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Learning Model

Master real-world business skills with our immersive platform and engaged community.

 

Engage in real-world learning with a global community of peers

Play Course Platform Introduction Video

Harvard Business School Online offers a unique and highly engaging way to learn vital business concepts. Our online certificate and credential programs are offered via our innovative online platform and are designed to bring the Harvard Business School classroom to you—putting you at the center of the learning experience.

But don’t just take our word for it: In a recent survey of past participants, conducted by City Square Associates, three out of four learners said HBS Online is more impactful than other online business programs.

What sets HBS Online apart? Our learning model is built around three key characteristics: active, case-based, and social.

Active

Our courses are nothing like a typical sit-back-and-listen lecture. You’ll engage in a new activity every three to five minutes—think polls, problem-solving exercises, short essays, and the famed HBS “Cold Call,” where you’re asked at random to succinctly state your position on an issue in a matter of minutes. Each element is designed to keep you interested, involved, and on the edge of your seat.


Case-Based

Lessons are brought to life through real-world cases, putting you in the shoes of business leaders. Hear firsthand the challenges they faced, and wrestle with the same issues and imperfect information. As you discuss and debate solutions with your peers, you'll learn vital business concepts you can apply in your own career.


Social

Engaging with your peers is a big part of what makes HBS Online unique. You exchange ideas, offer input, and seek out viewpoints from a community of learners gathered from around the globe. In the process, you learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives, and leave the program with a broader outlook on the world.


Stories from Our Learners

Ryan

“I had never experienced such an immersive platform online, and could argue that it was more effective at building and solidifying knowledge than some of the in-class courses I took in college.”

Ryan Dumlao, CORe Participant


Monica

“Being able to break down real-life scenarios, and look at the management processes within each—what worked and what didn't—provided a unique method of learning, and was incomparable to other course offerings available.”

Monica Higgins, Management Essentials Participant


Raymond

“My favorite part of the program was interacting with my cohort members. I received valuable shared experiences, feedback, and was able to be a thought partner around strategies and best practices in varying scenarios.”

Raymond Porch, Management Essentials Participant


At HBS Online, you complete coursework on your own time while meeting regular deadlines to ensure you’re progressing through the course in step with your peers and taking full advantage of every networking and social learning opportunity.

This isn’t your typical online business education. Take the next step in your career and experience it for yourself.

View Course Catalog

 
All FAQs

Top FAQs

How are HBS Online courses delivered?

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Self-paced programs (with deadlines) are offered on the HBS Online course platform.

Our platform features short, highly produced videos of HBS faculty and guest business experts, interactive graphs and exercises, cold calls to keep you engaged, and opportunities to contribute to a vibrant online community.

Do I need to come to campus to participate in HBS Online programs?

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No, all of our programs are 100 percent online, and available to participants regardless of their location.

How do I enroll in a course?

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All programs require the completion of a brief application. The applications vary slightly from program to program, but all ask for some personal background information. You can apply for and enroll in programs here. If you are new to HBS Online, you will be required to set up an account before starting an application for the program of your choice.

Our easy online application is free, and no special documentation is required. All applicants must be at least 18 years of age, proficient in English, and committed to learning and engaging with fellow participants throughout the program.

After submitting your application, you should receive an email confirmation from hbsonlinesupport@hbs.edu. If you do not receive this email, please check your junk email folders and double-check your account to make sure the application was successfully submitted.

Updates to your application and enrollment status will be shown on your Dashboard. We confirm enrollment eligibility within one week of your application.

Does Harvard Business School Online offer an online MBA?

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No, Harvard Business School Online offers business certificate programs.

What are my payment options?

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We accept payments via credit card, Western Union, and (when available) bank loan. Some candidates may qualify for scholarships or financial aid, which will be credited against the Program Fee once eligibility is determined. Please refer to the Payment & Financial Aid page for further information.

In all cases, net Program Fees must be paid in full (in US Dollars) to complete registration.

 

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