Education has the power to transform lives. But for many, cost can be a significant barrier. When weighing online learning options and comparing schools, affordability often plays a pivotal role in decision-making. You want to know, “Is this accessible?”
At Harvard Business School Online, we believe education should be exceptional and accessible. By enrolling in an HBS Online certificate or credential program, you have the unique opportunity to learn from world-renowned HBS faculty and senior business leaders—at a price that fits a range of budgets.
With an immersive, real-world learning model and commitment to flexibility, HBS Online’s programs bring high-quality education to your fingertips—no matter where you are in the world, your career, or your life.
Whether you want to advance professionally, pursue a passion, change jobs, or invest in your personal growth, HBS Online ensures your education’s value far outweighs the cost. Here’s how.
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DOWNLOAD NOWAffordability’s Role in Accessible Online Learning
Affordability is essential to making education inclusive and accessible, and HBS Online is committed to removing barriers and expanding access to high-quality education worldwide. Below is a breakdown of how accessibility can open doors and HBS Online’s role in paving the way.
It Reduces Financial Barriers
Affordable online courses can inspire and empower learners to pursue personal and professional goals.
To make this possible, HBS Online provides financial support options to ensure costs don’t deter learners from diverse economic backgrounds, including:
- Income-Based Grants: Designed for first-time HBS Online participants with limited financial resources, these grants help lower the cost of enrollment to make learning more affordable.
- Military Grants: Available to active-duty service members and U.S. military veterans, these grants acknowledge their sacrifices while supporting their educational and professional advancement.
It Fosters Lifelong Learning
Education isn’t just about earning a certificate or credential; it’s about growth and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. Whether you're fresh out of college, returning to education after years away, or developing a new skill, HBS Online supports lifelong learning for people of all ages and stages.
To foster continued education, HBS Online offers Learning Tracks, which enable you to take three courses within a specific subject area to gain deeper insights and expertise. To make the experience more accessible, HBS Online offers a 30 percent past participant discount, which you can apply to your second and third Learning Track courses.
The past participant discount makes it easier for you to acquire in-demand skills and stay competitive in the job market or explore new interests with less financial strain.
Related: You Are Harvard Material: Accessible Online Learning at Your Pace
It Reduces the Debt Burden
Flexible online courses, like those offered by HBS Online, can reduce your debt burden because you can study from anywhere, eliminating on-campus room and board and commuting fees. That flexibility also enables you to continue working while studying, so you can simultaneously earn an education and a paycheck, or balance learning with your existing responsibilities, such as parenting.
Another way to reduce your debt burden is by taking advantage of an often-neglected benefit: employer tuition reimbursement programs. Many organizations offer this valuable resource as part of their commitment to employee growth and development. It’s an excellent way to invest in your education while significantly reducing or eliminating out-of-pocket expenses.
Related: How to Balance Work & School: 7 Strategies
The Value of Affordable Online Learning
Your learning investment should lead to meaningful rewards—not just in knowledge but in your career and personal growth. HBS Online’s programs deliver a strong return on investment (ROI), equipping you with the tools to thrive in a competitive job market.
While HBS Online’s programs are designed with accessibility in mind, the upfront costs can still feel significant. Education is a long-term investment in your future and can pay off if you choose a program that equips you with real-world outcomes and in-demand skills.
Related: HBS Online believes building your future shouldn’t break your budget. Why? Because ivy grows everywhere.
HBS Online’s Proven Results
In collaboration with market research firm City Square Associates, HBS Online surveyed learners to understand courses’ impact on their careers and finances (pdf). The survey concluded that after earning their certificate:
- Ninety-one percent said HBS Online had a positive impact on their careers
- Forty-two percent received a salary increase of an average of $17,000
- Sixteen percent welcomed a bonus of an average of $14,000
- Thirty-six percent switched careers
- Thirty-one percent were promoted
Beyond the Numbers
HBS Online’s strong ROI is also evident through the learner stories from our global community. Participants from various industries and backgrounds credit their courses for helping them achieve tangible career milestones, from promotions and salary increases to successful career pivots.
While working at Thompson Hospitality, HBS Online past participant Cole Whaley completed a Learning Track, taking Organizational Leadership, Strategy Execution, and Negotiation Mastery to earn a Certificate of Specialization in Leadership and Management.
“[My work] paid for two of the three courses I took,” said Whaley about the experience. “I give all the credit to HBS Online for investing so much time from faculty and staff to create a world-class program. I dipped into my savings to take the courses, and I really see the rewards. Education is part of my life and has led to all of my career pivots.”
Affordable Online Education: Your Path to Opportunity
Accessible and affordable online education can open doors once out of reach for those seeking career advancement, new skills, or personal growth. HBS Online empowers learners by reducing financial barriers while offering high-quality learning and a strong return on investment.
Investing in your education is a step toward unlocking your full potential. With the right tools, resources, and support, you can achieve your goals and thrive in today’s ever-evolving world.
Are you interested in experiencing affordable and accessible online learning? Explore HBS Online’s course catalog and download our free guide—complete with interactive workbook sections—to determine if online learning is right for you and which course to take.
