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  1. Academics
  2. Graduate Certificates

Programming Certificate

Learn the fundamentals of computer programming and language. Through this professional graduate certificate, you gain an understanding of the techniques and tools necessary for software engineering, database management, or website development.

Key learning outcomes

  • Build a foundation in computer science and the art of programming through use of algorithms, data structures, string manipulation, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web development.
  • Develop an understanding of programming language in C, PHP, JavaScript, SQL, CSS, and HTML.
  • Gain knowledge of fundamental data structures for information processing, including lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs.
  • Become proficient in a focused topic area, such as C, Unix/Linux programming, web interfaces, Microsoft .NET programming, and database systems.

Getting started

No application is required. You simply register for graduate courses during our fall, spring, or summer registration periods. 

Earning the Certificate

To meet the requirements for the certificate, you must:

  • Choose a preferred course path from the CSCI E-50 track or CSCI E-10AB track. 
  • Complete four certificate courses for graduate credit.
  • Earn at least a B grade in each course.
  • Complete the courses within three years.

Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.

Certificate Tracks and Courses

The professional graduate certificate in Programming requires four courses.

You may choose one of the following certificate course tracks:

CSCI E-50 Track

  1. CSCI E-50 Intensive Introduction to Computer Science (one 4-credit course)
  2. Data Structures (one course)
  3. Electives (choose any two courses from select group)

CSCI E-10AB Track

  1. CSCI E-10A Introduction to Computer Science Using Java I or CSCI S-1 Great Ideas in Computer Science in Java (choose one course)
  2. CSCI E-10B Introduction to Computer Science Using Java II (required course)
  3. CSCI E-22 Data Structures (required course)
  4. Elective (choose one course from select group)

This certificate is designed for students with little or no prior knowledge in computer programming and language. You are encouraged to begin your study with CSCI E-10A or CSCI E-50, depending on the certificate track you choose.

Find Certificate Courses

Technology graduate degrees

If you are are interested in pursuing a master’s in information management systems or software engineering, you may find that this certificate serves as a helpful introduction. While many courses for this certificate do not apply toward these degrees, they do provide the foundational knowledge needed to succeed in these programs.

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Data Science Graduate Certificate

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Web Technologies Certificate

Start or advance a career as a web developer with the web technologies certificate at Harvard Extension School.

Learn more about Web Technologies Certificate

Interested in Undergraduate Certificates?

Undergrad certificates give you introductory level education in coding and more.

Learn More About the Undergraduate Coding Certificate

 

Registration

Summer 2021 registration opens March 1. Fall 2021 registration opens in July. Start planning now by browsing the course catalog: 

Find a Course  

Have a question?

Our Enrollment Services team can answer questions about our certificates.

Get Information

Certificate at a Glance

Required Courses

4

Number of courses for this certificate.

Start browsing courses

Average Cost

$11,600

Cost of completing the certificate courses, at current tuition rates.

Time Investment

1.5

Number of years, on average, it takes to complete this certificate. You may take up to three years.

Learn more about requirements

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