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Harvard

Your Guide to Harvard University’s Degrees

By September 23, 2024No Comments

Harvard University is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, celebrated for its academic excellence and iconic status. With world-renowned programs and a roster of successful alumni, it’s no wonder students from across the globe aspire to study here. If you’re considering Harvard, this guide will give you a sense of what the university specialises in, the top undergraduate and postgraduate programs it offers, and how you can finance your education.

What Does Harvard University Specialise In?

Harvard offers a broad range of programs, but it’s especially known for producing world-class leaders in law, business, medicine, and government. Many of its programs are interdisciplinary, meaning you can tailor your degree to fit your specific interests. The university excels in research across a variety of fields, so whether you’re passionate about the humanities, sciences, engineering or social sciences, you’ll find a place here.

What Degree is Harvard Best Known For?

While Harvard is famous for many things, it’s probably best known for its Law School and MBA program at Harvard Business School (HBS). These higher education programs have a global reputation for producing influential leaders. Harvard Law School (HLS) is often the go-to for those pursuing careers in law, and the Harvard MBA is highly sought after by those aiming for top positions in the corporate world.

Top Harvard University Degrees

Undergraduate Degree Programs

At the undergraduate level, Harvard University offers a Bachelor of Arts (AB) and Bachelor of Science (SB), with a variety of concentrations such as:

  • Economics: One of the most popular majors, focused on understanding the financial systems and economies around the world.
  • Government: Ideal for students interested in politics, international relations, and public policy.
  • Computer Science: An increasingly popular major that combines technical skills with problem-solving.
  • Psychology: If you’re fascinated by the human mind, this major provides both scientific and practical insights.

Postgraduate Degree Programs

Harvard is best known for its graduate schools, which offer a range of highly regarded postgraduate degrees, including:

  • Harvard Business School (HBS): This graduate school offers an MBA, which is considered one of the most prestigious in the world.
  • Harvard Law School (HLS): Offers JD, LLM, and SJD degrees, widely respected and often seen as a gateway to influential legal careers.
  • Harvard Medical School (HMS): Offers MD and PhD programs, training some of the best minds in medicine and biomedical research.
  • Harvard Kennedy School: A graduate school known for its Master of Public Policy (MPP) and other degrees focusing on public administration and government.

Harvard University Online Degrees

If attending Harvard in person isn’t an option for you, the university also offers a variety of online degrees and courses through Harvard Extension School. While these degrees don’t carry the same prestige as an in-person Harvard degree, they’re still high quality and provide a flexible option for working professionals. Some popular online degrees include:

  • Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies: Specialising in areas like Management, Digital Media Design, and Biotechnology.
  • Graduate certificates: Shorter, focused programs that can be completed online in areas like Data Science and Cybersecurity.

Most Successful Harvard Students

Over the years, Harvard has produced many influential figures. Some of its most successful alumni include:

  • Barack Obama: Former U.S. President and Harvard Law graduate.
  • Mark Zuckerberg: Co-founder of Facebook, who famously dropped out but got his start at Harvard.
  • Bill Gates: Co-founder of Microsoft, another dropout who attended Harvard before changing the tech world.
  • Ruth Bader Ginsburg: U.S. Supreme Court Justice and a Harvard Law alumna.

Student Loan to Study for a Degree at Harvard University

Attending Harvard doesn’t come cheap, but there are options to help finance your education. Harvard is known for its generous financial aid packages, but you may still need to explore student loans. Private student loans can cover the gap between your aid package and the actual cost of attending.  

Studying at Harvard is an investment in your future, but it’s important to be smart about how you finance it. Always consider your repayment options and whether your degree’s potential salary will justify the cost.

If you’re exploring financial options for a degree at Harvard, contact us now at info@sparkfinance.com.au.