Free Online Poetry Courses & MOOCs

Coursera

University of Pennsylvania

Modern & Contemporary American Poetry (“ModPo”) (Coursera)

Art and Culture

Embark on a journey through the world of modern and contemporary U.S. poetry with ModPo, an engaging and free course designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Explore the realm of experimental verse, from the iconic works of Emily Dickinson and Walt Whitman to the latest creations in American poetry. This fast-paced course will equip you with the skills needed to decode and appreciate seemingly difficult poems.

Jun 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Poetry Modern American Poetry

Coursera

University of Virginia

Plagues, Witches, and War: The Worlds of Historical Fiction (Coursera)

Humanities

Dive into the rich tapestry of history through the lens of literature with 'Plagues, Witches, and War: The Worlds of Historical Fiction'. This course offers an engaging introduction to historical fiction, guiding you through classic texts, encounters with renowned authors, and the discovery of your own historical interests. Perfect for readers, aspiring writers, and history buffs alike.

Jun 8th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Art Poetry

Coursera

California Institute of the Arts

Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop (Coursera)

Humanities

Are you ready to take your poetry writing to the next level? 'Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop' is a comprehensive course for poets who want to refine their skills, experiment with new forms, and produce impactful poetry. Whether you're just starting out or have been writing for years, this workshop will provide you with the tools and techniques needed to elevate your work.

Jun 8th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Music Art Writing

Coursera

Emory University

So You Think You Know Tango? (Coursera)

Film & Audio

Embark on a captivating journey through the world of Argentine Tango with our exclusive two-week course. Designed for enthusiasts and professionals alike, this mini-course unravels the multifaceted layers of Tango music, from its roots to its global influence. Whether you're a dancer, musician, or simply a lover of music, this course promises an enriching exploration into one of the most celebrated dance forms in history.

Jun 8th 2026

2 Weeks

Music Poetry Dance

Coursera

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Modern American Poetry (Coursera)

Film & Audio

Discover the vibrant world of modern American poetry with this engaging online course. Join experienced professors as they guide you through the works of America's most celebrated poets, exploring their unique styles and contributions to the literary landscape. From the early 20th century to contemporary voices, this course offers a deep dive into the artistry and innovation that define modern American poetry.

May 25th 2026

4 Weeks

Art Poetry Dickinson

FutureLearn

Lancaster University,Royal Institution - RI

Humphry Davy: Laughing Gas, Literature, and the Lamp (FutureLearn)

Humanities Languages & Literature

Dive into the remarkable life of Sir Humphry Davy, a 19th-century scientist who revolutionized chemistry and contributed to literature. Learn about his groundbreaking discoveries, including the isolation of chemical elements and invention of the safety lamp, all while exploring his personal manuscripts at the Royal Institution of Great Britain.

Oct 9th 2023

4 Weeks

Science Literature Poetry

FutureLearn

Manchester Metropolitan University

How To Make A Poem (FutureLearn)

Languages & Literature Art and Culture

Embark on a creative journey with 'How To Make A Poem' – an online course designed to guide you through the art of writing poetry. From exploring inspiration sources to mastering different styles, this course will help you craft your unique voice in poetry. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this course offers comprehensive insights into what makes a poem compelling and how to tell when it's complete.

May 23rd 2022

3 Weeks

Literature Poem Poetry

FutureLearn

Lancaster University

William Wordsworth: Poetry, People and Place (FutureLearn)

Languages & Literature

Delve into the world of one of England's most celebrated poets with 'William Wordsworth: Poetry, People and Place'. This free online course, filmed at Dove Cottage in Grasmere, offers an intimate exploration of Wordsworth’s life, his relationship with nature, and how the stunning Lake District shaped his work. Join us to uncover the secrets behind Wordsworth’s poetry and understand the man behind the verses.

Mar 21st 2022

4 Weeks

Poetry English Literature William Wordsworth

FutureLearn

Manchester Grammar School

How to Read French Poetry (FutureLearn)

Languages & Literature

Discover the beauty and complexity of French poetry with our expert-led course. Whether you're a literature enthusiast or a student looking to deepen your understanding, 'How to Read French Poetry' offers a toolkit for navigating poetic language, exploring forms, and appreciating the nuances of French verse. Join us on this literary journey.

Sep 27th 2021

5-12 Weeks

Reading Poem Poetry