Pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a dream for many ambitious scholars, and when it comes to prestigious institutions like Harvard University, the dream feels even more monumental. Known for its academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and a campus rich in history, Harvard stands as one of the top choices for students worldwide. But before embarking on this journey, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. From understanding the academic structure and specializations to the financial aspects of living and studying in the US, there’s much to consider.

Key highlights:

• Harvard University - Overview
• PhD programmes at Harvard University
• Harvard University PhD programmes - Fees

Harvard University - Overview

Harvard University, founded in 1636, is not just the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States, it’s a beacon of global academic excellence. Nestled in Cambridge, Massachusetts, it has a legacy spanning nearly four centuries, making it a dream destination for students worldwide. A PhD from Harvard is more than an educational pursuit. It’s an opportunity to be part of a rich history and a campus that thrives on innovation and intellectual diversity.

Global rankings and reputation

When it comes to global rankings, Harvard consistently stands tall among the world’s best. According to the QS World University Rankings and The Times Higher Education World University Rankings, it regularly secures a spot in the top 5, reflecting the university’s dedication to quality research output and academic reputation.

Rankings at a glance

Ranking platform	Global Rank
QS World University Rankings 2024: Top global universities	4
World University Rankings 2024	4

A diverse student body

With around 25,000 students enrolled, Harvard is as diverse as it is large. About 25% of Harvard’s students come from countries outside the US, fostering a multicultural academic atmosphere.

Harvard’s iconic campus

Harvard’s campus stretches across 209 acres along the scenic Charles River. Its sprawling library system, the largest academic library in the world, houses over 20 million volumes, making it a treasure trove for researchers. Beyond the main campus, Harvard’s presence extends to the Allston campus, which is dedicated to business and innovation.

Also Read: What students must know about PhD courses

PhD programmes at Harvard University

Harvard University offers PhD programmes that are designed to push the boundaries of knowledge, encouraging students to become pioneers in their fields. With a blend of rigorous coursework, hands-on research, and access to world-class faculty, Harvard’s doctoral programmes offer a pathway to academic and professional success.

Course format

At the core of Harvard’s PhD programmes is a combination of coursework and intensive research. Students typically complete at least 16 half-courses, each offering 4 credit units. However, the exact requirements vary depending on the programme.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to be flexible and dynamic, with courses offered in various formats, including traditional lectures, interactive seminars, and hands-on boot camps. The blend of teaching styles ensures that students are not only absorbing knowledge but are actively engaged in their learning journey.

Some PhD programmes offered by Harvard

Program Name	Field of Study	University
Doctoral program in Accounting and Management	Accounting and Management	Harvard University
PhD in Bioengineering	Bioengineering	Harvard University
PhD in Business Administration	Business Administration	Harvard University
PhD in Computer Science	Computer Science	Harvard University
PhD in Economics	Economics	Harvard University
PhD in Electrical Engineering	Electrical Engineering	Harvard University
PhD in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering	Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering	Harvard University
PhD in Quantum Science and Engineering	Quantum Science and Engineering	Harvard University
PhD in Statistics	Statistics	Harvard University

Eligibility criteria

Admission to Harvard’s PhD programme can be competitive. Please remember that the criteria can slightly change depending on the course you select. However, here are some basic requirements:

• You need to complete your bachelor’s degree and/or master’s degree, depending on the course requirement.
• Minimum IELTS band score of 7 or TOEFL score of 90.
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score.
• GPA score of at least 3 on a 4-point scale.

Also Read: What is PhD: An informative guide

Harvard University PhD programmes - Fees

The cost of pursuing a PhD at Harvard University varies depending on the programme and stage of the study.

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

• Full tuition (years 1 and 2) - ~USD 56,000 annually
• Reduced tuition (years 3 and 4) - ~USD 15,000 annually
• Continuation fee (post-year 4) - ~USD 4,000 annually

Harvard Business School (HBS)

The tuition is ~USD 55,000 for the first year.

Harvard Graduate School of Education

Annual tuition is approximately USD 60,000. However, when you consider the cost of housing, food, and health insurance, it can rise significantly.

Pursuing a PhD at Harvard University is an incredible opportunity to advance your academic journey at one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. When you choose to study abroad at Harvard, you must consider the costs, too. At Avanse Financial Services, we provide hyper-personalised financing solutions for students. Our educational loan EMI calculator will make it easy to plan your finances and understand repayment options so you can focus on your academic goals without worrying about financial stress.