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Are you interested in an online chemistry course? Plenty of options are available, covering both basic and advanced topics. Chemistry encompasses various sub-fields such as analytic, physical, and organic chemistry, but this Best Courses Guide (BCG) focuses on general chemistry. I’ve curated top-rated courses in this guide, some of which also offer academic credit for eligible students. Make sure to verify your eligibility with your institution.
Some courses featured here require prior mathematical skills or knowledge in chemistry, while others cater to absolute beginners. If you struggle with the nomenclature of chemical compounds, there’s a free short course available to help you grasp and learn the terminology more effectively.
Learning chemistry can be challenging, especially in an online environment, so be sure to explore the learning guides provided in the resource links. Don’t forget to check out the “What Else?” section for additional resources.
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What is Chemistry?
Chemistry is the scientific discipline that studies the properties, composition, and structure of matter, along with the changes it undergoes during chemical reactions. It is a foundational science with applications across various fields and industries.
A solid understanding of chemistry is essential for many career paths, including:
- Healthcare and Medicine
- Scientific Research
- Engineering and Technology
- Science Writer/Editor
- Patent Attorney
- Chemical Sales Representative
- Quality Assurance Officer
- Teacher/Lecturer
- Policy Analyst
- Project/Program Manager
The problem-solving and research skills gained through the study of chemistry are transferable and beneficial for various other careers.
Courses Overview
- 5 courses are free or offer free audits, with 2 paid courses
- 4 courses provide certificates of completion or credit for eligible colleges
- Chemistry is followed by 89.9K learners on Class Central
- Coursera is the most featured provider with 2 courses
CHEM101: General Chemistry I is a free, text-based course offered by Saylor Academy. You can study the material, pass the exam, and earn a free certificate. Alternatively, you can opt for online proctoring to earn college credit, ensuring to check your college’s acceptance of this credit.
This course aims to provide beginners with a solid understanding of general chemistry concepts.
Syllabus:
- Matter and measurements
- The atom
- Bonding
- Chemical formulas and equations
- States of Matter
- Thermochemistry and thermodynamics
- Acid-base and oxidation-reduction reactions
- Nuclear chemistry
| Provider | Saylor Academy |
| Time Commitment | 36 hours |
| Cost | Free |
| Quizzes/Assessment Items | Free |
| Certificate | Free |
What Else?
If you’re looking for a community to ask questions or share ideas, consider joining Reddit’s r/chemistry with 2.8 million members or r/chemistryhomework with 5.5 thousand members.
You can also explore chemistry topics on StackExchange.
For additional help with specific chemistry concepts or to brush up on basic mathematics, Khan Academy is a valuable resource.
Why You Should Trust Us
Class Central, known as the TripAdvisor for online education, has assisted 60 million learners in discovering their next course. With over a decade of experience in reviewing online education, we have curated a catalog of 200,000 online courses and 200,000 user reviews. The Class Central team collectively has completed over 400 online courses, including online degrees, with one team member completing over 200 online courses across various subjects.
How We Made Our Picks and Tested Them
Choosing “the best” can be overwhelming, even for those immersed in online courses. Here’s how we tackled this task:
Initially, we scoured Class Central’s Catalog and the internet for a diverse selection of free and paid open courses, some offering certificates. Enrolling in a university is not necessary to delve into chemistry.
When selecting courses, we considered the following criteria:
- Course content: We reviewed courses covering a broad range of topics and presentation styles, from fundamental to advanced concepts. Sample course videos were watched to assess courses not yet taken.
- Certificates and/or academic credit: Courses providing certificates or academic credit were included. Ensure your eligibility for credit with your chosen course and institution.
- Learner reviews: User reviews were consulted to gauge the course quality. We utilized the wealth of course ratings and reviews in the Class Central database, along with reviews from course providers.
- Popularity: Enrollment numbers and views were considered to identify popular courses.
Ultimately, a blend of data analysis and personal judgment led to these selections. We are confident that these recommendations offer a reliable pathway to mastering chemistry.
