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Designed by York academics, our Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are free and open to everyone. Engage with uni-level study, explore a new subject area, or prepare for higher education.

Completing certain MOOCs might make you eligible for an alternative offer to study with us.

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Free online short courses (MOOCs) for everyone

Mathematics of Cryptography

Learn about some of the strongest codes ever known. Available as a self-guided course.

Pubs: History, Consumers, Management and Protection.

Learn about pubs from both historical and contemporary perspectives. Available as a self-guided course.

Business History of the FIFA World Cup

Study the development of the FIFA World Cup. Tutor facilitation starts 29 January 2024

Pathways to success: making the most of your time at university

Prepare yourself for your higher education journey Tutor facilitation starts 27 November 2023.

STEM Teaching

Discover the importance of interdisciplinary science teaching. Tutor facilitation starts 12 February.

Diverse routes into higher education

Make the most of your educational background to find a way into university. Available as a self-guided course.

Supporting you with your university interview

Support, tips and general guidance on how to navigate university interviews. Available as a self-guided course.

Enterprise: everyone's business

Expand your ability to grow career opportunities. Available as a self-guided course.

Mature learners

Helping you demystify the steps back into studying. Available as a self-guided course.

Next steps to university

Explore higher education and learn tips for making the most of university. New dates to be available in the future.

Exploring Stone Age archaeology

Further your interest in the past through a deep dive into a single case study. Available as a self-guided course.

The language of truth

Jump into philosophical concepts and use logic to evaluate arguments. Available as a self-guided course.

An introduction to nursing

Find out where a career in nursing has the potential to lead you. Available as a self-guided course.

Tackling environmental challenges

How environmental research can inform our response to global sustainability issues. Available as a self-guided course.

Intelligent systems

Understand our codependency with machines to tackle digital challenges. Available as a self-guided course.

Introduction to cognitive psychology

Develop an understanding of cognitive psychology as an experimental science. Available as a self-guided course.

Accents, attitudes and identity

Discover how our visions of ourselves and others interact. Available as a self-guided course.

Bugs, brains and beasts

Learn to reinforce basic biological concepts through cutting-edge research. Available as a self-guided course.

Behavioural activation for depression

Boost your awareness of depressive states, and one of the techniques to tackle them. Available as a self-guided course.

Lights, camera, computer - action!

Discover the emerging technologies shaping the future of storytelling. Available as a self-guided course.

Frontier physics, future technologies

Grapple with the building blocks of the universe. Available as a self-guided course.

Join the fight for a sustainable world that protects future generations. Available as a self-guided course.

How to read a poem

Dive into the wonderful world of analysing poetry Available as a self-guided course.

Poverty and inequality

Learn of the ways in which we can tackle social injustice. Available as a self-guided course.

Exploring everyday chemistry

The organic chemistry behind perfume, medicine, brewing and sport. Available as a self-guided course.

From crime to punishment

Work through a case study which follows the story of a defendant. Available as a self-guided course.

Engineering the future

Reimagine your perception of engineering by exploring real-world applications. Available as a self-guided course.

Discover the Hidden History of York

Explore the history of York from a range of new perspectives. Available as a self-guided course.

Pictures of youth

Examine popular visual culture for children and young people. Available as a self-guided course.

An introduction to art history

Broaden your understanding of sculpture and materiality. Available as a self-guided course.

Digital wellbeing

Consider the impact of digital technologies on health, relationships and society. Available as a self-guided course.

Inclusive learning for students

Develop understandings of others and your unique place within education communities. Available as a self-guided course.

Private online courses for York offer holders

If you have a place to study for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree with us,  you can access short private online courses to help you prepare to become part of our learning community.

Incoming undergraduates

Helping you prepare for the whole university experience. Available as a self-guided course.

Incoming postgraduates

Supporting your transition to postgraduate study. Available as a self-guided course.

Figuring out your degree

How the supported learning of maths can be integral to your studies and beyond. Available as a self-guided course.

How MOOCs work

By trying a MOOC, you'll be joining our global learning community. They're designed by our world-leading academics, and give the perfect insight into a wide range of subjects. We also run courses exclusive to York offer holders to help prepare them for life with us.

You can study alongside York tutors and other learners on 'facilitated' courses at set dates through the year, or take them at your own pace at any time. They last between two and four weeks, and are delivered through videos, quizzes, case studies and group discussions.

There aren't any entry requirements; all you need is an internet connection and a passion to learn. Jump in.

The course was full to the brim with info to make the transition to uni much smoother and less daunting. I absolutely love the interactivity and videos throughout, which definitely gave it a community feel. I can’t recommend it enough! Amy, Next Steps to University course

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Our Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), delivered through Coursera , let you experience studying online to develop a personal interest, build on existing skills, or as a stepping stone to new career opportunities. 

Some of these courses are also designed to prepare you for the flexible online degrees that we offer. You'll be introduced to the types of themes that appear in courses such as the BSc Computer Science and Global MBA. 

I recommend the University of London and the Coursera platform. It’s the best way and a safe and secure platform to learn in this modern world. There’s so much information out there, you don’t know which is real and which you can rely on, but so far Coursera has been the best learning platform I’ve come across. Battsirai Mudzivare, Dubai | BSc Marketing

Business, Management and Marketing

Brand management, business sustainability in the circular economy, consumption, marketing and culture, corporate strategy, doing economics: measuring climate change, explore management concepts through metaphor and music, fundamentals of international business, fundamentals of marketing strategy, how to finance and grow your startup – without vc, international business capstone, international business environment, international business essentials, management skills for international business, managing the company of the future, operations systems excellence, professional skills for international business, quantitative foundations for international business, statistics for international business, the manager's toolkit: a practical guide to managing people at work, computing and information systems, building interactive 3d characters and social vr, creative programming for digital media and mobile apps, cyber crime, cyber security – technology and governance, cyber security fundamentals, foundations of data science: k-means clustering in python, how computers work, introduction to applied cryptography, introduction to computer programming, introduction to computer science and programming specialisation, introduction to computer security, introduction to meteor.js development, introduction to network security, introduction to virtual reality, machine learning for all, making your first virtual reality game, object oriented programming specialisation, responsive web design, responsive website basics, responsive website development and design, responsive website development and design capstone, responsive website tutorial and examples, security management and governance, use c++ to build a crypto trading platform i: user input, use c++ to build a crypto trading platform ii: data, use c++ to build a crypto trading platform iii: functions, use c++ to build a crypto trading platform iv: objects, use c++ to build a crypto trading platform v: final system, virtual reality, virtual reality - 3d interaction design, virtual reality - 3d models, web application development, humanities, social sciences, development, applied public history, global diplomacy – diplomacy in the modern world, global diplomacy: the united nations in the world, global energy and climate policy, internal displacement, conflict and protection, introduction to who wrote shakespeare, magna carta and its legacies, refugees in the 21st century, the camera never lies, understanding research methods, teaching and learning in education, get interactive: practical teaching with technology, ict in primary education: transforming children's learning across the curriculum, teaching efl/esl reading: a task based approach, what future for education, citizenship and the rule of law, english common law: structure and principles.

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OpenLearn Scotland hub

OpenLearn  is a site of free online learning from The Open University. It gives you access to Open University course materials and expert opinion on topical issues. You'll find over 900 free courses, totalling over 10,000 hours of learning.

Resources developed for Scotland include  OpenLearn Scotland   - a  hub of free resources on the nation's history, society and culture. 

Other Scottish or related resources on OpenLearn and OpenLearn Create: 

• Bespoke online portals to relevant OpenLearn content, developed by The Open University in Scotland for: workers who are at risk of redundancy ; jobseekers and young people ; community councils ; and for the community learning and development workforce .
• Carer Aware at University - a module for staff at all universities in Scotland, to improve support for students who are also carers.
• Caring Counts  - a self-reflection and planning course specifically for carers.
• Caring Counts in the Workplace  - a reflection and planning course for managers and policy makers.
• Foundations for self-directed support in Scotland  - funded by the Scottish Government to provide a broad grounding in personalisation to a wide range of people: service users, carers and those employed in health and social care.
• Gaelic in modern Scotland  – available in both English and Gaelic a free learning resource to raise awareness of Gaelic and encourage interest in learning the language.
• Identifying and supporting additional support needs in early learning and childcare (ELC)  - commissioned by the Scottish Government and produced in partnership with members of the OU's Early Childhood team.
• Open Pathways to Higher Education  - a guide for studying with informal OU learning and moving on to formal OU learning.
• Race and place - a poem by Scots Makar (Scotland's national poet) and OU honorary graduate, Jackie Kay. 
• Scotland’s links with Caribbean slavery - an article by Scotland’s first Black professor, leading human rights and Open University honorary graduate, Prof Sir Geoff Palmer CD. 
• Sustainable Scotland  - an introduction to different aspects of sustainability that impact on Scotland and the wider world.  
• The OU in Scotland has contributed to TV programmes ​made by The Open University, in collaboration with other broadcasters, including Gold Town . There is more information on the OU BBC Partnership website . 

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Many organisations offer free online learning in a range of subjects and levels. You can explore providers, the subjects they offer and the levels available before choosing. For advice on what to look out for, see our guide to choosing an online course.

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Courses offered by state funded universities and colleges are inspected and approved by the government. Private companies offering online learning are not, so you'll need to check to make sure that courses are of good quality.

The Open and Distance Learning Quality Council's guide may help you to find good quality online courses.

There are also commercial organisations offering some of their usually paid for courses for free for a trial period. Make sure to check the terms and conditions before signing up. Some providers to check are:

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• Pluralsight Skills - some free introductory digital skills courses available

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Free Online Courses with Certificates

OHSC is proud to offer access to some of the UK’s finest 100%  free   online courses with certificates of completion available for a small fee.

With not a penny to pay, no strings attached and no entry requirements whatsoever, anyone interested in furthering their education now has the chance to study at home for free!

Our free online courses with optional certificates  are designed to be comprehensively accessible and as flexible as possible. Enhance existing knowledge, explore a  new subject   or take the first steps toward an exciting new career.

Regardless of your age, location and educational background, our  free home study courses  are open to everyone.

Free Online Courses Currently Available at OHSC

We are constantly searching for dynamic new courses to add to our range of 100% free distance learning opportunities – check back regularly, or call our admissions team to find out what’s new.

At present, our range of outstanding free courses with optional certificates includes:

We’re working hard to bring together a diverse range of free courses, in order to appeal to as many new students as possible. Enrolment is open throughout the year and we provide all essential course materials.

When  OHSC  promises 100% free courses, we deliver on a word – the course in its entirety is 100% free from start to finish!

Free Courses Online with Three Optional Certificates Available

All of the above courses are FREE to study, with all course materials and learning resources included a standard.

Upon completion of your course, you will have the option of claiming one of three types of certificates for a small few:

• An official Course Completion Certificate from Oxford Home Study Centre
• A CPD Accredited Certificate to boost your CPD profile
• An Endorsed Certificate issued by the Quality Licence Scheme

Each of these optional certificates could prove instrumental in helping you achieve your long-term career goals, adding major weight to your CV and future job applications.

Head over to our pricing page for more information on certificate costs and postage options. Alternatively, contact or contact our student support team anytime to learn more about our  free online courses with certificates of completion available for a small fee.

The Benefits of Further Education with Oxford Home Study Centre

A  free online course  from OHSC could be ideal for anyone looking to:

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• Start their own business from scratch or setup as a freelancer

The right educational background has the potential to transform your career prospects and education alike. OHSC believes that adult learning should be open to anyone with an interest in improving their prospects.

“I was genuinely impressed by the quality of the course and the extent to which the support team helped me. I would definitely recommend OHSC to others.” – Lauren Edwards, Bristol

“I wanted to revisit project management as it was something I began studying years ago though never completed the course. The offer of a free course from OHSC seemed too good be true, but the content and customer service were both first-rate.” – Jason Wright, Huddersfield

Why Study with OHSC?

Along with the widest range of high-quality distance learning opportunities in the UK, we take in pride in offering the total customer service package. Whether opting for a paid course or studying free of charge, OHSC guarantees total commitment to every candidate without exception.

Just a selection of the advantages of studying with us include:

• A growing library of outstanding courses is diverse, relevant subjects
• The option of  claiming one of three certificates to support your CV
• Study from anywhere in the world with an internet connection
• No deadlines or time restrictions to worry about
• Assistance from the OHSC team at all times
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• Free enrolment open all year with no strings attached
• All course materials provided by us as standard with every course

Once again, all of the above is offered 100% free of charge by OHSC. We take enormous pride in helping thousands of candidates each year in reaching their full potential. Browse a list of our Online College Courses now.

Enrol Today

Enrolment is quick and easy, making now the perfect time to get started. Simply pay a visit to our  enrolment page , or  get in touch  with our admissions team at any time for more information.

Applications are welcome throughout the year and there are no deadlines or time restrictions. Study in your own time and at your own pace, with helpful advice from our team whenever you need us.

For more information on any of our  free courses online with optional certificates  or to discuss enrolment, get in touch with the OHSC team today on 01865 686162, or drop us an email anytime at  [email protected] . 

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Tech Nation's Digital Business Academy offers 90 free business courses to help you found, grow or join a digital business. 

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20 Best Free Online Courses with Certificates in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and colleges. However, not everyone can afford to attend these institutions. Fortunately, we are here with a list of 20 best free online courses with certificates that you can take from the comfort of your own home.

These courses are offered by some of the UK’s top universities and colleges, including Yale University , the University of Southampton, King’s College London, Public Health England, and the University of Leeds , among others.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Online Learning

Online learning has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more students opting for this mode of education.

Pursuing an online education comes with several benefits that make it a viable alternative to traditional in-person learning.

Here are some of the benefits of online learning:

• Flexibility : Online learning allows you to learn at your own pace and on your schedule. You can access course materials and lectures at any time, from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection.
• Accessibility : Online learning removes geographical barriers to education. You can enroll in courses offered by renowned educational institutions or industry leaders across the globe without having to relocate or commute.
• Cost-effective : Online learning is often more affordable than traditional in-person learning. You can save money on commuting, parking fees, and other expenses associated with attending classes on campus.
• Convenience : Online learning is convenient and saves you time. You don’t have to worry about commuting to class or relocating to a new city.
• Comfortable learning environment : Online learning allows you to learn in a comfortable environment of your choice. You can create a dedicated learning space at home or work and learn at your own pace.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Free Online Courses with Certificates in the UK

• Credibility of the Institution/Platform: Emphasis is placed on courses offered by reputable institutions or well-known online learning platforms.
• User Reviews and Ratings: Courses with positive user reviews and high ratings are given preference.
• Certification: Courses that offer a certificate of completion or achievement are preferred.
• Accessibility for International Learners: Courses are selected with consideration for international learners, ensuring that they are accessible globally.

List of the Best Free Online Courses with Certificates in the UK

Below is one of the best free online courses with certificates in the UK:

• Introduction to Cybersecurity offered by the University of Southampton on FutureLearn
• English for the Workplace offered by the British Council on FutureLearn
• The Science of Well-Being is offered by Yale University on Coursera
• Introduction to Web Development offered by the University of Leeds on FutureLearn
• Introduction to Computer Science offered by Harvard University on edX
• Introduction to Python Programming offered by the University of Edinburgh on FutureLearn
• Introduction to Digital Marketing offered by Google on Google Digital Garage
• Introduction to Project Management offered by the University of Adelaide on edX
• Introduction to Data Science in Python offered by the University of Michigan on Coursera
• Introduction to Data Analysis using Excel offered by Microsoft on edX
• Introduction to Psychology offered by the University of Toronto on Coursera
• Introduction to Philosophy offered by the University of Edinburgh on Coursera
• Introduction to Environmental Science offered by the University of York on FutureLearn
• Introduction to Business Management offered by the University of California, Irvine on Coursera
• Introduction to Financial Accounting offered by the University of Pennsylvania on Coursera
• Introduction to Human Resource Management offered by the University of Minnesota on Coursera
• Introduction to Supply Chain Management offered by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on edX
• Introduction to Public Speaking offered by the University of Washington on Coursera
• Introduction to Negotiation offered by Yale University on Coursera
• Introduction to Critical Thinking offered by the University of Auckland on FutureLearn .

20 Best Free Online Courses with Certificates in the UK

1. introduction to cybersecurity offered by the university of southampton on futurelearn.

• School : University of Southampton
• Duration : 8 weeks

The University of Southampton offers an online course on Introduction to Cybersecurity on FutureLearn. The course is designed to help learners understand the essentials of cybersecurity and build their skills to better protect their digital information from security threats.

The course is eight weeks long and requires a commitment of three hours per week. Upon completion of the course, learners are eligible for a digital certificate.

The course is taught by Cory Doctorow, a renowned author and activist who has written extensively on the intersection of technology, politics, and society.

The course is supported by the UK Government’s National Cyber Security Programme, is NCSC Assured Training, and is IISP accredited.

The course covers a range of topics, including the current threat landscape, authentication, malware, networking and communications, cryptography, network security, and managing security risks. Learners will also explore intrusion detection systems (IDS) and honeypots to detect attacks.

2. English for the Workplace offered by the British Council on FutureLearn

• School : British Council
• Duration : It is estimated to take around 3 weeks to complete, with a recommended study time of 2 hours per week.

The British Council offers a free online course on English for the Workplace on FutureLearn. This course is designed for English learners who are interested in developing their language skills for employability and workplace contexts.

The course focuses on key aspects of English for the workplace and offers functional language phrases and real, authentic workplace scenarios. The course does not follow a language syllabus but takes workplace English as its starting point.

Short quizzes and discussions will help you measure your understanding and practice your English. As you progress through the various topics, you’ll learn plenty of business English vocabulary and workplace English expressions that you can use at work and when applying for jobs.

3. The Science of Well-Being offered by Yale University on Coursera

• School : Yale University
• Duration : 3 weeks

The Science of Well-Being is a course offered by Yale University on Coursera that aims to help individuals increase their happiness and build more productive habits.

The course is designed to be completed in approximately 19 hours over 3 weeks, with a flexible schedule that allows learners to learn at their own pace.

The course is taught by Professor Laurie Santos, who reveals misconceptions about happiness, annoying features of the mind that lead us to think the way we do, and the research that can help us change.

The course consists of 10 modules, each of which is designed to help learners gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals. The modules cover topics such as gratitude, happiness, meditation, and savoring.

The course also includes assessments, quizzes, and optional pre-course surveys to help learners measure their happiness and discover their strengths. Upon completion of the course, learners will receive a shareable certificate that they can add to their LinkedIn profile.

4. Introduction to Web Development offered by the University of Leeds on FutureLearn

• School : University of Leeds
• Duration : 6 weeks

The University of Leeds offers a range of online courses on FutureLearn, including Introduction to Web Development. This course is designed for beginners and covers the basics of web development using HTML5.

The course is self-paced and can be completed in your own time. It is divided into several modules, each of which covers a different aspect of web development. By the end of the course, you will have a solid understanding of HTML5 and be able to create your web pages.

The course is delivered entirely online and is free to enroll. You will have access to a range of learning materials, including video lectures, quizzes, and interactive exercises. You will also have the opportunity to connect with other learners from around the world and share your experiences.

5. Introduction to Computer Science offered by Harvard University on edX

• School: Harvard University
• Duration: 11 weeks long

Harvard University offers an online course on edX called CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science. This course is designed for both majors and non-majors, with or without prior programming experience.

The course is taught by David J. Malan and is an entry-level course that teaches students how to think algorithmically and solve problems efficiently.

The course covers a wide range of topics including abstraction, algorithms, data structures, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web development.

The course also includes problem sets inspired by real-world domains of biology, cryptography, finance, forensics, and gaming. The languages covered in the course include C, Python, SQL, and JavaScript plus CSS and HTML.

6. Introduction to Python Programming offered by the University of Edinburgh on FutureLearn

• School : University of Edinburgh
• Duration : The course is offered on FutureLearn and is self-paced. It is estimated to take around 16 hours to complete.

The University of Edinburgh offers a beginner-level course on Python programming called Introduction to Python. The course is available to all staff and students and is aimed at those who are completely new to programming.

The course is designed to teach the basics of Python programming, from logic and functions to debugging.

The course is created by Ignat Georgiev, an Undergraduate Electronics and Software Engineering student working with the team. The course is offered in three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced.

The beginner course is open to booking and is aimed at staff and students from all disciplines who are completely new to programming. The intermediate course focuses on data science for researchers, while the advanced course focuses on using Python with high-performance computing.

7. Introduction to Digital Marketing offered by Google on Google Digital Garage

• School : Google Digital Garage
• Duration : Self-paced, approximately 40 hours of study

Google Digital Garage offers a free online course called Fundamentals of Digital Marketing that covers the basics of digital marketing. The course is self-paced and accredited by the Interactive Advertising Bureau Europe and the Open University.

It features 26 modules, each covering a specific topic, and is fully created by Google staff. The course is designed to be beginner-friendly, enabling anyone with an interest in digital marketing to participate.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including how to get a business online, the basics of code, online advertising, and machine learning.

It also includes modules on how to promote a business with content, communicate ideas through storytelling and design, and effective networking.

Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate of achievement from Google Digital Garage. The certificate can be added to your LinkedIn profile or resume to showcase your digital marketing skills.

8. Introduction to Project Management offered by the University of Adelaide on edX

• School : University of Adelaide
• Duration : 5 weeks

The University of Adelaide offers a free online course on Introduction to Project Management on edX. The course is designed to teach the principles of project management and how to apply them in your work and life. It is a 5-week course that requires an effort of 2 to 3 hours per week and is suitable for beginners.

In the course, you will learn how to plan, scope, schedule, cost, and manage your project from beginning to end. You will also learn how to explore and understand your goals from the outset of your project and consider all the factors that may affect its execution. The course will show you practical ways to use project management skills, whether your project is large or small.

9. Introduction to Data Science in Python offered by the University of Michigan on Coursera

• School : University of Michigan
• Duration : 4 weeks

The Introduction to Data Science in Python course offered by the University of Michigan on Coursera is a great way to learn the basics of data science using Python. The course is part of Applied Data Science with Python Specialization and is taught in English.

The course is designed for learners who have a basic understanding of Python programming and want to learn how to apply statistical, machine learning, information visualization, text analysis, and social network analysis techniques through popular Python toolkits such as pandas, matplotlib, sci-kit-learn, nltk, and networks to gain insight into their data.

The course is divided into four modules. In the first module, you will get an introduction to the field of data science, review common Python functionality and features that data scientists use, and be introduced to the Coursera Jupyter Notebook for the lectures.

The second module will introduce you to the basics of the Python programming environment, including fundamental Python programming techniques such as lambdas, reading and manipulating CSV files, and the NumPy library.

The third module will introduce data manipulation and cleaning techniques using the popular Python pandas data science library and introduce the abstraction of the Series and DataFrame as the central data structures for data analysis, along with tutorials on how to use functions such as group, merge, and pivot tables effectively.

Finally, the fourth module will teach you how to take tabular data, clean it, manipulate it, and run basic inferential statistical analyses.

10. Introduction to Data Analysis using Excel offered by Microsoft on edX

• School : Microsoft on edX

Microsoft offers a course on Introduction to Data Analysis using Excel on edX. This course is designed to teach the basics of Excel, one of the most popular data analysis tools, to help visualize and gain insights from data.

The course is self-paced and takes approximately 4 weeks to complete, with an estimated workload of 2-4 hours per week.

The course covers the following topics:

• Excel tables and their advantages over regular ranges
• Creating pivot tables from a range with rows and columns in Excel
• Using pivot tables to summarize data in flexible ways.
• Creating pivot charts and slicers to visualize data and create easy-to-use dashboards.
• Using Excel formulas to aggregate data and create meaningful reports.

11. Introduction to Psychology offered by the University of Toronto on Coursera

• School : University of Toronto

The University of Toronto offers a course on Introduction to Psychology on Coursera. This course is taught in English and is available in 19 languages. The course is free to enroll and takes approximately 22 hours to complete for 3 weeks.

The course is designed to provide insight into the most interesting experiments within the field of psychology, discussing the implications of those studies for our understanding of the human mind and human behavior.

The course explores the brain and some of the cognitive abilities it supports like memory, learning, attention, perception, and consciousness.

Upon completion of the course, you will receive a shareable certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile. You will also gain skills in psychological issues, psychology, social psychology, and mental illness.

12. Introduction to Philosophy offered by the University of Edinburgh on Coursera

• School : The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh offers a free online course on Introduction to Philosophy on Coursera. The course is designed to introduce students to some of the main areas of research in contemporary philosophy.

The course is divided into 14 modules, and each module is taught by a different philosopher who will talk you through some of the most important questions and issues in your area of expertise.

The course begins by exploring what philosophy is, its characteristic aims and methods, and how it differs from other subjects. The rest of the course provides an introductory overview of several different areas of philosophy, including epistemology, philosophy of science, philosophy of mind, political philosophy, moral philosophy, and metaphysics.

13. Introduction to Environmental Science offered by the University of York on FutureLearn

• School : University of York

The University of York offers an online course on Introduction to Environmental Science on FutureLearn. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the current environmental problems and threats, as well as possible solutions and effective environmental management.

The course is presented by CQUniversity and is four weeks long, with an estimated study time of four hours per week. The course is available at an introductory level and is 100% online.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including the nature of environmental science, resources, the basis of the world’s ecosystem, and the concept of the triple bottom line for sustainability.

14. Introduction to Business Management offered by the University of California, Irvine on Coursera

• School : University of California, Irvine

The University of California, Irvine offers a course on Introduction to Business and Management on Coursera. This course provides a rigorous overview of major business functions and management topics.

It addresses the global and fast-changing environment in which modern business enterprises operate as well as the challenges posed by concerns about sustainable growth, ethics, and social responsibility. The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the field of business management.

The course is divided into several modules, each of which covers a specific topic.

The first module provides an introduction to the field of business management and covers topics such as the role of management in organizations, corporate social responsibility and responsiveness, ethics and values in business, government regulation, and international business.

The subsequent modules cover topics such as marketing, finance, accounting, operations management, and human resources management.

15. Introduction to Financial Accounting offered by the University of Pennsylvania on Coursera

• School : University of Pennsylvania
• Duration : 13 hours (approximately)

The University of Pennsylvania offers a course on Introduction to Financial Accounting on Coursera. This course is part of the Business Foundations Specialization and Introduction to Finance and Accounting Specialization.

The course is designed to help students master the technical skills required to analyze financial statements and disclosures for use in financial analysis. Students will also learn how accounting standards and managerial incentives affect the financial reporting process.

The course is taught by Brian J. Bushee, a professor of accounting at the University of Pennsylvania. The course is free to enroll, and students can choose to pay for a certificate upon completion. The course is self-paced, and students can complete it at their convenience.

The course is divided into four modules. The first module covers the basics of financial accounting, including the accounting equation, the balance sheet, and the income statement. The second module covers the accrual accounting process, including adjusting entries, the trial balance, and the preparation of financial statements.

The third module covers the analysis of financial statements, including ratio analysis and cash flow analysis. The fourth and final module covers the role of accounting in business decisions, including capital budgeting and performance evaluation.

16. Introduction to Human Resource Management offered by the University of Minnesota on Coursera

• School : University of Minnesota
• Duration : Approximately 6 months at a suggested pace of 4 hours per week

The University of Minnesota offers a free online course on Human Resource Management through Coursera. This course is part of the Human Resource Management: HR for People Managers Specialization and is designed to provide an introduction to the fundamental principles, policies, and practices of human resource management.

The course is open to anyone interested in the field and is particularly valuable for managers and entrepreneurs.

The course consists of four courses in total, with the first course being foundational. The subsequent three courses delve into best practices for hiring and rewarding employees and for managing employee performance.

17. Introduction to Supply Chain Management offered by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on edX

• School : Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Duration : 13 weeks, 8–12 hours per week

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers a MicroMasters program in Supply Chain Management on edX, which consists of five graduate-level courses designed to provide learners with advanced education and career opportunities in the field of supply chain management.

The program is an online certificate program that has already benefited half a million learners with its rich content. The program is designed to raise the knowledge of SCM professionals across the globe, educate the world for free, and provide a rigorous credential to qualified students at a minimum cost.

18. Introduction to Public Speaking offered by the University of Washington on Coursera

• School: University of Washington
• Duration: 17 hours (approximately)

The University of Washington offers a course on Introduction to Public Speaking on Coursera. This course is part of the Dynamic Public Speaking Specialization and is taught in English. The course is designed to help you become a more effective and confident public speaker.

It aims to demystify the process of writing, practicing, and performing a clear and engaging speech, work through the unique traits of oral versus written communication, and learn how to prepare speeches that are easier to deliver orally and understand aurally.

The course is instructed by Dr. Matt McGarrity. The course is approximately 17 hours long and is self-paced. Upon completion, you will gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals of public speaking. You will also gain skills such as confidence, presentation, and speech.

19. Introduction to Negotiation offered by Yale University on Coursera

Yale University offers a course on Introduction to Negotiation: A Strategic Playbook for Becoming a Principled and Persuasive Negotiator on Coursera.

The course is designed to help you become a better negotiator by developing a framework for analyzing and shaping negotiations. The course will allow you to make principled arguments that persuade others and see beneath the surface of apparent conflicts to uncover the underlying interests.

The course is taught by Barry Nalebuff, a top instructor at Yale University. The course is approximately 37 hours long and is divided into 9 modules.

The course covers a wide range of topics including preparing for a negotiation, making ultimatums, avoiding regret, expanding the pie, and dealing with someone who has a very different perspective on the world.

20. Introduction to Critical Thinking offered by the University of Auckland on FutureLearn

• School : University of Auckland

The University of Auckland offers a course on Critical Thinking on FutureLearn. The course is designed to help you develop and improve your logical and critical thinking skills and to identify common obstacles to effective logical and critical thinking.

The course is taught by Tim Dare and Patrick Girard and is structured into eight weeks. The course covers topics such as logical and critical thinking, common obstacles and fallacies, arguments, deductive and non-deductive arguments, validity, invalidity, strength and weakness, good and bad arguments, and more.

The course is delivered through a combination of videos, articles, and interactive exercises, and supports peer learning through discussions that encourage the sharing of ideas and experiences from a wide variety of contexts.

Are these courses completely free?

Yes, all the courses listed in this article are free to enroll in. However, some may offer optional paid certificates or additional materials.

How long does it take to complete these courses?

The duration varies for each course. It can range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the course content and the time commitment of the learner.

Are the certificates recognized by employers?

While these certificates may not be equivalent to a degree, many employers value the skills gained through these courses. It's always a good idea to check with specific employers or industries to understand their recognition.

How do I receive the certificates?

The process for receiving certificates varies by platform. Generally, certificates are available for download or sharing upon course completion. Some platforms may charge a fee for the certificate.

Are these courses part-time or full-time?

Most of the courses are designed to be flexible and can be taken part-time. However, the time commitment depends on the individual learner and the course requirements.

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It is always important to know when something has reached its end. This article has provided learners with a comprehensive list of free online courses with certificates in the UK.

We hope that this article has been helpful in guiding learners to acquire new skills and knowledge that can help them in their personal and professional lives. Remember, no knowledge is a waste, and individuals with many skill sets are progressing in today’s world. You too can. Good luck!

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Explains how to apply for a free level 3 qualification. These courses could help you improve your wage outcomes and job prospects, and gain skills that employers value.

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If you’re aged 19 or over, you could access a level 3 qualification for free. This is part of the support available from the government to help you gain the skills you need to get the job you want - whatever your stage of life.

A level 3 qualification is equivalent to an advanced technical certificate or diploma, or A levels.

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If you’re eligible, visit the National Careers Service course finder to find a suitable course near you.

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Use the National Careers Service course finder to see which courses are available for free in your local area or online. You can set the distance you are willing to travel. Some of these qualifications are available to study online or part-time.

Contact the college or training provider. You can confirm they offer the qualification you’re interested in, check the admissions criteria and apply for the course in the normal way.

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Alternatively, you can search for courses on your local college’s or provider’s website. You can view the full list of providers offering free places for level 3 qualifications .

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If you are claiming Universal Credit, you can apply for one of these free courses, provided it will improve your chances of securing work. Many Universal Credit claimants can currently take full-time training for up to 16 weeks and continue to claim benefit. Your local Jobcentre Plus can offer further guidance about this and help to identify the learning that works for you.

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https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/04/02/how-to-claim-15-hours-free-childcare-code/

Thousands of parents of two-year-olds benefit from 15 hours free childcare - here's how

We’re making the  biggest investment  by a UK government into childcare in history, doubling the amount we expect to spend over the next few years from around £4 billion to around £8 billion each year.  

We've already started to rollout the first phase of the expansion. As of April 2024, eligible parents of children who have turned 2-years-old before 1 April are getting help with their childcare costs by accessing 15 hours of government-funded childcare.

The rollout of support is part of our plan to help families – freeing thousands of couples from having to choose between having a family and a career.

This builds on existing government-funded childcare and later in the year the support will be extended to include some children from when they turn 9-months-old.

• Currently, eligible working parents of 3 and 4-year-olds can access 30 hours of childcare support.  
• Eligible working parents of 2-year-olds are also now able to access 15 hours childcare  support.
• From  September 2024 , 15 hours childcare support will be extended to eligible working parents with a child from 9-months-old.  
• From  September 2025 , support will reach 30 hours for eligible working parents with a child from 9-months-old up to school age.  

When can I apply?  

Applications are now open for eligible working parents whose children will be 2 or older by the 31 August to receive 15 hours childcare, starting from September 2024.

And from 12 May, eligible working parents whose children will be aged between 9- and 23-months old on 31st August, can apply to receive 15 hours childcare starting from September 2024.

It’s important to remember that codes need to be renewed every three months, so parents applying close to 12 May will need to renew their code prior to the offer starting in September.

You are able to claim your place the term after your child turns the relevant age. This gives local authorities and childcare providers enough time to prepare.

How do I apply?   

You apply online here on   Gov.uk once you have checked our  eligibility criteria .  

You’ll need to make sure you have the following information to hand before starting the application:  

• your national insurance number (or unique taxpayer reference if you are self-employed)  
• the date you started or are due to start work  
• details of any government support or benefits you receive  
• the UK birth certificate reference number (if you have one) for your child.  

You may find out if you’re eligible straight away, but it can take up to 7 days.  

Once your application has been approved, you’ll get a code to give to your childcare provider.  

Eligible parents are also able to access Tax-Free Childcare through the same application system. You can apply for Tax-Free Childcare at any time. However, you don't need to apply for Tax-Free Childcare to be eligible to apply for the 15 hours childcare scheme.   

What happens once I receive my code?  

Once you receive your code, you’ll need to take it to your childcare provider, along with your National Insurance number and your child’s date of birth.  

Your childcare provider will process the code to provide your place.  

Places will be available for September in every area of the country, but a significant minority of settings hold waiting lists of over six months. If you have a preferred nursery for September, you should reach out now to secure a place for your child ahead of receiving your code.  

Your local authority can provide support for finding a government-funded place in your area.  

What if I’m already registered for Tax Free Childcare?  

Parents must reconfirm that they are still eligible for Tax-Free Childcare every 3 months.  

Parents who are already claiming Tax-Free Childcare and need to reconfirm their eligibility between 1 April and 12 May will be automatically issued a code in the post from HMRC soon after the 12 May.   

This is to ensure every parent can give their code to their provider in good time. This code will be valid to apply for 15 hours of government-funded childcare from September.   

If I receive a code in a letter from HMRC, does this make my code on my Childcare Account invalid?  

No. Both codes will be valid.   

Do I need to wait for my reconfirmation window to add another child to my account?  

A parent who is already using the childcare service for another child can add a new child to their account at any time.  

Your reconfirmation cycle for your current Tax-Free Childcare will not affect this.  

How are you making sure there will be enough childcare places for eligible parents?  

Parents that have a preferred place for September should reach out now to their local provider to secure a physical place for their child ahead of time.  

To make sure there are enough places available, we’re investing over £400 million in 2024-25 to increase the hourly rates paid to local authorities.  

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has independently reported that the average funding rates for two-year-olds and under 2s paid by government from April 2024 are projected to be substantially higher than the market rate paid by parents last year, and we have committed to further increases to provider rates for the next two years.  

We have also committed to increasing hourly funding rates over the next two years by an estimated £500 million, to make sure providers can increase places at each phase of the rollout.    

You may also be interested in:

• Budget 2023: Everything you need to know about childcare support
• Before and after school childcare: Everything you need to know about wraparound care
• Free childcare: How we are tackling the cost of childcare

Tags: 15 hours free childcare , Applying for 15 hours free childcare , Childcare , Free childcare 2024 , Free childcare eligibility , tax-free childcare , When to apply for 15 hour free childcare

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