As dean of academic programs, I’m here to invite you to join our dynamic community of adult learners.
Harvard Extension is a place for reinvention, where academic abilities are tested and scholarly and professional aspirations are heightened.
I know that going back to school as a working adult — whether to take only one course or earn a degree — is a big decision. Our team of staff and faculty is here to support you every step of the way.
Think of this page as your guide to getting started. And if you have a question at any point, remember: we’re here to help.
Whether you choose to earn a degree or certificate, pursue premedical studies, or build a new skill in a single course, we offer flexible pathways to fulfill your time, budget, and learning needs.
Not sure which path is right for you? You can start with a single course. Then, continue coursework to earn a certificate — and ultimately stack all your courses toward a degree.
Considering Your Schedule
We offer full-term and short-session courses throughout the year. When you choose to start depends on your academic goals, life priorities, and course availability.
Our next start term is summer 2023, and registration is currently open.
You can choose from online synchronous (live) and asynchronous (no live class meetings) course formats to fit your busy schedule. Whether live or on demand, our online courses provide you with personal attention from instructors and teaching staff as well as an active community of talented peers.
Fall
15 weeks, late August to mid-December
January
3-week intensive courses
Spring
15 weeks, late January to mid-May
Summer
3- and 7-week sessions, late June to mid-August
80%
Courses Online
20%
Courses on Harvard Campus
Explore Our Orientation
In our interactive orientation, you can learn more about the Harvard Extension experience from our students and deans. You’ll find helpful tips for succeeding as a student, engaging with faculty, and embracing our community values.
Ready to get started?
Watch the introductory video.
Set up your student account by first creating a DCEKey.
At Harvard Extension School, most of our courses are open to the public for registration. You know best which courses will help you meet your goals. After reading the description and prerequisites, if you believe you have the background to be successful in a course, you can register — no application required.
Interested in taking a Harvard Summer School course toward a degree or certificate? You can filter for summer courses for your program of interest here as well.
Select a term, then start your search:
Courses for a program. Use the Browse by Degree, Certificate, or Premedical Programs filters to find courses that meet specific requirements.
Individual courses. Browse over 50 subjects by selecting Advanced Search.
Starting the Enrollment Process
Review our Academic Calendar and add critical registration deadlines to your personal calendar, so you won’t miss important deadlines, including:
The payment deadline so you can avoid getting dropped from your courses for nonpayment.
The registration deadline so you don’t miss the chance to enroll that term.
Enrollment Requirements
While all our courses are open enrollment, there are several important enrollment requirements that you should be aware of before you begin the registration process:
English Proficiency
If English is your second language, you’ll need to prove English proficiency before registering for a course. We have multiple proficiency options.
Reading and Writing Placement Test
Some courses — including many courses for admission to degree programs — require you to pass the Test of Critical Reading and Writing Skills (CRWS) before you can enroll. This free, online test helps ensure that your journey at Harvard Extension starts strong with the right course.
COVID and Other Immunization Requirements for On-Campus Study
You’ll need to meet vaccination guidelines to take courses on campus. This requirement doesn’t apply to online courses.
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. Your coach can help you find a program that fits your goals and life, select courses, and finalize enrollment.
General Questions about Registration and Enrollment
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.
Our Predegree Advising & Admissions team hosts virtual office hours, where you can ask questions about the admissions process. Learn more about virtual office hours.
