Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Quick Facts
“Veritas”("Truth")
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Harvard University
Harvard University: The nation's oldest and most influential institution, shaping leaders for centuries.
Step into a legacy of excellence at Harvard University, a distinguished private Ivy League research institution nestled in the historic city of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Since its founding in 1636, Harvard has grown into one of the world's most prestigious universities, renowned for its unparalleled influence, vast wealth, and unwavering commitment to "Veritas" – Truth. It stands as a beacon of intellectual pursuit, attracting ambitious students and world-class faculty dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
Harvard's journey began as New College, later named for its first benefactor, John Harvard, a Puritan clergyman. Initially focused on training Congregational clergy, the university gradually secularized its curriculum, evolving into a modern research powerhouse by the 19th century under transformative leaders like President Charles William Eliot. This rich history is woven into the fabric of the campus, where centuries-old traditions meet cutting-edge innovation, creating an environment ripe for discovery and personal growth.
Academically, Harvard offers an extraordinary breadth of study across its ten academic faculties and numerous professional schools. From a wide range of undergraduate and graduate disciplines in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences to specialized programs in law, medicine, business, and public policy, students engage with leading scholars and groundbreaking research. Home to the world's largest academic library with over 20 million volumes, Harvard provides unparalleled resources for deep intellectual exploration and inquiry.
Beyond its academic prowess, Harvard fosters a vibrant and diverse student experience within its iconic Cambridge and Boston campuses. Graduates and faculty consistently make profound impacts across the globe, including 8 U.S. presidents, 188 living billionaires, Nobel laureates, and countless leaders in every field imaginable. Choosing Harvard means joining a community that has shaped history and continues to lead the way in education, research, and societal advancement.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1636, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States.
- ✦Boasts the world's largest academic endowment, valued at $53.2 billion.
- ✦A private Ivy League research university with a total student enrollment of 21,189.
- ✦Motto: "Veritas" (Truth), reflecting its commitment to intellectual discovery.
- ✦Harvard Library is the world's largest academic library, housing over 20 million volumes.
- ✦Alumni include 8 U.S. presidents, 188 living billionaires, Nobel laureates, and Olympic medalists.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
13 notable schools within Harvard University
Harvard College
The undergraduate college, established in 1636 as the foundational institution.
Harvard Medical School
The third-oldest medical school in the U.S., founded in 1782, renowned for scientific research and leading teaching hospitals.
Harvard Divinity School
Founded in 1816, preparing leaders for religious and public service.
Harvard Law School
Established in 1817, it is the oldest continuously operating law school in the U.S. and a global leader in legal education.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Founded in 1867, offering advanced education in dental medicine.
Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Formed in 1872, offering PhD and graduate degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines.
Harvard Business School
Founded in 1908, a globally influential institution shaping business leaders and corporate innovation.
Harvard Extension School
Founded in 1910, providing flexible learning opportunities for a diverse student body.
Harvard Graduate School of Design
Established in 1914, offering programs in architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning.
Harvard Graduate School of Education
Founded in 1920, dedicated to advancing educational practice and research.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Established in 1922, a global leader in public health research, education, and practice, located in Boston's Longwood Medical Area.
Harvard Kennedy School
Founded in 1936 as the Graduate School of Public Administration, a top-ranked school for public policy, international affairs, and government.
Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Established in 2007, a growing school focused on innovation in engineering and applied sciences.
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