Is Harvard Extension School Worth It?
Established in 1835, the Harvard Extension School was designed to provide educational degrees and certifications for people who want and aspire to learn.
As a leader in distance education for over a century, HES has more than 70 degree fields and certifications for students to choose from. Whether they are pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies, students have the opportunity to learn from the school’s prestigious faculty, as well as industry experts from neighboring institutions such as Princeton, MIT, and the University of Cambridge, England.
Bearing the Harvard insignia, HES was built to be rigorous and challenging, producing the best graduates in various fields. Even so, HES allows students to balance their programs to fit their busy careers and personal lives, while receiving a world-class education.
To enhance the online learning experience, the school introduces HELIX, which is Harvard Extension’s live interactive experience. Students have the opportunity to enter a live classroom to interact with their instructors and peers, creating an immersive online experience.
With a leading pre-medical program, HES prepares students with arduous coursework before applying to the medical school of their choice. Whether it’s part-time or night studies, pre-med students can structure the schedule that works for them.
The programs found at HES allow students to complete traditional degrees at a faster and more cost-effective pace. Without imposition, the student can design the pace, structure and schedule of the courses completely.
By simply enrolling in the courses, professionals will have access to the best educators and resources not only from HES, but also from the larger Harvard University community. Access to on-campus resources will be provided for students to receive a broader experience.
Today we’re going to talk about whether Harvard Extension School is worth it, whether it’s the same as going to Harvard normally, and more.
Is the Harvard Extension School worth it?
The absolute benefit behind HES is the flexibility that students can enjoy while earning their degrees. Even professionals with full-time careers can earn a degree at HES.
Earning undergraduate and graduate degrees at HES is a more adaptive process than traditional programs.
Additionally, the courses are designed for students to implement what they are learning in real time. Instructors encourage them to use their studies to apply their skills to their careers.
The wide selection of courses prepares students for the careers they wish to enter, which may include certifications and degrees for Industries that are currently in demand.. Whatever studies students wish to pursue, they can rely on new and iterative courses, covering the latest developments in all sectors.
With participants joining HES from all over the world, students can expect a rich global experience, being part of an international classroom. The school welcomes a community of peers eager to advance their knowledge through live interactions that deepen their educational experiences.
Professionals curious about financing their higher education can find many resources within the school. financial wellness guide. The financial office can help students budget, finance and finance their educational studies, adapting to their financial situations.
Once students have completed their courses, they can enjoy attending the Harvard University graduation and walking among the entire community of Harvard students and faculty. join the Harvard Extension Alumni Association it can help alumni receive a rich graduate experience for students to enjoy for the rest of their lives.
Harvard Extension School Acceptance Rate
When it comes to enrolling in a course at HES, the acceptance rate is 100% as anyone with a desire to learn can enroll in the courses.
However, when it comes to getting admitted to Harvard Extension School’s ALB or ALM programs, the school is more selective. While Harvard has not published, to the best of our knowledge, the acceptance rate in these degree programs, it is certain that the acceptance rate is not 100% for those degrees.
When it comes to registering for classes, the enrollment process is straightforward, much like an online shopping experience. Students can add the courses of their choice to their carts and submit their registration.
With three credit level options, students can choose the level they wish to enroll in, which is undergraduate, graduate, or non-credit. For students wishing to take undergraduate or graduate courses, they must be at least 15 and 18 years old respectively.
Beginning at age 15, students may attend select courses by registering for a non-credit level. While no grades or credit will be awarded for non-credit courses, students can still expect to see these courses on their transcripts.
However, before planning the course schedules, it is recommended to make sure that the registration for the courses has not been filled up. In the event that a class has reached capacity, students may have the option of joining the waitlist until a space becomes available.
While flexibility in program structure is maintained, courses may be offered seasonally during fall, winter, spring, and summer terms. It is recommended that students frequently review the course catalog and verify which courses are offered by term and their availability.
Also, specific courses may require placement tests before registration. As an example, math diagnostic tests help students prepare for the level of courses covered in mathematics and economics.
Notable Harvard Extension School alumni
Notable alumni come from various industries, which has even led some to become professors at Harvard University.
Holding two faculty appointments, Dr. Latanya Sweeney is the Daniel Paul Professor of the Practice of Government and Technology at the Harvard Kennedy School and the Harvard College of Arts and Sciences.
Graduating with a computer science degree from HES, Dr. Sweeney recently received a $3 million grant from the Ford Foundation funding its technology initiative, Public Interest Technology Lab.
HES graduate Mark Plotkin is a world-renowned ethnobotanist and co-founder of the Amazon Conservation Team. In 2019, the HES Alumni Association awarded Plotkin the Michael Shinagel Award for service.
Plotkin was inspired to continue his education at HES after taking a course from leading biocultural conservation expert Richard Schultes. Carrying on their legacies, Plotkin and Schultes introduced the first course on rainforest conservation, as co-teachers, at HES.
In the art world, one notable alumnus is Boston-based artist Allan Rohan Crite. Earning his Bachelor of Arts at HES in 1968, crite artwork, Spanning more than seven decades, it described the daily experiences of African Americans in the greater Boston area. In 1986, Crite received the 350th Anniversary Medal from Harvard University.
Jenny Allard is the current head coach of the Harvard University softball team. Allard is an alumnus at HES and Harvard University, earning two master’s degrees in education and psychology, respectively.
What is the course catalog at Harvard Extension School?
For students who are not sure which curriculum to pursue, HES offers courses that can help students find their desired programs. Whether those courses are online or in person, more than 1,000 are offered through HES.
A newly added and defining course at HES is the academic gap year, where students can access classes that will prepare them for their continuing education. This one-year course focuses on all the pertinent topics students will need to maintain momentum in their academic careers.
An exceptional feature for students seeking to pursue medicine is the school premedical program. Students can receive customized programs, advice on the medical school application process, and discounted online courses from Harvard Medical School.
With more than 20 fields to pursue, students have an incredible opportunity to pursue a graduate degree of their interest. While admissions to graduate programs will require students to submit an application, prior educational history is not required.
HES will only require graduate applicants to demonstrate their educational skills at the time of application.
For students interested in attending courses online, in person, or live, the the course catalog provides a breakdown of classes for each category. Based on their preferences, professionals can structure how they would like to learn that fits their lifestyle.
HES offers an incredible joint degree program where students can receive their undergraduate and graduate degrees at the same time. With no gaps in between, HES provides students with an efficient way to pursue a full academic career in more than nine fields of study.
Should I attend the Harvard Extension School?
Harvard Extension School is the ideal institution for students and professionals seeking to advance their careers with rigor and ease. While the courses and programs at HES will be challenging, students will not need to change their lives to be successful.
Being enrolled in HES means having access to the greatest experience at Harvard University. Students can enjoy campus resources such as libraries, study spaces, and the community.
For degree candidates, unique study opportunities at Harvard University schools, and renowned institutions, They’re available. Students can access internships, workshops, and other exclusive events for specific programs.
With flexible online and live classroom experiences, students of any age can find a program that is compatible with their interests and mode of learning. There is a program for anyone who is passionate about taking their education to the next level.
Attending HES means being part of a leading institution at the forefront of pioneering technology and innovation in the fields of medicine, technology, business, law, health, and more. For professionals, your education can lend itself to advancing these industries.
Career-ready certifications prepare students to move into growing industries. Professionals will receive guidance and support from launching into new careers after graduation.
With a global community of learners, students can experience more than just an education. Virtual classrooms build community and intercultural exchange that gives students a valuable international perspective.
At HES, everyone has something to learn, not only through their education, but also as a participant in this growing global community.