This is CS 50.
“Demanding, but definitely doable. Social, but educational. A focused topic, but broadly applicable skills. CS 50 is the quintessential Harvard course.”
Computer Science 50: Introduction to Computer Science I is a first course in computer science at Harvard College for concentrators and non-concentrators alike. More than just teach you how to program, this course teaches you how to think more carefully and how to solve problems more effectively. As such, its lessons are applicable well beyond the boundaries of computer science itself. That the course does teach you how to program, though, is perhaps its most empowering return. With this skill comes the ability to solve real-world problems in ways and at speeds beyond the abilities of most humans.
If unsure (or nervous!) as to whether you "belong" in CS 50, know that the course draws quite the spectrum of students. Fall 2007's students described themselves as follows:
If you'd like to get a sense of the course, Fall 2007's videos are still available at cs50.tv.
Available at left are answers to frequently asked questions, the course's syllabus, and much more.
