harvard computer science phd admission requirements

Computer Science

Undergraduate

The concentration in Computer Science is designed to teach students skills and ideas they will use immediately and in the future. Because information technology affects every aspect of society, graduates with computer science degrees have open to them an enormous variety of careers—engineering, teaching, medicine, law, basic science, entertainment, management, and countless others. Students are also eligible to apply for an A.B./S.M. degree program.

The Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree is designed for industry professionals with years of work experience who wish to complete their degrees part time, both on campus and online, without disruption to their employment. Our typical student is over 30, has previously completed one or two years of college, and works full time.

A graduate degree in computer science equips you to stay ahead of the curve and meet the computing challenges of today and tomorrow. In our rigorous master’s degree program, you’ll focus on advanced computer science theories and applications. Learning from expert faculty from Harvard and industry, you’ll acquire the skills to design, develop, and maintain complex computer and software systems.

Harvard School of Engineering offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) degree in Computer Science, conferred through the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. In addition to the Ph.D. in Computer Science, the Harvard School of Engineering also offers master’s degrees in Computational Science and Engineering as well as in Data Science. Computer scientists at Harvard pursue work in a wide range of areas including theoretical computer science, artificial intelligence, economics and computer science, privacy and security, data-management systems, intelligent interfaces, operating systems, computer graphics, computational linguistics, robotics, networks, architectures, program languages, machine learning, and visualization.

Important Addresses

Harvard College

University Hall Cambridge, MA 02138

Harvard College Admissions Office and Griffin Financial Aid Office

86 Brattle Street Cambridge, MA 02138

Social Links

If you are located in the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway (the “European Economic Area”), please click here for additional information about ways that certain Harvard University Schools, Centers, units and controlled entities, including this one, may collect, use, and share information about you.

Application Tips

• Navigating Campus
• Preparing for College
• How to Complete the FAFSA
• What to Expect After You Apply
• View All Guides
• Parents & Families
• School Counselors
• Información en Español
• Undergraduate Viewbook
• View All Resources

Search and Useful Links

Search the site, search suggestions.

Transfer Applicants

Each year, we accept a small group of exceptional students to transfer to Harvard College from other similar liberal arts programs. U.S. Military veterans  may be particularly interested in our transfer program if they've completed at least one full academic year, and not more than two, of college coursework.

Transfer FAQs

Do transfer students qualify for financial aid.

Yes. All transfer applicants, including international students, are eligible to apply for need-based financial aid. Transfer applicants should follow the prospective student financial aid application instructions.

How are transfer students supported on campus?

Enrolling students take part in a fall orientation program and are connected with a dedicated transfer adviser who helps with academic planning and the transition to Harvard life. Transfer students who live on-campus  will find strong community in their undergraduate Houses, and students who live off campus will benefit from the Dudley Community. Transfer students are also supported by peer advisers , who were themselves transfer students from prior years.

What courses transfer to Harvard College? Is there a list of transferrable courses?

The Harvard College Registrar's Office grants credit for work done at another college or university to each admitted transfer student on an individual basis after careful evaluation. The admissions office does not keep a list of transferrable courses and cannot advise on this matter during the application process. Harvard College typically accepts courses taken while enrolled as a full-time student in an undergraduate program similar to our liberal arts curriculum. The Committee also looks for strong preparation in the student's expected field of specialization.

Can I concentrate in business, journalism, law, or medicine?

While you can take courses related to these fields, Harvard's academic programs are not pre-professional, in that they do not provide vocational training. Many Harvard graduates plan to continue their education in professional or graduate schools, often in these fields. Please note that both medicine and law are postgraduate programs in the United States. If you are not a U.S. citizen but wish to continue your education in a professional program, particularly in an American medical school, we advise you to consult specific graduate and professional programs in advance to understand those schools' admissions and financial aid policies concerning international students.

I am an international prospective transfer student. What is the transfer application process for me?

The application process and requirements are exactly the same for international students. Our financial aid program also applies to all applicants regardless of nationality or citizenship. For more information, you can view all of the transfer application requirements here .

About Our Transfer Program

Each fall, we welcome a very small number (12 on average) of transfer students to Harvard College. We seek students whose previous academic experience will prepare them to flourish in our rigorous and rewarding liberal arts program. In our candidates for transfer admission, we look for:

• A clearly defined academic need to transfer
• A proven record of achievement at your current institution
• Strong faculty recommendations

Recently, we have received more than 1,500 transfer applications per year. In pools of this size, the number of well-qualified applicants far exceeded the number of students admitted and enrolled each year as transfer students. As admission to transfer to Harvard is competitive, we encourage you to explore a variety of colleges in your transfer search. 

Eligibility

To be eligible to transfer, you must have completed at least one continuous academic year in a full-time degree program at one college, and not more than two academic years, by the time you would be enrolling at Harvard . You must complete at least two full years of study at Harvard. Once a student has completed more than two years total of college at another institution, regardless of courses taken, that student is no longer eligible for transfer admission.

Students are eligible to transfer only from a liberal arts curriculum that is similar to Harvard’s. Candidates whose education has been in a vocational, professional, technical, online, extension, or performance program will not ordinarily qualify for transfer admission.

• Students who have completed one full-time year of college in a regular degree program in lieu of their senior year of high school (often referred to as dual enrollment) should apply for first-year admission if these courses are taken for credit towards a high school diploma.
• Students who are enrolled part-time are not eligible unless they have previously completed one full-time, continuous academic year.

If you are too advanced in your studies to qualify for transfer, you may be interested in the  Visiting Undergraduate Student Program.

No student with a bachelor's degree or other first university degree from any other university, whether American or foreign, is eligible for admission to Harvard College. Students interested in continuing their studies beyond the bachelor's degree might wish to consider one of the  12 Harvard University graduate schools . The Harvard College Admissions Office is independent of these schools and their admissions policies.

Take a Virtual Tour

Use our Virtual Tour to discover spaces that aren't even available on an in-person campus tour, such as classrooms, laboratories, residence halls, and more.

What We Look For

Through our admissions process, we strive to give you ample opportunities to best demonstrate your interests and accomplishments. We welcome candidates who have gone directly from high school into college as well as those who have followed less traditional paths.

The Admissions Committee looks for achievement in a rigorous program of study, especially in your expected field of specialization. Beyond strong grades, test scores, and recommendations, the Committee considers other non-academic factors such as significant extracurricular engagements and talents. We also consider an applicant’s personal qualities such as a capacity for leadership, creativity, resiliency, intellectual curiosity, and independent thinking.

In addition to our standard application materials, you may submit supplementary materials showcasing exceptional or unusual talents, including musical performance, artistic work, and research material.

Harvard accepts transfer students for fall semester entrance only; we do not admit students for the spring semester. The transfer application becomes available during the fall of the academic year. 

• March 1 : Deadline for all transfer application and financial aid materials. 
• The Transfer Admissions Committee begins to review applications after the application deadline.
• We will notify applicants of admissions decisions in June.

Submitting your materials early does not increase your chances of admission, but it does provide more opportunities to track down any missing documents and ensure that your application is full and complete by the time we begin our review. Please note that college transcripts should be sent between January and March in order to reflect your most updated academic credentials.

From the service to school

Veteran transfer students from community colleges make Harvard home

Application Requirements

• Transfer Application from the  Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir , or  Common Application . 
• Harvard College Questions and Writing Supplement for the Common Application
• $85 fee (or request a fee waiver by sending an email to  [email protected] )
• AP exam results 
• IB Actual or Predicted Scores
• GCSE/A-Level Actual or Predicted Results
• National Leaving Exams Results or Predictions
• College/Dean’s/Registrar’s report
• Official College Transcript
• College Instructor Recommendations (2)
• Official High School Transcript

* If you have applied to Harvard in the past, we will have access to your previous application in our review process including any scores that you submitted with earlier applications. Test scores can be particularly helpful for non-traditional students. We encourage non-traditional students to submit an exam taken within three years of applying for transfer to reflect current academic ability.

Self-reported scores are acceptable during the application process; official scores are required of enrolling students.

Printable Transfer Application Forms

All applications are treated equally, whether they are received in the mail or online. However, applications submitted online are processed faster and allow your school officials to submit their part of your application online as well. Please choose one option only: either apply online or send an application through the mail.

Please note that you can only download and print the following forms - you will not be able to complete them electronically.

• College Report (often completed by the Registrar’s Office; formerly called Registrar’s or Dean’s Report)
• Harvard Transfer Supplement
• Midterm Report (Optional)

Instructions for Submitting Required Materials

Submitting the College Report (required), High School Transcripts (required) or Midterm Report (not required)

By mail: Harvard College Admissions and Griffin Financial Aid Office Attn: Undergraduate Transfer Admissions 86 Brattle Street Cambridge, MA 02138

By fax: 1 (617) 495-8821

Please address documents to the attention of the Transfer Admissions team. If you are faxing internationally, make sure to check if there is any additional number you need to input prior to dialing 1 (617) 495-8821. 

If your school official is not able to submit materials in these ways, they may send them to us as PDFs at [email protected] . Please request that your school official include your name and application number in the subject line of the email for easier processing. They must send the document(s) from their official institutional email account (if they have one). 

Submitting College Transcripts By electronic credential exchange network (PREFERRED METHOD): If your college is a member of the following electronic credential exchange networks, please make every effort to send your college transcript through these secure channels:

• National Student Clearinghouse
• Naviance Network  

Transferring Course Credit

Harvard will honor comparable coursework you have done prior to your transfer admission, while also giving you time to take advantage of Harvard’s course offerings and delve deeply into your concentration.

You will be allowed to transfer in a maximum of 16 semester-long courses—the equivalent of two full years of academic work—providing you the opportunity to take the remaining half of the courses required for your A.B. or S.B. degree at Harvard.

The Harvard College Registrar’s Office grants credit for work done at another college or university to each admitted transfer student on an individual basis after careful evaluation. While Harvard does not audit transcripts prior to application to determine eligibility, the descriptions below should be helpful in determining which of your courses may transfer. Our office is unable to make recommendations in regards to coursework at your current institution or advise on anticipated class standing during the application process.

Which courses are eligible for credit?

You may receive credit for courses taken in a full-time, daytime program of study at an accredited degree-granting institution, provided that you:

• Took courses comparable to those offered in Harvard’s liberal arts curriculum.
• Earned grades of “C” (or the equivalent) or better

Which courses are not eligible for credit?

Unfortunately, we are unable to grant credit for certain accomplishments. Harvard does not typically award credit for:

• Online or distance education courses
• Night or extension courses
• Courses taken on a part-time basis
• Technical or vocational courses such as accounting, marketing, journalism, law, agriculture, nursing, business, communications or specialized military training coursework
• Dual-enrollment courses counted for credit toward a high school diploma
• Work done prior to admission in an isolated term, semester or quarter at another college, unless the college from which you are transferring has granted credit for that work
• Credit gained by accelerating in an academic year at another college
• College Level Placement Exam (CLEP), Advanced Placement Exam (AP/IB) results, or any credit earned by examination, even when credited to your degree by the college or university from which you wish to transfer
• Summer school courses, except for those at your current college/university or courses at  Harvard Summer School

Contacting Transfer Admissions

The Transfer Admissions team will be available to answer questions by email at [email protected] Monday through Friday between the hours of 9am and 5pm ET.

Related Topics

Not sure how to fill out the admissions application to Harvard? Here are some helpful tips from our admissions committee.

Here you'll find a detailed explanation of each requirement of the application, including teacher recommendations, test scores, and school reports.

Your advisors can help you you plan your degree program or take advantage of unique academic opportunities such as study abroad.

Toggle Admissions Submenu

Degree programs

The Computer Science curriculum is designed to offer students a great deal of flexibility — with time for related study and for outside opportunities, from sports to clubs to hobbies.

You can combine your studies with other fields, including mathematics, physics, economics, psychology, and linguistics.

All undergraduates in Computer Science at Harvard are candidates for the Bachelor of Arts degree (A.B.). With the knowledge that it requires extra course work, you can consider the more intensive A.B.–S.M. option through a concurrent masters degree.

See the Resources page for more guides and information about the program.

Basic A.B. Program

The basic degree requirements are eleven to fourteen 4-credit courses in mathematics, theoretical computer science, computer software, and other areas of computer science. Math courses cover linear algebra, single variable calculus and probability/statistics. Students who place out of part or all of the introductory calculus sequence, Mathematics 1ab, reduce their concentration requirements to 11 courses.

Courses in theoretical computer science cover formal models of computation and algorithm design. Courses in computer software include the introductory sequence and courses on systems programming. Courses in other areas include courses such as computation in the world. In order to ensure breadth in the program, a plan of study must include courses in different subfields of computer science.

See the Computer Science handbook entry for full details. The Plan of Study form is also a useful tool to help understand the course requirements.

Honors A.B. Program

There are two types of honors for undergraduates:  Latin honors  (summa, magna, cum laude) are determined by the College and  English honors (highest honors, high honors, honors) are determined by concentrations.  (See this page for more information about requirements for Latin honors.)

To receive English honors in Computer Science, students must have a high grade point average and must also fulfill a more demanding course program than the basic program. There are several honors tracks within Computer Science:

The standard honors program requires 13-16 courses instead of 11-14. The honors program also requires greater breadth within Computer Science (see this table as well as the handbook entry for the details).

Joint Concentrations and the Mind, Brain, and Behavior Program are also part of the honors track.

All levels of English honors in Computer Science are decided individually by vote of the Computer Science faculty based on the student’s academic and scientific achievements. For high honors and highest honors a (strong) thesis is required as well.

English honors requirements: Ordinarily, honors in Computer Science requires a concentration GPA of at least 3.5 in the courses on the student’s Computer Science study plan;  high honors in Computer Science requires a concentration GPA of at least 3.75 and an excellent thesis; and highest honors in Computer Science requires a concentration GPA of at least 3.85 and an outstanding thesis.

Joint Concentration

Students with serious interests in both computer science and another concentration may pursue a joint concentration in these fields. A joint concentration is not a “double major”: the two fields must overlap in a way that will enable the candidate to write a senior thesis acceptable to both departments. Joint concentrations are honors track programs.

• More on joint concentrations

The Mind, Brain, and Behavior Program

Students interested in addressing questions of neuroscience and cognition from the perspective of computer science may pursue a special program of study affiliated with the University-wide Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative .

• More on the MBB track

A.B.–S.M. Options

Students who are eligible for Advanced Standing on the basis of A.P. tests before entering Harvard may be able to apply for admission to the S.M. program of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and graduate in four years with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree (not necessarily in the same field).

Beginning with the class of 2022, students have the opportunity to apply to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences for a master’s degree pursued concurrently with the bachelor’s degree. As part of the concurrent degree program , students will be allowed to double-count up to sixteen credits (normally, four courses) for the Bachelor of Arts and the Master of Science. An undergraduate pursuing the concurrent degree must complete both of these degrees by the end of eight terms of residency, or the equivalent.

Students eligible for Advanced Standing may not pursue a Concurrent Masters (they must activate Advanced Standing and follow the requirements for Advanced Standing). Please contact the Office of Undergraduate Education if you have questions about this policy.

More information about the Concurrent Masters and Advanced Standing programs at Harvard is available from the Office of Undergraduate Education. Students should consult both the Director of Undergraduate Studies and their Allston Burr Resident Dean about the advisability of pursuing these options, which are very demanding and may preclude other educational opportunities.

Information about applying to the A.B.–S.M. program

The Undergraduate advising team cannot advise on what courses may count for the graduate degree.

Final approval of courses that may be counted towards a SEAS graduate degree are the purview of the SEAS Committee on Higher Degrees (CHD), which is a body composed of faculty from across the school. Any student seeking a graduate degree from SEAS must submit a proposed course list (the “Program Plan”) for review by the CHD for adherence to the stated degree requirements:

• General SM degree requirements
• Area-specific degree requirements

Exceptions to those requirements may only be granted by the CHD, following a written petition.

This means that, aside from specific courses stated in an area’s degree requirements, no course can be guaranteed to count for the degree until the CHD has reviewed the course in the context of a Program Plan. Program Plans from College students may only be submitted to the CHD after the student has been admitted to the AB/SM program and has been assigned an SM advisor.

Prior to being admitted to the AB/SM program, students with questions about which courses may fulfill SM degree requirements should carefully review the links above. Please contact Ximena Hasbach [email protected] with further questions.

Quantum Science and Engineering

Share this page.

In this first-of-its-kind quantum science and engineering program, you will be a part of an interdisciplinary program that builds on Harvard’s track record of excellence in the field. The flexible curriculum will equip you with a common language for the rapidly growing field of quantum science and engineering (QSE). You will have the opportunity to work with faculty from both the science and engineering programs to design an individualized path tailored to your QSE research interests. Research is a primary focus of the program, and you will be working with state-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities.

You will be embedded in the broader Boston-area quantum ecosystem through collaborations with institutions such as MIT and University of Massachusetts Boston. You will also have the opportunity to interact with industry partners working to turn quantum theory into useful systems and devices.

Graduates of the program are uniquely qualified to meet the rising demand for QSE researchers and educators in industry, academia, and national labs.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the PhD program in quantum science and engineering and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Areas of Study

Applied Physics | Computer Science | Electrical Engineering | Experimental Physics | Physical Chemistry | Materials Science and Engineering | Theoretical Chemistry | Theoretical Physics | Quantum Devices, Quantum Materials | Unspecified

Admissions Requirements

Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the PhD program in quantum science and engineering.

Academic Background

Students with bachelor’s degrees in physics, mathematics, chemistry, computer science, engineering, or related fields are invited to apply for admission. Prospective students should demonstrate depth of background in one or more relevant fields including (but not limited to) physics, electrical engineering, engineering sciences, materials science, computer science, and chemistry. Typically, applicants will have devoted approximately half of their undergraduate work to one or more of these fields and will have demonstrated overall academic excellence.

Statement of Purpose

Applicants should detail their reason for pursuing the PhD in quantum science and engineering and explain why this program is particularly well-suited for them. A student who has a marked interest in a particular area of quantum science and engineering should include this information in the online application. If possible, applicants should also indicate whether they are inclined toward experimental or theoretical (mathematical) research. This statement of preference will not be treated as a binding commitment to any course of study and research.

Personal Statement

Not Accepted

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Optional GRE Subject Test: Optional

See list of Quantum Science and Engineering faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

FALL COURSE REGISTRATION  is open through August 29. Explore courses today.

Graduate Program Admissions

Earn-your-way-in admissions.

You enroll in courses toward the completion of your degree before you apply for admission. Why? Because we know that standardized test scores and previous transcripts don’t always accurately reflect our adult learners’ current academic capabilities and drive to succeed.

Admissions Process

On this page we’ll guide you through the admissions steps, including:

• Requirements you must meet to be eligible for enrolling in courses toward the degree
• Courses you must take in order to apply for admission
• Materials you should have ready for when your application window opens
• How and when to submit your application
• The Application and Academic Standing and Conduct Review process

1. Check Your Eligibility to Enroll in Courses Toward the Degree

To pursue a graduate degree at Harvard Extension, you must meet the following criteria:

You hold a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent. View More

The undergraduate degree must be awarded by a college or university that was regionally accredited at the time of your attendance, with a degree conferral date that precedes enrollment in graduate-level courses taken at Harvard Extension School.

Students who earned bachelor’s degrees outside the U.S. should visit Verifying International Credentials to find out more information before enrolling in any Harvard Extension courses.

Students who were once admitted degree candidates should refer to  Enrollment Policies for Graduate Students .

The Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions makes all final determinations about program eligibility.

Additional Eligibility Requirements For:

Alternative Admission Pathway Applicants View More

To use the Harvard Business School Online CORe (Credential of Readiness) certificate , Harvard Kennedy School Public Leadership Credential (PLC) , or MITx MicroMasters Program credential as an alternative pathway to admission at Harvard Extension School, you must first submit a separate application through these schools’ websites to be accepted into their programs in order to earn the credential. Not all students are accepted.

Before enrolling in any of these schools’ programs with the intent of pursuing a degree at Harvard Extension School using the credential, confirm your Harvard Extension School degree program eligibility. Then carefully read the degree program pathway related to the credential and be sure you understand the program requirements, if and how credit transfers, the degree courses and grades you’ll need to complete for your Harvard Extension application for admission, and the expiration date of your credential toward admission.

Prior to your enrollment in any Harvard Extension School courses, the school awarding the credential must confirm with the student that the credential has been earned.

International Applicants View More

Verify international credits and degrees.

This requirement should be completed before enrolling in courses at Harvard Extension School. For more information, visit our Admission Details for International Students page.

2. Complete Degree Courses for Admission

At Harvard Extension School, your admission journey begins in the classroom. Here’s how to qualify for admission.

Register for the 4-credit prerequisite graduate-level course(s) that your field of study requires for admission. View More

See the Degree Requirements page for your field of study to find the stipulated degree course(s) required for admission.

Meet the grade requirements for admission. View More

B or higher Earn at least a grade of B in each of the degree courses required for admission.

Two-attempt limit on the proseminar You are ineligible to apply if you fail to earn the minimum grade of B or higher in two registration attempts of the proseminar, if one is required for your field of study. If you repeat the proseminar, both grades will apply to your cumulative GPA unless the course has expired, as outlined below. A withdrawal (WD) is considered a registration attempt. See  Enrollment Policies for Graduate Students  for information about how repeat courses affect your GPA.

3.0 GPA Earn the required cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 (equivalent to a grade of B) or higher from all Harvard courses. If you haven’t earned at least a B in all of your Harvard courses, use our  GPA Estimator  tool to determine your GPA. See  Academic Standing  for information on grade-point average calculation for the graduate degree program.

Be timely! Apply when you are completing your last required course for admission and within two years of earning your proseminar grade (if required). View More

Submitting an application promptly near the conclusion of your course(s) stipulated for admission is essential not only for your successful admission but also for degree program completion.

Moreover, degree requirements, including admission courses, can change from year to year and courses expire (as explained below), which may result in your losing degree credit if you postpone submitting your application.

As a result, students who do not apply for admission to the program in a timely manner are assessed an additional $300 delayed application fee.

Also, apply within two years of earning your proseminar grade. If the proseminar grade is older than two years at the time of application, you must retake the course and register for a section with a different instructor, if possible.

Refer to  When to Apply  for the dates between which you are able to begin an application. You cannot start an application outside these dates.

Course Expiration Policy for Admission

Courses over five years old at the point of admission will not count toward the degree. Potential degree candidates must plan accordingly and submit their applications to comply with this five-year course expiration policy, or they risk losing degree credit for completed course work. Additionally, admission eligibility will be jeopardized if, at the point of application to the program, the five-year degree completion policy cannot be satisfied .

3. Gather Your Supplementary Materials

Although you may apply only during certain times of the year, you can—and should—prepare your supplementary materials early so that you don’t miss a deadline.

Prepare for your online application. View More

Before the application opens, you can get a head start on it by following these preparatory steps:

• Collect the names of the colleges and/or universities you have attended and the dates of your attendance.
• Update your résumé to reflect your current work experience, education, skills, organizational memberships, and achievements.
• Applicants can refer to the OPA&A page in MyDCE for helpful resume and essay information. Open the navigation menu in MyDCE by clicking the three black lines next to the Harvard shield at the top of the screen. Choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” from the menu and then scroll to the Application for Admission section. Choose the “Application Tips” tab.
• Review tips and tutorials.  Review our  Tips to Avoid Plagiarism and complete the free online tutorials: Using Sources, Five Scenarios and Using Sources, Five Examples . Complete these before beginning the application, where you will be asked if you completed the tests but will not need to submit your scores.

Request transcripts from previous schools. View More

We require a current official transcript (i.e., a transcript issued directly from the school to our office) from each college or university from which you have earned a degree.

Electronic transcripts may be sent by your school to [email protected] .

Note : If your college or university issues transcripts using a third-party service, you must specify “Harvard Extension School” and/or our email address in the document recipient field. Transcripts sent to a general “Harvard University” account are not delivered to Harvard Extension School.

See the Submit Your Application section for instructions on how to submit paper transcripts.

Students with international credits and degrees must have them evaluated for equivalency as part of the admissions process. For more information, visit  Admission Requirements for International Students .

Additional Materials Needed for Certain Programs

Finance Applicants Using HBS Online CORe View More

Order your official CORe transcript.

Apply to the degree program only after you have been notified of your passing grade in CORe, as it may take several weeks for your transcript to be produced by Harvard Business School (HBS) Online.

You must request that HBS Online send an electronic copy of your transcript to Extension School’s Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions at [email protected] .

You must demonstrate proficiency in critical reading and writing skills by:

• Passing the test of critical reading and writing skills.
• Or completing the required expository writing course for your program before submitting an application.

View CRWS Test Information

Government Applicants Using the Harvard Kennedy School Public Leadership Credential (PLC) View More

Request a letter of completion confirmation.

PLC learners must contact the Harvard Kennedy School PLC Program to have this letter sent to the Harvard Extension School Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions at [email protected] .

Management Applicants Using HBS Online CORe View More

Applicants Using the MITX Micromasters Program Credential View More

Order your official MITx MicroMasters Program credential certificate.

To send your MicroMasters Program credential certificate to Extension School’s Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions, log in to your edX dashboard and share your student record with us. A secure link will be sent by edX directly to Extension School.

All application materials submitted to Harvard Extension School become the property of Harvard Extension School. Due to mandated record-keeping and archival policies, they cannot be returned under any circumstances. 

4. Submit Your Application

There are three opportunities each year to submit an application. Your window corresponds with the semester during which you are enrolled in your final course(s) for admission. Details can be found on When to Apply .

Start your online application. View More

Refer to  When to Apply for the dates between which you are able to begin an application. You cannot start an application outside these dates.

Log in to MyDCE to apply. Open the navigation menu by clicking the three black lines next to the Harvard shield at the top of the screen. Choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” from the menu and then scroll to the Application for Admission section to begin.

If you don’t have the option to choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” as part of your MyDCE menu, email us with a request to add it.

Pay the application fee. View More

A nonrefundable $100 fee is required to begin the application. You will be assessed an additional $300 delayed application fee if you have earned grades in more than four courses toward the graduate degree before applying.

Mail your transcripts (if applicable). View More

If transcripts must be mailed via post because your college or university does not offer electronic delivery, documents should be sent to:

Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions Harvard Extension School 51 Brattle Street Cambridge MA 02138

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Do not open envelopes addressed to you that contain official copies of documents. Instead, mail them unopened in a larger envelope to the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions.
• All materials must be received in the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions no later than the application deadline date for your application to be considered complete.

Materials are accepted and processed by the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

How We Review Applications

After grades become available for the term, advisors conduct a final application review and consider the following.

Academic Standing and Student Conduct View More

You must be in good academic standing with Harvard University, with no disciplinary or administrative procedures pending, stemming from violations of our  Academic Integrity  and/or  Student Conduct policies. The Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions will consider your academic disciplinary and student conduct records at Harvard University and other academic institutions in making admissions decisions.

You should be aware of our  application expectations  as well as our  Right to Refuse Registration  due to infractions that include criminal records, which will also be considered.

Harvard Extension School emphasizes that no student has a “right” to admission into an Extension School degree program. Satisfaction of the applicable academic requirements and maintaining good academic standing are necessary, but not sufficient, conditions for admission. For example, Extension School may deny any student admission to its degree program if it determines, in its discretion, that a grant of admission would conflict with applicable policy; or that the student’s prior personal conduct, including outside the School, demonstrates that the student is not an appropriate candidate for a Harvard degree.

Financial Standing View More

You must be in good financial standing at Harvard as well as previous schools.

English Proficiency View More

English is the language of instruction at Harvard Extension School. If your native language is not English, you must have provided designated proof of English proficiency to register in the courses that qualify you for admission. And you must be able to register in future courses according to Extension School’s current English proficiency requirements.

As part of your application review, advisors will confirm you have met these requirements and will ask you to provide a letter of explanation if you do not. Students who have misrepresented themselves will be found in violation of Extension School’s Student Conduct policy . Their applications will be removed from admission consideration, they will be prevented from applying again in the future to a degree program at Extension School, and their case will be reviewed by the Administrative Board to consider grounds for disciplinary action.

Your Complete Application and Admission Decision View More

The School’s receipt of a finished online application, which includes a current resume and satisfactorily written essays, ordinarily constitutes a complete application. However, the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions may ask you to submit other supporting documentation before your application is considered complete and will contact you directly in that case.

Additionally,  you must meet specific grade and GPA requirements in stipulated Harvard degree courses, as well as certain academic standing, student conduct, and English proficiency requirements as outlined above and on program-specific pages of this website.

Admission decisions are made according to the  When to Apply schedule and appear in the Extension application portal. For details, log in to MyDCE , choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” from the navigational menu at the top, scroll to the Application for Admission section, and select the Application Status & Decision tab.

If you did not earn the required GPA and/or grades by the end of the semester, you will be notified that you may reapply to the program after you have met those admission criteria.

You may register in courses for the upcoming term while you await an admission decision.

Harvard Extension School does not discriminate against applicants or students on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry or any other protected classification.

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.

• Study Abroad Get upto 50% discount on Visa Fees
• Top Universities & Colleges
• Abroad Exams
• Top Courses
• Read College Reviews
• Admission Alerts 2024
• Education Loan
• Institute (Counselling, Coaching and More)
• Ask a Question
• College Predictor
• Test Series
• Practice Questions
• Course Finder
• Scholarship
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Study Guide

Study In Usa > Colleges In Usa > Harvard University > Programs > Ph.D[Computer Science]

Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D] [Computer Science] From Harvard University

Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D] (Computer Science)

Stem course.

This course focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics subjects, offering a deep dive into these fields to enhance your knowledge and skills in STEM disciplines.

Field of Study : 

₽4,854,873 /Yr

• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science at Harvard University allows students to complete this course in 5 years.
• There are two options to complete this program. They are thesis-based and non-thesis-based or project-based. 
• The students to faculty ratio for this program is 16:1.
• Artificial intelligence
• Computer systems and networks
• Database systems
• Human-computer interaction
• Vision and graphics
• Numerical analysis
• The Computer Science curriculum is designed to offer students a great deal of flexibility.
• Computational Science and Engineering provides rigorous training in the mathematical and computing foundation. Independent research projects and elective courses focusing on the application of computation to one or more domains complement the foundational coursework.
• It is an exciting and rapidly evolving field that exploits the power of computation as an approach to major challenges at the frontiers of natural and social science and all engineering fields.
• The program offers students experience with mathematical techniques for modeling and simulation of complex systems; parallel programming and collaborative software development; and methods for organizing, exploring, visualizing, processing, and analyzing very large data sets.
• IT consultant
• Cybersecurity consultant
• Information systems manager
• Database administrator
• Multimedia programmer
• Systems analyst
• Games developer, etc with an average salary of 36,475 USD per year.

Important Dates

Tuition Fees

Other Expenses

Eligibility & Entry Requirement

Academic Eligibility:

• Students must register full-time until receipt of the degree, for a minimum of two years.
• At the discretion of the program, this requirement can be reduced up to one year (eight courses: 32 credits) if academic credit is given for work done elsewhere.
• In addition, those admitted must have completed the equivalent of a senior-level course in the area of theoretical courses related to this program.
• Minimum grade point ‘B+’ (75% – 79%) is required to enroll in this program.

Indian Student Eligibility:

Indian students are eligible to apply if they meet one of the following eligibility criteria:

• Completed a 4-year UG degree with first class in a relevant field from a recognized institution.
• Or, completed a master's degree with first-class in a relevant field from a recognized institution.
• Or, completed a 3-year UG degree with a first-class from a NAAC-accredited institution.

English Language proficiency:

• Applicants from India, China, Vietnam, Philippines, and Pakistan should note that IELTS is the only proficiency score accepted by the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program.
• Meeting the minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission. Students with higher English proficiency scores will receive priority in the admission assessment process.
• Not all students will qualify for EAP-3106 in place of the required  IELTS  or  TOEFL  test scores.

Submission of  GRE  scores is compulsory for this program, however, it is recommended to submit a minimum of 292 for better a chance of admission.

The above requirements are the minimum requirements and do not guarantee admission. The admissions committee will consider all evidence in the file and decide. 

Scores Required

Avg. Score in

Minimum gpa

Median GRE Score Over Years

Required document list.

The Documents required are:

• Online application form, including SEAS Supplemental form
• College Transcripts -  The marks statement provided by the education board after completion of the previous academic qualifications.
• Financial Documentation -  The Proof that shows the financial background of the student.
• Letter of Recommendation -  This shows who recommended the student to pursue the degree.
• Statement of Purpose -  This is an essay or any written statement written by the student while applying.
• Resume/CV -  This provides a summary of the experience and skills of the student.

Do you think the Rankings are wrong ?   Report Here

Similar Programs

Do you think the Dates are wrong ?   Report Here

Course Guides

PhD in USA: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Placements & Salaries

Career and Placement after Course

Following career opportunities are:

• Games developer

Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids

Similar Colleges

Southern Illinois University

University at Albany

Northern State University

Abilene Christian University

Ohio Northern University

University of South Carolina

University of Akron

State University of New York Polytechnic Institute

University of New Mexico

Refer & Earn 3 USD For Every Approved Review

3k+ Reviews

+ 33 Photos

interested in this College ?

Follow & Share this college to get information about admission.

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts

Amherst, Massachusetts

Beverly, Massachusetts

Princeton, New Jersey

Stanford, California

New Haven, Connecticut

New York City, New York

Berkeley, California

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWS LETTER

Universities

Harvard University

PhD in Computer Science

Harvard University, Massachusetts

Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Help Me Decide

Pre-requisites

• Discussions

About Course

Program Duration

Computer Science

Degree Type

Program Rank

PhD in Computer Science at the prestigious Harvard University is a prestigious degree that offers in-depth learning in Computer Science. Being a renowned university, Harvard University receives enough funds to ensure the best education facilities for its students across all programs. This doctorate program offered full-time primarily focuses on the practical implementation of fresh ideas through rigorous study and research. The students are encouraged to add new aspects and findings to the existing area of knowledge. PhD in Computer Science at Harvard is ranked globally by estimated organisations. Such recognition speaks volumes about the course’s importance and effectiveness in the present scenario. The top-notch faculty, modern facilities, and the aura of creativity and innovation in the Harvard campus is a life-changing experience for the students looking forward to kickstarting or upgrading their careers. Overall, a PhD in Computer Science at Harvard University is an excellent opportunity to grow into a learned professional and bring new developments in the world.

Official fee page

$39,517 / year

$1,18,551 / 36 months

5000+ Students

Availed education loan

Loan amount sanctioned

Assistance for loan process

• Application Fee

Minimum english score required

Minimum aptitude score required

Waived off until further notice

• Online Application
• Transcripts
• Official English Language Proficirncy
• Statement of Purpose
• Three letters of recommendation

Find all the GRE Waived-off courses by applying a quick filter

Apply GRE filter in this university

Find GRE-waivers across all universities

Yocketers applied

Yocketers admitted

Yocketers interested

Yocketer profiles

Sanna Nazir

Abhishek Malali

Samiksha Mundas

Armaan Khan

Spring 2021

Yocket’s Counsel

Meet our counsellors.

We got a team of 50+ experienced counsellors ready to help you!

Related Discussion for the Universities

Ask, post and discuss!

Have a question? Ask and discuss with your fellow aspirants!

8 months ago

2 years ago

• [email protected]
• (650) 338-8226

Cupertino, CA

• Our Philosophy
• Our Results
• News, Media, and Press
• Common Application
• College Application Essay Editing
• Extracurricular Planning
• Academic Guidance
• Summer Programs
• Interview Preparation

Middle School

• Pre-High School Consultation
• Boarding School Admissions

College Admissions

• Academic and Extracurricular Profile Evaluation
• Senior Editor College Application Program
• Summer Program Applications
• Private Consulting Program
• Transfer Admissions
• UC Transfer Admissions
• Ivy League Transfer Admissions

Graduate Admissions

• Graduate School Admissions
• MBA Admissions

Private Tutoring

• SAT/ACT Tutoring
• AP Exam Tutoring
• Olympiad Training

Research Programs

• Science Research Program
• Humanities Competitions
• Passion Project Program
• Ad Hoc Consulting
• Athletic Recruitment
• National Universities Rankings
• Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings
• Public Schools Rankings

Acceptance Rates

• University Acceptance Rates
• Transfer Acceptance Rates
• Supplemental Essays
• College Admissions Data
• Chances Calculator
• GPA Calculator

National Universities

• College Acceptance Rates
• College Overall Acceptance Rates
• College Regular Acceptance Rates
• College Early Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Overall Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Regular Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Early Acceptance Rates

Public Schools

• Public Schools Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Overall Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Regular Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Early Acceptance Rates

Liberal Arts

• Liberal Arts Colleges Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Overall Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Regular Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Early Acceptance Rates

A Glance at Harvard Computer Science

By Eric Eng

Harvard University, established in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States and is widely known worldwide as one of the world’s most prestigious universities. It was named after its first benefactor, the clergyman John Harvard . The university has grown from its humble beginnings,  from nine students with a single master’s to an enrollment of more than 20,000 degree candidates. One of the programs offered here is the Harvard Computer Science Program.

The Computer Science program at Harvard , housed under the John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), is a modern development in the university’s longstanding tradition of academic excellence.

This program provides a robust and broad curriculum that teaches both the theoretical and practical aspects of computer science, intertwining technical skills with an understanding of the societal implications of technology. Students can study everything from algorithms and data structures to machine learning and artificial intelligence, as well as specialties like computational linguistics or graphics.

The program is renowned for its highly distinguished faculty, cutting-edge research, and dedication to preparing students to become leaders in various careers, ranging from academia and research to industry and entrepreneurship. Harvard’s Computer Science program is not just about coding; it’s about enabling students to leverage computational thinking and a deep understanding of technology to make a difference in the world.

Harvard University Computer Science Admission Requirements

Undergraduate admission requirements.

Harvard University ‘s undergraduate admissions process is highly competitive and requires several key components. Firstly, prospective students must provide their high school GPA and transcript, showcasing their academic performance throughout their high school career. Harvard typically seeks students with a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to learning.

Secondly, standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT are typically required, with successful applicants usually ranking in the highest percentiles. However, Harvard has been known to practice a test-optional policy in certain circumstances, so it’s essential to check the current requirements.

Thirdly, as one of the requirements to enter Harvard Computer Science, letters of recommendation are an integral part of the application . These letters, typically from teachers or counselors, should speak to the applicant’s personal qualities, achievements, and readiness for college-level work.

Lastly, a personal statement or essay is required, allowing students to express their unique stories, experiences, and aspirations. This component allows the Harvard University Computer Science Admissions Committee to gain insight into the student’s personality, values, and potential contributions to the Harvard community.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Admission to Harvard University’s graduate programs in Computer Science, like its undergraduate programs, is extremely competitive. Firstly, applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While a Computer Science degree or a related field is often preferred, it is not strictly necessary if applicants can demonstrate sufficient foundational knowledge in the field.

Secondly, many programs require or recommend Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. While high scores can strengthen an application, they are just one factor among many that admissions committees consider. Thirdly, letters of recommendation are crucial. These should ideally come from professors or professionals in the computer science field who can attest to the applicant’s abilities, work ethic, and potential for success in a rigorous graduate program.

Fourthly, a Statement of Purpose is required. This essay should clearly articulate the applicant’s academic and research interests, career goals, and why they seek admission to Harvard’s program. It should also highlight how the applicant’s interests align with the strengths and focus of the Harvard program.

Lastly, research experience is highly valued for Harvard Computer Science graduate program applicants, especially those interested in a Ph.D. Demonstrated experience in conducting research, whether through an undergraduate thesis, independent projects, or work in a professional setting, can greatly enhance an application.

Harvard Computer Science Curriculum

Undergraduate curriculum.

Harvard University’s undergraduate curriculum in Computer Science is designed to provide a broad and robust understanding of the field while allowing for individual interests and specialties. Firstly, students must fulfill the General Education requirements, including diverse courses designed to ensure a well-rounded liberal arts education. These courses cover arts and humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Secondly, the core Computer Science courses provide students with a solid foundation in the field. These courses typically include programming, algorithms, data structures, and systems, as well as theoretical aspects of computer science. Thirdly, students have a selection of elective courses, allowing them to delve deeper into specific areas of interest.

These electives may include topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, graphics, and computational linguistics. Lastly, many programs require or offer a senior project or thesis option.

This capstone experience allows students to apply what they’ve learned in a practical or research-oriented project, demonstrating their understanding and skills in a real-world or academic context. This project or thesis is often conducted under the guiding supervision of a faculty member and can be a stepping stone to further research or professional work in the field.

Graduate Curriculum

Harvard University’s graduate curriculum in Computer Science is structured to enable students to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in their areas of interest while also conducting significant original research. Firstly, the core graduate courses provide students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced topics in computer science.

These courses delve deeper into advanced algorithms, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, and more. The courses required vary based on the program and the student’s focus. Secondly, research requirements form a critical component of the Harvard Computer Science Curriculum for graduate students. Students are expected by the school to actively engage in research projects, often working closely with faculty members in their labs.

This hands-on experience is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, industry research, or advanced professional roles. Thirdly, doctoral students’ culmination of their studies is the doctoral thesis.

This substantial piece of original research is expected to contribute new and leading knowledge to the field of computer science. It is conducted through the guidance of a faculty advisor and is often published in academic journals or presented at conferences. The doctoral thesis is a testament to the student’s ability to perform independent research and contribute significantly to the field.

Harvard University Computer Science Research Opportunities

Undergraduate research opportunities.

The university offers many research opportunities for the Harvard Computer Science program undergraduate students. These opportunities enable students to engage in practical applications of their coursework, work closely with faculty and graduate students, and contribute to cutting-edge research in various fields of computer science.

Research opportunities can take many forms. Students may choose to work on faculty-led research projects, often through research assistantships, where they can gain hands-on experience in conducting research and contribute to ongoing investigations. Independent research projects are also encouraged, often culminating in a senior thesis.

Additionally, the university hosts several research programs, such as the summer research opportunities program, which provides structured environments for undergraduates to engage in research. These experiences enhance students’ understanding of computer science concepts and help them develop essential skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. These opportunities can provide valuable experience for those considering graduate school or a research career.

Graduate research opportunities

At Harvard University, graduate students in the Computer Science program are presented with various research opportunities designed to cultivate their expertise and contribute to their professional development. These opportunities often involve close collaboration with faculty members and fellow graduate students, providing a rich intellectual growth and innovation environment.

Students can engage in research across various computer science sub-disciplines, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, and more. Many students participate in research groups or labs, contributing to ongoing projects and investigations under the guidance of faculty members.

Additionally, students often have the opportunity to propose and conduct their research projects, which can form the basis for their master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation. Beyond the department, numerous interdisciplinary research centers and institutes at Harvard intersect with computer science, providing further opportunities for collaborative research. These experiences deepen students’ understanding of the field and prepare them for careers of their choosing in academia, industry, and beyond, where research skills are highly valued.

Labs and research centers

The Harvard University Computer Science program is supported by several dedicated labs and research centers, providing a vibrant ecosystem for exploration and innovation in various computer science domains. These facilities give the students and faculty the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, often through interdisciplinary collaborations.

For instance, the Institute for Applied Computational Science (IACS) focuses on applying computational methods to solve complex problems in various disciplines. The Center for Research on Computation and Society (CRCS), another notable center, pursues research at the intersection of computer science and societal impact, addressing challenges in health care, economics, and privacy.

There’s also the Data Science Initiative, which fosters research and innovation in the growing field of data science. These labs and research centers not only offer opportunities for students to get involved in innovative research projects but also regularly host seminars and workshops, fostering a community of learning and intellectual exchange.

Harvard Alumni and Career Opportunities

Internship and co-op opportunities.

The Harvard Computer Science program provides many opportunities for students to gain the necessary practical experience through internships and co-op programs. These opportunities allow students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional skills, and establish connections in the industry.

Many students intern at leading tech companies in Silicon Valley and beyond, working on software development, data analysis, machine learning, and cybersecurity projects. Some even work in startup environments, providing a different learning experience. Besides these, co-op programs, which are extended internships, enable students to spend a semester or more working full-time at a company.

Harvard’s Office of Career Services offers resources and guidance to help students find suitable internships and co-ops. Many faculty members also use their industry connections to help students land these opportunities. Not only can these experiences provide a competitive edge in the job market post-graduation, but they can also help students understand what their career goals and interests are.

Career services and job placement rates

Harvard University’s Office of Career Services (OCS) provides various services and resources to support Computer Science students in navigating their career paths. The OCS offers one-on-one career advising, resume and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, and workshops on various career-related topics.

They also host job and internship fairs, allowing students to connect directly with potential employers. Additionally, the OCS maintains a job and internship database accessible to students and provides resources for navigating job offers and negotiations. Harvard has a strong reputation for high job placement rates across all disciplines.

Many Harvard Computer Science graduates secure positions at prestigious tech companies, startups, consulting firms, or continue in academia. The combination of a robust curriculum, extensive research opportunities, and practical internships or co-ops, all supported by dedicated career services, prepares students well for a successful transition into the workforce.

Notable alumni and their career paths

Harvard University’s Computer Science program boasts several notable alumni who have gone on to have a significant impact in various sectors. These Harvard Alumni exemplify the diverse career paths that a Computer Science degree can lead to. For instance, Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder and CEO of Facebook (now Meta Platforms Inc.), is perhaps one of the most famous dropouts from Harvard’s Computer Science program .

Bill Gates, a co-founder of Microsoft, is another renowned dropout. However, many alumni have completed their degrees and reached notable successes. For example, Ruchi Sanghvi became the first female engineer at Facebook and later co-founded the startup Cove, which Dropbox acquired.

Another notable alumnus, Tony Hsieh, was the CEO of online shoe and clothing retailer Zappos.com. Sal Khan, who earned a Master’s in Computer Science from Harvard, founded the Khan Academy, a free online education platform. These individuals illustrate the potential for innovation, leadership, and impact in various domains, from technology and entrepreneurship to education and beyond, with a Computer Science degree from Harvard.

Now that you have an idea about Harvard Computer Science, your college admissions to that university should be next on your mind. To ensure that you get into Harvard, you can get help with AdmissionSight. With ten years of experience with college admission experts, AdmissionSight can help you get into Harvard University. You can talk to our experts today to get an initial consultation.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

Why College Admissions Isn’t Perfect

US News Rankings

The Personal Statement: The Holy Grail of College Admissions

The Modern Day 4.0 and 1600 SAT Score Student Is No Longer Impressive

The Competitive Nature of College Admissions for Asian Americans

The College Application

Our Comprehensive Approach

Ivy League Schools

How Early Should You Prepare for College?

Featured in US News & World Report Best Colleges Publication

Congratulations to AdmissionSight Students and their Acceptances!

College Rejection

College Rankings

College Consultants Could Make A Difference

College Admissions Scandal and Higher Education

Discover the Best Film Schools in California this 2024

Everything You Need to Know About an AB Degree

How to Get a 1500+ on the SAT: Insights and Tips

Best High School Clubs for Ivy League Admissions

Discover the Best Marine Biology Colleges in California

How Many Letters of Recommendation for College Do I Need to Submit?

Best Colleges for Creative Writing: What You Need to Know About Majors for Writers

A Deeper Look into Life After College

Joining the National Business Honor Society (NBHS)

How Long After Interview to Send Thank You: Tips + Email Templates

Top Target Schools for Investment Banking

Honors Classes: Are They Worth Your Time?

How to Write a Graduation Speech: Tips and Examples

Duke Legacy Acceptance Rate

A List of UCLA Notable Alumni

The Highest Paying College Majors for a Rewarding Career

100 Good Argumentative Essay Topics: Examples and Tips

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Articles

Discover the Best Film Schools...

Everything You Need to Know...

How to Get a 1500+...

Best High School Clubs for...

Discover the Best Marine Biology...

How Many Letters of Recommendation...

Best Colleges for Creative Writing:...

A Deeper Look into Life...

Joining the National Business Honor...

How Long After Interview to...

Top Target Schools for Investment...

Honors Classes: Are They Worth...

Sign up now to receive insights on how to navigate the college admissions process..

Admissions Counseling

• Academic & Extracurricular Profile Evaluation

Copyright © AdmissionSight 2024

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

• Study in USA /

Study Computer Science at Harvard University

• Updated on  
• Dec 4, 2023

Computer Science is a very lucrative field involving building algorithms, machine learning and artificial intelligence . Although India has some of the best emerging colleges for Computer Science courses, still, some of the Indian aspirants dream of pursuing Computer Science courses abroad from the top universities at the top study abroad destinations . Well, Harvard University needs no introduction as the university is known to drive dramatic pauses wherever the name travels. Let’s dive deep and know more about trending and popular Computer Science programs at Harvard University. 

Also, know about MBA at Harvard University

This Blog Includes:

Computer science at harvard university, ba in computer science (bachelor of arts in computer science), ba-ms in computer science (concurrent bachelors and masters in computer science), meng in computational science and engineering, msc in computational science and engineering , msc in applied computation, phd in computer science , harvard university computer science online courses , harvard university acceptance rate , harvard university computer science entry requirements, how to apply , harvard university computer science fees, career scope and salary.

Computer Science at Harvard University is taught by the Harvard School of Engineering. The courses are popular for teaching both the fundamentals of computation and the global interaction with computation.

A Computer Science course at Harvard University helps in learning new programming languages, developing new algorithms and creating systems for all fields of profession- law, art, science or engineering.

Did you know: Out of 30 ‘Forbes 30 under 30’ 2021 awardees were an alumni of computer science at Harvard University.

Harvard University Computer Science Undergraduate Programs

Harvard University offers various undergraduate programs for Computer Science and the details on all of them are given below:

An undergraduate course, BA in Computer Science at Harvard University teaches you deeper mathematics, statistics, theoretical Computer Science and computer software. It is a 4-year bachelors program with fourteen 4-credit courses. Some of the concentrations you will learn within this course are Artificial Intelligence, Computer Systems and Networks, Database Systems, Human-Computer Interaction, etc.

If you have taken the AP tests (Advanced Placement) and have advanced standing in the same, you can opt for a concurrent Bachelors and Masters program in Computer Science. Each student has to take up 5 courses per semester to complete their minimum masters and bachelors requirements. A minimum GPA of 3.6 is expected for applying to this concurrent BA-MS 4-year Computer Science program. 

Harvard University Computer Science Graduate Programs

Harvard University offers various postgraduate Computer Science programs and here’s a list of choices for you:

A 2-year Masters in Engineering at Harvard University for Computer Science, this degree provides you rigorous training in building the science that goes under making computers and components of computers . This course does have a co-op option to work in the relevant industry for alternate terms. 

If you want to do a Masters in Computer Science at Harvard University, you can either go for a Masters In Engineering (MEng) or a Master of Science (MSc). While MSc teaches you a balanced intense theory plus experimentation work, the MEng course is structured for students to go under technical training. 

MSc in Applied Computation is a program that involves principles of both data science and computer science to solve IT-related problems. It is a 2 years masters course. 

The Computer Science PhD program at Harvard University is a 3+ years long program. You have an option of either studying in the thesis mode or project mode. 

We know how finding the perfect course for your study in the USA can be difficult. Try our AI Course Finder to get the perfect course for you in just a few seconds!

If you feel that you don’t have enough academics or monetary resources for an on-campus degree or diploma in Computer Science at Harvard University, you can pursue one of their free Computer Science online courses . Details about the various Harvard University Computer Science online courses are given in the table below:-

Note: All of these online courses for Computer Science programs are free of cost and taught on the EdX platform . These are self-paced courses which means you can choose to learn at whatever time is suitable for you. To earn a verified certificate in Computer Science, you have to pay $200 or Rs. 14,838. 

Harvard University released its admission statistics which says that the most recent Harvard acceptance rate according to the applicants for the class of 2025 is 4.01% which is extremely competitive. 15.5% of the students at Harvard are international and 8.1% of the students choose Computer Science as their field of concentration. Since the interest in Computer Science courses is immense, the screening process is also very rigid. The Computer Science acceptance rate at Harvard University is approximately 7% . 

If you are an Indian student wanting to study Computer Science programs at Harvard University, you are required to fulfil the following requirements.

For the undergraduate Computer Science programs:

• All academic transcripts in the English language
• IELTS – 6.5 for proof of English proficiency 
• Physics and Chemistry in class 12th subjects
• Minimum 55% in class 12th Mathematics 
• SAT minimum scores of 1460
• Statement of Purpose
• Minimum 3 letters of recommendation 
• Updated Resume 

For the graduate Computer Science programs:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent field with a minimum GPA of 3.0-4.0
• Grade 11th and 12th subjects should have Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics
• GRE minimum score of 292 
• IELTS – 7 for proof of English proficiency
• Statement of Purpose 
• Minimum 3 letters of recommendation
• Updated resume  

Here’s a List of Important Documents Required to Study Abroad

Note: Although these basic requirements are mandatory to fulfil, you cannot get into Harvard solely on academic requirements. Your individualism and potential in the Computer Science field is a major deciding factor.

We know how difficult it can be to get into Harvard, especially in a competitive field like Computer Science. To ease out your application stress, we’ve curated a step-by-step guide for you to follow to apply for Harvard University Computer Science programs: 

• Go to the Common Application or Coalition Application and register your profile. 
• Choose to apply to Computer Science courses at Harvard University.
• You should take all your competitive and English tests before you complete your application. 
• Make sure to add the details carefully to avoid any mistakes in the application. 
• Attach all the important documents required for admission in the USA . 
• Submit your application and wait to hear from the admission committee for 4 to 6 weeks. 
• You may be asked for an interview if your application is incomplete. 
• If accepted, you have to formally confirm your acceptance within a limited time. 
• You can start looking for accommodations, scholarships and USA student visa applications . 

Know more about How to Get Into Harvard? [Complete Admission Guide]

The tuition fee for the Harvard University Computer Science courses are given below:

Please note that these costs are just estimated on the popular choices of living while studying at Harvard University. If you want a more personalised cost, use the Cost of Living Calculator .

A Computer Science degree can open up opportunities for you in the real world that you never knew existed. Gaming or defense, Computer Science is needed in every field of profession. You can venture into the following fields with a Harvard University Computer Science degree:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Architecture
• Software Engineering 
• Computer Design and Engineering
• Theoretical Computer Science 
• Information Technology 
• Operation Systems and Network
• Software Applications 

The Computer Science graduates from Harvard University either choose to work as programmers in the industry or further pursue doctoral programs. A Harvard graduate can earn up to INR 51.93 lakhs per year which is one of the highest starting salaries for graduates around the world. 

A BA in Computer Science at Harvard is 4-year long undergraduate program.

With a computer science degree from Harvard, you can venture into the following fields: Artificial Intelligence Computer Architecture Software Engineering Computer Design and Engineering Theoretical Computer Science

The average cost of studying computer science at Harvard is INR 19-40 Lakh per annum.

If you are curious to know how computers work and see yourself making ones in the future, Harvard University Computer Science courses are just for you! Call our Leverage Edu experts on 1800-572-000 right now who will stick by you throughout the journey and guide you to the USA.

Team Leverage Edu

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.