Why Harvard Extension School?
We’re convenient, affordable, challenging. Learn more about the school.
Harvard Extension School allows me to get training in areas that will help advance my career while staying flexible . The amount of resources that the school has to offer as well as the incredible quality of the faculty makes my experience a great investment.
— Sebastian Biglione, biotechnology degree candidate
Our Competitive Advantage
In our degree programs, you will find an academic challenge while earning a valued credential.
Evening and online study, convenient and affordable
Our degree programs are designed to meet the needs of the adult student, balancing academic rigor with flexibility and value. 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. In addition, tuition ranks among the lowest in Boston, and financial aid is available.
Harvard: An academic challenge, a valued credential
As 1 of Harvard’s 13 schools, the Extension School maintains the University’s high academic standards. You study with faculty from Harvard and area universities, and seasoned professionals, gaining specialized knowledge. At graduation, you receive a Harvard University diploma.
Rewarding careers
Many graduates have gone on to the finest graduate schools and to rewarding careers as teachers, scientists, scholars, psychologists, organizational managers, entrepreneurs, and advocates. See a list of fields that alumni have gone into or a list of some of the graduate schools.
Admissions based on ability
Although our courses are open to the public, our programs have an admission process. Because most of our students are professionals with years of experience, we consider the ability to do honors-level work at Harvard a key predictor of success . Thus, before seeking admission you take 3 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 program, including access to Harvard libraries and ID card discounts. See Candidate Perks.