Free Art History Courses
Here are some online Art History courses offered free by two top universities: Open University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
The Open University
The Open University offers several courses focusing on specific art history topics. For example, the Helen Langdon's 'Caravaggio' course analyzes both Langdon's biography of the famous Italian artist and the role of biographical monographs in art history. Meanwhile, the Goya course looks upon Goya's career, work, and inspiration.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT's Open Courseware has a couple of art history classes. Modern Art and Mass Culture is an introduction to modern art and relevant theories. Art Since 1940 explores the art world from post World War II to the present, and it necessarily examines the relationship between art and politics.
Free Online Art History Courses at a Glance
| Course & School | Program Level | Format | Assignments | Quizzes & Exams | Downloadable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helen Langdon's 'Caravaggio' course from Open University | Advanced | Text Lessons | Yes | No | Yes |
| Goya course from Open University | Intermediate | Text Lessons | Yes | No | Yes |
| Delacroix course from Open University | Beginner | Text Lessons | Yes | No | Yes |
| Napoleonic Paintings course from Open University | Intermediate | Text Lessons | Yes | No | Yes |
| Musée du Louvre course from Open University | Intermediate | Text Lessons, Video | Yes | No | Yes |
| Modern Art and Mass Culture course from MIT | Undergraduate | Text Lessons | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Art Since 1940 course from MIT | Undergraduate | Text Lessons | Yes | No | Yes |
