MIT’s online learning platform, MITx, is expanding access to advanced engineering education for professionals and students around the world. Through MIT Open Learning, the program offers massive open online courses that replicate many elements of MIT’s rigorous academic curriculum while remaining affordable and accessible, tells MIT News. One learner, mechanical engineer Badri Ratnam, describes the experience as “like getting a Ferrari for the price of an electric scooter,” highlighting the unusually high value of these courses relative to their low cost.
Ratnam began exploring MITx courses in 2012, shortly after the institute launched its massive open online course initiative. Curious about whether he could handle the same demanding coursework expected of MIT students, he enrolled in a review course on mechanics. That initial experience led to a long-term commitment to online learning. Over the years, Ratnam completed nearly 40 MITx courses spanning physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, and related technical disciplines.
His professional background already included advanced education, with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of South Florida and another master’s degree in computational and applied mathematics from Simon Fraser University. Despite these credentials, Ratnam felt the need to revisit core engineering principles and strengthen his understanding of complex subjects. MITx courses provided a structured environment for doing exactly that, combining lectures, assignments, and examinations designed to mirror the depth of traditional university classes.
The coursework has helped Ratnam broaden his technical expertise across numerous areas relevant to modern engineering practice, including mechanics of materials, vibration analysis, validation and verification testing, statistical quality control, manufacturing processes, and reliability engineering. These skills have supported his career working with companies such as Siemens, GE, Westport Fuel Systems, and Freudenberg e-Power Systems.
Recent classes he completed include Vibrations and Waves and Information Entropy: Energy and Exergy, both intensive courses featuring dozens of lessons, assignments, and exams. Although these classes require substantial effort, the cost of certification can be under $100, making them dramatically cheaper than traditional university courses.
MITx demonstrates that rigorous engineering education no longer depends solely on physical classrooms. By combining high-quality instruction with online accessibility, the program enables professionals worldwide to deepen technical expertise while continuing their careers.