Best Free Humanities Courses & MOOCs

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.

Oct 9th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Mediterranean Mediterranean Civilization

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.

Oct 6th 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.

Oct 5th 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.

Oct 5th 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.

Oct 5th 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.

Oct 5th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Society Gender Sports

Coursera

University of London,Royal Holloway, University of London

Film, Images & Historical Interpretation in the 20th Century: The Camera Never Lies (Coursera)

Humanities

Dive into a fascinating exploration of how images and films have influenced our perception of the 20th century's pivotal moments. This course serves as an introduction to using visual media as crucial evidence in historical analysis, offering insights into photojournalism and film-based interpretations of history.

Oct 5th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Image History Film

Coursera

Tel Aviv University

The Emergence of the Modern Middle East - Part II (Coursera)

Humanities History

Dive deep into the rich tapestry of the Middle Eastern history with our course, The Emergence of the Modern Middle East - Part II. From the early 20th century to today's geopolitical landscape, this course unravels the rise and fall of Arab nationalism, explores the intricate relationship between religion and state governance, and examines the evolving dynamics of Islamist politics. Gain insights into the prolonged Arab-Israeli conflict and its profound impact on regional stability. Finally, we'll analyze the 'Arab Spring' revolutions within their historical context.

Oct 5th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History Conflict Contemporary

Coursera

Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Modern Hebrew Poetry שירה עברית מודרנית (Coursera)

Humanities

Embark on a captivating journey through the world of Modern Hebrew Poetry. This course offers an engaging exploration of Hebrew literary history, examining key texts and movements from the Enlightenment era to today's modern poets. Dive deep into the cultural and historical contexts that have shaped this vibrant art form.

Oct 5th 2026

13-24 Weeks

Poetry Hebrew Poetry Jewish Culture