Free online courses
Designed by York academics, our massive open online courses (MOOCs) offer a short, interactive, higher education experience and the chance to be part of a global learning community.
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What is a MOOC?
Our MOOCs offer the perfect way to gain an insight into York's expertise on subjects where we're leading the way on life-changing research.
Courses last three to four weeks and are delivered through online videos, quizzes, case studies and discussions with your fellow learners. You can participate from anywhere in the world, totally free of charge. All you need is an internet connection and a passion to learn.
There are no entry requirements - the courses are open to anyone, regardless of background or location.
Our MOOCs are delivered in partnership with FutureLearn (futurelearn.com).
Upcoming courses

Accents, attitudes and identity
Discover how accents, attitudes and identity interact.

Nursing: the application of bioscience, psychology and sociology
An introduction to nursing and where a career in nursing may lead.

From crime to punishment
Take a glimpse into criminal law in the UK.

An Introduction to Cognitive Psychology as an Experimental Science
Develop an understanding of cognitive psychology as an experimental science.

Engineering the Future
Re-imagine how you think about engineering.

Digital wellbeing
Explore the impact of digital technologies on health, relationships and society.
Recent courses

Exploring everyday chemistry
Explore the chemistry behind perfume, medicine, brewing and sport.
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Bugs, brains and beasts
Review and reinforce biological concepts taught at A level Biology.

Exploring Stone Age Archaeology
Further your interest in the past and archaeology.

Pictures of Youth
Examine popular visual culture for children and young people.

Mature learners
Demystify the world of higher education and university life.
Past courses
Why does the UK have some of the worst poverty rates in Europe? Why do children in the UK report higher levels of unhappiness? How does this compare with children globally? In this MOOC you'll grapple with questions like these and gain a detailed understanding on why child poverty and inequality exist, and what can be done about it.
You'll explore a wide variety of issues related to the lives of children across the globe. You'll listen to children's own views of their health and wellbeing, as well as the impact of education.