University of London to Launch on Coursera

University of London International Programme

The University of London International Programmes is launching four free massive open online courses (MOOCs) on the Coursera online platform, making it the first English university to do so.

The University of London International Programmes is launching four free massive open online courses (MOOCs) on the Coursera online platform, making it the first English university to do so.

‘Creative Computing for Digital Media & Mobile Apps’ is the first course to be launched on Monday 10 June, with three others coming online later in the month. The scheduled go-live dates for the remaining courses are as follows:

* ‘Malicious Software and its Underground Economy: Two Sides to Every Story’

(17 June)

* ‘English Common Law: Structure and Principles’

(24 June)

* ‘The Camera Never Lies’

(24 June)

The courses include engaging content and activities for Coursera learners, developed by the University of London International Programmes through collaboration with course teams from the Colleges of the University of London (Goldsmiths, Royal Holloway and the Undergraduate Laws Consortium).

Students will have the opportunity to learn new skills in six weeks, ranging from how to write a programme for applications on mobile and handheld devices, to critically assessing the use of film and other media in the reporting of historical events in the twentieth century.

Professor Sir Adrian Smith, Vice-Chancellor of the University of London, said: “Launching our short courses on Coursera is an exciting time for both us as a leading university and for higher education across the world.”

Professor Smith added: “Both Coursera and the University of London share a common mission based around access. By combining our experience, which is essentially delivering distance and flexible education since 1858, with Coursera’s innovative technology, it provides us with the scope to explore for even greater access to life-long learning.”

Michael Kerrison, Director of Academic Development for the University of London International Programmes, said: “Students who enjoy their experience with Coursera may be interested in joining the University of London International Programmes by enrolling on a related course, namely BSc Creative Computing; MSc Information Security; Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and BA History.”

He added: “Each of these degree programmes form part of the portfolio of over 100 programmes taken by 54,000 students in 180 countries. These students study as independent learners or with local support from over 70 institutions recognised by the University of London. All students are required to meet the University’s entry requirements for their chosen programme. Although the Coursera courses are not accredited by the University of London, their completion does demonstrate the aptitude and skills required of students wishing to complete a full study programme with the International Programmes."