Advance your career from home with the University of St Andrews online short courses

Why choose online short courses at St Andrews?

St Andrews has a longstanding tradition of delivering high-quality education and is Scottish University of the Year in The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2026. The University was also Scottish University of the Year in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026. Their online short courses are crafted by world-leading academics, ensuring that you receive the same education as on-campus students. These courses are self-paced, providing the flexibility to balance your studies with personal and professional commitments.

Diverse course offerings

St Andrews offers a wide array of online short courses that are designed to cater to professionals seeking to upskill, individuals contemplating a career change, or enthusiasts eager to delve into a new subject area. Current available courses include:

End-to-End Machine Learning (Introduction/Intermediate/Advanced): Delve into the concepts and technologies underpinning learning using artificial neural networks.

Introduction to Programming in Python: Receive hands-on experience of the core features of Python and how to apply these to real-world problems.

Python for Data Analysis and Visualisation: Learn to harness Python's capabilities to improve your workflow and data interpretation skills.

FinTech Frontiers: Blockchain, Generative AI, and Digital Finance: Begin a fascinating journey into the world of financial technology.

The History of Scottish Design in Six Objects: In partnership with V&A Dundee, discover the Scottish Design Gallery by exploring the fascinating history of the objects on display.

Studying Terrorism and Political Violence: Develop a critical understanding of how and why political violence occurs. Led by expert academics at the Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence.

The Modernist Artist: From Europe to Latin America: Embark on a journey through the rich history of Modernist art across continents.

Accredited Mediation Training: Equip yourself with the skills to resolve conflicts effectively, a valuable asset in today's collaborative work environments. Accredited by Scottish Mediation.

Introduction to Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL): Gain a comprehensive introduction to TESOL principles and practices, an ideal course if you’re starting your educational journey.

Flexibility and support

Understanding the demands of modern life, St Andrews' online short courses are self-paced, allowing you to fit study around your own schedule at a time that suits you best. Throughout the courses, you will have access to a wealth of resources and support from the University’s world-leading academics and practitioners, ensuring a seamless online learning experience.

Enhance your professional profile

Completing an online short course from the University of St Andrews not only broadens your knowledge but also enhances your professional profile. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. A certification from a world-renowned institution like St Andrews can set you apart in a competitive job market. Once you complete a course, you will receive a digital badge to showcase your achievement and skills that you’ve gained.

Join a global learning community

Enrolling in these courses connects you with a diverse, global community of learners. Throughout your studies, you’ll have the chance to engage in enriching discussions, share insights, and build connections with fellow learners across the world.

How to enrol

Online short courses start on Monday 6 April and Monday 5 July. Each course includes approximately 50 hours of learning, spread over 6 – 8 weeks, allowing for a flexible and manageable study schedule.

To book your place and explore course details, visit the University of St Andrews website. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].