What Is the Harvard Extension School
The Harvard Extension School is Harvard University's school for continuing and professional studies, designed to provide access to Harvard-quality education for students who cannot attend a traditional full-time undergraduate or graduate program. It admits students through an open-enrollment policy for most courses and offers a selective pathway to a bachelor's degree or a master's degree.
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Founded in 1910, the school has evolved from a lecture series for Boston-area adults into a global institution with both on-campus and online coursework. It serves a diverse population of career changers, lifelong learners, and professionals seeking credentials or intellectual enrichment without leaving their jobs.
Programs and Degrees
Extension School students can pursue an Associate in Arts, a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies, or a Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies across fields such as computer science, data science, psychology, humanities, and environmental management. The school also offers more than 900 open-enrollment courses each term, including live online and in-person classes in the evening and on weekends to accommodate working schedules.
Admissions and Enrollment
Open-enrollment courses are available to anyone, while degree programs have selective admissions with requirements that vary by program. Applicants typically submit transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The school values professional experience and non-traditional academic backgrounds, and many students balance full-time work while completing their coursework over several years.
Student Experience and Credential
Students who complete a degree through the Extension School receive the same credential as students in Harvard's traditional programs — the degree reads Harvard University — but the transcript notes the program as Extension Studies. The school fosters a community through student organizations, events, and alumni networks that connect learners across industries and generations.
Cost and Financial Considerations
Tuition for Extension School courses and degree programs is generally lower than Harvard's residential graduate programs, though costs vary by program and course load. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement are available for eligible students, and the school emphasizes flexibility to make Harvard education accessible without requiring full-time relocation.