Harvard University Free Online Courses 2026 | World‑Class Learning Accessible to Everyone

Harvard University offers an extensive catalogue of free online courses that anyone can join — with no application fee, no admission requirement, and the ability to learn from Harvard faculty across many disciplines. From computer science and data science to leadership, humanities, and global health, these courses are designed for learners of all levels and backgrounds. (Harvard University)

Harvard’s free course platform lets you audit content at no cost — meaning you can view videos, readings, quizzes, and lectures for free. For learners who want an official certificate of completion, many courses offer optional certificates for a fee or financial assistance.

Below are some of the top free online courses available now, with links to enroll directly on Harvard’s official learning portal (pll.harvard.edu) or related platforms like edX:

1. CS50: Introduction to Computer Science

Overview: Harvard’s flagship introductory computer science course, covering programming fundamentals, algorithms, and problem‑solving.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50-introduction-computer-science

2. CS50’s Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python

Overview: A foundational look at AI concepts and Python programming for intelligent systems.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50s-introduction-artificial-intelligence-python

3. Data Science: Machine Learning

Overview: Learn machine learning basics, including regression, classification, and real‑world data workflows.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/data-science-machine-learning

4. CS50’s Web Programming with Python and JavaScript

Overview: Dive into modern web development using Python, JavaScript, and modern frameworks.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50s-web-programming-python-and-javascript

5. Negotiating Salary

Overview: Learn practical negotiation tactics to increase your compensation or bargaining power.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/negotiating-salary

6. Managing Happiness

Overview: A course blending psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy to help you build a more meaningful and joyful life.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/managing-happiness

7. Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies

Overview: Discover strategies for launching and scaling ventures in growing global markets.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/entrepreneurship-in-emerging-economies

8. Early Childhood Development: Global Strategies for Interventions

Overview: Learn frameworks for designing impactful early childhood programs around the world.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/early-childhood-development-global-strategies-interventions

9. Bioethics: The Law, Medicine, and Ethics of Reproductive Technologies and Genetics

Overview: Explore ethical, legal, and social dimensions of modern medical technologies.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/bioethics-law-medicine-and-ethics-reproductive-technologies-and-genetics

10. Ancient Masterpieces of World Literature

Overview: Study classic texts that defined world literature and cultural traditions.
➡️ Enroll: https://pll.harvard.edu/course/ancient-masterpieces-world-literature

Why Harvard Free Courses Are Valuable

• Diverse subjects — from AI and computer science to leadership, humanities, and health.
• Flexible learning — many courses are self‑paced and online, so you can learn on your schedule.
• World‑class faculty — courses are taught by Harvard professors and practitioners.
• No enrollment cost — content is free to access; optional certificates available for those who want proof of completion.