Learn computer science with Harvard’s CS50 programs
Harvard University's Computer Science 50 program, or CS50, is a collection of introductory computer science courses designed for students at all levels who want to learn foundational and advanced computing concepts.
What is covered in a CS50 program?
HarvardX CS50 courses cover the essentials of computer science, such as programming languages and mobile app development. Through real-world projects and interactive lessons, you'll explore:
Core concepts
- Algorithms and abstraction
- Data structures and database design
- APIs, cryptography, and cloud services
- Computational thinking and scalability
Programming skills
- Languages: C, JavaScript, Python, R, SQL
- Web development: HTML, CSS, Django, GitHub
Special topics
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Data science and resource management
- Cybersecurity
Explore popular CS50 courses from Harvard
How long do CS50 courses and programs take?
Because CS50 courses are self-paced, you can complete them on your schedule:
| Type | Duration | Pace |
|---|---|---|
| Individual courses | 5-12 weeks | Self-paced |
| Professional certificate programs | 5-6 months | Self-paced |
How much do CS50 courses cost and what’s included?
CS50 courses are relatively affordable and provide proof of completion and competency from HarvardX. You can even audit these classes for free on edX:
| Access type | What you get | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| Audit (Free) | Access to course content | $0 |
| Certificate upgrade | Graded assignments and a HarvardX certificate to validate your skills | $219-$299 |
| Professional programs | The opportunity to build in-demand skills across multiple CS50 courses and earn a verified HarvardX professional certificate | $376-$519 |
Start for free, upgrade for the full CS50 experience
The CS50 journey starts free, but the full experience goes further. You can explore Harvard’s computer science courses at no cost by auditing CS50 on edX. This lets you try different topics, choose the right learning path, and upgrade to the verified track when you're ready for graded assignments, a certificate, and the complete CS50 experience.
Why upgrade?
The complete CS50 experience offers:
- A verified HarvardX CS50 certificate
- Graded assignments
- Résumé credibility
- Global network of CS50 learners and alumni
The Harvard CS50 community on edX can connect you with learners worldwide. Join the global CS50 community on edX to discuss the course material, meet like-minded students, and find new opportunities for professional growth.
Explore CS50 courses and start learning today
| Difficulty level | Course | Length (Weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Introductory | 12 | |
| Introductory | 10 | |
| Introductory | 7 | |
| Introductory | 3 | |
| Introductory | 7 | |
| Introductory | 10 | |
| Introductory | 6 | |
| Introductory | 5 | |
| Introductory | 7 | |
| Introductory | 12 |
Learn from Harvard’s CS50 instructors
David J. Malan
Gordon McKay Professor of the Practice of Computer Science at Harvard University in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Member of the Faculty of Education in the Graduate School of Education
Meet David
Doug Lloyd
Senior Preceptor in Computer Science in the Division of Continuing Education at Harvard University
Meet Doug
Brian Yu
Senior Preceptor in Computer Science in the Division of Continuing Education at Harvard University
Meet BrianExplore all CS50 programs
Explore all CS50 courses
Top careers for computer science graduates
The median annual wage for computer and information technology professionals in 2024 was $105,990, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Below, you'll find a list of popular jobs for computer science graduates alongside BLS education requirements, 2024 salary information, and job growth projections.
| Job title | Entry-level education | Median annual salary | Projected job growth (2024–34): |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer hardware engineer | Bachelor's degree | +7% | |
| Computer and information research scientist | Master's degree | +20% | |
| Computer network architect | Bachelor's degree | +12% | |
| Computer support specialist | Computer knowledge, degree not necessarily required | -3% | |
| Database administrator or architect | Bachelor's degree | +4% | |
| Data scientist | Bachelor's degree | +34% | |
| Software developer | Bachelor's degree | +15% | |
| Web developer or digital designer | Bachelor's degree | +7% |
Ready to start your CS50 journey?
Discover where a career in computer science can take you. Sign up for a Harvard CS50 course on edX today to earn valuable skills from industry-leading computer science experts.