CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science (edX)

Overview

An introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and the art of programming. This CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science course by edX, 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, CS50 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, PHP, and JavaScript plus SQL, CSS, and HTML. Problem sets inspired by real-world domains of biology, cryptography, finance, forensics, and gaming. As of Fall 2014, the on-campus version of CS50 was Harvard’s largest course.

Students who earn a satisfactory score on 9 problem sets (i.e., programming assignments) and a final project will receive a certificate from HarvardX. This is a self-paced course–you may take CS50 on your own schedule.

What you’ll learn

• 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

Teacher

• David J. Malan