What types of courses can you take at Harvard University?

Question

I'm a current junior starting to look deeper into what Harvard offers academically, and I'm a little overwhelmed. Does anyone know how broad the course selection really is? For example, are there actually tons of classes outside of the standard majors (like unique electives or interdisciplinary stuff)?

Also, if I wanted to double major or combine interests, is that possible at Harvard? Any insight from current or recent students about course variety and how easy it is to try new subjects would be super helpful as I start building my college list.

Accepted Answer

Harvard’s course catalog is extensive, covering not just the traditional majors but also a wide range of electives, interdisciplinary classes, and special topics seminars. Each year, there are over 3,700 undergraduate courses available across their various departments. This means there are lots of options beyond the core classes, including unique offerings like "The Art and Politics of Hip-Hop," "Game Design Fundamentals," and "The Science of Happiness."

Interdisciplinary studies are a major strength at Harvard. Many students design their academic paths across multiple fields. The university offers formal joint concentrations (which are very similar to double majors at other schools) as well as secondary fields (like minors). For instance, you could major in Computer Science and pick up a secondary in Astrophysics, or do a joint concentration in History and Literature, a well-known interdisciplinary program. There’s also the option to craft your own special concentration if your interests span multiple disciplines and don’t fit into an existing program.

Harvard’s General Education program encourages all students to take courses across eight broad categories, so you’ll have to explore diverse subject areas beyond your main concentration. A lot of students end up discovering new passions this way—a friend of mine went in planning to do Economics and ended up minoring in Celtic Languages and Literatures after taking an elective just for fun.

In terms of how easy it is to explore, during your first year you’ll have a lot of flexibility to take classes pass/fail or on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis, which gives you room to try unfamiliar subjects. There’s active support through academic advising and an online course evaluation system where students share honest reviews, so you can make informed decisions.