Improve your math skills with eight free online courses

Math is useful in many situations, from college entrance exams to calculating home mortgages. Excellent math skills can also open doors to careers in data science and analytics, computer programming, artificial intelligence, and more. Check out these eight online math courses to build your foundation and visit edX to find additional math courses for learners at all levels.

1. Introduction to Algebra (SchoolYourself)

Become proficient in fundamental algebra concepts, which are essential tools for high school and college-level math, science, and engineering courses. You’ll be able to choose your own path within each lesson and jump between lessons to quickly review earlier material, making this course an ideal way to build or refresh your knowledge of high school level algebra.

2. Introduction to Geometry (SchoolYourself)

Start from the very beginnings of geometry and proceed up through advanced theorems and proofs about 2D and 3D shapes in this self-paced course. The concepts you’ll learn are integral to many professions, including architecture, engineering, graphic design, and computer animation. You’ll be able to choose your own path within each lesson and jump between lessons to quickly review earlier material, making this course an ideal way to build or refresh your knowledge of high school level geometry.

3. Precalculus (ASUx)

Improve your performance in future calculus courses with an online precalculus course from Arizona State University (ASUx). This credit-eligible course focuses on quantitative reasoning and the application of functions, familiarizing you with key concepts needed for future college-level calculus courses. Audit the course for free or enroll in the ID Verified Track to be eligible to purchase transferable credit from ASU.

4. College Algebra and Problem Solving (ASUx)

Learn how to apply algebraic reasoning to solve a wide range of problems, prepare for advanced math courses in calculus, and more. In this personalized, self-paced course, you’ll be instructed on the topics you are most ready to learn while also receiving individualized coaching as you move through each topic. Audit the course for free or enroll in the ID Verified Track to be eligible to purchase transferable credit from ASU.

5. Introduction to Probability (HarvardX)

This course is designed to provide you with a solid foundation in understanding and working with probabilistic models. You’ll delve into the principles of probability, and learn how to interpret and apply these concepts to real-world scenarios. This includes analyzing data, understanding randomness and uncertainty, and exploring the role of probability in various fields such as science, engineering, and economics. The course is suitable for those who seek to learn probability, regardless of their previous exposure to the subject.

6. Pre-University Calculus (DelftX)

Get yourself fully prepared for freshman-level calculus by taking a course that covers functions, equations, and more. This six-week course is designed to take you through the fundamentals of calculus, whether for the first time or as a refresher from your high school math courses, to help you make a confident transition to a college-level course.

7. Calculus Applied! (HarvardX)

Go beyond the calculus textbook to understand how practitioners in social, life, and physical sciences use calculus and mathematical models in their work. If you’ve completed a single-variable calculus course at the high school or college level, this course will teach you how to apply the concepts you’ve learned to real-life scenarios. You’ll explore a series of case studies and look at data and graphs, write equations, do calculus computations, and make educated guesses and predictions.

8. Linear Algebra: Foundations to Frontiers (UTAustinX)

Study all of the topics taught in a typical linear algebra undergraduate course through short videos, exercises, visualizations, and programming assignments. This course is packed full of challenging, rewarding material that is essential for mathematicians, engineers, scientists, and anyone working with large datasets.

How to refresh your math skills for college: 3 steps

Refreshing your math skills before college can make your academic journey easier. Instead of taking prerequisite math courses in your freshman year, you can plan ahead and familiarize yourself with core math skills. Here are three steps you can take to make quick improvements in your math abilities. 

1. Understand college math requirements

Different majors have varying math prerequisites. Research the specific requirements for your intended major, focusing on key areas like algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus.

2. Take a math refresher course

Once you have identified which math courses are the most important for your area of study, you can enroll in a math refresher course. A math refresher course can be one of the best ways to improve your math skills because you learn in a structured format and potentially earn credit towards your degree.

3. Test yourself

To actively improve your math skills, engage in consistent practice and regular self-testing. Actively seek out and utilize free online resources that provide math problems and quizzes. These tools will help you actively identify and target specific areas for improvement in your math skills.

Unlock your math potential

From algebra to calculus and beyond, you can enhance your math skills in free courses from prominent universities on edX. Explore our current and upcoming online math courses for learners of all levels to find the one that fits your learning goals.

Last updated: January 2024