Degrees are awarded 3 times a year:
- November (if you finish your requirements in a summer term)
- March (if you finish your requirements in a fall term)
- May (if you finish your requirements in a spring term)
The University-wide Commencement ceremony is held once a year, in May. If you are a November or March graduate, you participate in the following May's ceremony, after your degree has been awarded.
Graduation confirmation
As you near graduation, you need to complete the graduation confirmation form, which is available through online services. Submit the online form according to the following schedule:
- For November graduation, by June 1
- For March graduation, by August 1
- For May graduation, by November 1
Learn more about available Honors and Prizes.
To graduate and participate in May Commencement, you must fulfill all degree requirements and be in good academic standing with no disciplinary or administrative procedures pending. Moreover, you must be in good financial standing with Harvard University with no outstanding tuition bills or fees (a zero balance).
Thesis deadlines for graduation
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For November graduation: final thesis proposal submitted to research advisor by February 1, final thesis submitted to thesis director by August 1, and submitted to the program office by September 1
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For March graduation: final thesis proposal submitted to research advisor by June 1, final thesis submitted to thesis director by December 1, and submitted to the program office by January 2
- For May graduation: final thesis proposal submitted to research advisor by August 1, final thesis submitted to thesis director by February 1, and submitted to the program office by March 1
Degree name
The diploma, in Latin, reads:
Universitas Harvardiana (Harvard University)
Magistri in Artibus Liberalibus Studiorum Prolatorum (Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies)
On your résumé, the degree may be listed Master of Liberal Arts, Museum Studies, Harvard University Extension School. Include graduate awards when applicable.