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Harvard University

Cambridge, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Veritas("Truth")

October 28, 1636
Founded
Private research university
Type
7,755
Total Students
7,038
Undergrad
14,151
Graduate
$53.2B
Endowment
(2024)
$59K
Tuition (In-State)
$59K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
3%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Graduation Rate
6-year
99%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Alan Garber

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Harvard University

A beacon of knowledge for nearly four centuries, Harvard shapes global leaders.

Step into the world of Harvard University, a private Ivy League research institution established in 1636, making it the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. From its humble beginnings as "New College," later named for benefactor John Harvard, it has evolved into a global powerhouse renowned for its influence, wealth, and consistently high rankings. Embodying its motto, "Veritas" (Truth), Harvard is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and preparing students to tackle the world's most complex challenges.

Harvard's historical journey is one of continuous transformation. Initially founded to train Puritan clergy, the university gradually secularized, and under the visionary leadership of President Charles William Eliot in the late 19th century, it was reshaped into a modern research university with a robust system of professional schools. This legacy of innovation continued through figures like James B. Conant, who liberalized admissions and championed creative scholarship, ensuring Harvard's preeminence among research institutions globally. Today, Harvard boasts ten academic faculties and the Harvard Radcliffe Institute, offering a vast array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Academically, Harvard is unparalleled, offering a rich tapestry of disciplines across its numerous schools, from the pioneering Harvard Medical School to the world-renowned Harvard Law School and Harvard Business School. Its libraries house over 20 million volumes, forming the largest academic library system globally, a testament to its commitment to intellectual pursuit. The student experience is enriched by a vibrant, increasingly diverse community, fostering an environment where talented individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to a legacy that includes presidents, Nobel laureates, and leaders in every field imaginable. Prospective students will find a rigorous, supportive, and globally connected academic home.

Key Highlights

  • Established October 28, 1636, making it the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States.
  • Boasts the world's largest academic endowment, valued at $53.2 billion.
  • Enrollment of 21,189 students across its undergraduate and graduate programs (Fall 2024).
  • Its alumni, faculty, and researchers include 8 U.S. presidents, 188 living billionaires, Nobel laureates, and numerous leaders in every field.
  • Home to Harvard Library, the world's largest academic library with over 20 million volumes.
  • A private Ivy League research university consistently ranked among the most prestigious globally.

Timeline

1636
Founded as New College by the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
1638
Named Harvard College in honor of benefactor John Harvard.
1650
Charter for Harvard Corporation, its governing body, granted.
1782
Harvard Medical School, the third-oldest in the U.S., was established.
1817
Harvard Law School, the nation's oldest continuously operating law school, was founded.
1869
Charles William Eliot began his transformative presidency, reshaping Harvard into a modern research university.
1900
Harvard co-founded the Association of American Universities.
1908
Harvard Business School was founded.
1945
Women were first admitted to Harvard Medical School.
1999
Radcliffe College formally merged into Harvard University.
2007
Drew Gilpin Faust appointed as Harvard's first female president.
🏛️
390 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

12 notable schools within Harvard University

🏥

Harvard Medical School

The third-oldest medical school in the United States, founded in 1782 and renowned for scientific research and leading teaching hospitals.

✝️

Harvard Divinity School

Established in 1816, offering theological education in a nonsectarian environment.

⚖️

Harvard Law School

Founded in 1817, it is the oldest continuously operating law school in the nation, pioneering the case method of teaching law.

🏥

Harvard School of Dental Medicine

Established in 1867, contributing to dental education and research.

🎭

Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Formed in 1872, offering PhD and other graduate degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines, based on the German university model.

💼

Harvard Business School

Founded in 1908, known for its close ties to the corporate world, influential research, and leadership training programs.

📖

Harvard Extension School

Established in 1910, providing continuing education and professional development.

🎨

Harvard Graduate School of Design

Founded in 1914, focusing on architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning.

📚

Harvard Graduate School of Education

Established in 1920, dedicated to advancing educational practice and research.

🏛️

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Originating in 1922 as the Harvard School of Public Health, it was the nation's first graduate training program in population health.

🏛️

Harvard Kennedy School

Founded in 1936 as the Harvard Graduate School of Public Administration, it is routinely ranked among the world's top graduate schools in public policy and international affairs.

⚙️

Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Established in 2007, encompassing a broad range of engineering and applied science disciplines.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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