Identify Key Drivers of Economic Opportunity and Inequality
Examine how factors like neighborhoods, education, and policy shape life outcomes. Recognize patterns that influence upward mobility across communities.
Individual Course
Course Length
4 weeks
4–5 hours per week
Featuring faculty from:
Harvard Faculty of Arts & Sciences
Certificate Price:
$ 950
Apply by Aug 25, 2025
Apply NowCertificate Price:
$ 950
Apply by Aug 25, 2025
Apply NowUsing real-world data and policy interventions as applications, this Harvard Online course will teach core concepts in data science, economics, and statistics and equip you to tackle some of the most pressing social challenges of our time.
The American Dream—the idea that through hard work any child can rise up and achieve a higher standard of living than their parents—is fading: only half of kids today will go on to earn more than their parents did. Why has this happened? And, how can we reverse the fading of the American Dream?
Instructor-Paced
HBS Online
Industries:
Harvard Case Method Premium Learning
Identify Key Drivers of Economic Opportunity and Inequality
Examine how factors like neighborhoods, education, and policy shape life outcomes. Recognize patterns that influence upward mobility across communities.
Use Data to Inform Decisions and Advocate for Change
Interpret and visualize data to uncover insights about social and economic challenges. Communicate evidence in ways that inspire action and policy improvements.
Apply Practical Tools and Frameworks to Create Impact
Explore real-world case studies demonstrating successful interventions. Use big data approaches to design or support programs that promote social good.
Learning requirements: In order to earn a Certificate of Completion from Harvard Online and Harvard Business School Online, participants must thoughtfully complete all 8 modules, including satisfactory completion of the associated assignments, by stated deadlines.
Your Instructor
William A. Ackman Professor of Public Economics at Harvard University and Director of Opportunity Insights
Raj Chetty, PhD, is the William A. Ackman Professor of Public Economics at Harvard University and Director of Opportunity Insights. His research uses “big data” to understand how we can give children from disadvantaged backgrounds better chances of succeeding. Chetty's research combines empirical evidence and economic theory to help design more effective government policies. His work on topics ranging from tax policy and unemployment insurance to education and affordable housing has been widely cited in academia, media outlets, and Congressional testimony. He has received numerous awards for his research, including a MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship and the John Bates Clark medal, given to the economist under 40 whose work is judged to have made the most significant contribution to the field.
Industry Expert
Hear from Geoffrey Canada, an educator, social activist, and author, about his pioneering work in helping children and families in Harlem and about place-based innovations.
Industry Expert
Learn how Sarah Oppenheimer’s work bridges research with applied policy and practice to address poverty and support families’ outcomes.
Industry Expert
Explore research based on the core question “Do markets provide opportunity?”
These courses are curated to help you develop a data-first mindset, improve your digital strategic thinking, and learn how to navigate, manage, and lead in these environments.
Learn more4-5 hours per week • Starting Sep 17, 2025
4–5 hours per week • Starting Sep 24, 2025
4–5 hours per week • Starting Aug 27, 2025
3–4 hours per week • Starting Aug 20, 2025
2–4 hours a week • Starting Aug 27, 2025
Upskill your team
Engaging learning experiences and high-quality online content that can be delivered at scale
Solutions that focus on today’s in-demand skill areas to help attract, retain and future-proof your workforce
A variety of formats, from long-form courses that replicate an on-campus classroom experience to short-form content
Interaction with a global community of learners and leaders looking to develop their workforce, grow their business, and change the world
Learners who have enrolled in at least one qualifying Harvard Online program can receive a 30% discount, automatically applied to the Program Fee upon time of payment.
Learners who have earned a verified certificate for a HarvardX course hosted on the edX platform are eligible to receive a 30% discount using a discount code. Please check your email for a code or contact us.
Eligibility is determined by a prospective learner’s email address, ending in .org, .gov, .mil, or .edu. Interested learners can apply below for the discount and, if eligible, will receive a promo code to enter when completing payment information to enroll in a Harvard Online program.
Technology & Innovation
Technology & Innovation • 6 min read
Technology & Innovation
Technology & Innovation • 5 min read
Technology & Innovation • 8 min read