UC Berkeley course on the roots of a happy, meaningful life, with weekly happiness practices.
Paid certificateHealth & Psychology
Self-pacedBeginner
The Science of Well-Being
Laurie Santos's Yale course on what psychology says really makes us happy, with practical exercises.
Taught byCourseraAbout this course
Yale professor Laurie Santos explains common misconceptions about happiness and the biases behind them, then asks learners to practise research-backed habits that raise well-being.
Best for: Anyone who wants practical, science-based ways to feel better.
What you will be able to do
- Recognise misconceptions about happiness
- Understand biases that distort expectations
- Apply evidence-based well-being habits
- Build a personal well-being plan
Syllabus and your progress
Tick modules off as you finish them on Coursera.
0 of 5 modules done
Plan your pace
At 4 hours a week you would finish in about 4 weeks, using the course time estimate above.
Progress is saved in this browser only. No account needed.
Cost and certificate
Paid certificate
On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.
Coursera sets the terms and can change them. Check the course page before you commit serious time, and tell us if something changed.
Quick answers
- Is The Science of Well-Being really free?
- Yes, the course material is free on Coursera. On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.
- How long does The Science of Well-Being take?
- Plan for about 13 hrs in total (Provider module estimates total about 13 hours.). It is self-paced, so you can go faster or slower.
- Do I need experience before The Science of Well-Being?
- No. It is a beginner course with no prerequisites listed.
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