Graduate Programs at Harvard University

Top graduate programs at Harvard University

Harvard University offers a wide range of graduate programs across its various schools and departments. Here are some of the graduate programs available at Harvard:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): Offered by the Harvard Business School (HBS), the MBA program is a two-year, full-time program that focuses on preparing students for leadership roles in various industries and organizations. The curriculum emphasizes case-based learning, experiential opportunities, and collaboration among students. HBS also offers executive education programs and a part-time program called the Harvard Business School Online.
• Juris Doctor (JD): The JD program at Harvard Law School (HLS) is a three-year, full-time program that provides comprehensive legal education and training. Students engage in a rigorous academic curriculum, legal research, writing, and clinical experiences. HLS offers a wide range of law clinics, enabling students to gain practical experience in real-world legal settings.
• Doctor of Medicine (MD): Harvard Medical School (HMS) offers the MD program, which is a four-year program that trains students to become medical doctors. The curriculum includes a mix of classroom instruction, clinical experiences, and research opportunities. HMS is affiliated with several world-class teaching hospitals and research institutes, providing students with rich learning and collaboration opportunities.
• Master of Public Health (MPH): The MPH program at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a professional degree program that focuses on public health practice, research, and policy. Students can choose from various concentrations, including epidemiology, global health, health policy, environmental health, and more. The program combines coursework, research, field experiences, and practical training to equip students with the skills needed to address public health challenges.
• Master of Education (EdM): The EdM program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) offers a range of concentrations, allowing students to specialize in areas such as learning and teaching, education policy and management, counseling and psychology, and more. The program prepares individuals for roles in education leadership, administration, curriculum development, and other related fields. HGSE also offers doctoral programs, including a Doctor of Education Leadership (EdLD) program.
• Master of Public Administration (MPA): The MPA program at the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) focuses on training future leaders in public service, government, and policymaking. The curriculum covers areas such as economics, management, leadership, politics, and governance. HKS also offers various executive education programs for mid-career professionals.
• Master of Arts (MA): The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) at Harvard offers MA programs across a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. The MA programs provide advanced academic training and research opportunities for students interested in pursuing further graduate study or entering professional careers.
• Master of Design (MDes): The MDes program at the Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD) focuses on design and architecture-related disciplines. Students can choose from various areas of concentration, such as architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture, and more.
• The program combines studio-based design work, seminars, and research to develop students' design thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.): Harvard University offers Ph.D. programs in numerous fields across its various schools and departments. Ph.D. programs are research-focused and typically require students to complete coursework, pass comprehensive exams, and write and defend a doctoral dissertation. Students work closely with faculty mentors and engage in original research to contribute new knowledge to their respective fields.
• Master of Divinity (MDiv): The MDiv program at the Harvard Divinity School (HDS) provides theological education and training for individuals pursuing religious leadership, ministry, counseling, and related professions. The program covers a broad range of theological and religious studies, allowing students to explore diverse religious traditions and engage in critical reflection. HDS also offers other master's degree programs, including the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) and Master of Theology (ThM).

Graduate Acceptance Rate at Harvard University

Admission to Harvard's graduate programs is extremely competitive, particularly in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). Only little over 200 students were admitted into SEAS after almost 6,000 applications were received in the fall of 2023. This indicates that only around 3–4 of every 100 candidates were accepted. Before attending Harvard, these individuals studied computer technology, engineering, math, and science. They had very high grades—an average GPA of 3.8 out of 4.0.

The number of applicants to Harvard's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, which oversees many of the university's graduate programs, is often not disclosed. Additionally, they provide PhD programs rather than stand-alone master's degrees, focusing on teaching and research for certain fields like the Department of Government. All things considered, it is evident that Harvard's graduate programs are becoming increasingly selective, however further study is needed to determine precise enrollment figures for each school over time.

Let's look at the breakdown of master's degree graduates by their study areas.

• Architecture And Related Services - 186
• Area Ethnic Cultural Gender And Group Studies - 48
• Biological And Biomedical Sciences - 199
• Business Management Marketing And Related Support Services - 1,429
• Communication Journalism And Related Programs - 15
• Computer And Information Sciences And Support Services - 131
• Education - 691
• Engineering - 179
• Engineering Engineering Related Technologies Technicians - 17
• English Language And Literature Letters - 27
• Foreign Languages Literatures And Linguistics - 15
• Health Professions And Related Programs - 467
• History - 35
• Legal Professions And Studies - 184
• Mathematics And Statistics - 42
• Multi Interdisciplinary Studies - 66
• Natural Resources And Conservation - 195
• Philosophy And Religious Studies - 22
• Physical Sciences - 30
• Psychology - 50
• Public Administration And Social Service Professions - 515
• Social Sciences - 202
• Theology And Religious Vocations - 115
• Visual And Performing Arts - 77

Haravard Medical School - Students enrolled for 2023-24 admissions

• MD applicants: 6,986
• Admitted: 222 (3.2%)
• MD entering: 164 (includes 15 MD-PhD)
• PhD: 165
• DMD: 38
• Master’s: 302 (288 HMS, 14 HSDM)
• DMSc: 5

Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Science - Students enrolled for 2023-24 admissions

• Terminal Masters: 286
• PhD: 514
• Percent of PhD graduates who graduate within 8 years: 96%

Do any master's programs at Harvard have a duration of just one year, or are there any accelerated options?

Harvard University offers several one-year master's programs or accelerated master's programs across various fields of study. These programs are designed to provide an intensive and focused curriculum, allowing students to complete their master's degree in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional two-year programs. Here are a few examples:

• Harvard Kennedy School (HKS): HKS offers the Mid-Career Master in Public Administration (MC/MPA) program, which is specifically designed for experienced professionals who want to enhance their leadership and public policy skills. This program can be completed in one year of full-time study.
• Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD): The GSD offers the Master in Design Studies (MDes) program, which allows students to specialize in various design fields. The MDes program offers a one-year track that focuses on independent research and culminates in a thesis project.
• Harvard Business School (HBS): HBS offers the Harvard Business School Program for Leadership Development (PLD), which is an accelerated executive education program. This program is designed for senior executives and can be completed in one year of intensive study.
• Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE): HGSE offers the Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) program, which is a three-year program designed for education leaders. The program includes two summers and one academic year of study, allowing students to complete their degrees in an accelerated timeframe.

Are transfer credits recognized by Harvard when transferring from another graduate school?

The Harvard College Registrar's Office grants credit for work done at another college or university to each admitted transfer student on an individual basis after careful evaluation. The admissions office does not keep a list of transferrable courses and cannot advise on this matter during the application process.

You can transfer up to 16 semester-long courses which amounts to approximately 2 years of academic work.

Harvard accepts a maximum of 8 studio arts credits (e.g., music, art, dance) and do not accept vocational or paraprofessional coursework. They do not offer credit for life experience or most military training. Harvard Extension School advisors make final determinations about course transferability.

Are prospective students able to choose an early decision or early action route when applying to Harvard Graduate programs?

Harvard University's graduate programs generally do not have Early Decision or Early Action options like their undergraduate programs. Early Decision and Early Action are admission programs that typically apply to undergraduate admissions, allowing students to submit their applications earlier and receive an admission decision earlier in the application cycle.

For graduate programs at Harvard, the application process typically follows a standard timeline, with specified application deadlines and a regular admission cycle. Applicants are typically required to submit their applications by the designated deadline and will receive their admission decisions within a specific timeframe.

However, it's important to note that admission timelines and policies can vary across different graduate programs and departments within Harvard University. Some programs may offer rolling admissions, while others may have specific deadlines for applications. It is best to consult the official website or contact the specific program of interest directly to get accurate and up-to-date information on their admission timeline and policies.

Explore the professional paths and income levels of Harvard master’s degree holders post-graduation.

Harvard University graduates from master's degree programs go on to pursue diverse career paths across various industries and sectors. The employment outcomes and earning potential of Harvard master's degree graduates can vary depending on factors such as the specific program of study, individual career goals, industry trends, and personal achievements. Here are some general points to consider:

• Wide Range of Industries: Harvard master's degree graduates are employed in a wide range of industries, including consulting, finance, technology, healthcare, government, education, non-profit organizations, and more. The versatility of a Harvard degree allows graduates to pursue careers in both public and private sectors.
• Career Services Support: Harvard University offers extensive career services and resources to support graduate students in their job search and career development. The career services offices provide guidance on networking, resume writing, interview preparation, and connecting students with potential employers through career fairs, job postings, and alumni networks.
• Competitive Salaries: Harvard master's degree graduates tend to earn competitive salaries due to the reputation of the university and the rigorous academic training they receive. The earning potential can vary greatly depending on factors such as industry, job function, location, and individual experience. Salaries can range from entry-level positions to high-paying leadership roles, and they can be influenced by market conditions and other economic factors.
• Network and Alumni Connections: Harvard University has a vast network of alumni across various industries and sectors, which can provide valuable networking opportunities and potential career connections for master's degree graduates. The alumni network can offer mentorship, job referrals, and access to exclusive career events and opportunities.

It's important to note that employment outcomes and salary figures can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, such as prior work experience, career goals, geographic location, and industry trends. It is advisable to research specific career outcomes for the program of interest, consult with career services offices, and explore alumni networks to gather more detailed and up-to-date information on employment prospects and salary ranges for Harvard master's degree graduates in your field of interest.

A general overview of some popular industries and sectors where Harvard graduates commonly find employment after completing their master's degree:

• Consulting: Many Harvard master's degree graduates pursue careers in consulting firms such as McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Bain & Company. These firms often recruit from Harvard due to the university's strong reputation for producing top-tier business and policy professionals.
• Finance: Graduates from Harvard's master's degree programs in business, economics, and finance often secure positions in investment banks, asset management firms, private equity firms, and other financial institutions. Some popular destinations include Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Blackstone Group.
• Technology: Given the prominence of Harvard's computer science, data science, and technology-related programs, graduates often find employment in leading technology companies like Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and Amazon. Start-ups and innovative ventures in the tech sector also attract Harvard graduates.
• Healthcare: Harvard's master's programs in public health, healthcare administration, and medical-related fields produce professionals who work in healthcare organizations, hospitals, research institutions, and global health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
• Government and Public Policy: Many Harvard master's degree graduates pursue careers in government agencies, public policy organizations, and international institutions such as the United Nations (UN) and the World Bank. Some graduates also enter politics or work in think tanks and research organizations.
• Education: Graduates from Harvard's master's programs in education often find employment in K-12 schools, colleges and universities, educational consulting firms, and non-profit organizations focused on education reform and policy advocacy.