What are the best astronomy courses on Coursera?

Top options include Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space from the University of Arizona and The Evolving Universe from the Caltech . These courses cover stars, galaxies, planets, black holes, and the scientific methods used to explore the universe.

Can I learn astronomy for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many astronomy courses offer a free audit option, allowing you to access lectures and reading materials at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in an astronomy course?

You’ll learn about celestial objects, the life cycle of stars, planetary motion, space exploration , and cosmology. Some courses also explore topics like exoplanets, telescopes, and the possibility of life beyond Earth.

Do I need a science or math background to study astronomy on Coursera?

Not necessarily. Many courses are designed for beginners and focus on conceptual understanding, with optional math-based content. More technical courses may include physics or calculus , but course descriptions will indicate prerequisites.

Can studying astronomy on Coursera help me in my career?

Yes. These courses are great for preparing for STEM studies , science educators, or lifelong learners. While they don’t replace a formal degree, they can support academic growth, strengthen scientific literacy, and fuel interest in careers in science and space research.

Top Astronomy Courses - Learn Astronomy Online

Universitat de Barcelona

Magic in the Middle Ages

Skills you'll gain: European History, World History, Art History, Research, Investigation, Cultural Diversity

The University of Edinburgh

Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science

Skills you'll gain: Discussion Facilitation, Research, Cultural Diversity, Science and Research, Systems Thinking, Anthropology, Physics, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Biology

Nanjing University

天文探秘

Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Physics, Simulations, Visualization (Computer Graphics), General Science and Research, Vibrations, Experimentation, Mathematical Modeling

University of Copenhagen

Origins - Formation of the Universe, Solar System, Earth and Life

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Anthropology, Biology, Physical Science, World History, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Environmental Science, General Science and Research, Physics, Molecular Biology, Chemistry

Nanjing University

走进天文学

Skills you'll gain: General Science and Research, Research, Science and Research, Research Methodologies, Physical Science, Scientific Methods, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Physics, Chemistry, Mechanics

Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Fundamentals of Materials Science

Skills you'll gain: Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Manufacturing Processes, Physical Science, Semiconductors, Thermal Management, Mechanics, Failure Analysis

Yale University

Journey Conversations: Weaving Knowledge and Action

Skills you'll gain: Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Environment, Anthropology, Teaching, Liberal Arts, Storytelling, Community Development, Biology, Systems Thinking, Cultural Diversity, Physics, Music

École Polytechnique

Density Functional Theory

Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Differential Equations, Numerical Analysis, Linear Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Chemistry, Physics, Calculus

Yale University

Journey of the Universe: The Unfolding of Life

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Liberal Arts, Environment, Biology, Creativity, Anthropology, Systems Thinking, Social Studies, Physical Science, Timelines, Cultural Diversity, Storytelling, Physics, Scientific Methods

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Space Safety

Skills you'll gain: Cybersecurity, Accident Prevention, Safety and Security, Medical Science and Research, Threat Management, Physical Science, Risk Management, Environmental Monitoring, Environmental Issue, Radiation Protection, Continuous Monitoring, General Medicine

Peking University

电磁学下——恒磁场与时变电磁场

Skills you'll gain: Electrical Engineering, Electrical Systems, Physics, Electronics, Advanced Mathematics, Engineering Analysis, Calculus, Differential Equations, Mathematical Modeling

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Kinetics: Studying Spacecraft Motion

Skills you'll gain: Vibrations, Mechanics, Torque (Physics), Engineering Calculations, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering, Simulation and Simulation Software, Applied Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Physics

Astronomy Courses

Filter by

Subject
Required

Language
Required

Learning Product
Required

Level
Required

Duration
Required

Skills
Required

Subtitles
Required

Educator
Required