How to Cite an Online Course in Vancouver (ICMJE)
Learn how to cite online courses and MOOCs (Coursera, edX, Udemy, FutureLearn) in Vancouver format (ICMJE). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
Vancouver Reference List Format
Here is the standard Vancouver format for citing an online course in your reference list:
Instructor AA. Title of the course [MOOC]. Platform; Year [cited Year Mon Day]. Available from: URL
Vancouver Example for an Online Course
A complete Vancouver reference for an online course, formatted by the official Vancouver CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
1. Duarte I. Academic writing for graduate students [Internet]. OpenLearn. OpenLearn; 2024 [cited 2026 Jan 10]. Available from: https://www.example.org/courses/academic-writing
Matching in-text citation: (1)
Vancouver In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(1)
Narrative
The course (1) covers...
Key Vancouver Formatting Rules
- Abbreviate the instructor's first names to initials.
- Add the [MOOC] tag after the course title.
- Include [cited Year Mon Day] for the access date.
- Use 'Available from:' before the URL.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your online course.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the Vancouver (ICMJE) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match Vancouver requirements.
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