MOOC Econometrics: Methods and Applications reaches over 200,000 Learners

The MOOC is based on the globally acclaimed Oxford University Press textbook Econometric Methods with Applications in Business and Economics and is taught by faculty members of the Econometric Institute at Erasmus School of Economics.

In line with Erasmus University Rotterdam’s strategy to disseminate scientific knowledge through open-access education, the Erasmus School of Economics has made its expertise in economics and econometrics widely available online. To date, the School has successfully developed three highly impactful MOOCs, attracting learners from around the world.

Interesting takeaways about the African continent

Looking at the learner statistics, especially when you compare the MOOC Econometrics: Methods and Applications with the overall Coursera platform averages, there are a few clear and interesting takeaways about the African continent. Relative to Coursera as a whole, Africa is slightly underrepresented in the MOOC Econometrics: Methods and Applications but still represents a non-trivial share of the audience. Given that econometrics is a mathematically demanding subject, 7% of the learners (14,000) are from Africa (Coursera average is 9%). 

Egypt stands out as a key African contributor

North Africa, especially Egypt, is a major gateway for African participation. There is strong demand for quantitative economics, data analysis, and econometrics in this region, likely linked to large student populations and strong technical universities. The absence of other African countries in the Top 10 does not imply low interest elsewhere, but rather a long tail of participation across many countries.

African learners are likely highly motivated and academically oriented

While the education breakdown is global, it matters for Africa in particular because the MOOC Econometrics: Methods and Applications has a much higher share of Master’s (41%) and PhD (10%) learners than the Coursera average. This strongly suggests that African participants are more likely to be graduate students, early-career researchers, or professionals, who use the MOOC for career advancement, academic preparation, or applied research, rather than casual exploration. 

Structural barriers likely explain the gap

The lower African share compared to Coursera overall likely reflects external constraints, not lack of interest. Barriers may be limited access to stable internet or bandwidth-intensive content, lower exposure to econometrics in some undergraduate curricula, and lower visibility of the course in Sub-Saharan Africa compared to Asia or Europe. Giving these barriers, the existing 7% is actually a strong signal of unmet demand.

Africa is a growth opportunity 

There is clear interest in Africa and learners who join are well-qualified and goal-oriented. With targeted outreach (e.g. partnerships with African universities, regional examples, lighter-bandwidth materials), Africa could close the gap with or exceed Coursera averages.

About the MOOC

Econometrics: Methods and Applications is particularly aimed at advanced undergraduate students in business, economics, and engineering, as well as professionals working in business, management, and data analysis. What distinguishes this MOOC is its strong emphasis on the practical application of econometric theory. Learners gain hands-on experience with real-world methods, supporting both their further academic studies and professional careers.