Graduate education is evolving, and one of the most exciting shifts is the rise of hybrid learning. Harvard Extension School is at the forefront of this change, offering a graduate experience that mixes online flexibility with in-person interaction. It’s an approach that allows students to pursue a world-class Harvard education without having to put their lives on hold.
At its core, Harvard Extension’s hybrid learning is about connection. While many online programs focus primarily on delivering content, Harvard Extension goes a step further by creating spaces for students to interact with their instructors, engage with peers, and receive one-on-one feedback—all without having to leave their homes or offices. The result is a deeply collaborative and human-centered learning experience, even in the virtual world.
The HELIX Platform: Bringing the Classroom to You
A key part of Harvard Extension’s hybrid model is the HELIX (Harvard Extension Live Interactive eXperience) platform, which creates an immersive, interactive learning environment. Through HELIX, students can join live sessions with professors and classmates, just as they would in a traditional classroom. These “hyflex” sessions combine the best of both worlds—students can attend live classes in person or participate virtually through web conferences, using Zoom to engage in real-time discussions with the instructor and other students.
But it’s not just about live classes. HELIX also offers students the flexibility to watch recorded lectures on their own schedule. Even if you can’t attend the live session, you can still stay engaged by interacting with the course material and participating in online discussions. Whether you’re watching a class from across the globe or sitting in a classroom at Harvard, the experience is designed to feel seamless and connected.
Why Hybrid Learning Works
For many students, especially those balancing work, family, and other commitments, flexibility is key. Hybrid learning offers that flexibility, allowing students to structure their education around their lives rather than the other way around. But flexibility doesn’t mean sacrificing connection or engagement. In fact, the hybrid model at Harvard Extension School is specifically designed to foster a sense of community and active learning, even in an online environment.
Students benefit from personalized feedback, real-time discussions, and opportunities to collaborate with their peers—whether they’re learning in person or from a different time zone. The focus on human-centered learning means that every student has a voice in the classroom, and professors work closely with students to guide them through the material and encourage critical thinking.
At the same time, the technology that powers this hybrid model—whether it’s the HELIX platform or other digital tools—ensures that students have everything they need to succeed in an online environment. This means that while you might be learning remotely, you’re never learning alone.
Graduate Programs at Harvard Extension School
Harvard Extension School offers a wide variety of graduate programs, out of which 90% are online. They are designed with flexibility in mind to meet the needs of busy professionals, lifelong learners, and aspiring scholars. You’ll find programs across more than 20 fields of study. You can earn a Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) degree in disciplines ranging from technology and business to the arts and social sciences. Here is a list of all the graduate degrees and programs available:
Arts, Literature & Media
- Master’s in Creative Writing and Literature
Unlock your creative potential and refine your literary voice with a program that helps you craft compelling narratives and engage deeply with literature. - Master’s in English
Students can step into the world of fiction, poetry, and drama, while sharpening their skills in literary analysis and interpretation through the Online Master’s in English Degree Program. - Master’s in Journalism
Develop essential writing and digital storytelling skills for a career in journalism, media, or communications. - Master’s in Museum Studies
One can gain the expertise to advance in museum careers, with a focus on creating enriching experiences and engaging patrons with an Online Master’s in Museum Studies at Harvard University’s extension school.
Business & Management
- Master’s in Finance
Students can develop specialized skills in financial analysis and planning to help them thrive in today’s complex, global economy via the Online Master’s in Finance at Harvard Extension School. - Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Learn to optimize workplace dynamics and empower organizations by applying psychological principles to management and operations. - Master’s in Management
The Online Master’s in Management helps enhance your leadership capabilities and position yourself for greater career growth, with a focus on strategy, innovation, and organizational development.
Education
- Master’s in Mathematics for Teaching
Learn innovative teaching strategies from Harvard-trained faculty to increase your impact in the classroom and inspire the next generation of students.
Global Studies
- Master’s in Global Development Practice
Gain interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills to address complex global challenges and promote sustainable development worldwide. - Master’s in International Relations
In an Online Master’s Program in International Relations, students can explore the complexities of global affairs and gain a deep understanding of international relations, diplomacy, and global policy.
Life Sciences
- Master’s in Biology
Via an Online Master’s in Biology at HES, you can engage with the latest biological research and develop critical thinking skills to apply to real-world challenges in biology and medicine. - Master’s in Biotechnology
Stay at the forefront of the life sciences with a focus on cutting-edge developments in biotechnology and its real-world applications.
Psychology
- Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Apply psychological principles to improve organizational behavior, enhance productivity, and foster positive workplace dynamics. - Master’s in Psychology
Deepen your understanding of human behavior and mental processes, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as clinical, cognitive, or developmental psychology.
Social Sciences & Cultural Studies
- Master’s in Anthropology
Study human cultures and societies, examining how they evolve, interact, and influence one another across time and space. - Master’s in Government
All the prospective students can look forward to exploring the structures, systems, and processes that shape governance, policy, and public affairs around the world in this Online Master’s in Goverment. - Master’s in History
Investigate historical events, trends, and movements through critical analysis, using a variety of scholarly perspectives. - Master’s in Religion
Examine the role of religion in shaping cultures, societies, and individual identities, with a focus on historical and contemporary contexts.
Sustainability & the Environment
- Master’s in Global Development Practice
Gain the interdisciplinary skills and knowledge needed to address global development challenges, focusing on sustainable solutions and human well-being. - Master’s in Sustainability
Learn to evaluate and design innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, with a focus on long-term ecological balance and resilience.
Technology
- Master’s in Computer Science
Develop advanced computational skills and knowledge to solve modern challenges in software development, artificial intelligence, and more. - Master’s in Cybersecurity
In this Online Master’s in Liberal Arts of Cybersecurity, one can build deep technical expertise in security, privacy, and cybersecurity, preparing them to protect data and systems from evolving threats. - Master’s in Data Science
Students can master the techniques to analyze, model, and visualize data in Online Master’s of Data Science offered at Harvard Extension School. This helps them in gaining the tools to turn complex information into actionable insights. - Master’s in Digital Media Design
Learn how to create dynamic and interactive digital content, gaining skills in web design, multimedia production, and digital storytelling. - Master’s in Systems Engineering
Acquire the knowledge needed to design and manage complex systems, with a focus on efficiency, scalability, and optimization.
In addition to these graduate degrees, Harvard Extension School also offers graduate certificates, microcertificates, and a range of undergraduate programs.
Can a Master’s Degree from Harvard Extension School Lead to a PhD?
If you’re considering a Master’s degree from Harvard Extension School (HES) and wondering whether it can help you transition into a PhD program, you’re not alone. Many students ask the same question: Can a Master’s from HES really lead to a doctoral degree at a top-tier institution? The short answer is yes—it’s definitely possible. In fact, many Extension School graduates have successfully gone on to PhD programs, including those at Harvard itself.
That said, the journey from a Master’s to a PhD is nuanced. While having “Harvard” on your resume can certainly be an advantage, getting into a PhD program depends on much more than just the name of the school. Here’s how you can make the most of your time at HES to increase your chances of moving on to doctoral studies:
1. Build Meaningful Relationships with Your Professors
One of the greatest opportunities at Harvard Extension School is the chance to work closely with a talented and experienced faculty. This isn’t just about attending lectures—it’s about engaging with your professors, seeking their advice, and building a relationship that can lead to strong, personalized letters of recommendation when you apply to PhD programs. Many faculty members at HES are well-connected in their fields and may even be able to guide you toward research opportunities or doctoral programs that align with your goals. Taking the time to establish these connections can make a big difference.
2. Hone Your Research Skills
When it comes to PhD programs, research is king. A key way to stand out in applications is by demonstrating your ability to conduct original, rigorous research. At HES, you have the option of completing a thesis, which is an excellent opportunity to showcase this skill. A well-crafted thesis can not only help you stand out in your PhD applications but also serve as a foundation for your future research. If you’re serious about pursuing a PhD, think about using your thesis to explore a topic that could be expanded upon in your doctoral studies.
3. Focus Your Coursework on PhD Goals
Strategic course selection is another important piece of the puzzle. To prepare for a PhD, it’s essential to tailor your classes toward your specific research interests. This means taking courses that align with the field and subfields of study you want to pursue in your doctoral program. For example, if you’re interested in psychology, choose courses that offer research opportunities in clinical psychology, behavioral science, or cognitive research. The more focused your academic journey is, the more compelling your profile will be when applying to PhD programs.
4. Show Your Passion and Dedication
PhD programs aren’t just looking for strong academic records—they want students who are truly passionate about their field and committed to long-term research. At HES, many students pursue their Master’s while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. This real-world experience can set you apart by adding depth to your academic work. Make sure you articulate why you’re passionate about your area of study in your PhD application essays, and how your time at HES has helped prepare you for the challenges of doctoral research. Admissions committees want to see that you’re not just academically capable, but also driven and committed to contributing to your field.
5. Tap Into Harvard’s Rich Resources
As a student at Harvard Extension School, you still have access to many of Harvard’s world-class resources. From the vast Harvard Library system to career development services, and opportunities to attend seminars and academic conferences, these resources are there to help you build the skills and connections necessary for a successful PhD application. Engaging with these resources can help you stay ahead of the curve, expand your network, and get a glimpse of the academic world at the doctoral level.
Harvard Extension School might be the right fit for you
With the right online platform, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the freedom to learn at your own pace, along with the opportunity to actively engage with others and dive deep into your subject matter. The future of education is not just about access; it’s about building connections that support a richer, more meaningful learning experience—no matter where you are in the world.