Harvard University is known to be the oldest university in the United States, having first been established in 1636, almost four centuries ago.
Thus, it is no wonder that the university has managed to claim prestige over its many years of educational experience, and has continued to produce some of the brightest minds, including multiple former United States presidents.
Harvard’s alumni represent a diverse pool of people, and this is much to do with the university’s support for creating an inclusive student environment, committing to building a diverse community and encouraging antiracist and inclusive initiatives.
Part of their diverse community includes a 24% international student population, some on global scholarships, whilst representing up to 193 countries in their online study programme, HarvardX.
Furthermore, with almost 4 000 courses offered at the university, students will have many options of study to choose from.
These courses are divided between one college and 12 graduate and professional schools of education:
- Harvard College – This college caters specifically to undergraduate students enrolled in Liberal Arts and Science programmes
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
- Harvard Extension School – This is a continuing education division that caters more specifically to adult learners who wish to study on a part-time or online basis, or who are enrolled for nonresidential programmes that can help them advance their careers. This programme features nearly 1 000 courses to be chosen from
- Harvard Business School
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine
- Harvard Graduate School of Design
- Harvard Divinity School – Offers Religious and Theological studies, preparing students for leadership in religious, governmental and service organisations
- Harvard Graduate School of Education
- Harvard Kennedy School – Offers studies in Public Policy, Leadership, Global Affairs, Markets, Business, Government, and the likes
- Harvard Law School
- Harvard Medical School
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health
In addition to the above avenues of study, Harvard University also has a number of completely free online courses on offer. Nonetheless, despite having much to offer its students, prospective applicants must be aware that the university has certain criteria that is to be met for students to achieve acceptance.
With only about a 5% acceptance rate, only the best applicants will be considered. It has been stated that students with a 4.2 Grade Point Average (GPA)/ 90-92% and up, and a Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) score from at least 1400 upwards, are the most likely to earn acceptance.
For students who believe they can meet the criteria and who wish to find out more, visit Harvard University’s official website here.