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CS50's Introduction to Computer Science

An introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming.

12 weeks
6–18 hours per week
Self-paced
Progress at your own speed
Free
Optional upgrade available

There is one session available:

6,263,107 already enrolled! After a course session ends, it will be archivedOpens in a new tab.
Starts Dec 5

About this course

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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.

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Awards

Class central top 100 course of all-time.edX Prize Finalist 2018

At a glance

  • Associated skills:Forensic Sciences, JavaScript (Programming Language), Algorithms, SQL (Programming Language), HyperText Markup Language (HTML), C (Programming Language), Computer Science, Python (Programming Language), Data Structures, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Security Software, Finance, Resource Management, Cryptography

What you'll learn

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  • 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, Python, SQL, and JavaScript plus 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

This course is part of Computer Science for Cybersecurity Professional Certificate Program

Learn more 
Expert instruction
2 skill-building courses
Self-paced
Progress at your own speed
4 months
5 - 14 hours per week

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