Virtual learning: Three reputable websites that offer free online courses

From humanities to computer science, there are hundreds of online courses available for you to build your knowledge and specialise your skills for free. You get to work in your own time, at your own pace over a number of weeks. 

Here are three reputable websites that offer free online courses. 

1. HARVARD UNIVERSITY

The Ivy League university based in Cambridge, Massachusetts offers various specialised online courses ranging in the fields of:

• Art and Design
• Business
• Computer Science
• Data Science 
• Education and Teaching 
• Health and Medicine
• Mathematics
• Programming 
• Science
• Social Sciences 

You can browse the list of free online courses here.

2.THE UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN X  FUTURELEARN

The University of Cape Town (UCT) in the Western Cape has partnered with British online education provider FutureLearn to offer over 400 online courses for free.

The courses range from Literature to Science, Engineering and Mathematics and require only a few hours a week to complete the weekly tasks set for you. You can, however, complete at your own pace.

You can access the courses here.

3. GOOGLE DIGITAL SKILLS FOR AFRICA

Google Digital Skills For Africa has a whole host of free online courses to help improve your digital skills focusing on digital marketing, data and technology and career development. The initiative aims to improve employment levels in Africa by sharpening the skills of those entering the workplace. 

The course caters to both beginners and advanced individuals and ranges from two hours to more than 20 hours. The platform can also provide you with a free certificate. 

The training courses that are offered on the platform encourage you to:

• Discover tools to make your business succeed
• Improve your interview skills
• Prepare for the career you want

You can access the free online courses here.