Unlock Your Summer with Harvard’s Summer Programs
Summer is the perfect time to take your skills to the next level, and what better way to do that than with Harvard’s incredible summer programs? Whether you’re a high school student ready to explore college life, a college student eager to earn credits, or a young professional looking to grow, Harvard has a program that’ll fit your goals. Let’s break down the options so you can figure out which one sparks your interest.
1. Pre-College Program: Ages 16–18
So, you’re curious about college life but don’t want to wait until graduation to experience it? The Pre-College Program is just what you need. It’s a two-week opportunity to live on campus, take cool non-credit courses, and get a sneak peek of what college life is really like.
| Program Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Group | 16–18 years old |
| Duration | 2 weeks |
| Location | On-campus at Harvard |
| Courses | One non-credit course |
| Subjects Offered | Humanities, STEM, Social Sciences |
| Additional Features | College experience, dorm life, social activities |
| Eligibility | High school students |
| Cost | Varies (financial aid may be available) |
This program is all about giving you that “college vibe” early on. You’ll live in the dorms, hit up social events, and dive into courses that might help you figure out your future major. Plus, you’ll meet people from all over the world!
2. Secondary School Program: Ages 15–18
Ready to step it up? The Secondary School Program lets you earn actual college credits while still in high school. It’s seven weeks long, and you’ll be studying right alongside Harvard undergrads. The best part? You can do it on campus, online, or mix both to fit your summer schedule.
| Program Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Group | 15–18 years old |
| Duration | 7 weeks |
| Location | On-campus, Online, or Hybrid |
| Courses | College credit courses |
| Subjects Offered | Sciences, Technology, Humanities, Social Sciences, Languages |
| Additional Features | Real college credits, flexible learning options |
| Eligibility | High school students |
| Cost | Varies (financial aid may be available) |
If you’re looking to boost your college applications, this is a golden opportunity. Plus, taking actual college courses? That’s next-level prep for what’s coming after high school.
3. Harvard Summer School: College Students and Adults
Already in college or just graduated? Harvard’s Summer School has over 400 courses to choose from, so you can fill in some electives, explore a new subject, or dive deeper into your major. With options to study on campus or online, you’ve got all the flexibility you need.
| Program Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Group | 18+ (College Students, Graduates, Professionals) |
| Duration | 7 weeks |
| Location | On-campus, Online, or Hybrid |
| Courses | Over 400 college credit courses |
| Subjects Offered | Business, STEM, Technology, Humanities, Public Health, Social Sciences, Languages |
| Additional Features | Flexible formats (in-person, online, hybrid) |
| Eligibility | College students, graduates, professionals |
| Cost | Varies (financial aid may be available) |
From Business to STEM and Creative Arts, the options are pretty endless. Whether you’re trying to get ahead or just love learning, you can make this summer count.
4. Harvard Summer Research Program in Kidney Medicine: Pre-Med Students
Calling all future doctors! The Harvard Summer Research Program in Kidney Medicine is a 10-week, hands-on experience where you’ll be working alongside Harvard faculty. If you’re serious about med school, this is the real deal.
| Program Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Group | College Juniors and Seniors |
| Duration | 10 weeks |
| Location | On-campus at Harvard |
| Courses | Research experience in kidney medicine |
| Subjects Offered | Research in medicine, kidney health, and disease |
| Additional Features | Hands-on research with Harvard faculty |
| Eligibility | College students interested in pre-med |
| Cost | Varies (financial aid may be available) |
It’s not just a typical summer program—it’s a chance to gain research experience that’ll make your med school application stand out big time.
5. International Summer Programs
Harvard is not just for U.S. students. If you’re from anywhere else in the world, Harvard’s International Summer Programs give you the chance to experience world-class education, make international friends, and expand your horizons.
| Program Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Group | Varies (High School and College Students) |
| Duration | 2–7 weeks |
| Location | On-campus at Harvard |
| Courses | College credit courses |
| Subjects Offered | Science, Engineering, Political Science, Data Science |
| Additional Features | Global networking, international experience |
| Eligibility | International students (English proficiency required) |
| Cost | Varies (financial aid may be available) |
This is your chance to study at Harvard, meet people from all over the globe, and prepare yourself for a future in the global workforce.
6. Professional Development Programs: Ages 21+
Already working but want to upskill? Harvard’s Professional Development Programs are short, intense, and perfect for working professionals looking to build new skills in leadership, marketing, and more. Most of these courses only take a few days, so they’re easy to fit into your schedule.
| Program Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Group | 21+ (Professionals) |
| Duration | 2–5 days |
| Location | On-campus at Harvard |
| Courses | Non-credit professional development courses |
| Subjects Offered | Leadership, Finance, Marketing, Education |
| Additional Features | Certification upon completion |
| Eligibility | Working professionals |
| Cost | Varies |
With these courses, you’ll walk away with new skills and even a certificate to show for it—perfect for boosting your resume.
7. Youth Leadership Initiative: Ages 13–18
If you’ve got leadership in your blood, then Harvard’s Youth Leadership Initiative (HYLI) is calling your name. This program is all about building leadership skills through workshops and hands-on projects designed to prepare you for real-world challenges.
| Program Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Group | 13–18 years old |
| Duration | Varies |
| Location | On-campus at Harvard |
| Courses | Leadership development, global issues |
| Subjects Offered | Leadership, Team Building, Public Speaking |
| Additional Features | Collaborative projects and leadership training |
| Eligibility | Middle and high school students |
| Cost | Varies (financial aid may be available) |
You’ll get the chance to connect with other young leaders and start honing the skills that’ll set you apart in school, work, and life.
Conclusion
Harvard’s summer programs are your ticket to making the most out of your summer—whether it’s learning something new, earning credits, or building your career. Ready to take the plunge? Check out the details, and get ready to have the best summer of your life at Harvard!
