Harvard Extension School: Top Online Master’s Programs You Can’t Miss

Harvard Extension School makes it possible to earn a world-class degree without leaving your home. Offering a variety of online master’s programs, it gives busy professionals the flexibility to study at their own pace while gaining knowledge from top-tier faculty. It does not matter if you are aiming to switch careers or deepen your expertise in your current field. These programs offer a great balance of academic rigor and real-world application, all backed by the prestige of Harvard.

From business and cybersecurity to history and more, Harvard Extension School’s online programs cover a wide range of fields designed for today’s fast-changing job market. With access to Harvard’s resources and a global network of learners, you’ll get the skills and connections you need to stand out. In this blog, we have highlighted some of the standout online master’s programs you should definitely consider if you’re looking to take your education—and your career—to the next level.

Flexible, Part-Time Online Master’s at Harvard Extension School

The flexible, part-time programs take 2-3 years, with core courses, electives, and a capstone project. Spring 2025 term starts (registration until January 23, 2025) at $3,340 fee per course ($40,080 total), with potential financial aid options.

Benefits of Online Master’s Programs at Harvard Extension School

The programs offer a customizable online curriculum, including a real-world capstone project and the option to complete a 3-week pre-capstone project on the Harvard University campus during the summer. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with top industry professionals, receive personalized academic and career advising, and gain access to Harvard Innovation Labs and entrepreneurial opportunities. Upon graduation, you’ll also become a member of the Harvard Alumni Association

Here’s an overview, structure and admission requirements for some of the Online Master’s Programs at Harvard Extension School:

Online Computer Science Master’s Degree at Harvard Extension School

The Online Master’s in Computer Science at Harvard Extension School offers a comprehensive, flexible online curriculum designed to equip you with advanced skills in software development, data science, and problem-solving for the digital age. With the increasing demand for computer scientists (projected to grow by 21% over the next decade), this program will help you stay ahead in a fast-evolving field. You’ll learn from expert faculty both from Harvard and the industry, gaining hands-on experience through core courses and a real-world capstone project. The degree offers the flexibility to complete most courses online while enjoying a brief, immersive 3-week on-campus experience to kickstart your capstone project.

Course Structure

The program consists of 12 courses (48 credits), broken down into core and elective courses, plus a capstone project. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Core Courses: You’ll cover foundational topics like data structures, algorithms, programming languages, theoretical computer science, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and software engineering.
• Elective Courses: Choose from specialized topics such as machine learning, software engineering, and other emerging areas of computer science.
• Capstone Project: Your final project is team-based and focuses on solving real-world challenges. You’ll work closely with industry partners to apply what you’ve learned in a practical setting. This project culminates in a presentation of your solutions, showcasing your skills and innovation.
• On-Campus Experience: In the summer, you’ll participate in a 3-week precapstone course at Harvard’s campus in Cambridge. This in-person experience allows you to collaborate with your peers and faculty to prepare for your capstone project.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Computer Science Master’s Program, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• A 4-year U.S. bachelor’s degree (or its foreign equivalent). If you have a foreign degree, it must be evaluated for equivalency.
• Before formally applying to the program, you must complete two graduate-level courses — programming languages and data structures — which help ensure you are prepared for the program’s rigorous coursework.
• These courses count toward your degree once admitted, and you must earn a grade of B or higher in each. Once you’ve completed these courses, you can submit your official application.

The program is offered in a primarily asynchronous format, meaning you can study on your own schedule, though there are live components like discussions and group projects. The capstone experience, which takes place online after the precapstone course, allows you to collaborate with classmates and industry professionals on meaningful, real-world problems.

Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree at Harvard Extension School

The Cybersecurity Online Master’s at Harvard Extension School is designed to help you develop a strong technical foundation in cybersecurity. This program equips you with the skills to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats, while ensuring the security and privacy of computer systems and data. The program requires a total of 12 graduate courses (48 credits), including core courses, electives, and the capstone project. You will complete a capstone project with your team.

Program Structure

• Online Courses: You will complete 11 out of 12 courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace and fit learning around your work schedule. Students have to finish 48 credits.
• On-Campus Experience: There is a 3-week in-person summer course, called the Precapstone, which takes place at Harvard University. During this course, you will work with peers and faculty to start your capstone project.
• Capstone Project: The program concludes with a real-world cybersecurity project, where you will work in a team with an industry partner to solve a current cybersecurity challenge.

The topics of the courses offered at the Hardvard Extension School are:

• Risk Assessment
• Cloud Computing
• Application Development
• Network Security
• Data Privacy & Compliance
• Cyber Threat Intelligence
• And more

You will also have the opportunity to take 4 elective courses in topics such as blockchain, application security, and more.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Cybersecurity Master’s program, you must meet the following basic eligibility criteria:

1. Bachelor’s Degree: You must have a 4-year bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent from a foreign university. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for equivalency.
2. “Earn Your Way In” Process:
   • Before applying to the program, you will need to complete two graduate-level courses:
     • CSCI 159: Introduction to Cybersecurity: Intrusion, Hacking, and Detection
     • CSCI 155: Networks and Cloud Security
   • These courses are part of your degree program and will count toward your degree once you are admitted. You must earn a grade of B or higher in both courses. If you don’t meet the grade requirement, you have up to two attempts to pass each course.
3. Application Process:
   • After completing these two courses with a grade of B or higher, you can submit your official application to the program.
   • The application process is simple, and you will be notified of your admission status after submission.

Online Data Science Master’s Program at Harvard Extension School

The Data Science Online Master’s Degree Program at Harvard Extension School is designed to provide the technical and analytical skills needed to analyze, model, and visualize data. The program helps solve real-world problems using data science methods like predictive modeling, machine learning, data mining, and big data analysis.

Program Structure

• Online Courses: You will complete 11 out of 12 courses online, offering flexibility to study at your own pace. These online courses are primarily asynchronous, meaning you can study when it fits your schedule. Courses are available in the fall, spring, January, and summer terms. Students must complete 48 credits.
• On-Campus Experience: The program includes a 3-week in-person precapstone course that takes place in either January or during the summer. During this time, you will collaborate with your team to start working on your final capstone project.
• Capstone Project: The program culminates in a team-based capstone project, where you will collaborate with industry, government, or academic partners to tackle a real-world data science problem. Your project will apply the skills and knowledge you’ve developed during the program.

Core Course Topics include:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Modeling
• Machine Learning
• Data Science & Engineering
• Data Mining
• Predictive Modeling
• Big Data & Visualization

Admission Requirements for the Data Science Master’s Program

To be eligible for the Data Science Master’s Program, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Bachelor’s Degree: You need a 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
2. “Earn Your Way In” Process:
   • To begin the admissions process, you must first complete two required courses:
     • CSCI 101: Foundations of Data Science and Engineering
     • For your second course, either take CSCI 106: Data Modeling or STAT 109: Introduction to Statistical Modeling
   • These courses count towards your degree once admitted. You must earn a B or higher in both courses. You also get the chance to take two extra attempts if you can’t finish the course.
3. Application:
   • The application process is simple, which can completed after taking the two required courses, and you will receive an admission decision after submission.

Online English Master’s Program at Harvard Extension School

The English Master’s Degree Program offers you the opportunity to deepen your understanding of fiction, poetry, and drama while learning how to analyze and interpret literary texts. This program helps develop your critical thinking and communication skills, which are important in many careers such as law, journalism, publishing, marketing, politics, and education.

Degree Requirements

• 4 core English courses
• 1 seminar course
• 1 elective course
• 1 on-campus course (Engaging in Scholarly Conversation)
• Choose either a thesis or capstone track.

Program Structure

• Total Courses: 12 graduate-level courses (48 credits).
  • 11 online courses: Primarily synchronous (live) learning.
  • 1 on-campus experience: Either 2 weekends or 1 three-week course at Harvard University.
• Core and Elective Courses:
  You can choose from a variety of courses in English literature, as well as electives in subjects like history, philosophy, creative writing, and anthropology. Some courses include:
  • Advanced Poetry: Learning from Poets
  • The Novella: A Global History
  • Seeing Nature in the Twentieth Century
  • Advanced Memoir
• Capstone or Thesis Track:
  You can choose between:
  • Thesis Track: A 9-month independent research project with a thesis advisor.
  • Capstone Track: Focuses on classic novels and includes completing a project in a classroom setting.
• On-Campus Experience:
  • Option 1: Two weekends of Engaging in Scholarly Conversation.
  • Option 2: A 3-week summer session.

Admission Requirements

1. Educational Background:
   A 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required.
2. Admission Process:
   • Step 1: Before applying, you must complete 3 introductory courses:
     • HUMA 100: Introduction to Graduate Studies in English and Religion.
     • One English course (e.g., Advanced Poetry or The Novella).
     • One elective course (e.g., EXPO 42a Writing in the Humanities).
   • Step 2: After completing these courses, you can apply for admission to the program. You must achieve a grade of B or higher in each of these courses.
3. Application:
   After completing the 3 courses, submit your official application for admission. If you are accepted, you can then proceed with the full degree program.

Financial Aid for Online Master’s Programs at Harvard Extension School

Harvard Extension School offers a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their education, including federal loans, institutional grants, and scholarships. Whether you’re enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, or the Premedical Program, financial assistance is available to help ease the financial burden.

Procedure for applying for Financial Aid

To apply for financial aid, you will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal loans, grants, and other financial assistance. You’ll also need to submit additional documentation if requested by the Student Financial Services office.

Application Steps:

1. Step 1: Complete the FAFSA online, entering the Harvard Extension School federal code (E00209) in the school section. Ensure you use the correct tax year information. For Spring 2025, use 2022 tax information. After submitting your FAFSA, allow 3-5 business days for processing.
2. Step 2: Check your Financial Aid Portal for any outstanding documentation requests. You can access the portal from your MyDCE account.
3. Step 3: Optionally, submit the Application for Institutional Aid to be considered for additional institutional aid. This also allows for a more accurate aid review based on your enrollment and housing situation.

Financial Aid Eligibility

To be eligible for financial aid, you must:

• Be officially admitted to a degree program or premedical program.
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
• Have a valid Social Security Number (or meet specific DACA requirements for institutional aid only).
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress in your program.
• Be enrolled for the required number of credits for the aid you are applying for.

Types of Financial Aid Available

Depending on your eligibility, you may be offered:

• Harvard Extension School Grants: Need-based grants offered by Harvard to eligible students to help cover educational costs.
• Federal Direct Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized loans offered to eligible students, with repayment options starting after graduation or dropping below half-time enrollment.
• Federal Direct PLUS Loans: Loans for parents of dependent students to help cover the cost of education, with repayment starting immediately.
• Private Student Loans: Credit-based loans from private lenders for students who need additional funding or do not qualify for federal aid.

Enrollment Considerations

To receive aid, you must be enrolled in at least half-time (8 credits per term for fall or spring; 4 credits in the summer). If you drop below this threshold, you may lose eligibility for certain types of aid.

Disbursement and Loan Repayment

Financial aid is typically disbursed at the start of each term, directly to your student account. If you withdraw from a course or the school, there are financial implications. Federal regulations may require the return of some or all of your financial aid if you withdraw before the term ends. Loan repayment generally begins after you graduate or drop below half-time enrollment. Deferment options may be available for eligible students.

Financial Aid Deadlines

To maximize your financial aid opportunities, submit your FAFSA by the priority deadline, which is June 1 for the Fall Term and November 1 for the Spring Term. Late applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but your financial aid notification may arrive later.

Harvard Extension School’s Admissions are tougher than you think

Let’s clear the air about Harvard Extension School (HES) — it’s not the easy way in. Despite what some might say, the admissions process at HES is designed for serious, motivated students. Unlike other schools where connections or donations can grease the wheels, HES requires applicants to prove they can handle Harvard-level work.

No legacies. No shortcuts. Only those who demonstrate real academic ability through coursework get admitted. And even then, it’s no walk in the park. Roughly 97% of students who start at HES won’t make it to graduation. So, while HES may be more accessible, it’s far from “easy.” If you can keep up with the demanding curriculum, you earn your place — and a real Harvard degree. So, before you listen to the critics, remember: HES students work just as hard, if not harder, to earn their spot.

Is Harvard Extension School Legitimate and Accredited?

Yes, Harvard Extension School is accredited and offers fully recognized degrees. It is one of the 12 schools that grant degrees within Harvard University, and it’s part of the prestigious Division of Continuing Education. Established in 1910, it’s been dedicated to providing high-quality education to adult learners who want to advance their careers or pursue personal growth.

The school is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a respected accrediting body in the U.S. This ensures that the programs and courses meet rigorous academic standards. Every course offered at Harvard Extension School is approved by Harvard’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences, so they count toward the degrees awarded by the university. This includes degrees like the Bachelor of Liberal Arts (ALB) and the Master of Liberal Arts (ALM), both of which carry the weight of a Harvard degree.

Around 60% of Harvard Extension School instructors are Harvard University affiliates, including professors, administrators, and teaching fellows. This means you’re learning from experts who also teach at Harvard and other top universities.

Is Harvard Extension School the same as Harvard?

Harvard Extension School (HES) and Harvard University differ in several key areas, including admissions, academic programs, and cost. While both are part of Harvard University, HES is designed primarily for adult learners, working professionals, and those seeking a flexible, part-time education.

Admissions:
Harvard University, including Harvard College and its graduate schools, has a highly selective admissions process. Admission to Harvard College is incredibly competitive, with an acceptance rate under 5%. Graduate programs also require strong academic credentials and often professional experience. In contrast, the admissions process at HES is more accessible. To be admitted as a degree candidate, students must first complete a few courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This allows for a flexible, “earn-your-way-in” approach, which is ideal for adult learners.

Academic Programs:
Harvard University offers traditional undergraduate and graduate degrees, such as Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in various fields, and professional programs like law, business, and medicine. These programs are designed for full-time students and are highly competitive. In contrast, HES offers more flexible programs aimed at adult learners. HES provides Bachelor of Liberal Arts (ALB) and Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) degrees, and many courses are available online. While some programs require an on-campus component, HES is generally more flexible in terms of scheduling and course delivery.

Cost:
The cost of attending Harvard University is significantly higher, with tuition often exceeding $50,000 per year. Financial aid is available, but it’s highly competitive. On the other hand, HES offers more affordable tuition, with most graduate courses priced at approximately $3,340 per course, making it a more economical option for students seeking a Harvard degree without the high costs associated with full-time enrollment at the main university.

Harvard Extension School has ditched GRE for All Online Master’s Programs

Good news for prospective graduate students! Harvard Extension School (HES) has officially waived the GRE requirement for all of its master’s programs. That’s right — no more GRE stress when applying to HES! This change, which came into effect in 2021, means that applicants are no longer required to submit GRE scores as part of their application to graduate programs like the Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in fields such as Data Science, Cybersecurity and Anthropology.

Why the change? The decision was made to make Harvard’s graduate programs more accessible, especially for adult learners balancing busy careers and personal commitments. The waiver also came as part of a broader movement to reduce barriers to higher education, particularly during the pandemic.

Without the GRE requirement, admissions committees focus more on your academic record, professional experience, and personal statement — making it a more holistic process. This move could make Harvard Extension’s already competitive programs even more accessible to a wider range of applicants, particularly those from diverse backgrounds.

So, if you’ve been putting off applying to HES because of the GRE, now’s your chance to go for it — no GRE needed!

References

1. https://extension.harvard.edu
2. https://extension.harvard.edu/academics/programs/computer-science-masters-degree-program/#program-overview
3. https://extension.harvard.edu/academics/programs/cybersecurity-graduate-program/#program-overview
4. https://extension.harvard.edu/academics/programs/data-science-graduate-program/data-science-degree-requirements/
5. https://extension.harvard.edu/academics/programs/english-graduate-program/english-degree-requirements/
6. https://extension.harvard.edu/about/faq/
7. https://extension.harvard.edu/paying-for-school/financial-aid/how-to-apply/
8. https://www.reddit.com/r/harvardextension/comments/14mngro/i_dont_want_to_hear_any_more_bs_about_hes/