How to Cite an Online Course in IEEE (standard)

Learn how to cite online courses and MOOCs (Coursera, edX, Udemy, FutureLearn) in IEEE format (standard). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

IEEE Reference List Format

Here is the standard IEEE format for citing an online course in your reference list:

IEEE In-Text Citation

Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:

Key IEEE Formatting Rules

• Put the course title in quotation marks.
• Name the platform after the title.
• Use [Online] and Available: for the URL.
• Abbreviate the instructor's first names to initials.
• Number references in order of first appearance.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your online course.
2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the IEEE (standard) template shown above.
3. Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
4. Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match IEEE requirements.

Cite an Online Course in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in IEEE

More Resources

• Free Citation Generator (10,832 styles)
• Free Writing Tools
• Compare Citation Styles
• All Citation Guides
• Cheat Sheets (APA, MLA, Chicago)