Top Free CS Courses on Coursera: A Comprehensive Guide
As the founder of Edvicer, I have a deep understanding of online education, specifically from major providers like Coursera, edX, Udacity, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning. Having researched these platforms for over three years, I am well-versed in MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) and other course providers. This guide will help you navigate through the best free courses in Computer Science on Coursera, divided into various subjects based on the number of reviews and ratings.
Cloud Computing
Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure by Google Cloud
Focuses on Google Cloud's core platform: its architecture and principles, as well as using and deploying services on Compute Engine, Google Kubernetes Engine, App Engine, BigQuery, and Cloud Storage. Best for beginners in cloud computing and those wanting to understand the capabilities of Google Cloud.Cloud Computing Concepts by University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Introduces various cloud computing concepts, including virtualization, multi-tenancy, cloud services models, and more. Best for those looking for a broad overview of the cloud computing landscape.Programming Languages
R Programming by Johns Hopkins University
Introduces practical programming skills in R, a powerful and widely-used language for statistical analysis and data visualization. Best for those interested in statistical computing and data science.Functional Programming Principles in Scala by école Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Focuses on functional programming with Scala, a modern programming language that can be used for both applications and data analysis. Best for those looking to explore functional programming concepts.Databases
Using Databases with Python by University of Michigan
Focuses on using Python to interface with databases. Best for those interested in Python and database integration.SQL for Data Science by University of California Davis
Provides an introduction to SQL, the standard language for interacting with relational databases. Best for those aiming to streamline their data science workflow.Data Science
Introduction to Data Science in Python by University of Michigan
Offers a comprehensive introduction to data science using Python, covering data manipulation, analysis, and visualization. Best for beginners in data science who want to learn with Python.What is Data Science by IBM
Provides a broad overview of data science, including the roles, tools, and methodologies involved. Best for those aiming to understand the broad scope of data science.Data Structures and Algorithms
Python Data Structures by University of Michigan
Focuses on fundamental data structures in Python, essential for efficient data manipulation and management. Best for those looking to improve their Python programming skills.Divide and Conquer, Sorting and Searching, and Randomized Algorithms by Stanford University
Covers advanced algorithms and data structures, including divide and conquer, sorting, searching, and randomized algorithms. Best for those aiming to gain deep insights into algorithm design and analysis.Game Development
Getting Started with Google Kubernetes Engine by Google Cloud
Focuses on Kubernetes, a platform for automating deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications. Best for those interested in cloud-native development.Introduction to Game Design by California Institute of the Arts
Offers an introduction to the fundamental concepts of game design, including game mechanics, player experience, and storytelling. Best for those interested in game design and development.Machine Learning and AI
Machine Learning by Stanford University
Covers essential concepts in machine learning, including supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and more. Best for those looking to build a solid foundation in machine learning.Neural Networks and Deep Learning by Deep
Focuses on neural networks and deep learning, providing hands-on experience with TensorFlow. Best for those interested in deep learning and neural networks.Mobile Development
Introduction To Swift Programming by University of Toronto
Introduces Swift, Apple's programming language, for iOS app development. Best for beginners in mobile app development.Java for Android by Vanderbilt University
Focuses on Java programming for Android app development. Best for those interested in Android app development.Web Development
Introduction to HTML5 by University of Michigan
Offers a comprehensive introduction to HTML5, one of the core technologies of the World Wide Web. Best for beginners in web development.HTML, CSS, and Javascript for Web Developers by Johns Hopkins University
Focuses on the three key technologies of web development: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Best for those looking to enhance their web development skills.If you are already aware of the specific areas you wish to explore within Computer Science, most courses on Coursera can be freely accessed and enrolled in. You may want to refer to curricula used by top institutions, which are usually available for free online as well. If you are already in a Computer Science curriculum, consider enrolling in courses in areas where you lack confidence. A structured approach will help you achieve your goals.
Once you have chosen your career path, the options on Coursera are virtually limitless. Whether you are looking for direct career growth or personal skill enhancement, Coursera has a wealth of resources to help you.
I hope this guide helps you in your learning journey!