Top courses of 2025

CS50 remains one of Harvard’s most iconic courses. For many, it’s their first step into the world of computing and problem solving.

Taught by Professor David J. Malan, this entry-level course introduces you to the “intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming,” with topics such as algorithms, data structures, security, software engineering, and web development. You’ll work with languages including C, Python, SQL, and JavaScript, plus HTML and CSS, through real-world inspired problem sets.

“I gained not only programming skills but also a lot of friends around the globe. Surprisingly, those friends I met [in CS50] made me realize that there's a hidden potential in me.

Those courses changed the way I see the world before and now. It awakened the skills that I didn't know I have, until I was able to reflect all the things I've learned, created my output, psets and answered homeworks. It helped me devise new approach in my teaching and learning style in the most innovate ways in this time of pandemic.”
— Melissa S.

Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles introduces learners to the Adaptive Leadership framework developed Professor Ronald Heifetz, helping you mobilize others to tackle tough challenges, not just manage routine work.

For aspiring and experienced leaders alike, this course builds the mindset and practical skills to drive progress, even in complex systems. Learners consistently highlight how transformative it is to be part of a global, diverse cohort:

“Being part of the Harvard global community of learners means connecting with a diverse group of individuals who share a common goal of growth and development. It’s not just about gaining knowledge from world-class professors like Professor Ronald Heifetz, but also about learning from the experiences, perspectives, and challenges of fellow learners from around the world. It’s an opportunity to collaborate, exchange ideas, and challenge myself in ways I wouldn’t be able to in a local environment.”
— Ermund C. Regacion

If you're intersted in learning more from Professor Heifetz, his newest course, Adaptive Leadership, starts in January!

American Government: Constitutional Foundations has helped learners deepen their understanding of how U.S. institutions work and why they matter.

Guided by Professor Thomas E. Patterson, the course explores federalism, the separation of powers, civil liberties, and the evolution of American democracy. Learners often talk about how rigorous and rewarding the experience is:

“I looked up and applied for a certificate course in American Government & Politics. I had always wanted to learn about the oldest democracy in the world. It fascinated me a lot.

And 11 months, 4 modules, 24 topics, and several assessments later; I have earned this… To be honest, I studied more in these 11 months than the entire 5 years of my graduation & post-grad.”
— Aakarsh

Health care leaders face unique pressures: shifting regulations, evolving patient expectations, new technologies, and persistent financial constraints. Health Care Strategy gives professionals a rigorous framework for navigating that complexity.

Through case studies and practical tools, you explore how organizations can build competitive advantage while improving outcomes and access. Learners value how directly applicable the content is to their work:

"The industry analysis and positioning model, as well as the NHS and survicorx case studies in this course have inspired me to optimize my intervention design for public healthcare delivery in Nigeria. I'm starting a social enterprise targeted at working with state governments for implementing a sustainable healthcare architecture that is viable, incentivized for care providers and politically acceptable. Finding delicate balance between patients, clinicians and governments interest.
— Peter G.

Across industries, leaders are expected not just to understand data but to use it to make better decisions. Data Science for Business helps bridge the gap between technical analytics and strategic insight.

The course introduces key concepts such as experimentation, prediction, and causal inference, and emphasizes how managers can work effectively with data science teams, interpret results, and avoid common pitfalls.

This course definitely paid off 🙌
⁠Upon successful completion of the course, I added this course to my LinkedIn and resume, and I can say that I have become more popular among HR 😎. In addition, I gained confidence in myself as a specialist ☝

— Jeannette V.

Many public and nonprofit leaders know what needs to change—but struggle with how to make that change stick. Strategy Execution for Public Leadership focuses precisely on that challenge.

Building on real-world examples of policy implementation and organizational transformation, the course helps you translate mission and strategy into measurable results, even when resources are constrained and stakeholders are diverse. For leaders in government, NGOs, education, and social impact organizations, this course offers a toolkit for turning good ideas into sustained outcomes.

"It’s been a game-changer for me when it comes to learning how I can implement strategies that can further long-term success. The experience learned from each background it’s priceless. You have a sense of a culture of consistency, where experiences are shared freely."
⁠— Maria P.

Justice, taught by Professor Michael Sandel, is one of Harvard’s most famous courses, continuing to resonate with learners worldwide. It invites you to grapple with big questions of ethics, rights, and the common good, drawing on philosophers from Aristotle to Rawls while applying their ideas to contemporary dilemmas.

The impact often extends far beyond the classroom:

“It has helped tremendously with my understanding of human behaviours and my negotiating skills. [… ] I have such a huge understanding of how laws are applied, created, and human behaviour behind many decisions.”
— Betty Azzario

Contracts underpin almost every professional relationship—from employment and partnership agreements to complex commercial deals. Contract Law: From Trust to Promise to Contract helps you understand the principles that make agreements enforceable and effective. Learners examine formation, interpretation, remedies, and more, and apply these concepts to real-world scenarios. Learners report tangible benefits:

"The course not only strengthened my foundational knowledge of contract law but also expanded my perspective on how contracts function across different jurisdictions. The clarity, structure, and practical insights offered throughout the certification have directly enhanced the quality of my work, especially when navigating complex international transactions.

Since completing the program, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in how I negotiate, draft, and interpret agreements. It has also broadened the way I advise clients allowing me to approach issues with greater confidence, precision, and strategic foresight.

Harvard Online did more than educate me; it empowered me. The learning experience was enriching, inspiring, and deeply aligned with my passion for lifelong learning. It has become a meaningful milestone in my professional journey as a corporate lawyer."
⁠— Hamna Z.

For current and aspiring health professionals, Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases offers an engaging gateway into the structure and function of the human body.

Using clinical case studies, visuals, and interactive resources, the course explores the musculoskeletal system in depth, helping students connect anatomical knowledge to real patient scenarios.

“I enjoyed it and learned a lot through the engaging videos and images… Taking Human Anatomy only deepened my passion for becoming a doctor… Being part of the learning community means a lot to me. It's like joining a family where everyone is excited about learning and making a difference in their own way.”
⁠— Ada Muqqadus

Amid rapid change and ongoing stress, many professionals are asking a deeper question: What does it mean to live a good life? Managing Happiness brings together research from psychology, philosophy, and behavioral science to help you examine your values, habits, and definitions of success.

Learners describe it as both practical and eye-opening:

"Managing Happiness reframed the way I approach my daily life and long-term aspirations. It reminded me that happiness is not a destination tied to external achievements, but a practice rooted in presence, gratitude, and the appreciation of small moments. Professionally, this insight has helped me lead with more empathy, balance, and perspective. Personally, it has allowed me to redefine success, not as constant productivity, but as living intentionally and cultivating meaningful connections."
⁠— Maria A.