So You Want To Be A Scientist?

Millions of people now use virtual courses to get a taster of what it’s like to learn from experts. Here’s our pick of some of the best STEM offerings out there

- Hayley Bennett

Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity

Stanford University

coursera.org/learn/einstein-relativity

Here you’ll learn what inspired Einstein and get expert insight into his theories. Led by Stanford science historian Larry Lagerstrom, it addresses problems such as whether time can run more slowly for one person than another. Over 100,000 students have enrolled to tackle the 81 hours of course content. Learn for free or get a certificate for £34.

Conservation with Jane Goodall / Space Exploration with Chris Hadfield

MasterClass

masterclass.com/classes/jane-goodall-teaches-conservation masterclass.com/classes/chris-hadfield-teaches-space-exploration

MasterClass works differently to other online classes in that it’s subscription based. For £170 a year, you get access to all its eclectic range of courses. Some of the experts are top-level – renowned chimp expert Jane Goodall teaches conservation, while the space class is led by ex-International Space Station commander, Chris Hadfield.

The Science of Medicines

Monash University

futurelearn.com/courses/the-science-of-medicines