CS50: Introduction to Computer Science

This is CS50x

An introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming in an online course from Harvard.

Featuring faculty from:
Self-Paced
Length
11 weeks
10-20 hours a week
Certificate Price
$219
Start CS50 Today.

What You'll Learn

This is CS50x , Harvard University's introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming for majors and non-majors alike, with or without prior programming experience. An entry-level course taught by David J. Malan, CS50x teaches students how to think algorithmically and solve problems efficiently. Topics include abstraction, algorithms, data structures, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web development. Languages include C, Python, SQL, and JavaScript plus CSS and HTML. Problem sets inspired by real-world domains of biology, cryptography, finance, forensics, and gaming. The on-campus version of CS50x , CS50, is Harvard's largest course. 

Students who earn a satisfactory score on 9 problem sets (i.e., programming assignments) and a final project are eligible for a certificate. This is a self-paced course–you may take CS50x on your own schedule.

The course will be delivered via edX and connect learners around the world. By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • A broad and robust understanding of computer science and programming
  • How to think algorithmically and solve programming problems efficiently
  • Concepts like abstraction, algorithms, data structures, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web development
  • Familiarity in a number of languages, including C, PHP, and JavaScript plus SQL, CSS, and HTML
  • How to engage with a vibrant community of like-minded learners from all levels of experience
  • How to develop and present a final programming project to your peers

Your Instructors

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David J. Malan

David J. Malan

Gordon McKay Professor of the Practice of Computer Science, Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

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Doug Lloyd

Doug Lloyd

Senior Preceptor in Computer Science, Harvard University

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Brian Yu

Brian Yu

Senior Preceptor in Computer Science, Harvard University

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CS50 Recommended

 
  "The Best Way to Learn to Code in 2024!? - CS50 Review" by isentope. https://youtu.be/3xMZ7z7B4vE?feature=shared

"Harvard's Free coding courses are excellent. You need to take them." by Python Programmer. https://youtu.be/WwEcPcfRlD0?feature=shared

 

"I tried Harvard University's FREE CS50: Introduction to Computer Science course | CS50 review 2020" by Sunny Singh. https://youtu.be/DSA34lhJvw4?feature=shared 

 

"Learn To Code For FREE At Harvard University // CS50: Introduction To Computer Science Review" by Dorian Develops. https://youtu.be/He4jqZ2EjrE?feature=shared

Ways to take this course

When you enroll in this course, you will have the option of pursuing a Verified Certificate or Auditing the Course.

A Verified Certificate costs $219 and provides unlimited access to full course materials, activities, tests, and forums. At the end of the course, learners who earn a passing grade can receive a certificate. 

Alternatively, learners can Audit the course for free and have access to select course material, activities, tests, and forums. Please note that this track does not offer a certificate for learners who earn a passing grade.

 

Have Questions?

Can I enroll in this course if I'm not a programmer? Are there any prerequisites? Learn the answers to these and more in our FAQs.

Course FAQs

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