openHPI review
A free web-based MOOC platform for programming and technology learning.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
openHPI is the online learning platform of the Hasso Plattner Institute in Potsdam, Germany. It offers free, web-based MOOCs in information technology, programming, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, digital health and design thinking. The audience ranges from school students and beginners to professionals, with courses created by HPI professors, research staff and partners. Learners can choose scheduled courses with weekly materials or access archived courses at their own pace.
The standard openHPI plan is free and provides access to openHPI courses without formal admission restrictions. Course content includes learning videos, reading materials, interactive self-tests, quizzes, graded homework, final examinations and practical programming exercises. Discussion forums and learning groups add a social learning layer, while Records of Achievement and confirmations of participation document progress. Executive Education Channel courses are booked for a fee through HPI Academy, making the standard platform a stronger fit for open course access than for a single paid catalog with uniform pricing.
For technology-focused learning, openHPI combines a broad subject range with structured assessment and programming practice. CodeOcean is available via LTI, and platform partners can access learning analytics and KPIs. The platform is web-only: Android and iOS apps were discontinued and removed from app stores in January 2024, with the mobile website serving as the current alternative. Offline learning is not available. Choose openHPI if free programming and technology MOOCs, mixed scheduled and self-paced access, and formal learning records match your goals. Learners who require mobile apps or offline course access should choose another platform.
openHPI pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free access to scheduled and self-paced IT courses
- Combines quizzes, graded work and practical programming exercises
- Forums, achievement records and CodeOcean via LTI support learning
- Where it doesn't
- Web access only; Android and iOS apps were discontinued
- No offline learning option
- Executive Education Channel courses require a fee
openHPI fact sheet, pricing and score →
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