Course
The Science of Happiness
Mar 24, 2025 - May 24, 2025
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Full course description
Enrollment has reached capacity for this course. We plan to offer it again in future semesters. Stay tuned in Fall 2025!
Produced by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center (GGSC), "The Science of Happiness" is an online, asynchronous, self-paced course that explores the scientific roots of a happy and meaningful life. Since it launched a decade ago, the course has become a global phenomenon, enrolling more than 1 million participants worldwide, making it one of the most popular courses in the history of the university. Data shows that participants experience more positive emotions, greater feelings of connection, and less stress after participating in the course.
Produced by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center (GGSC), "The Science of Happiness" is an online, asynchronous, self-paced course that explores the scientific roots of a happy and meaningful life. Since it launched a decade ago, the course has become a global phenomenon, enrolling more than 1 million participants worldwide, making it one of the most popular courses in the history of the university. Data shows that participants experience more positive emotions, greater feelings of connection, and less stress after participating in the course.
Led by GGSC Science Director Emiliana Simon-Thomas, Ph.D., and renowned UC Berkeley psychologist Dacher Keltner, Ph.D., the course highlights how strong social connections and a sense of purpose contribute to well-being. Through engaging videos, expert guest lectures, accessible readings, and practical “happiness practices,” participants gain research-based strategies to boost happiness and reduce stress. Participants consistently report significant improvements in well-being, making it a life-changing learning experience.
Join us in this online, asynchronous, self-paced and self-directed course, available March 24 - May 23. Here's to a happy you!
FAQS
How long will it take me to complete this free course?
Courses are designed for you to complete at your own pace over a 9 week period. Course content is designed to be asynchronous, meaning all content is available 24/7; you do not need to log in at a specific time.
Will I be graded or earn Berkeley credits for completing the course?
No. These are complimentary, noncredit courses offered to alumni and you will not be given a grade or certification.
Does the course have homework or assignments?
The course does not have any mandatory homework or assignments.There are readings, recorded videos, and practice exercises, all of which are recommended but optional.
Will I interact with the instructor and other alumni participants of the course?
No, this is an asynchronous, self-paced and self-directed course without instructor facilitation or a discussion forum. The instructor will, however, offer an optional, live, one-hour Q&A session for enrollees via Zoom in April (date TBA).
How long will it take me to complete this free course?
Courses are designed for you to complete at your own pace over a 9 week period. Course content is designed to be asynchronous, meaning all content is available 24/7; you do not need to log in at a specific time.
Will I be graded or earn Berkeley credits for completing the course?
No. These are complimentary, noncredit courses offered to alumni and you will not be given a grade or certification.
Does the course have homework or assignments?
The course does not have any mandatory homework or assignments.There are readings, recorded videos, and practice exercises, all of which are recommended but optional.
Will I interact with the instructor and other alumni participants of the course?
No, this is an asynchronous, self-paced and self-directed course without instructor facilitation or a discussion forum. The instructor will, however, offer an optional, live, one-hour Q&A session for enrollees via Zoom in April (date TBA).