Best Free Humanities Courses & MOOCs

Coursera

Princeton University

Food Ethics (Coursera)

Humanities

Discover the moral implications of what we eat with 'Food Ethics', a comprehensive online course offered by Coursera. This course examines how our dietary choices affect not only our health but also the welfare of animals, workers, and the environment. Learn about developing sustainable food systems that respect cultural differences and promote food justice for all. Whether you're interested in improving your personal eating habits or seeking to understand the broader implications of global food systems, 'Food Ethics' provides a unique perspective on how we can make more informed and ethical decisions about our food.

Jun 22nd 2026

5-12 Weeks

Food Food Security Food Production

Coursera

University of Barcelona

The Mediterranean, a Space of Exchange (from the Renaissance to Enlightenment) (Coursera)

Humanities History

Dive deep into the vibrant history of the Mediterranean with 'The Mediterranean, a Space of Exchange (from Renaissance to Enlightenment)', an insightful course that unravels the region's role as a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and innovations. Discover how movements of people, objects, ideas, and practices have shaped our world over centuries.

Jun 19th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Mediterranean Mediterranean Civilization

Coursera

Curtis Institute of Music

Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 4 (Coursera)

Humanities Art and Culture

Embark on a musical journey through the profound compositions of Ludwig van Beethoven with Part 4 of 'Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas.' This course, led by acclaimed pianist Jonathan Biss, delves into some of Beethoven’s less discussed works, offering insights and techniques to enhance your understanding and performance.

Jun 19th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Music Beethoven Sonata

Coursera

University of Edinburgh

Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science (Coursera)

Humanities

Discover how Philosophy, Science, and Religion intersect in 'Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science'. This course investigates leading thinkers' approaches to understanding the world, questioning whether these disciplines are mutually supportive or fundamentally at odds. Uncover what's distinctive about each inquiry and learn from experts in philosophy, science, and religion.

Jun 16th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Science Evolution Universe

Coursera

University of Edinburgh

Introduction to Philosophy (Coursera)

Humanities

Discover the basics of philosophy with this beginner-friendly course. Learn about logic, ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and more from top philosophers. Perfect for those new to the subject or anyone curious about life's big questions.

Jun 15th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Philosophy Metaphysics Epistemology

Coursera

Wesleyan University

The Modern and the Postmodern (Part 2) (Coursera)

Humanities

Discover how 'the modern' emerged in the late 18th century, shaping our understanding of progress and change. This course investigates whether we remain entrenched in modernity or have transitioned to a postmodern state, examining key philosophical and literary developments.

Jun 15th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Philosophy Culture

Coursera

University of Michigan

Model Thinking (Coursera)

Economics & Finance Humanities

In this comprehensive online course, 'Model Thinking', you'll explore the art and science of creating simplified representations of complex realities to better understand and navigate the world around us. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply curious about how we make sense of the chaos in our lives, this course will equip you with powerful tools to organize information, predict outcomes, and improve your decision-making processes.

Jun 15th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Business Economics Models

Coursera

Duke University

Sports and Society (Coursera)

Humanities Social Sciences

Discover how sports shape our societies with 'Sports and Society,' an insightful online course that uses anthropology, sociology, history, and other disciplines to provide fresh perspectives on the games we watch and play. Uncover the deeper layers influencing sports worldwide.

Jun 15th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Society Gender Sports

Coursera

University of Toronto

Introduction to Psychology (Coursera)

Humanities Social Sciences

Dive into the intriguing realm of psychology with our Introduction to Psychology course. Uncover the secrets behind the mind and behavior through compelling experiments, brain studies, memory, learning, attention, perception, consciousness, and more. Understand how we develop as humans and how social interactions shape our thoughts and actions.

Jun 15th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Learning Brain Mind