At Harvard Extension School, students come from all walks of life, balancing careers, family, and personal growth all while pursuing their educational goals. They come to Harvard to be challenged and inspired, while still prioritizing flexibility.
Since 1910, HES has been designed for this student. We support part-time, adult learners. We believe you don’t have to pause your other life commitments to experience a rigorous and fulfilling educational experience.
Like other schools at Harvard University, HES offers expert faculty, engaging, dynamic, and interactive courses, and a passionate community. For many of our students, it’s the diverse cohort of peers bringing real-world experience into the classroom that makes Harvard Extension School truly unique.
Meet Harvard Extension School Students
HES students are purpose-driven, modern learners who choose to complete or continue education on their terms. They are also largely engaged in commitments that demand flexibility, whether pursuing a full-time career, caring for family members, or seeking other personal or professional goals.
Because of this, they prioritize cutting-edge, immediately actionable, and applicable knowledge that can help them advance their career or educational journey.
They often come to Harvard to make an impact on the world and its trajectory.
Our students are:
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Mid-career professionals. With an average age of 32, most have 10-12 years of work experience.
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Educated. 75 percent hold a bachelor’s degree, and 25 percent of those hold a master’s degree or doctorate.
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Global citizens. They reside in every U.S. state and 120 countries.
Job titles and professional fields represented vary as much as our students themselves, including:
- C-suite leaders
- Consultants
- Educators
- Scientists
- Software engineers
- Entrepreneurs
- Healthcare workers
- Creators
Just as HES offers this remarkable diversity, there are a few key qualities students share:
- Intellectual risk takers
- Innovators
- Deep thinkers
- Curious and driven leaders
Each wants the best that continuing education has to offer, seeking opportunities to engage in original research, intellectual growth, and opportunities to make a difference in their professional, academic, and civic lives.
What Do Our Students Value?
Flexibility: High-achieving students balance multiple commitments
We offer nearly 1,000 courses, allowing students to build schedules that work best for them. Students also have the ability to take semesters off and pace their studies as needed, and most take 1–2 courses per semester.
I’ve taken classes in locations as diverse as Boracay Island in the Philippines, the south coast of England, a seat on a plane traveling across the Pacific, and most of all from the safety of my home in Manila at the height of the pandemic.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Creative Writing and Literature, ’23
I wanted a Master’s program that would allow me the flexibility to take classes as I needed during my own time, as well as start a family and focus on family life.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM), in the field of International Relations, ’23
Rigor: They want to be challenged
Harvard Extension School is one of the 12 degree-granting schools at Harvard University. While HES students require flexibility, they also do not compromise on academic excellence. Our faculty are industry leaders, many of whom also teach at other Harvard schools and prestigious universities.
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.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Journalism, ’23; Graduate Certificate in International Security
Every one of [the faculty] are like professors par excellence. They come to class with world class expertise. They exemplify teaching excellence and research in a way I’ve never seen before.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Industrial-Organizational Psychology, ’24; Graduate Certificate in Organizational Behavior, ’23
Connection: Our students build community
Whether online or in person, our students come from across the globe to share their unique experiences and insights. These relationships often develop organically by students creating virtual study groups, staying in touch via email, WhatsApp, or LinkedIn, and by finding moments to connect with each other during class.
Master’s degree programs also offer active learning weekends, during which students come to Harvard’s Cambridge campus or meet at a dedicated location. Additionally, Harvard Summer School and many capstone courses offer on-campus learning options, allowing you to make in-person connections to complement your online friendships.
Upon graduation, you also become a member of the Harvard Alumni Association and the Harvard Extension School Alumni Association, joining an even larger global network.
I encourage students to embrace the collaborative nature of the program. HES attracts a diverse group of students from different backgrounds and cultures, and you have the opportunity to learn from and network with them. And don’t forget to connect with your professors! One of my professors made it possible for me to help in a NASA study executed by the German space center.”
Elena Stemler
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Psychology, ’23
University resources: Students seek opportunities beyond class
Our students use a variety of online and campus resources, including:
- Harvard libraries
- Writing Center
- Math Question Center
- Study and collaboration spaces
- Career services
- Academic resources
Degree candidate opportunities include the Faculty Aide Program and access to the Harvard Innovation Labs.
Participating in the Harvard Innovation Lab, GSAS Consulting Club, GSAS Mini MBA, and competing in the Harvard v. MIT Case Competition have further broadened my perspective and enriched my overall experience.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Management, ’23; Graduate Certificate in Strategic Management; Graduate Certificate in Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Career advancement: Our students and alumni make an impact
They are leading change in their companies, launching start-ups to support their communities, and addressing pressing global issues. Meet just a few of our alumni who are making an impact in their careers.
How You Can Succeed at Harvard Extension School
Learn about how you can get the most from your HES journey from current students and alumni.
Time management is key
One of the most challenging tasks was to find enough time to balance my course load with my full-time workload. Evenings and weekends were sacrificed to watch lectures, read hours-worth of books, and write what seemed like an infinite number of pages for assignments. The expectations from Harvard’s professors and instructors are high, with the right intentions. They’re molding you into an exemplary student. Despite the initial struggles, I was able to find a rhythm that made it all manageable.”
Dorottya Barna
Bachelor of Liberal Arts (ALB) in the field of Psychology, ’22
As a mom of a vibrant child with special needs, I wear many hats: personal assistant, chef, cheerleader, driver, and momager. Not to mention, as a student, employee, house manager, and everything else that comes along with adult-ing — my plate is full. So strategic planning and prioritizing were essential in order to not miss a beat. If I had the opportunity to do it all again, would I? Yes, without a second thought.”
Ebony L. Griffin
Bachelor of Liberal Arts in the field of English, minor in Creative Writing and Psychology ’21
Foster deep connections
The sense of camaraderie among the students stands out to me as my favorite aspect of the program. The classes are not graded on a competitive curve, so students are encouraged to work together. I have made lifelong friendships through this program that will last long after my time at Harvard.
Premedical Program, ’23
Take the leap!
Going back to school can feel overwhelming, but HES is designed for you to make progress, one step at a time.
Just start. I did, and five years later I can honestly say that I’ve loved every minute of it.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Journalism, ’24
Get Started Today
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