8 Best Free Machine Learning (ML) Courses & Certificates 2025

With the rise of technologies like ChatGPT and other AI services, machine learning has become a popular discipline within the field of data science. While it may sound like a difficult area to get into, free machine learning courses with certificates are a great place to get started.

Those eager to learn about the fundamentals of artificial intelligence can enroll in online courses, gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to break into the field. Read on to discover free machine learning courses, many of which offer certificates upon completion.

Free Machine Learning Courses With Certifications

Finding the right free machine learning course with certificates can feel like an uphill battle with so many choices out there. Here's our list of the eight best free machine learning courses available in 2025.

1. Introduction to Machine Learning

This free machine learning course offered by Great Learning is perfect for beginners. Learners leave the course knowing about the basics of supervised and unsupervised learning, regression, classification, and how machine learning works on the Cloud. Dr. Abhinanda Sarkar, who has a PhD from Stanford University and is former faculty member at MIT, instructs the course.

In addition to learning more about AI, students will also participate in worldwide competitions, giving them a chance to showcase their knowledge and gain real-world experience. Upon completion, you'll earn a certificate with your name and the signature of the academic director.

2. Python for Machine Learning

Another option by Great Learning, the Python for Machine Learning course focuses on using coding language for machine learning tasks. The course begins by introducing students to the NumPy library before teaching them about the Pandas library.

At the end of the course, students will take a cumulative quiz to test their knowledge and ensure they have the skills to move on to more advanced topics. If they pass, they'll be awarded a certificate showcasing their new skills.

3. IBM Machine Learning Professional Certificate

In this course from Coursera, students will learn about machine and human learning and how to predict course ratings using a neural network and create regression and classification models. Students should come to the course with a basic understanding of statistics and programming languages like Python, as the certificate is designed for data scientists hoping to add accolades to their resume and build upon their existing skills.

Overall, you can complete this course within 42 to 60 hours, earning a certificate of completion at the end.

4. Mathematics for Machine Learning and Data Science Specialization

This course offered through Coursera by DeepLearning.AI focuses on statistics, algebra, and calculus as they pertain to machine learning. Students will learn how math is used to create the algorithms and datasets necessary for AI to function. Additionally, they will learn how to conduct data analysis, which is an essential component of a career in machine learning.

At the end of the 55-hour course, you'll receive a career certification that demonstrates your understanding of the material.

5. Google's Machine Learning Crash Course

While this course from Google does not come with a certificate, it is an amazing resource for learning the basics of machine learning from one of the leading companies in the field. Throughout the 15-hour course, you'll learn about various ML models, data collection and analysis techniques, and real-world applications of machine learning.

The interactive lessons are great for data scientists of all levels, whether you're just starting out or you're an established machine learning engineer.

6. Machine Learning Specialization

A collaboration between Stanford University and DeepLearning.AI, this introductory course is a great option for beginners. Students will learn the basics of machine learning including supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and best practices for innovation.

By the end of this self-paced course, students will have invaluable insight into the world of machine learning and how to apply it in practice. While the course is free, the certification costs $49.

7. Fundamentals of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Amazon Web Service's (AWS) Fundamentals of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence course offered through Coursera provides students with knowledge of the basics of ML and AI. This course is perfect for beginners, as it's quick and concise. With a completion time of just one hour, you'll learn about the role of machine learning in the growing field of generative AI.

What makes this a great option for those who are new to ML is the focus on terminology, which serves as the foundation for continued learning.

8. Introduction to Machine Learning

The Introduction to Machine Learning course from Duke University offered by Coursera is yet another great option for anyone interested in ML and GenAI. Students will learn the foundations of machine learning algorithms and models, gaining insight into how these models impact various fields. While learning about linear regression and logistic regression, students will get hands-on experience using the models to analyze datasets.

This is a self-paced course, so you can earn your certificate on your own time. This is a great introduction for anyone interested in getting into the fields of cybersecurity or data analysis.

Other AI Tools: Generative AI and Deep Learning

Generative AI tools have increased in prevalence lately. They use deep-learning neural networks that are inspired by the human brain, which means they can learn outside of a set parameter using complex algorithms. This allows generative AI to recognize images and words as well as create content. While generative AI requires input data to learn, it's meant to produce entirely original content, whether that be through the written word or visual media.

Benefits of Free Courses for Machine Learning

One of the greatest benefits of free machine learning courses is that they prepare learners for potential careers in data science. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information research scientists are in high demand, with the data analytics industry expected to grow by 26% from 2023 to 2033. These free courses can enhance your career prospects at no cost to you. Additionally, they can prepare you for various degree paths, giving you a leg up as you pursue higher education.

FAQs About Machine Learning Courses for Artificial Intelligence

If you're considering machine learning courses, it's natural that you might have some questions. Below are some FAQs about ML courses for artificial intelligence.

Which Certification Is Best for Machine Learning?

This will depend on what your ultimate goals in the ML field are. That said, one of the best certifications for machine learning is the Machine Learning Specialization offered by Standford University. As a collaboration between DeepLearning.AI and Stanford, this course comes from two prestigious leaders in the ML field, making it an informative option that looks great on a resume.

Where Can I Find Free Online Courses With Certificates in Machine Learning?

The best place to start is a Google search for free online machine learning courses. Many of the options from Coursera are free to take, though you will have to pay for the actual certificate. It's important to read the course descriptions and testimonials from past students to ensure it's a match for you.

Who Is Eligible To Take Free Machine Learning Courses?

Generally, anyone is eligible to take machine learning courses, assuming you possess the prerequisite knowledge for the course. Otherwise, there are no eligibility requirements for many courses. Websites like Coursera allow you to enroll for free regardless of circumstance.

It's important to read each course description before enrolling, however, to ensure there are no additional requirements.

Explore Online Courses and Certificates

With the increase in demand for data scientists, online machine learning courses and certificates are more popular than ever before. If you're interested in free machine learning courses with certificates, visit Learn.org to learn more.