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

Find the Best Astronomy Course for Your Goals

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Astronomía básica
Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Physics, General Science and Research, Biology, Systems Of Measurement, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Geospatial Information and Technology, World History, Chemistry
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Pathway to Space
Skills you'll gain: Global Positioning Systems, Journalism, Environmental Monitoring, Music, Political Sciences, Entrepreneurship, Systems Engineering, Culture, Media and Communications, International Relations, Governance, Higher Education, Physical Science, Liberal Arts, Geographic Information Systems, Physics, Control Systems, Environmental Science, Engineering, Human Factors
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
30 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
University of Amsterdam
Big History - From the Big Bang until Today
Skills you'll gain: World History, Ancient History, Cultural Diversity, Physical Science, Anthropology, Timelines, Social Sciences, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Environment, Environmental Science, Biology, Physics
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
249 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Calculus, Mechanics, Physical Science, Advanced Mathematics, Energy and Utilities, Mathematical Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
158 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Dartmouth College
Question Reality: Cosmos
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, General Science and Research, Physics, Physical Science, Experimentation, Ancient History, Vibrations, Mechanics, World History, European History, Deductive Reasoning, Applied Mathematics
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
22 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Our Place in the Cosmos
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Monitoring, Physical Science, Geographic Information Systems, Physics, Environmental Science, Spatial Analysis, Environment, General Science and Research, Remote Access Systems, Life Sciences, Laboratory Research, Biology, Scientific Methods, Research, Timelines, Systems Of Measurement, Storytelling
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
23 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Universitat de Barcelona
Magic in the Middle Ages
Skills you'll gain: European History, World History, Art History, Research, Investigation, Cultural Diversity
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
1.7K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
École Polytechnique
Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Laboratory Research, Research, Science and Research, Experimentation, Laboratory Equipment, Physical Science, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Radiation Protection, General Science and Research, Emerging Technologies, Radiology, Electronics, Radiography, Innovation, Medical Imaging, Scientific Methods, Electronic Components, Simulations, Simulation and Simulation Software
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
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
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
229 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
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
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
199 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Dartmouth College
Question Reality: Matter
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, General Science and Research, Ancient History, Scientific Methods, Chemistry, Research, Experimentation, World History
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
8 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
3D Data Visualization for Science Communication
Skills you'll gain: Data Literacy, Data Storytelling, Scientific Visualization, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Data Presentation, Data Visualization Software, Spatial Data Analysis, Computer Graphics, 3D Modeling, Video Production
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months