Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Quick Facts
“Veritas”("Truth")
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Harvard University
Harvard: America's oldest, most prestigious university, fostering global leaders since 1636.
Nestled in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard University stands as the United States' oldest institution of higher learning, founded in 1636. Beyond its historic roots, Harvard is globally renowned for its unparalleled influence, immense wealth, and consistent top-tier rankings. It is a beacon of academic excellence, attracting students and scholars who go on to shape industries, lead nations, and drive innovation across all fields.
From its early days training Puritan clergy to its evolution into a modern research powerhouse under transformative leaders like Charles William Eliot, Harvard has consistently adapted while maintaining its commitment to advancing knowledge. The university's rich history includes co-founding the Association of American Universities and pioneering significant educational reforms, such as the liberalization of admissions that opened its doors to a more diverse student body post-World War II. This continuous pursuit of excellence has solidified its position as a global academic leader.
Academically, Harvard boasts ten faculties, including the extensive Faculty of Arts and Sciences which provides a broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate disciplines, alongside numerous professional schools offering specialized degrees. The university's academic strength is underscored by the Harvard Library, the world's largest academic library with over 20 million volumes, providing unparalleled resources for research and study. The vibrant campus life across Cambridge and Boston offers a dynamic environment where students engage with world-class faculty and a diverse, intellectually curious peer group, preparing them to become the next generation of thought leaders and changemakers.
For prospective students, Harvard offers an extraordinary opportunity to join a legacy of groundbreaking research, intellectual inquiry, and societal impact. The university's commitment to truth, as embodied by its motto "Veritas," permeates every aspect of the student experience, encouraging critical thinking, profound discovery, and a dedication to making a meaningful difference in the world.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1636, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States.
- ✦Boasts an endowment of $53.2 billion (2024), making it the wealthiest academic institution globally.
- ✦Home to the Harvard Library, the world's largest academic library with over 20 million volumes.
- ✦Alumni and faculty include 188 living billionaires, 8 U.S. presidents, 24 heads of state, and 31 heads of government.
- ✦Students and alumni have collectively earned 10 Academy Awards and 110 Olympic medals, including 46 gold medals.
- ✦A founding member of the Association of American Universities (1900).
- ✦Current enrollment (fall 2024) stands at 21,189 students, with 7,038 undergraduates and 14,151 postgraduates.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
6 notable schools within Harvard University
Harvard Medical School
The third-oldest medical school in the U.S., founded in 1782, renowned for scientific research and leading teaching hospitals.
Harvard Law School
The oldest continuously operating law school in the nation, founded in 1817, known for developing the case method of teaching.
Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Established in 1890, it developed advanced graduate programs including PhDs, based on the German university model.
Harvard Business School
Founded in 1908, known for its strong ties to the corporate world and influential research in human relations.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Grew from the nation's first graduate training program in population health in 1913, becoming an autonomous institution in 1946.
Harvard Kennedy School
Founded in 1936 as the Graduate School of Public Administration, it's a top-ranked school for public policy and international affairs.
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