Review by Marcia Farias

Harvard College, established in 1636, is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, renowned for its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and vibrant campus life. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the college serves as the undergraduate division of Harvard University. With an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 7,516 students and a highly selective acceptance rate of around 3%, Harvard is a beacon of academic excellence and opportunity. The university as a whole is also well-funded: Harvard University’s endowment is larger than the GDP of all but 84 countries in the world.

Photo credits in this review: Pedro Farias, Harvard College ‘2020

Academic Programs and Popular Majors

Harvard College provides a liberal arts and sciences education, encouraging students to explore a wide range of disciplines before declaring a concentration (major) by the end of their sophomore year. The college offers over 50 concentrations across three academic divisions:

• Arts and Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Science and Engineering and Applied Sciences

Some of the most popular concentrations include:

• Economics: Focuses on the study of resource allocation, markets, and economic theory.
• Computer Science: Covers areas such as algorithms, programming, and systems design.
• Government: Explores political theory, comparative politics, and international relations.
• Psychology: Examines human behavior, cognition, and mental processes.
• Biological Sciences: Includes fields like Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Organismic and Evolutionary Biology.

In addition to concentrations, students can pursue secondary fields (minors) and joint concentrations, allowing for interdisciplinary study.

Academic Environment

Harvard College is characterized by its dynamic academic environment. ****The curriculum offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines, encouraging students to deeply explore their intellectual interests. Students benefit from access to world-class faculty who are leaders in their fields, fostering a culture of inquiry and critical thinking. The college offers a liberal arts education that emphasizes both breadth and depth, allowing students to explore their interests while developing essential skills. The academic rigor is complemented by extensive resources, including the largest academic library system in the world, which provides students with unparalleled research opportunities.The diverse student body contributes to a stimulating atmosphere where students engage in thought-provoking discussions and collaborative learning. Extracurricular activities and organizations further enrich the educational experience, allowing students to pursue interests beyond the classroom.

Facilities

Harvard's campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, features a blend of historic and modern facilities: