Looking for an immediate but low-cost way to diversify your knowledge and skills? The University of Washington offers a wide range of free online courses based on UW certificate and degree programs that you can start instantly on Coursera. Take one course or several — you can even earn a specialization.

The best part? Since these classes are 100% free, they are an excellent way to explore at your own pace without impacting your wallet. (On Coursera, just be sure to select the "audit" option to sign up for a free course).

Start learning in one of these 6 areas today. 

Free Coursera Courses

1. Data Science, Machine Learning & AI

With advances in AI driving innovation, there’s never been a better time to learn data science, machine learning and AI. 

• Data Science at Scale Specialization (4-course series)
• Designing Autonomous AI
• Machine Learning Specialization (4-course series)
• Machine Teaching for Autonomous AI

2. Marketing & Social Media

Whether you want to promote your own business or explore a communications career, it’s good to have marketing skills in your toolkit. 

• Essential Marketing Frameworks
• Social Media Data Analytics

3. Project Management

Want to bring ideas to life and lead teams to success? The demand for project managers is strong, with the labor analytics company Lightcast projecting a 16.4% increase in jobs for project management specialists from 2024 to 2034. 

• Project Management Quickstart

4. Programming & Web Development

In an era of new digital technologies and on-demand everything, having a fundamental knowledge of programming and common programming languages is a huge asset. Whether you’re building a website or launching an app, the ability to create the underlining systems that power our platforms and networks can take you far.

• Programming Languages, Part A
• Programming Languages, Part B
• Programming Languages, Part C

And if websites are your thing, you can master the basics of front-end development with this course.

•  Building Web Pages With HTML & CSS

5. Public Speaking

Work presentations got you terrified? This four-course specialization will help you design and deliver compelling presentations.

• Dynamic Public Speaking Specialization (4-course series)

6. Business Skills for Non-Native English Speakers

New to the American business world and want to advance your skills and your career? Learning how to introduce yourself with poise, write polished emails and connect with your colleagues and business partners can give you an edge in the workplace.  

• Business English Communication Skills Specialization (5-course series)

Keep Learning

For even more free skill-building courses, visit University of Washington's Coursera page.

For more career tips and industry trends, visit the News & Features section of our website, and subscribe to our email list. To learn more about UW Professional & Continuing Education certificates, specializations, degrees and courses, explore your options or contact us.