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In another life, my father would have been a history professor. He graduated with a Bachelor’s in History from Hanover College and was accepted into a Master’s program. Ultimately, he chose to pursue an MBA instead- but he did pass down his love of history to my brother and me.
We grew up visiting historical sites, collecting historical books, and listening to my father’s research and stories. I knew, from a very young age, that learning and understanding history is more important than most people realize. It helps us understand our society and ourselves and live as informed, empowered individuals.
The problem is this: even if you get a traditional two or four-year degree, there are only so many humanities courses people can fit in if it’s not their major. For those who don’t have a degree and are juggling jobs and family, taking a history course can be daunting. That’s why open source online learning platforms like edX are becoming an increasingly popular way to do just that.
Taking history courses from edX isn’t going to land you a job or replace a full degree program. What it can do is provide you with self-paced or instructor-paced learning, with recorded lectures from professors at accredited institutions, for a much lower cost than other extended learning programs. Not only will you get a certificate, but hopefully, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding and appreciation for history.
Read also: Best edX Certifications.
Bottom Line Up Front Summary
History courses have the potential to enrich your understanding of society today and truly change your perspective. Whether you’re a current high school student, a parent juggling jobs, or just busy, edX offers both self-paced and instructor-led online courses that give you more flexibility in your learning.
By the end of a course, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion. My picks for the best courses represent fundamental principles for understanding American and world history- all with a cohesive curriculum and designed by knowledgeable professors.
If I were to recommend just one history course from edX, it would be The Supreme Court and American Politics. This course teaches history, politics, and civics. It’s also quite helpful for navigating voting, reading every day news stories, and understanding the American political system as a whole.
Take a journey through the history of the United States Supreme Court, with primary emphasis on the Court’s interaction with America’s political life. From Washington to Trump, the Supreme Court has been both immersed in politics and kept apart from it.
My Top Picks
- The Supreme Court and American Politics: Best Civics/ History Course
- The Civil War and Reconstruction: Best Transformative American History Course
- Negotiating a Changing World: Best Women’s History Course
- Objects that Define America: Best American History Snapshot Course
- Globalization: Past and Future: Best Human Geography Course
- Pyramids of Giza: Best Ancient History Course
- History of China: Modern World: Best Chinese History Course
- European Paintings: Best Art History Course
- History of Italy: Best European History Course
- History of Medieval Medicine: Best Medical History Course
How I Selected These Courses- and Limitations
Most of the history courses offered through edX are single courses that you can complete with a monthly fee (if you want the certificate of completion.) However, there are a few course series packages where you’ll pay a fee for a bundle of courses.
edX has more history courses than I expected, but I admittedly hoped it would cover a wider range of content areas, so here’s the methodology behind how and why I’m recommending these history courses.
Finding Staples
edX doesn’t cover the full span of American, World, or European history- but I did my best to find courses that cover periods of history that were especially consequential.
Without courses from large periods- like the American Revolution, Colonization, and gaps in Modern American history, I found some courses that either offered a broader perspective or focused on a transformative area.
My goal was to mostly focus on courses that will provide students with a foundation for deeper studying and courses outside of this platform.
Practical Applications
There’s a saying: history doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes. I believe that history teaches us a great deal about ourselves, society, and both triumphs and failures. I also believe that, without knowing about our past, we risk making egregious mistakes and errors of judgment.
But while my view is that learning about all forms of history is important, I also wanted to select courses that have direct connections to understanding our everyday lives and the political world today.
Interdisciplinary Approach
It’s nearly impossible to study history without delving into other subject areas- including culture, art, and politics. I’m throwing in edX courses that include these studies- once again showcasing how important and practical learning history can be.
Course Curriculum and Instructors
Every history course I selected is designed by professors (and sometimes partnered with a graduate student) who have experience in their subject area. I also examined the course curriculum for clarity, continuity, and an understanding of the main content covered. Above all, I searched for interesting but practical, well-organized history courses on the platform.
Overall Variety
The main purpose of this list? Showing options for every type of student. While most edX history courses are accessible for beginners, I also wanted to throw in some more specialized course content for history buffs and enthusiasts.
Finally, despite the many gaps in content (there isn’t much European history, medieval or colonial history, for instance), I did my best to select a bundle of courses that span a wide range of topics and periods.
See also: How does edX compare to other learning platforms?
edX History Courses to Try
Here’s my list of interesting or helpful foundational history courses you can take on edX. Each course offers something different- and my goal was to display it to a wide array of students that might be interested.
Here are a few of my favorites- and the low-down on each course.
The Supreme Court and American Politics
My high school required everyone to take a civics course- but it was only half a year. Many high school students don’t take one at all. This course blends history and political science in a generous overview of the Supreme Court, constitutional framework, the impact of court vacancies, and our voting system. It’s easy enough to pick up even without a high school education- and a refresher course for anyone else.
Why It’s Important
If you vote in American elections- or even just reside in the United States, this course provides frameworks for understanding and engaging in a more meaningful way.
One thing I think high school (and college) education lack is robust media literacy education. This course is a beginner-friendly introduction to some of the most fundamental principles.
Duration & Schedule
8 weeks at 4-7 hours per week; self-paced
Lead Instructor
Lyle Dennison, Supreme Court Journalist and Visiting Professor at the University of Baltimore School of Law
How to Enroll/ Cost
Free or Upgrade to Subscription for Certificate; Enroll Here.
Take a journey through the history of the United States Supreme Court, with primary emphasis on the Court’s interaction with America’s political life. From Washington to Trump, the Supreme Court has been both immersed in politics and kept apart from it.
Pros
- Great for understanding American politics
- Helps with media literacy
- Constitutional literacy
Cons
- Not as in-depth history
- Introductory/ not complex
The Civil War and Reconstruction
There are several defining periods of American history- and the Civil War is one of them. But this course covers not only the Civil War but also its tumultuous aftermath: Reconstruction. Covering military conflict and political, social, and economic change, I love the multi-faceted approach to this course.
Content covers transformation in both the Union and the Confederacy, Abraham Lincoln’s leadership, and the long-term impact of the Civil War. And unlike some courses I’ve taken, it also highlights the role of women and black soldiers.
Why It’s Important
Most of us have learned about the American Civil War, but I think a lot of courses fall short of covering critical social and economical consequences. What I like here is that the content covered is comprehensive enough to do that- but still beginner-friendly.
Plus, understanding the Civil War and its consequences is critical to understanding subsequent Civil Rights movements, slavery, and even laws and legislation.
Duration & Schedule
16 weeks with 4-7 hours of study per week; self-paced
Lead Instructor
Eric Foner: Professor of History at Columbia University; Tim Shenk, Graduate Student in History at Columbia University
How to Enroll
Free or Upgrade For Certificate; Enroll Here.
Learn about the political, social, and economic changes in the Union and the Confederacy and the Civil War’s long-term economic and intellectual impact.
Pros
- Pivotal period of American history
- Women’s roles, black soldiers
- Includes Reconstruction Era
Cons
- Doesn’t cover pre-Civil War tension much
- Doesn’t cover as many aftermaths
Negotiating a Changing World
While this is the best edX course for American women’s history, it’s also the best option for a view of the roaring 20s through 1950. I like that this course traces not only how women have gained voting rights and representation but also served pivotal roles in society.
From the 19th amendment to World War II and the following decade, this edX course doesn’t shy away from family, legal and racial structures- that’s something many courses like this miss. You’ll learn about feminist movements, protective labor laws, the standard of living, and transformative periods.
Why It’s Important
The rights women have today can’t fully be understood without looking at our past. I also think it’s critical to understand how times of war fundamentally transform and challenge societal structures.
Duration & Schedule
10 weeks, assuming 2 to 3 hours per week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Alice Kessler-Harris: Emeritus Professor of American History, Columbia University; Nick Juravich, Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow in Women’s History
How to Enroll
Free or Upgrade for Certificate; Enroll Here.
Explore the new cultural and economic opportunities that emerged for women in this period while gaining an understanding of how racial, familial, and legal structures placed constraints on that independence.
Pros
- Covers 1920-1950
- Study of society
- Tackles issues of women’s rights
Cons
- Somewhat narrow focus
- Relatively short period
Objects that Define America
One reason I see people avoid taking a history course is that it can feel overwhelming- especially when you’re covering a whole period. The other reason? Sadly, a lot of people assume that history is dull.
While I’ve never felt that way, I think this edX course could bring in more students. From a unique perspective, the history course delves into key moments in history- but through pivotal moments and objects captured in Smithsonian collections.
A few of those include The Statue of Liberty, the Declaration of Independence, the Model T, and more.
Why It’s Important
These aren’t just any objects- they tell the story of American history, traditions, and more. I think this is also a great course for visual learners, and it certainly is a unique, fun approach to learning history.
Duration & Schedule
5 weeks, assuming 1- to 2 hours a week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Richard Kurin: Under Secretary for History, Art and Culture, Smithsonian Institution
How to Enroll
Free, with Optional Upgrade for Certification; Enroll Here.
Pros
- Great for visual learners
- Overview American history
- Unique perspectives
Cons
- Periods not studied in depth
- Limited perspective
Globalization: Past and Future
I took a human geography course in college, and even though it was far out of my comfort zone, it ended up being one of the most enlightening courses I took. Human geography and history go hand in hand- so if you love social sciences, economics, and a broader understanding of world supply chains, this may be a great edX course to take.
This four-part course is intended for undergraduate or even graduate students- so it’s probably not the best choice to start with. That said, the course will take you through the six major waves of globalization, sustainability, and key leaders.
Why It’s Important
Globalization affects us all, from politics to international affairs to the price you pay at the grocery store. This subject is one of the most important I’ve ever studied- and the blend of history, economics, and social sciences make it a great interdisciplinary course.
Duration & Schedule
4 weeks, assuming 2 to 4 hours per week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Jeffrey D. Sachs: Professor, Columbia University
How to Enroll
Free, with Optional Upgrade; Enroll Here.
Pros
- Understand Global supply chains
- Focus on sustainability
- Blends history, economics, foreign affairs
Cons
- It may be challenging without some understanding of economics
- Focus on human geography and less emphasis on specific history
Pyramids of Giza
Another area of history it seems like so many high school students miss out on is ancient civilizations. Egyptian society, religion, and culture are truly fascinating, and I like that this edX history course couples a study of culture, technology, society, and religion for a nuanced study.
The focus is on the Old Kingdom, the first Great Age, and a period where many pyramids were built. The course unveils the technological, religious, and political impact of the Giza Pyramids.
Why It’s Important
The Old Kingdom is just one period of Ancient Egyptian history, but it’s also the first Great Age. I think this edX course serves as a compelling introduction to Egyptian history and society- and it can act as a foundation for studying other ancient civilizations.
Duration & Schedule
8 weeks, assuming 2 to 4 hours per week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Peter Der Manuelian, Professor of Egyptology at Harvard University
How to Enroll
Free with Upgrade/ Certification Option; Enroll Here.
Pros
- Introduction to Egyptology
- Explores culture and technology
- Immersive, specific focus
Cons
- Brief period
- No corresponding courses for later periods
History of China: Modern World
If you’re looking for an intense study of another country, China is a wise choice. As a major world power, Chinese politics and economics impact us- and the world- every day.
While edX offers another Chinese history course, this is the most comprehensive, consisting of 5 intense courses offered by two Harvard professors and a Harvard provost.
While it isn’t free, this history course goes into depth, starting with the foundation of Modern China (Manchus, Qing), covering the fall of Imperial China and the current period.
It grapples with often misunderstood or simplified topics like Chinese Communism and Taiwanese relationships, all with ramifications for our current world.
Why It’s Important
From supply chain to international policy, learning about Chinese history has direct ties to current affairs. I love this course for anyone interested in politics, policy, economics, or someone who wants to become more informed in politics today.
Duration & Schedule
1 year, 7 months, assuming 1-3 hours per week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Peter K. Bol: Professor of East Asian Languages, Harvard University; William C. Kirby: Professor of China Studies, Harvard University; Mark C. Elliott: Vice Provost for International Affairs, Harvard University
How to Enroll
$495 (as of 2022); Enroll Here.
Pros
- Engrossing 4-course bundle
- History with modern implications
- International politics
Cons
- Fees
- Requires long-term commitment
European Paintings
I’m grateful that I went to a liberal arts college- because otherwise, I never would have taken an art history class. Truth be told, as someone who has no talent in the visual arts, I was hesitant to enroll, but enrolling in an art history course was one of the best decisions I made in my undergraduate years.
Now I can more fully appreciate and understand works of art when I visit my favorite museums. This edX art history course is expansive, covering masterpieces from 1400 to 1800. You’ll study pivotal European artists, learn about art techniques and critical interpretation, and touch upon cultural significance.
Why It’s Important
Art history is more than art: it truly traces culture, religion, and changing societal standards. In some cases, it reflects major conflicts- and in all ways, it leads to a deeper appreciation of the humanities.
Duration & Schedule
7 weeks, assuming 2-3 hours per week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Alejandro Vergara: Senior Curator of Flemish and Northern European Paintings, Museo del Prado de Madrid
How to Enroll
Free, with Optional Upgrade; Enroll Here.
Pros
- Introduction to Art History
- Major artists like Michelangelo
- Teaches art critique
Cons
- Only European artists
- Heavier focus on technique vs. history
History of Italy
While I wish edX had more European (and some African and Latin American) history courses, this is the best one you can take for now. Italy is not only a fascinating country to study, but it’s also a country that’s greatly impacted culture and art around the world.
Tracing Italy from 1862 through 1948, this edX history course focuses on political, societal, and historical transitions. Geographical divisions, the civil cold war, and political stability are the main areas of focus. While it doesn’t tackle all of Italian history, the framework is a great introduction.
Why It’s Important
Italy has impacted art around the world- and also played important roles in world conflicts. This edX history course is a solid introduction to the parallels between European and American history- and what we can learn from it.
Duration & Schedule
4 weeks, assuming 6 to 8 hours per week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Paolo Macry: Professor, University of Naples
How to Enroll
Free with Certificate Option; Enroll Here.
Pros
- Dynamic look at Italian history
- Political and societal changes
- Tight focus
Cons
- Leaves out large periods before/ after
- Not as much WWII aftermath
History of Medieval Medicine
edX doesn’t offer many courses during the medieval period, so this is your best bet. But even if you aren’t sold on studying a certain period, this unique course is a great foundation for understanding the evolution of medicine. In perhaps the most unique history course edX has to offer, you’ll learn about medical practices and techniques through ancient Jewish texts.
It’s an in-depth study of medical training, content, and interpretation- and certainly not a course you can take just anywhere. Because of the more technically challenging aspects, I’d recommend this most to someone with working knowledge of medicine, ancient texts, or Jewish culture.
Why It’s Important
Ancient medical practices help us understand where medicine is today. By studying the evolution of techniques, we can appreciate how politics, culture, and society impacted outcomes then and do today.
Duration & Schedule
4 weeks, assuming 1 to 2 hours a week; Self-Paced
Lead Instructor
Tzvi Langermann: Professor, Department of Arabic at Bar-Ilan University
How to Enroll
Free, with Optional Upgrade; Enroll Here.
Pros
- Medical humanities
- Unique perspective
- Challenging and different from other courses
Cons
- Not best for beginners
- Limited to narrow perspective
Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: Something really exciting about learning history today is that there is a wealth of online resources. Start by browsing free websites and learning about resources from websites like Hisrtory.com. It never hurts to look for great history documentaries- many of which are free through platforms like YouTube. There are websites dedicated to military history, and I love Britannica for world history. Of course, there are online course platforms, such as edX, Harvard University’s separate platform, and formal online degree programs. Always do your research before signing up for anything- including ‘free’ courses.
Answer: edX courses are offered on a secure website on a platform established by professors from Harvard and MIT. While they offer legitimate free courses and courses with a certification of completion, their professional degree options (some Master’s degrees, professional programs) are far more expensive. Most of the platforms should be seen as a way to shore up your skills- just keep in mind that it’s not a guarantee of career progression.
Answer: I think this is where students need to have realistic expectations. If you complete a course (that you paid for), edX will provide you with a certificate of completion. This is a nice bonus that you can list on your resume under skills and training. That said, the value is more about employers seeing you’ve undergone training- it’s not intended to be a substitute for a degree program. So, for many, an edX certificate has value- but it’s up to the recruiter’s interpretation and discretion how such coursework with being weighed.
Final Thoughts
I’ve just given you a list of some of the best history courses you can take from edX- from staples to more unique courses. I hope that one of these courses catches your eye and inspires you to unpack history. I truly think that studying history is one of the most personally enriching things you can do. No matter what history course you sign up for, make sure it’s something that’s a good fit for you.
Final Recommendations
Browsing my list of best history courses from edX and not sure which one is the best fit for you? For the average person or someone new to studying history online, I’d recommend a course like The Supreme Court and American Politics.
Not only does it cover American history, but it’s a great way to gain a better understanding of American government, politics, and being engaged as both a voter and citizen.
Take a journey through the history of the United States Supreme Court, with primary emphasis on the Court’s interaction with America’s political life. From Washington to Trump, the Supreme Court has been both immersed in politics and kept apart from it.
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