Interested in MIT online courses? No surprise there. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. Amazingly, there are many MIT online courses available. Some are archived classes, meaning the student must motivate themselves through the prerecorded instruction. Others are live classes that offer certifications. Here is a list of some of the most important courses available in a variety of disciplines.
10 MIT Online Courses to Look Into
1. Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python
This is the first in a two-course sequence. Introduction to Computational Thinking and Data Science is part two. Microsoft Windows XP or greater is required. If using a Mac, Apple OSX version 10.2 or greater is required. Linux systems are also compatible with the course load. This course is available directly through MIT.edu or EDX.org. It is one of the most visited MIT online courses.
The course is free, but a Verified Certificate option is available for $49. Class credit can also be earned by completing this course. Fifteen hours of effort per week for nine weeks is the recommended commitment for this self-paced course.
2. Introduction to Philosophy: God, Knowledge and Consciousness
Professors Caspar Hare and Ryan Doody lead this class of personal exploration. Currently, this is an archived class, so the content is still available, but it is completely self-motivated. The course will go live again, so interested students should check in with MIT.edu or EDX.org for updates.
The prerecorded course sections are available for free. A Verified Certificate option is only available when the course is live. Five hours per week of effort for twelve weeks is suggested.
3. Single Variable Calculus
For people who are starting down the road to a degree in mathematics or the high sciences, this course is the first of three sections. Currently, this course is in archive status, but it will go live again. Students can guide themselves through this section and move on to Integration Calculus and then Coordinate Systems & Infinite Series. This course is available at MIT.edu and EDX.org. It is one of the most visited MIT online courses.
This prerecorded course is free. Six to ten hours of effort for thirteen weeks is suggested. A Verified Certificate is available only when the course is live.
4. Design and Development of Educational Technology
As the landscape of the U.S. educational system changes, input is needed from parents, teachers, and administrators. This class is interactive and participants will create pitches for new educational technologies. To enroll, visit MIT.edu or EDX.org.
This course is free, but a Verified Certificate option is available for $99. Four to six hours of effort per week is suggested; the course lasts nine weeks.
5. Becoming an Entrepreneur
Starting a business can be daunting, but with this course students can learn the typical obstacles that present themselves at the beginning of an enterprise. Learn how to define goals, perform market research, and cultivate a client base. To enroll visit MIT.edu and EDX.org.
This course is free, but a Verified Certificate option is available for $69. One to three hours per week of effort is suggested. The course lasts six weeks.
6. Introduction to Biology: The Secret of Life
Professor Eric Lander leads this course that will cover the building blocks of life including DNA, RNA and proteins. To sign up simply go to MIT.edu or EDX. Org.
This course is free, but there is a Verified Certificate option that costs $150. This is a credential that can be added to a resume. Though this is a self-paced course, the suggested specs are an investment of seven to fourteen hours per week for a duration of twelve weeks.
7. Introduction to Game Design
Whether they are old school, physical board games or exist only in the digital format, games are part of everyone’s life. This course guides students through the fundamentals of the development, prototype and beta test stages of game design. Visit MIT.edu or EDX.org to enroll.
This prerecorded course is free. Eight to ten hours of effort is suggested each week over a seven-week period. A Verified Certification is only available when the course is live.
8. A Global History of Architecture
Experience events from around the globe through the architectural motifs that arose throughout history. From the first organized societies to the cultures of the 16th century, this course will expose its students to the cultural influences that guided this practical art form. Visit MIT.edu or EDX.org to enroll.
This course is free, but will go live again and offer a Verified Certification option for $69. Six hours of effort per week is suggested for twelve weeks to complete the course.
9. Circuits and Electronics
Learn how to understand the inner workings of your electronic devices. From computers to cell phones, learn how to add memory and extend battery life. Lab exercises are part of this course. Students must provide their own equipment. This course is available at EDX.org and MIT.edu. It is one of the most visited MIT online courses.
This course is free, but a Verified Certificate option is available for $99. This is a self-paced course, but it is suggested that students invest six hours per week for five weeks.
10. American Literature
Experience the authors who helped define the Great American Novel. From the Declaration of Independence to the classics of the 19th century, this course analyzes the use of fiction to convey fact. To enroll, go to MIT.edu.
This archived course is free. A Verified Certification is only available when the course is live. Though this is a self-paced course, five to seven hours of effort is suggested over twelve weeks.
The list of MIT online courses is extensive. Whether you are starting an educational track, want to brush up on some fundamentals, or are just looking for some quality education in your spare time, MIT online courses are a great way to learn. Enroll today and share the experience.