What are Harvard’s strongest academic programs?
I’ve always heard that Harvard is one of the best schools in the world, but I’m not exactly sure what sets it apart academically. Does it have programs or departments that are considered better than similar ones at other top colleges?
I’m currently a junior and mostly interested in pre-med, but I could also see myself going into Econ or something else in the social sciences. If anyone knows what Harvard is particularly famous for academically or in terms of research, I’d love to know. I’m kind of trying to figure out if it’s a good fit or if other Ivies might actually have programs that are better for what I want to do.
If you’re a current student or alumni I’d really appreciate hearing about your experience too!
I’m currently a junior and mostly interested in pre-med, but I could also see myself going into Econ or something else in the social sciences. If anyone knows what Harvard is particularly famous for academically or in terms of research, I’d love to know. I’m kind of trying to figure out if it’s a good fit or if other Ivies might actually have programs that are better for what I want to do.
If you’re a current student or alumni I’d really appreciate hearing about your experience too!
6 months ago
•
100 views
Luis Nario-Malberg
• 6 months ago
Advisor
Harvard is world-renowned for its overall academic strength, but some departments and programs are especially distinguished.
If you’re interested in pre-med, Harvard offers outstanding resources through both its undergraduate natural sciences and the connection to Harvard Medical School. The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Human Evolutionary Biology all rank among the best in the country. Undergraduates benefit from access to world-class research labs, shadowing opportunities at Beth Israel, Brigham and Women’s, and Mass General (many are teaching hospitals affiliated with Harvard). For example, students often get involved in stem cell or cancer research starting sophomore year, and some have even published papers before graduating. The advising for pre-meds is also extremely robust, with mentorship designed to help students succeed on the med school track.
In the social sciences, Harvard’s Economics department is consistently ranked top-three globally. It's famous for its Nobel Prize-winning faculty and foundational contributions to economic theory—students regularly interact with professors whose research shapes public policy. There’s also a strong focus on empirical research and real-world application. Many upperclassmen land prestigious internships at think tanks or in finance thanks in part to the Harvard name.
Other acclaimed programs include Government (Political Science), History, Psychology, and Sociology, each of which attracts top academics. The Harvard Kennedy School (for public policy and government), and their affiliation with the law, business, and graduate schools, creates a wealth of interdisciplinary opportunities for undergrads.
For someone considering pre-med or Econ, Harvard is especially strong. But it’s also worth researching specific offerings at other Ivies: for example, Yale is known for Political Science and the humanities, Princeton for math, physics, and pure research, and Columbia for its core curriculum and New York City location. The right fit will depend on what you value most—do you want a huge range of resources, close ties to medical centers, or tighter undergraduate focus?
If you get a chance, try to visit, sit in on classes, or reach out to current undergrads—they’re often happy to talk about their real experiences. Regardless, Harvard stands out in both pre-med and Econ/social sciences, so it’s definitely a very strong option for your interests.
If you’re interested in pre-med, Harvard offers outstanding resources through both its undergraduate natural sciences and the connection to Harvard Medical School. The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Human Evolutionary Biology all rank among the best in the country. Undergraduates benefit from access to world-class research labs, shadowing opportunities at Beth Israel, Brigham and Women’s, and Mass General (many are teaching hospitals affiliated with Harvard). For example, students often get involved in stem cell or cancer research starting sophomore year, and some have even published papers before graduating. The advising for pre-meds is also extremely robust, with mentorship designed to help students succeed on the med school track.
In the social sciences, Harvard’s Economics department is consistently ranked top-three globally. It's famous for its Nobel Prize-winning faculty and foundational contributions to economic theory—students regularly interact with professors whose research shapes public policy. There’s also a strong focus on empirical research and real-world application. Many upperclassmen land prestigious internships at think tanks or in finance thanks in part to the Harvard name.
Other acclaimed programs include Government (Political Science), History, Psychology, and Sociology, each of which attracts top academics. The Harvard Kennedy School (for public policy and government), and their affiliation with the law, business, and graduate schools, creates a wealth of interdisciplinary opportunities for undergrads.
For someone considering pre-med or Econ, Harvard is especially strong. But it’s also worth researching specific offerings at other Ivies: for example, Yale is known for Political Science and the humanities, Princeton for math, physics, and pure research, and Columbia for its core curriculum and New York City location. The right fit will depend on what you value most—do you want a huge range of resources, close ties to medical centers, or tighter undergraduate focus?
If you get a chance, try to visit, sit in on classes, or reach out to current undergrads—they’re often happy to talk about their real experiences. Regardless, Harvard stands out in both pre-med and Econ/social sciences, so it’s definitely a very strong option for your interests.
Luis Nario-Malberg
Mooresville, North Carolina
Harvard College, Class of 2018, A.B. in Philosophy
Experience
5 years