Understanding the Harvard Extension School Undergraduate Degree Program
The Harvard Extension School (HES) offers a Bachelor of Liberal Arts (ALB) degree designed for non-traditional students, requiring prospective candidates to earn admission by completing three specific courses with a grade of B or higher. Unlike traditional undergraduate programs that rely on holistic admissions, HES utilizes an “earn your way in” model, focusing on academic performance in foundational coursework rather than standardized test scores or high school transcripts.
How the Admission Process Works
Admission to the Harvard Extension School is performance-based. According to the official HES admissions requirements, applicants must first complete three 4-credit courses—including a proseminar and two other degree-applicable courses—within the HES curriculum. Students must maintain a minimum grade of B in each of these courses and hold a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. This process ensures that students demonstrate the ability to succeed in Harvard’s rigorous academic environment before they are formally admitted to the degree program.
Degree Requirements and Flexibility
The Bachelor of Liberal Arts is a 128-credit program that allows for significant flexibility. Students are required to complete at least 64 credits through Harvard Extension School, though they may transfer up to 64 credits from other accredited institutions. The curriculum requires students to fulfill requirements in writing, quantitative reasoning, and foreign language, alongside a chosen field of study. As noted in the HES academic catalog, students must complete their degree within a five-year timeframe, though extensions are available for those with extenuating circumstances.
Distinction Between HES and Harvard College
It is important to distinguish between Harvard Extension School and Harvard College, the university’s primary undergraduate institution for traditional-aged students. Harvard College is a residential, highly selective program with a single-digit acceptance rate. In contrast, HES serves a demographic of working professionals and lifelong learners. While both programs are part of Harvard University and fall under the purview of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, they maintain different admission standards, pedagogical models, and residential requirements. The degree conferred is the Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies.
Program Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Harvard College | Harvard Extension School |
|---|---|---|
| Admission Criteria | Holistic (SAT/GPA/Essays) | Performance-based (3 qualifying courses) |
| Primary Demographic | Traditional undergraduates | Working professionals |
| Degree Title | Bachelor of Arts/Science | Bachelor of Liberal Arts (ALB) |
What Matters for Prospective Students
Prospective students should evaluate the time commitment required for the admission courses before enrolling. Because the program is designed for working adults, most courses are offered in hybrid or online formats, but the academic rigor remains consistent with the university’s standards. According to data from the Harvard Extension School’s official reporting, the student body is geographically diverse and spans a wide range of professional industries, making the program a common choice for individuals looking to balance career advancement with higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the degree identical to a Harvard College degree? No. It is a Harvard University degree, specifically a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies.
- Can I complete the program entirely online? Yes, though there is a minimum residency requirement involving on-campus or synchronous virtual intensives to ensure students engage with the Harvard community.
- Does the program accept transfer credits? Yes, students can transfer up to 64 credits from regionally accredited institutions, provided the coursework meets HES standards.