Free Online Chinese Culture Courses & MOOCs

Coursera

The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Religious Transformation in Early China: the Period of Division (Coursera)

Humanities History

Embark on a journey through ancient Chinese history with 'Religious Transformation in Early China: The Period of Division.' Discover how religious beliefs and cultural practices evolved during this pivotal era, influencing philosophy, bureaucracy, and economics. This course offers an in-depth look at the moments of paradigm shift that defined early Chinese civilization.

Oct 5th 2026

5-12 Weeks

China Buddhist Chinese Culture

Coursera

The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Intellectual Change in Early China: Warring States and Han (Coursera)

Humanities History

Embark on an enlightening journey through four interconnected courses that examine the pivotal moments of paradigm shift in early China's intellectual landscape. From the Warring States period to the Han Dynasty, this course explores how changing social, political, and economic systems influenced philosophical thought, literature, ritual, and more.

Oct 5th 2026

5-12 Weeks

History China Chinese Culture

EdX

MandarinX

Chinese Idioms: A Thousand Miles (edX)

Languages & Literature

Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Chinese culture with 'Chinese Idioms: A Thousand Miles'. This course is designed for learners of all levels who wish to delve into the fascinating world of Chinese proverbs and idioms. Gain insights into their historical roots, understand their nuanced meanings, and learn how they are used in everyday conversation.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Chinese Culture Chinese Chinese Language

Chinese Language in Culture: Level 1 (edX)

EdX

MIT,MITx

Chinese Language in Culture: Level 1 (edX)

Languages & Literature

Embark on a journey to learn both Mandarin Chinese and immerse yourself in its rich culture with our introductory course, 'Chinese Language in Culture: Level 1'. This course is designed for absolute beginners who wish to understand the nuances of modern standard Chinese (Mandarin), spoken by millions worldwide. From Mainland China's official language to one of Singapore’s official languages, Mandarin holds a significant place globally.

Apr 21st 2022

5-12 Weeks

Languages China Chinese Culture

Géopolitique de la Chine contemporaine (FUN)

FUN

Institut Catholique de Paris

Géopolitique de la Chine contemporaine (FUN)

Humanities Social Sciences

Plongez au cœur des mécanismes qui animent la géopolitique chinoise contemporaine avec ce MOOC dédié. Explorez l'histoire, le régime politique et les ambitions internationales de la Chine pour mieux comprendre son influence mondiale. Ce cours est idéal pour tout individu intéressé par les affaires chinoises ou professionnellement impliqué dans des interactions avec la Chine.

No sessions available

5-12 Weeks

China Chinese Culture Geopolitics

FutureLearn

City University of Hong Kong

Foundation of Innovation and Entrepreneurship in China (FutureLearn)

Management & Leadership

Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and its profound impact on innovation and entrepreneurship. This free online course, offered by FutureLearn, provides an insightful exploration into how China’s historical context, societal values, and economic strategies have fostered a unique environment for creativity, invention, and business startups. Learn from experts about the secrets behind China's rapid growth and how you can apply these principles globally.

No sessions available

5-12 Weeks

Innovation China Entrepreneurship

FutureLearn

University of Exeter

Many Faces: Understanding the Complexities of Chinese Culture (FutureLearn)

Humanities Languages & Literature

Dive deep into the heart of Chinese culture with our exclusive online course, Many Faces: Understanding the Complexities of Chinese Culture. This unique program will guide you through the intricate world of Chinese art, literature, and the concept of the 'noble hero', providing a fresh perspective on modern China that goes beyond clichés and stereotypes.

Available Now

4 Weeks

China Chinese Culture Chinese History

EdX

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,HKPolyUx

Chinese Culture: Tradition (edX)

Humanities Art and Culture

Dive into the fascinating world of traditional Chinese culture with our exclusive edX course. This engaging program offers a deep dive into five key aspects: Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, Sunzi's The Art of War, ancient Chinese warfare strategies, and the intricate art of Song dynasty painting. Join us to uncover the secrets behind one of the world's oldest civilizations.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Chinese Culture Buddhism Confucianism

EdX

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,HKPolyUx

Chinese Culture: Transformation (edX)

Humanities Art and Culture

Discover the captivating evolution of Chinese culture across various dimensions with our 'Chinese Culture: Transformation' course. This engaging program offers an in-depth look at five pivotal aspects that have shaped modern China's cultural landscape. From the influential Four Great Classical Chinese Novels to the artistry of Chinese opera and the intellectual developments within private Confucian academies, this course provides a unique perspective on China's rich history. Delve into New Confucianism's emergence in the 20th century and examine gender politics in early New China. Join us for an enlightening journey through the transformation of Chinese culture.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Chinese Culture Confucianism Mao Zedong