Edx vs. Coursera: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 17, 2023
edX and Coursera are online learning platforms; edX originated from MIT and Harvard, while Coursera is a Stanford University venture.
Key Differences
Both edX and Coursera are giants in the realm of online education. edX was birthed as a collaboration between Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University in 2012. Coursera, on the other hand, was founded in the same year by Stanford University professors Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
edX offers a diverse range of courses, many of which are affiliated with renowned universities. Coursera, similarly, provides a wide spectrum of courses from partnering universities and institutions across the globe. While both platforms boast a vast array of topics, their association with prestigious educational institutions is a significant selling point.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Another distinction lies in their business models. While both edX and Coursera provide free courses, Coursera leans more towards a monetization model where certification often comes at a cost. edX, however, has a more flexible model with an option to audit many courses for free, with a fee charged for a verified certificate.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Both edX and Coursera have ventured into offering online degrees in partnership with universities. Coursera tends to have a broader range in this domain, from bachelor's to master's degrees. edX focuses primarily on professional and master's degrees. Despite their differences, both platforms have made significant impacts on democratizing education globally.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Comparison Chart
Origin
Collaboration between MIT and Harvard
Founded by Stanford University professors
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
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Course Availability
Many free courses; paid certification
Many courses free to audit; paid for certs
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Degree Offerings
Mostly professional and master's degrees
Ranges from bachelor's to master's degrees
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Business Model
Flexible with more free audit options
More monetized, often charging for certs
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Edx and Coursera Definitions
Edx
EdX is an online learning platform.
I took a computer science course on edX last summer.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 17, 2023
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Coursera
Coursera offers courses from global institutions.
Coursera's vast catalog includes courses from universities worldwide.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Edx
EdX is a non-profit organization.
EdX's non-profit status distinguishes it from many other online learning platforms.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Coursera
Coursera is an online learning platform.
I enrolled in a machine learning course on Coursera.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 17, 2023
Edx
EdX offers professional and master's degrees online.
Through edX, I'm considering pursuing a master's degree from a top university.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Coursera
Coursera was founded by Stanford professors.
Coursera's origins trace back to innovative educators at Stanford University.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
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Edx
EdX provides both free and paid courses.
I audited a free course on edX but paid for the certificate.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Coursera
Coursera offers degrees ranging from bachelor's to master's.
I'm thinking about getting a bachelor's degree through Coursera.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Edx
EdX originated from MIT and Harvard.
EdX, the brainchild of MIT and Harvard, has expanded its reach globally.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Coursera
Coursera operates on a for-profit model.
While Coursera provides valuable education, they operate as a for-profit entity.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
FAQs
Where did Coursera originate?
Coursera was founded by professors from Stanford University.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 17, 2023
Can I get a certificate from edX?
Yes, edX offers verified certificates for a fee.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Are edX courses affiliated with universities?
Yes, many edX courses are affiliated with renowned global universities.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Which degrees can I pursue on edX?
edX primarily offers professional and master's degrees.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Are there any specializations on edX?
Yes, edX offers MicroMasters and Professional Certificate programs.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
What is the business model of Coursera?
Coursera operates on a for-profit model.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
How does Coursera handle course pacing?
Coursera offers both self-paced courses and courses with set schedules.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
What distinguishes edX from other platforms?
edX's non-profit status and its origins from MIT and Harvard set it apart.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
How is Coursera's monetization model structured?
Coursera often charges for certification and has a more monetized approach.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Does Coursera have specializations?
Yes, Coursera offers specializations, which are series of courses in specific topics.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
How does Coursera compare to other e-learning platforms?
Coursera is known for its vast range of courses and its association with top global universities.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
What is edX?
edX is an online learning platform established by MIT and Harvard.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Does Coursera offer free courses?
Yes, Coursera offers many courses that are free to audit.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Who partners with Coursera for course content?
Coursera partners with various global universities and institutions.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
How was edX founded?
edX was founded as a collaborative effort between MIT and Harvard.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Can I audit courses for free on edX?
Yes, many courses on edX can be audited for free.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Are edX's courses self-paced?
Many edX courses are self-paced, but some have set start and end dates.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
What kind of degrees does Coursera offer?
Coursera offers a range of degrees from bachelor's to master's.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
