Management

Program Contacts and FAQs

Have a question?

The automated “Have a question?” tool (above) is designed to provide fast and accurate answers to your questions. If you are looking for information that is available online, the tool directs you to the appropriate webpage.

Information packet

All the up-to-date information about the program that you need is available within these webpages. However, you may also download an information packet that provides an overview of the program:

Advisors

After reading through the website or information packet, feel free to contact an admissions advisor, available via phone or e-mail to talk about the program.

E-mail

almm@dcemail.harvard.edu

Phone

(617) 495-9414

Frequently asked questions

Preapplication

Requirements

Preapplication

Can I earn the degree entirely online?

No. One of the advantages of being a Harvard Extension School degree candidate is the opportunity to take a combination of online and on-campus courses and to spend time in Cambridge. You are required to complete at least half of your credits on campus. For more information, see Online Course Options.

Does “Extension” mean “online”?

No, the term “Extension” is a late nineteenth century British reference to elite institutions of higher learning that provide education to the broader community rather than a select cadre of individuals. Learn more about the Extension School.

Is financial aid available for preadmission courses?

Financial aid is typically only available once you are admitted to the program. However, as a nonadmitted student, you may have other financing options.  See Nonadmitted Students in the financial aid section for more.

What are the 3 preadmission courses?

Preadmission courses depend on which track you intend to follow. See Admission to read the criteria.

Can the preadmission courses be completed online?

Yes. We offer a flexible program allowing you to complete the preadmission courses either online or on campus. Read about the online course options.

How long does it take to complete the program?

You can take up to 4 courses per semester during the fall and spring, 1 in the January session, and up to 2 courses during the summer. Taking the maximum number of courses allowed each term will enable you to graduate in approximately a year and a half. You must complete the program within 5 years from your third degree course. See Degree Requirements.

What is the difference between the Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) with a concentration in management and a master of business administration (MBA)?

The ALM and an MBA are completely different degrees and provide disparate experiences. Program director Margaret Andrews elaborates on the differences in a Q&A. See her explanation.

When do I apply?

You should apply during the admission cycle that correlates with the semester you complete your 3 preadmission courses. For a schedule, see How to Apply.

Do I have to interview or come to campus to be admitted?

Interviews are not a requirement for admission. However, to gain a better understanding of the program, you may want to schedule an appointment with an admissions advisor. Our office is open year-round, and our staff is available for scheduled meetings and advising sessions. To make an appointment, or to find out more about the available advisors, see Advising.

What is the total cost of the program?

Harvard Extension School is 1 of the best bargains in higher education.  For current tuition costs, see Tuition and Payment.

Is the Master of Liberal Arts a Harvard degree?

Yes. The Harvard Extension School is 1 of 13 Harvard schools, and our degrees are from Harvard University.

If I am a non-native English speaker or non-US resident, do I still need to take the TOEFL?

You do not have to take the TOEFL if you completed all of your courses in a university where English was the language of instruction. You will be required to take the TOEFL if you transferred courses from a college or university where English is not the language of instruction. Read more about the school’s English proficiency requirements.

Do I need to have work experience?

Although work experience is not a requirement, 2 or more years of experience is highly desirable. Most of our students are working adults and bring a depth and breadth of experience to the classroom. Find out the degree requirements.

How is the Master of Liberal Arts regarded by employers?

Harvard Extension School is highly regarded by employers for our wide variety of high-quality continuing education programs. The management program provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of business management for working professionals. Many students use their degree to improve performance in an existing role or to signal to employers their interest in other areas—such as finance or marketing—or a new industry.

Do I need to submit transcripts before taking courses?

Transcripts do not have to be submitted to take courses unless you are an international student who is requesting the English proficiency requirement be waived. However, transcripts from all colleges and universities attended are required when submitting an application for admission. Read more in Admission.

What does the diploma say?

The diploma reads UNIVERSITAS HARVARDIANA (Harvard University); then, after the graduate’s name comes Magistri in Artibus Liberalibus Studiorum Prolatorum (Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies).

How do I present the degree on a résumé?

Master of Liberal Arts, Concentration: [General Management or Finance], Harvard University Extension School

Professionally, what are the benefits I will receive after I get my degree?

You will be an alumnus or alumna of Harvard University, which carries with it a number of professional benefits, such as membership in the Harvard Alumni Association (HAA), the University-wide alumni association and umbrella organization for Harvard Clubs around the world. See Alumni Benefits.

Requirements

What courses are right for me?

To help you make the decision about what courses to take, you can meet with an advisor, or use the degree course search to find out what courses fulfill requirements. Also, it may be helpful to review our tips for choosing courses.

How do I know if a course counts toward the program?

You can conduct a degree course search to find out what courses satisfy specific degree or track requirements. If you have any questions, you can also make an appointment with your academic advisor.

Do you have courses in the summer?

There are several courses offered during the summer at Harvard Summer School that may fulfill management requirements. You can use the summer degree course search (linked on the courses page when the search is available) to find out which summer courses apply.

How do I find out if a course is taught by a Harvard-affiliated instructor?

This information is available through the degree course search. You will be able to set the parameters to conduct a search. Please note that half of your courses must be taught by a Harvard-affiliated (H-status) instructor.