As you consider continuing your education, you may be overwhelmed by evaluating your options and deciding which is the best fit for you.
We get it. Returning to school — whether for a course, certificate, or degree — is a big decision. You’re likely weighing the value and time commitment. Will the investment help you reach your goals? Can you fit school into your already busy life?
Such questions are common among our prospective students. So we’ve compiled a list of five essential benefits of studying at Harvard Extension School (HES), complete with input from students and alumni.
Advance Your Career
Most of our students come to HES to advance their careers. Our teams — from faculty to career and academic advisors — are here to support you. Courses and programs are designed to be relevant and immediately applicable to your career.
Some students use what they learn to improve their day-to-day work responsibilities, earn a promotion, or change careers. Others start businesses or go on to Ph.D. programs.
My journey at Harvard Extension School went beyond achieving a milestone; it acted as a catalyst for advancing my career.
Earn a Harvard Degree
When you complete your program, you receive your Harvard University diploma and graduate alongside students from all Harvard schools during the annual Commencement in Harvard Yard.
Career advancement and personal growth don’t end at graduation. As an alum, you gain access to an engaged global network through the Harvard Alumni Association and the Harvard Extension School Alumni Association.
My hard work led me to achieve a degree from one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Something I never thought I would say: I am a Harvard alum.
There is no doubt that what I have learned at HES has helped my businesses, but the real impact is how I have been able to take this knowledge and help my community.
I’m sure it’s no coincidence that right after my master’s at Harvard, I ended up at one of the most respected investment banks in the world. I’m sure it didn’t hurt to have Harvard on my resume, but the experience that I had from my classes and classmates helped every step of the way.
Learn from — and Among — the Best
At Harvard Extension School, we bring together expert faculty who love to teach and motivated adult learners who love to learn.
Courses prioritize real-time, live engagement with instructors and fellow students. No matter where you live in the world, you’ll be a part of a Harvard classroom meeting lifelong friends and future business partners, and building a valuable network. Small class sizes ensure that you will receive personal attention and support.
Our faculty come from diverse personal, professional, and academic backgrounds. You will learn from Harvard University faculty as well as instructors from local, national, and international universities. You’ll study with industry leaders who bring their real-world insight and expertise to the classroom.
I am always amazed by our students’ wealth of personal experiences and diverse backgrounds. By bringing their unique perspectives and selves, our students create an exciting environment in which their colleagues and peers can grow through collaboration.
Director, Premedical Program
But it’s not just faculty you’ll learn from — our student body of more than 13,000 students represents hundreds of professional fields and over 100 countries around the globe.
HES students are diverse. But they all have key qualities in common: the academic ability, curiosity, and drive to succeed at Harvard, as well as the desire to leverage their education for change.
My cohort taught me about their diverse backgrounds and experiences, different ways and perspectives from which to view situations, and how to engage in healthy debates that promote distinct ideas.
Access to Harvard Resources
You gain access to a wide range of benefits and support from the broader Harvard community. Simply enrolling as a student gives you access to the Harvard libraries and museums, and academic resources like the Writing Center, and career advising appointments.
Admitted degree candidates have additional privileges and academic opportunities, including the ability to join student clubs, apply to be a faculty aide, or participate in the Harvard Innovation Labs.
Research and take advantage of all that Harvard has to offer: the amount and range of opportunities is mind-blowing.
Flexible Pathways
The majority of our students are working professionals, many of whom are also balancing families and other life commitments while pursuing their goals. When researching continuing education options, our students were looking to be tested, challenged, and inspired. We understand that by investing in education, you’re investing in yourself and your future. Our staff and faculty are committed to supporting you throughout your academic journey.
One way that we prioritize flexibility is your opportunity to customize your academic timeline, whether you are looking to stack credentials or pursue a master’s degree, graduate certificate, or microcertificate.
Course format options
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Online Synchronous. Most of our courses are held live online (eastern time).
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Online Asynchronous. 35% do not require live attendance.
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On Campus. 20% provide the option to attend on campus.
I am eternally grateful to this institution for opening the doors of world-class quality education for professionals like me who cannot afford to stop working due to the demands of our careers and personal lives.
HES offered me world-class professors, endless class options, and time flexibility, so I felt I could build a fit-for-purpose program that I could pursue at my own rhythm.
When I was younger, I didn’t have the means to ever consider applying to Harvard, so to learn that I could now — without having to leave my job and move to Cambridge — was very exciting.
Getting Started at Harvard Extension School FAQs
Do I have to apply to register for my first course?
No. HES has an open enrollment policy. This is a great way for students to test out courses, explore a passion, or transition back to school as a working adult.
How do I become a degree candidate?
If you are interested in a degree, HES has an “earn-your-way-in” admissions process. We know that past grades and standardized test scores aren’t always representative of the student you are today, nor of the lived experience you’ll bring to the classroom.
Instead, you complete 2–3 required admissions courses, which count toward your degree. If you earn a B or above in those courses, you are then eligible to apply for the program of your choice.
Check out our guide to starting your path to graduate admission at HES for more information.
How do I get started?
Learn more about how you can become part of the Harvard community today!
