Career development programs: Harvard Business School Online vs. Google Career Certificates
Quick Verdict
Harvard Business School Online is suitable for those seeking prestige and a comprehensive business education, while Google Career Certificates are ideal for beginners focused on acquiring job-ready skills in high-demand fields.
- Harvard Business School Online offers prestigious certificates and networking, but at a higher cost.
- Google Career Certificates provide job-ready skills and career support, recognized by numerous employers, at a lower monthly cost.
- Both programs offer flexible, self-paced learning.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Harvard Business School Online | Google Career Certificates |
|---|---|---|
| Program Cost | Varies depending on the program. CORe: $2,250. HBS Online MBA: $73,800. Entrepreneurship course (4 weeks): $1,850. | $49 per month after a 7-day trial. |
| Course Duration | Varies. Global Business: 24-32 hours over four weeks. CORe: 10, 12, or 17-week cohorts. CLIMB: Year-long. | Generally 3-6 months when studying around 10 hours per week. |
| Certificate Recognition | Completing a Learning Track earns a Certificate of Specialization. Employers recognize the prestige of Harvard. | Recognized by over 150 U.S. employers. Employer Consortium includes companies like Deloitte and Verizon. |
| Instructor Expertise | Taught by world-renowned HBS faculty. | Developed and taught by Google experts. Industry experts also consulted on material. |
| Career Support Services | Online resources, job postings, company profiles, career coaching. | Resume building tools, mock interviews, and career networking support are available. Access to a job platform to connect with employers. CareerCircle provides personalized coaching. |
| Networking Opportunities | Global network with virtual and in-person events, online discussion boards, and regional/topic-based Chapters. Access to Official Networking Group upon course completion. | Access to an exclusive job platform and employer consortium. Opportunities to connect with other learners. |
| Hands-on Projects & Application | Uses the Harvard case-method for a hands-on learning experience. CORe helps master concepts through multimedia case studies. | Includes hands-on projects, quizzes, assignments and assessments. |
Overall Comparison
Cost: Google is lower; Recognition: HBS has prestige, Google has employer network; Expertise: Both have industry experts
Pros and Cons
Harvard Business School Online
Pros:
- Flexible, self-paced programs
- Taught by world-renowned HBS faculty
- Comprehensive curriculum with real-world case studies
- Valuable networking opportunities
- Resume-worthy certificate recognition
- Engaging learning platform
Cons:
- Past participants of HBS Online are not considered alumni of Harvard Business School.
- Student support quality is unknown.
Google Career Certificates
Pros:
- Self-paced learning
- Recognized by over 150 U.S. employers
- Designed for beginners
- Taught by Google experts
- Career support services available
- Networking opportunities
- Completely online
- Focuses on high-growth, high-demand fields
- Includes hands-on projects
Cons:
- No major disadvantages reported.
User Experiences and Feedback
Harvard Business School Online
What Users Love
- Provides vital business knowledge and applicable skills
- Offers a unique and highly engaging way to learn
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
Google Career Certificates
What Users Love
- Curriculum aligns with current industry demands
- Career support services include resume building and mock interviews
- Courses developed and taught by Google experts
- Students have access to an exclusive job platform
- Program is completely online and self-paced
- Certificates are recognized by over 150 employers
- Curriculum is designed for beginners
- Programs incorporate hands-on projects
- Students have access to support from registration to conclusion
- Alumni can access networking opportunities
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.