About the School
See Course Highlights to view some Extension School courses via streaming video.
The Harvard Extension School offers part-time study in the evenings on an open enrollment basis. Its dynamic and challenging environment annually attracts more than 12,000 students of many ages from every New England state. They come from all walks of life and academic backgrounds, holding a variety of degrees--from doctorate to associate's--or no degree at all. Most Extension School students take one or two courses to learn something new or to enhance job skills. The varied curriculum also meets the needs of students who wish to complete unfinished degrees or begin study for new liberal arts or professional studies degrees, certificates, and diplomas.
Extension School courses meet in or near historic Harvard Yard (with the exception of several that meet in the Harvard Medical Area). Harvard University, in the heart of bustling Harvard Square, is just four subway stops from downtown Boston on the Red Line. Before or after class, Extension students can browse in the Square's nearly two dozen bookstores, or dine in one of the many ethnic restaurants. They can also attend University events, lectures, and concerts. Parking in University garages is available for a small nightly fee. Visit the Help section for driving directions or to download a map.
Harvard Extension School Facts and Figures
- Founded: 1909 by Harvard President A. Lawrence Lowell as an experiment in "popular education"
- 570 courses
- 65 fields of study
- 54 online courses
- 60% of instructors are Harvard affiliates
- 12,000 students of whom 2,000 are Harvard staff
- 74% of students have bachelor's degrees
- 24% of students have graduate degrees
- 5% of students have doctorates
- 56% women/44% men
- 38% are from Cambridge and Boston
- 442 other communities in Massachusetts and surrounding states are represented
- 107 countries are represented
- Average age: 33
- 1,200 degree and certificate candidates
- More than 10,000 graduates
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