Explore new affordable degrees built for you
No application required
What you can expect from new, affordable degrees on Coursera:
- With pricing under $20,000 USD, you can earn a degree from an accredited university for ⅓ of the average master’s program, and ¼ of the average bachelor’s degree in the US.*
- Flexible, 100% online courses mean you fit a degree around your life—not the other way around
- Learn from world-class faculty and gain knowledge and skills to succeed on the job with learning that helps you practice skills before you need to use them.
- No application required – complete university-approved courses with the required grade to qualify for performance-based admissions.**
*Source: Educationdata.org Average Cost of College & Tuition, June 25, 2023
Start as soon as today – try a pathway course
With performance-based admissions, there are no costly standardized tests or time-consuming letters of recommendation.
Build new skills and gain career certificates while making progress and earning credit toward eligible degree programs.**
**Each university determines the grades required to qualify for performance-based admission and the number of pre-approved prior learning credits that may count toward degree requirements. Learn more by reviewing the admissions process for each program.
MSDS Pathways to Enrollment
University of Colorado Boulder
No matter your academic background, the Master of Data Science (MS-DS) is an ideal choice if you’re interested in a career in data science. Program admission is based on your performance in your first three courses.
M.B.A. Performance Pathway Courses
Illinois Tech
Unlike most programs that require an extensive application, with Illinois Tech's M.B.A., you’ll start by completing three pathway courses that give you a preview of the degree and help you start building critical leadership skills.
Master of Data Science Performance Pathway Courses
Illinois Tech
Unlike most programs that require an extensive application, with Illinois Tech’s Master of Data Science, you’ll start by completing three pathway courses that give you a preview of the degree and help you start building critical skills.
Bachelor of IT Performance Pathway Courses
Illinois Tech
Unlike most programs that require an extensive application, with Illinois Tech’s Bachelor of Information Technology, you’ll start by completing three pathway courses that give you a preview of the degree and help you start building critical IT skills.
Want to learn more? Explore free resources.
Hear from students earning degrees through Coursera, get advice on how to see if a degree is right for you, and more with these expert articles
Is a Master's Degree Worth It?
Earning your master’s degree can be a worthwhile investment, but whether you should ultimately depends on your larger goals and resources.
Is a Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
A bachelor’s degree can make you a more competitive job candidate and expand the roles you pursue. Learn about whether earning one is right for you.
Meet the CPA Advancing Her Data and Leadership Skills with an M.B.A.
Natalia Antzoulatos, a full-time professional and busy mother of three, chose Illinois Tech’s online M.B.A. program for its unique tech concentrations.
Meet the Engineer Strengthening His Leadership Skills
Even though Hubert Abiera is already managing a team, he believed that earning his master’s degree would formalize—and further—his leadership skills.
How This Self-Taught Web Developer Went Straight to a Master's Degree
Kaushik Muthyalu knew a lot about computer science by the time he began considering a bachelor’s degree, but education wasn’t meeting him where he was.
Meet the 18-Year-Old Getting His Master’s Degree in Data Science
For Stanislav Liashkov, the time commitment to earn a bachelor’s degree seemed steep when he already had a strong foundation in math and computer science. See how he was able to go straight into a Master’s Degree with performance-based admissions.
Reimagining degrees for a changing world
Reimagining degrees for a changing world
Reimagining degrees for a changing world
Frequently asked questions
Yes, all online degree programs available on Coursera are directly conferred by accredited institutions. Accreditation is important because it shows that an institution meets rigorous academic standards, eases your ability to transfer credits, and helps employers validate the quality of education on your resume or application.
Many university partners offer an opportunity to apply for financial support directly. Check with each degree program for more information or learn more about popular ways to pay for your degree. You can also find information on external scholarships and other resources to help fund your degree on Coursera’s Financial Resources Hub.
Earning your degree from a leading university on Coursera means you can earn the best degree for your needs without having to relocate or choose between your other responsibilities. You’ll have access to a dedicated support team, course facilitators, and a network of peers to help you achieve your academic goals. Learn more about the benefits of learning online.