylor Academy

Saylor.org

Comparative New Worlds, 1400-1750 (saylor.org)

Humanities

Dive into a comprehensive study of New World societies with our Comparative New Worlds course spanning 1400-1750. This course offers an in-depth look at the interactions between Europeans and native peoples, as well as the profound changes that took place during this transformative period.

Legacy Course

Self-Paced

History Europe America

FutureLearn

The University of Newcastle, Australia

Great South Land: Introducing Australian history (FutureLearn)

Humanities History

Embark on a captivating journey through Australian history with 'Great South Land: Introducing Australian History' – a FutureLearn course designed to unravel the intricate layers of Australia’s past. From the deep time of Aboriginal history to the tumultuous periods of convictism and colonialism, this course provides an enlightening overview of key historical themes.

No sessions available

3 Weeks

Colonialism Australia Australian History

FutureLearn

University of Bristol

Decolonising Education: From Theory to Practice (FutureLearn)

Education

Discover how colonial legacies shape our current educational practices in this insightful course. Gain understanding into decolonization theory and apply it to real-world learning environments for a more just and equitable educational system.

Available now

4 Weeks

Education Colonialism Decolonising Education

EdX

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,HKPolyUx

Chinese Culture: Interaction (edX)

Humanities Art and Culture

Dive into a captivating journey through time as you explore five intriguing facets of Chinese cultural interaction in history with 'Chinese Culture: Interaction'. This course, part of the HKPolyUx series on Chinese culture, offers insights into China's relationships with the West, Central Asia, Vietnam, colonialism and anti-colonial movements, and the evolution of Chinese cuisine. Perfect for enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

China Vietnam Colonialism

FutureLearn

The University of Newcastle, Australia

Casing the Joint: Introducing Histories of Crime (FutureLearn)

History

Dive deep into the rich tapestry of Australian history as you explore the study of crime and punishment in this engaging online course. From the early days of colonization to contemporary times, 'Casing the Joint: Introducing Histories of Crime' offers a unique perspective on how crime has influenced our society.

No sessions available

3 Weeks

History Crime Colonialism