Taking a single course at a university typically requires paying tuition, which can be substantial. In the U.S., many colleges charge tuition on a per credit hour basis, with costs varying significantly. For instance, a state university might charge around $300 per credit, totaling approximately $900 for a semester-long course, while a home college could charge about $2000 for part-time students. Community colleges often offer lower rates, and self-study is also a viable alternative. Universities generally do not provide options for free classes for non-affiliated individuals, as they need to cover operational costs such as faculty salaries and facilities. Exploring specific courses and universities may reveal potential cost-saving strategies.