By Laura Woo, Marketing Intern
Winter break doesn’t have to mean pressing pause on your goals. Whether you want to boost your GPA, knock out a Gen Ed course or explore a brand-new subject, the University of Illinois’ Winter Session term gives you the flexibility to take an online course from anywhere in the world.
Running December 19, 2025, to January 16, 2026, Winter Session is open to Illinois undergraduate students as well as students who are enrolled at other institutions. Priority registration is open, and open registration begins on November 20.
"I wanted to complete some of my gen eds so I could graduate on time. I loved the course, the material and instructor. Very easy to learn and to get an A,” said one student who took ATMS 120: Severe and Hazardous Weather.
“I really enjoyed the course,” said another student who took GWS 356: Sex & Gender in Popular Media. “I was scared that I would be swamped with work this break since the course is so condensed, but this wasn't the case. The clear calendar for when assignments were due, access to all the modules and lack of exams made the course manageable."
Taught by Illinois faculty, these fully online courses let you earn 3 credits in just four weeks while diving into fascinating topics. From exploring the science behind natural disasters to uncovering the power of personal branding, there’s a course for every curiosity and career path.
Here are 10 courses to make your winter both productive and inspiring:
GEOL 118: Natural Disasters (3 credit hours)
From volcanic eruptions to hurricanes, discover the science behind Earth’s most powerful forces. Learn how humans respond to and adapt after disaster strikes and see how science, policy and preparedness intersect in real-world ways. This course makes you look at the world’s natural events and our role within them in a whole new light. (This course is one of three Geology courses available over the winter term. The other two are: GEOL 111: Emergence of Life and GEOGEOL 117: The Oceans.)
PSYC 204: Intro to Brain and Cognition (3 credit hours)
Ever wonder how your brain remembers, feels and focuses? This course dives into the fascinating world of cognitive neuroscience, exploring how brain activity shapes thought, emotion and behavior. Led by Professor Sanda Dolcos, it’s perfect for anyone curious about the science of the mind.
ADV 201: Personal Branding (3 credit hours)
Your online presence is your résumé—and your story. In this class, you’ll learn how to craft an authentic personal brand, strengthen your social media strategy and manage your digital reputation like a pro. A must-take for aspiring communicators, marketers and creators.
HK 302: Disability in American Society (3 credit hours)
Take a closer look at how disability is understood and represented in American life. This course unpacks historical movements, health policies and social justice efforts that have shaped disability rights, offering a deeper appreciation for accessibility and inclusion.
HIST 100: Global History (3 credit hours)
Travel across time and continents to uncover how agriculture, cities and cultures evolved into today’s interconnected world. You’ll explore the forces that built civilizations and connect lessons from the past to issues that define the global village we live in today.
ESE 117: The Oceans (3 credit hours)
Dive into the mysteries of our planet’s oceans—how they shape weather, sustain ecosystems and connect every corner of the Earth. It’s a refreshing way to see the natural world from a global, blue-planet perspective.
ECON 102: Microeconomic Principles (3 credit hours)
Every purchase, every product, every price—it all comes down to microeconomics. Learn how people and businesses make decisions, how markets work and how competition and policy affect everyday life.
DANC 100: Intro to Contemporary Dance (3 credit hours)
Move, think and create. This course explores dance as a living art form, blending movement analysis, cultural discussion and creative participation. You don’t need to be a dancer, just bring curiosity and a willingness to move.
MUS 133: Introduction to World Music (3 credit hours)
Listen your way around the world. This global survey explores how music reflects culture and identity, from traditional rhythms to modern fusion. Great for anyone looking to expand their playlist and their worldview.
JOUR 200: Introduction to Journalism (3 credit hours)
In an age of information overload, this course teaches how to write with clarity, accuracy and impact. Explore the role of journalism in shaping democracy and learn storytelling skills that make facts matter.
The winter term is short — but what you learn can last long after the snow melts.
Check out the full list of courses on the Online Course Search page and find one that interests you. (Make sure to select the Winter 2025–2026 box to see all available courses and check back often for updates.)
For more information, visit Illinois Online’s Winter Session page.