Imagine a world-class education that’s accessible, flexible, affordable, and designed for impact. That’s Harvard Extension School.
Whether you’re looking to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree, take a course for personal enrichment, or stack your courses toward a graduate certificate — and then a degree — you will find a wide range of formats and options designed just for you.
We put your priorities and schedule first.
We know that prioritizing your education is a big deal. So, when you make the decision to invest in your education at Harvard Extension School, we invest in you — ensuring you have everything you need to be successful.
At Harvard Extension School, you’ll find …
Since our founding in 1910, we have extended Harvard University to the world of adult learners who have the curiosity and drive to challenge themselves in pursuit of their goals.
1
of 12 degree-granting schools at Harvard University
115
years we’ve been education trailblazers
900+
courses to choose from
75+
certificate and degree offerings
Our courses are taught by world-class academics and experts, many of whom teach across Harvard University and at nationally ranked universities. They are industry leaders who specialize in fields as diverse as biotechnology, finance, international relations, psychology, literature, and cybersecurity.
~70%
faculty with doctoral degrees
4.6
average faculty rating by students on a scale of 1 to 5
In class, you’ll exchange ideas with engaged peers. Dive into the latest research and trends. And develop practical tools. Through experiential opportunities like active learning weekends and capstone courses, you can explore real-world challenges and collaborate on solutions.
Students report gaining the desired skills or knowledge from their course
Average rating of course experience
Whether you’re looking to study online, on campus, or a combination of both, Harvard Extension School provides academic pathways that match your schedule, budget, and learning needs.
We offer online and on-campus formats because we know that when it comes to learning, one size does not fit all:
You’ll be learning alongside high-achieving peers who, like you, are invested in gaining the knowledge and skills they need to change their lives.
Harvard Extension School students are typically mid-career professionals and lifelong learners. They come from all over the world and span many industries. They are business leaders, teachers, engineers, parents, baristas, and entrepreneurs. They are project managers, investment professionals, scientists, writers, and artists. Harvard Extension School is designed for everyone.
Video: Our students reflect on the value of the peer community.
33
Average Student Age
12
Average Years of Professional Experience
120
Countries Represented by Our Students
75%
Bachelor’s Degree Holders
25%
Already Hold Master’s Degrees or PhDs
From biotechnology to data science to digital media, our students and alumni hold rewarding jobs in dynamic industries — with many attributing professional success to their Harvard Extension School experience. In fact, a majority of our students report that just completing courses has led to greater job responsibilities, promotions, and career opportunities.
Developing Leadership Skills
Building Financial Expertise to Maximize Career Impact
Leveraging the Harvard Innovation Network
Addressing Educational Inequity
Advancing an Equitable Transition to Renewable Energy
Launching a Startup to Support Mental Health
Broaden your skillset without breaking the bank. We believe that a high-quality education should be affordable. Our course tuition rates are comparable to public universities and only a fraction of the tuition of our peer institutions.
| Credit Level | Our 2023-24 Course Tuition | Average Course Tuition of Peer Institutions |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $2,040 per course | $2,900 per course |
| Graduate | $3,220 per course | $4,330 per course |
You can pay for courses in a variety of ways. Learn more about how to pay, including payment plans and financial aid options for degree candidates.
If you need support as you consider and choose a program, and you’ve never taken a course with us before, an enrollment coach will work with you one-on-one.
Our dedicated staff of Enrollment Services professionals can answer any of your questions about creating a student account, using the course search, registering for courses, and making payment.
Pre-admission advising is available to students currently registered in a course or who have completed at least one course and need help preparing for their application to the Extension School. Admitted degree candidates have academic advisors to guide them to graduation.
Ready to get started? Explore the variety of options available to you at Harvard Extension School. And find an academic pathway that fits your goals — and your life.
You can also create your own academic path as you go: Start with a single course, and then continue your studies to earn a certificate, and ultimately stack all your coursework toward a degree. The choice is yours.
