The Student Experience | Harvard Extension School
Skip to content
The Student Experience
At Harvard Extension School, your learning experience starts in the classroom — whether online or on campus — and grows through every connection, resource, and opportunity we offer. From flexible course formats to dedicated support services, we’re here to help you thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
Course Formats & Participation Options
Whether you prefer to learn online, on campus, or both, we offer flexible course formats to fit your schedule and learning style. Choose from:
Online synchronous
Online asynchronous
On campus
Learn more about
Course Formats
Students share their experiences with resources and support services.
Career Services
The HES career services team offers career programming through the
Career and Academic Resource Center
(CARC) to help you with your next professional step, including:
Career advising virtual drop-ins for résumé and cover letter reviews and other topics
Webinars on networking, job search strategies, and varied career paths
In addition, admitted degree candidates have access to career advising appointments, online resources, and events through the Mignone Center for Career Success (MCS).
Visit
Career Services
Academic Advising
Our advisors are here to guide you throughout your journey — from selecting courses to planning your path toward a degree or certificate. Enrollment advising is available to all students, with additional resources for admitted degree candidates.
Learn more about
Academic Advising
I expected academic excellence — and HES absolutely delivered. What I didn’t expect was the deep sense of belonging I found here.
Elisha Danille Silva
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of International Relations, ’25
Academic Support
From writing assistance to help with math and study strategies, we offer academic resources to help you succeed. These include:
The Writing Center
Math Question Center
Tutoring services
Academic skill-building workshops
Explore
Academic Support
Degree Candidate Academic Opportunities
Admitted degree candidates gain access to additional academic opportunities, such as:
On-campus convocation
Faculty research experiences
Priority course registration
Discover
Degree Candidate Academic Opportunities
Libraries
Gain access to world-renowned Harvard libraries. Our library services support your research and coursework with:
E-resources and databases
Research guides and citation help
Learn about
Libraries
Visiting Campus
Whether you’re attending an on-campus class, meeting your study group, or just exploring Harvard Square, we offer guidance on:
Getting to campus
Parking and transportation
Tips for a successful visit
Learn more about
Visiting Campus
Accessibility Services
We are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment. If you need accommodations, we provide:
Personalized support
Assistance with housing, technology, and academics
Resources to help you navigate your learning experience
Access
Accessibility Services
IT Support Services
Our computer labs and tech support help you stay connected and productive. We can help troubleshoot computer and software issues.
Learn more about
Online Support
Office of Student Affairs
The Office of Student Affairs (OSA)
offers holistic support to students throughout their time at the Harvard Extension School. This includes providing programming designed to promote academic achievement, self-development, and overall socio-emotional wellbeing.
Course Materials
Each term, books are for sale at the
Harvard Coop
in Harvard Square, (617) 499-2000. Some instructors list course materials on course syllabi or websites.
Community
If you want to learn outside the classroom and in a social setting, attend lectures and events sponsored by the
Harvard Extension Alumni Association
, the
Harvard Institute for Learning in Retirement
, and the
Harvard Extension Student Association
(HESA). Through HESA, you can also join a variety of
student clubs and societies
. From green marketing to Faustian irony and Shakespeare, these events and lectures are sure to enrich your learning experience and your life.
In addition, you can connect with many
Harvard Chaplains
on campus, representing 26 religions.
For other events around campus, see the Hub and the
Harvard Gazette’s event calendar
Read Student and Alumni Stories
Get Info
Harvard Division of Continuing Education
The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.
Harvard Division of Continuing Education