Introduction: Why Harvard’s Degrees Stand Out
Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has been synonymous with excellence since its founding in 1636. Consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, Harvard offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees that open doors to global career opportunities.
Whether your goal is to become a business leader, a world-class doctor, a groundbreaking lawyer, or an innovative scientist, Harvard University’s best degrees combine rigorous academics, unmatched resources, and a powerful alumni network.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- The top degrees at Harvard University in 2025
- Program highlights, rankings, and career prospects
- Admission requirements and tuition fees
- Why these programs remain globally competitive
Top 10 Best Degrees at Harvard University in 2025
Harvard offers 13 schools, each with specialized programs. Below are the most prestigious and in-demand degrees.
| Rank | Degree Program | School | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MBA (Master of Business Administration) | Harvard Business School | Ranked #1 globally, strong alumni network, high ROI |
| 2 | JD (Juris Doctor) | Harvard Law School | World’s top law degree, global legal influence |
| 3 | MD (Doctor of Medicine) | Harvard Medical School | Cutting-edge research, renowned faculty |
| 4 | MPA/MPP (Public Administration & Policy) | Harvard Kennedy School | Policy innovation, leadership training |
| 5 | BA in Computer Science | Harvard College | AI, cybersecurity, and tech entrepreneurship focus |
| 6 | Master’s in Education (Ed.M.) | Harvard Graduate School of Education | Education leadership, curriculum innovation |
| 7 | BA in Economics | Harvard College | Strong theoretical and applied economics foundation |
| 8 | MPH (Master of Public Health) | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health | Global health and epidemiology expertise |
| 9 | Master’s in Data Science | Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering | Big data, AI, and analytics-driven career paths |
| 10 | BA in Government | Harvard College | Political science, diplomacy, and public service |
1. MBA – Harvard Business School
Why It’s the Best:
Harvard’s MBA program is consistently ranked among the top business degrees in the world. With a case-study learning method, global networking, and industry partnerships, it’s a fast track to leadership positions.
Key Facts:
- Duration: 2 years
- Tuition (2025): ~$78,000/year
- Average Salary after Graduation: $210,000+
- Specializations: Finance, Entrepreneurship, Strategy, Marketing
2. JD – Harvard Law School
Harvard Law is legendary for producing Supreme Court Justices, U.S. Presidents, and global leaders.
Highlights:
- Duration: 3 years
- Tuition: ~$73,000/year
- Notable Alumni: Barack Obama, Elena Kagan, Ruth Bader Ginsburg (studied)
- Focus areas: International law, corporate law, constitutional law
3. MD – Harvard Medical School
If you aim to revolutionize healthcare, Harvard’s MD program offers unmatched training and research opportunities.
Highlights:
- Partnerships with Massachusetts General Hospital & Brigham and Women’s Hospital
- Specializations in oncology, neurology, cardiology, and more
- Tuition: ~$68,000/year (excluding living costs)
4. MPA/MPP – Harvard Kennedy School
Perfect for future policymakers and diplomats, these degrees blend governance, economics, and leadership.
Key Points:
- Duration: 2 years
- Tuition: ~$60,000/year
- Notable Alumni: Ban Ki-moon, Bill Gates Sr., Michelle Rhee
5. BA in Computer Science
With the tech boom, Harvard’s Computer Science degree has become a leading choice for innovators.
Features:
- Focus on AI, machine learning, data security
- Internships with top firms like Google, Microsoft, and Meta
- Tuition: ~$57,000/year (undergraduate)
6. Master’s in Education (Ed.M.)
For aspiring educational leaders and policy reformers, Harvard’s Graduate School of Education is unmatched.
7. BA in Economics
One of the oldest and most respected majors at Harvard, offering deep insight into global markets and policy.
8. MPH – Public Health
Specializations include global health, epidemiology, and health policy.
9. Master’s in Data Science
Responding to the AI and analytics revolution, Harvard’s Data Science program is industry-focused.
10. BA in Government
Harvard’s political science degree has shaped world leaders, diplomats, and policy advisors.
Career Prospects After Harvard’s Best Degrees
Graduates from these programs typically:
- Earn 20–50% more than peers from other institutions
- Have higher job placement rates within 3 months of graduation
- Access a global alumni network of over 400,000 members
Admission Requirements for Harvard’s Top Degrees
While requirements vary, most programs demand:
- Strong Academic Record (GPA 3.8+ for undergrad, competitive test scores for grad)
- Standardized Tests (SAT/ACT, GRE/GMAT, LSAT, MCAT)
- Essays & Recommendations
- Work Experience (for MBA and some grad programs)
Tuition & Financial Aid
Harvard offers generous financial aid packages, often covering up to 100% of tuition based on need. Scholarships, fellowships, and research assistantships are widely available.
Why Choose Harvard University for Your Degree?
- Global Prestige – Harvard’s name opens doors worldwide
- Cutting-Edge Research – Billions in annual research funding
- Networking Power – Alumni influence in politics, business, science
- Career Support – Dedicated career offices in each school
FAQs About Harvard University Best Degrees
Q1: Which degree at Harvard is the most competitive?
A: The Harvard MBA and JD are among the most competitive, with acceptance rates below 12%.
Q2: Can international students get into Harvard’s best degrees?
A: Yes, Harvard admits students from 150+ countries with equal consideration.
Q3: What is the average tuition cost?
A: Undergraduate tuition is around $57,000/year; graduate programs range from $60,000–$80,000/year.
Conclusion
Choosing one of Harvard University’s best degrees means investing in a future of influence, innovation, and impact. Whether in law, business, medicine, technology, or public policy, a Harvard education provides unmatched academic excellence, a global network, and a lifelong advantage.
