Why Harvard Extension School?
We’re convenient, affordable, challenging. Learn more about the school.
This page contains content from the 2008–09 academic year. For current information, visit the Harvard Extension School website at www.extension.harvard.edu.
Why Choose Our Programs?
Evening and Online Study, Convenient and Flexible
Our programs are designed to meet the needs of the adult student, balancing academic rigor and flexibility. You can attend part time in the evening, at a pace that complements your lifestyle. Programs include open-enrollment courses, some of which can be taken online. Two certificates can be completed entirely online.
Harvard: An Academic Challenge, a Valued Credential
As one of 13 schools at Harvard University, the Extension School maintains Harvard’s high academic standards. These are serious programs, meant to challenge and prepare you. You study with faculty from Harvard and other local universities, as well as seasoned professionals. At graduation, you receive a Harvard University diploma or certificate. Many graduates have gone on to the finest graduate schools and to rewarding careers.
Admissions Based on Ability
Although our open-enrollment courses are open to the public, our programs have an admission process. Because the majority of our students are professionals with years of experience in the field, we consider the ability to do honors-level work at Harvard a key predictor of success in a program . Thus, before seeking admission you need to take three courses from your chosen program’s curriculum and earn at least a B in each. Each program section outlines specific admission criteria.
The Benefits of Being a Candidate
There are many benefits to being a candidate in a degree or certificate program, including access to Harvard libraries and ID card discounts. See Candidate Perks.