In today’s world, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education has become essential, especially for those seeking employment in a digitally driven market. Faced with the growing demand for expertise in these fields, students and professionals are increasingly enrolling in top institutions to improve their skills. However, traditional full-time, offline courses often come with significant fees and additional travel costs, making them inaccessible for some. The reputation of the institution also plays a crucial role in the value of the degree.

Fortunately, several prestigious global institutions offer free online courses, providing motivated learners with a great opportunity to strengthen their skills.

Institutions such as Harvard University, MIT, and other top universities offer a variety of programs in subjects ranging from computer programming and engineering principles to advanced mathematics and life sciences.

Recommended STEM Courses for Beginners

Introduction to Computer Science

Offered by Harvard University, this popular course provides a solid foundation in computer science, using languages ​​such as C, Python and SQL.

Generative AI for everyone

You will learn what generative AI is, how it works, its common applications and its limitations.

The essence of the incentive

In a short time, Google experts learn how to create effective prompts, helping learners improve their productivity and creativity at work and in daily life.

Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Offered by Google on Coursera, this four-module course introduces the basics of cybersecurity, including ethics, principles, and tools used by cybersecurity analysts.

Calculation 1A: Differentiation

A free course from MIT that introduces students to the concept of differentiation, essential in fields like engineering, physics, and data science.

Linear algebra

Offered by MIT OpenCourseWare, this course is foundational for those interested in data science, machine learning, and physics.

Introduction to programming

BITS Pilani offers this course, which introduces beginners to C programming, covering various fundamental programming constructs and concepts.

Programming for everyone

This Python course is designed for beginners and covers data structures, networking application programming interfaces, and essential skills for data analysis and application development.

Microelectromechanical systems

IISc Bangalore offers this entry-level MEMS course, focusing on sensor fabrication and characterization methods, helping learners acquire industry-relevant skills.

Introduction to IoT

IIT Bombay offers this four-course program, giving learners the essential knowledge to understand how connected systems are transforming industries and everyday life.

Introduction to cloud computing

This beginner-friendly course on Coursera explores the basics of cloud computing, including cloud service models such as IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, and different deployment models.

Introduction to classical mechanics

MIT OpenCourseWare offers this comprehensive course on Newtonian mechanics, covering topics such as motion, energy, and dynamics.

Fundamentals of physics

Yale University’s Yale Open Courses provide a highly accessible introduction to fundamental physics concepts, including gravity, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.