A massive open online course (MOOC) is a free web-based distance learning program that is designed for large numbers of geographically dispersed students. 

A MOOC may be patterned on a college or university course or be less structured. Although they do not always offer academic credits, these courses may offer a certification, enhance employment opportunities or further studies. Typically, MOOCs are used for higher education and career advancement. But due to the coronavirus pandemic, many public school districts and undergraduate degree programs have implemented MOOCs as the new standard.