Lately, MOOCs, or "massive open online courses," have become the hot topic for educators and policymakers looking for ways to expand access to higher education. Harvard, MIT and Duke are among the growing list of institutions that offer these free online tutorials, through partners such as Coursera, edX and Udacity. The courses typically offer a certificate of completion, but few offer credit toward a degree.
That could change. Last October, Antioch University in Los Angeles launched a pilot partnership with Coursera to offer several MOOCs for credit. And the American Council on Education has begun evaluating the creditworthiness of a number of Coursera MOOCs. If approved, those courses would have enrollees take an identity-verified exam (for example, via webcam) and pay a fee.
For now, look to accredited degree and certificate programs to pick up a credential -- and participate in MOOCs for the love of learning.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
Why Taiwan Semiconductor Stock Is Falling After EarningsTaiwan Semiconductor beat expectations for the first quarter but its stock is notably lower. Here's why.
-
Strategies to Optimize Your Social Security BenefitsTo maximize what you can collect, it’s crucial to know when you can file, how delaying filing affects your checks and the income limit if you’re still working.
-
5 Ways to Save Money on Vacation Rental PropertiesTravel Use these strategies to pay less for an apartment, condo or house when you travel.
-
10 Annoying Hotel Fees and How to Avoid ThemTravel Here's how to avoid extra charges and make sure you don't get stuck paying for amenities that you don't use.
-
Are Student Loans Being Forgiven or Not?Student Loans The House and Senate voted to repeal President Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan, but does it even matter?
-
Are Scholarships Tax-Free?Education Scholarships are generally tax-free if certain IRS and other requirements are met.
-
Student Loan Forgiveness Blocked For Now Due to Court RulingsBiden's student loan debt forgiveness program is on hold until the U.S. Supreme Court weighs in.
-
529 Plan Contribution Deadlines529 Plans Many states have year-end deadlines for making 529 college savings plan contributions.
-
3 Key Ways You Can Help a Child or Grandchild Pay for Collegecollege Options such as 529 plans, education savings accounts and tax-free gifts can ensure you don’t carry a child’s student loan debt into your golden years.
-
Borrowers Over 50 With Student Loan DebtPaying for College Millions of borrowers 50 and older are struggling to repay loans for themselves and their children, some delaying retirement. There’s a trick, though, to help with repayment.
