Learning & Teaching

Frequently Asked Questions

When do classes begin?

Fall semester classes begin on Monday, September 15. The HGSE academic calendar can be viewed on-line.

When and what is Orientation?

Orientation is scheduled for the entire week of September 8. You will be contacted by the Office of Student Affairs sometime late in the summer with information detailing a full Orientation schedule. The schedule itself will be posted on MyGSE, HGSE's intranet (this resource will become available to you once you've received your Harvard student ID in the middle of the summer). Orientation activities include a Higher Education Program meeting, meetings with your advisor, presentations from various HGSE offices, 2 days of course shopping (explained in an FAQ a bit further down this list), and also some fun social events.

How can I find a place to live?

Many newly admitted students express nervousness about finding housing in the Cambridge/Boston area but, while it can present challenges to some, rest assured that something will and always does work out! You can find many listings at the Harvard Housing Office at 7 Holyoke St. (bring along information showing you are a Harvard student in order to get in). Additionally, Craigslist is a popular alternative in finding affordable and nearby housing. If you are not familiar with the Boston area, please note that there are many areas outside of Harvard Square that are considerably more affordable while still easily accessible by train or bus. Alternatives to Harvard Square include Central, Porter and Davis Squares (in Cambridge and Somerville). Other options include Allston, Brighton, Brookline, and Dorchester.

What about campus and/or housing tours?

In terms of campus tours, HGSE's campus is limited to just a few buildings, so there aren't any official tours here. However, free Harvard University tours are offered twice a day - at 10am and 2pm. For more specific information, please visit the Harvard News Office. The tours leave the Harvard Information Center in Holyoke Center, 1350 Massachusetts Ave. To inquire about housing tours, your best bet is probably to contact the GSAS Housing Services office directly.

Do I choose an advisor or is one assigned to me?

All students in the Higher Ed program are assigned an advisor who is a member of the Higher Education faculty. While we do our best to match each student with someone who appears to have a related interest or background, we think you'll find all members of the Higher Ed faculty to be easily accessible and committed to the success of students in the program. You will receive your advisor assignment when you pick up your information packet on the first day of Orientation.

When/How do I register for courses?

Course enrollment day is Friday, September 12, - the last day of Orientation. On Tuesday and Wednesday of Orientation, students will take part in what we call "Shopping Classes." Shopping is held at the beginning of each semester, and is a time for faculty to provide students with an overview of the course. We advise that you shop all courses in which you may be interested; it is a great opportunity to sample a course and to meet the faculty member prior to registering for the class.

Can HGSE students cross-register at other schools within Harvard?

Cross-registration is popular among HGSE students - particularly at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences - and the chance to engage in studies at another Harvard school is one of the many benefits of being a student here. Please read the section on Cross-Registration carefully for logistics concerning this option.

How many classes can we take per semester?

A full course load for full-time students is four classes a semester; two courses for part-time students. Full-time students have the opportunity to enroll in a fifth class at no additional tuition cost.

When do I need to let HGSE know that I plan on attending?,

Please let the Admissions Office know your decision to attend by Friday, April 18th.

How many students are in the L&T program?

There are generally about 40 to 50 students in the L&T Program.

Is there a way to contact other incoming students without sending a message to the entire L&T community?

Yes, a listserv for incoming students will be created once the admissions process is complete, usually in early spring. You will be notified as soon as the list is up and running. In the meanwhile, please use the L&T forum on the admitted student website.

What assistance is there in job placement?

HGSE has a s that works with current students to navigate the post-graduation career/ job placement process. They also organize job fairs and on-campus recruiting. Register early for services like eRecruiting and one-on-one appointment with a career counselor.

Do I have to write a thesis or complete a final project in order to graduate from the L&T master's program?

Our master's program does not require a thesis or final project in order to graduate, but the program will require an extensive amount of writing and research. Writing skills are a must.

What kinds of jobs and professional roles do L&T students assume after graduation?

Graduates of the L&T master's program go on to find positions in a wide range of educational fields. Many choose to return to the classroom to build on their enhanced understandings of teachers; roles as mentors and leaders in schools change and professional development. Both new and experienced teachers join the faculties of independent, charter and pilot schools. L&T graduates also take positions in non-profit organizations and other education-related fields including publishing, community service, and research. Some choose to pursue doctoral study in the field of education.

HGSE has a dedicated Career Services Office to help students strengthen their resume and interviewing skills, network, and find employment after graduation.

If you have questions about...

The Field Experience Program (FEP) Many Ed.M. students participate in HGSE's internship pogram, the Field Experience Program (FEP).

For more information, please visit the FEP website