Harvard University

Overview

Social Studies at Harvard University provides an innovative joint pathway that enables students to pursue both undergraduate and graduate studies concurrently. This program equips you with a comprehensive liberal arts education while enhancing your skills in evidence-based communication, cross-cultural understanding, and research-informed perspectives on societal issues.

• Program type: Joint Bachelor’s + Master’s pathway (BA/MA)
• Delivery format: Please confirm with the institution
• Credits: 96 credits toward the Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree
• GPA requirement: 3.5 or higher for joint eligibility (additional GPA requirements may apply)
• Language of instruction: English
• English test: TOEFL iBT accepted
• Application components: joint program application form, résumé, and an essay reflecting your graduate field interests

What you'll study

Curriculum overview

The Social Studies program integrates coursework from the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, promoting interdisciplinary learning and effective communication. The curriculum is structured to establish a solid foundation while facilitating advancement into the Master of Liberal Arts.

Course areas include:

• Humanities: creative writing, English, philosophy, religion, visual arts
• Science: biology, computer science, environmental studies, mathematics
• Social sciences: anthropology, business administration, economics, government, history, international relations, psychology

Program progression

• Undergraduate phase: complete requirements for the Bachelor of Liberal Arts while establishing an interdisciplinary foundation.
• Graduate phase: transition into the Master of Liberal Arts with guided course planning.
• Double-counting: certain courses may be applied towards both degrees.
• Certificate options: you may pursue a certificate alongside your graduate studies to align with your academic and career aspirations.

Entry requirements

• Admitted degree candidates must enroll in the Bachelor of Liberal Arts program.
• A total of 96 credits must be earned toward the Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree.
• A minimum GPA of 3.5 or higher is required for joint program eligibility.
• Additional GPA requirements may be applicable—please verify for specific admission criteria.
• Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree are not eligible for this joint program.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Social Studies program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths that leverage their interdisciplinary training and critical thinking skills. Potential career opportunities include roles in education, public policy, social work, international relations, and various positions within non-profit organizations. The broad skill set gained through this program also facilitates further academic pursuits and professional development in diverse fields.