Distance learning at Harvard affords flexibility to the busy student or professional. All that is required is a standard computer or laptop with a reliable Internet connection. Students block out time each week to view the video lecture related to their course of study. This can be done at any time of day or night. Courses can be taken for the purpose of earning degree credit, gaining professional skills or simply for fun.
The courses offered for distance learning cover a wide array of subjects and concentrations. Students can take courses in environmental sciences, anthropology, archaeology, biological sciences, computer science, English and the classics, just to name a few. Each semester has something new to offer along with some standards that appear every term.
Actual Harvard University faculty design challenging distance learning courses of the caliber associated with an Ivy League institution. Students communicate with faculty and classmates via email and other online social media platforms. The university offers close to 30 courses taught through video lecture by active Harvard faculty.
Harvard University does not offer degrees that can be earned solely via distance learning; however, there are a number of programs that allow online credits to count toward a degree. Students wishing to earn a liberal arts degree must spend at least two full semesters on campus, but may take the remainder of course requirements online. A biotechnology degree can be obtained through a combination of online study and taking four campus-only courses. There are several other online-campus combination programs available.
Tuition costs ranged from $900 to $1,975 per course as of spring 2010. Students must pay in full upon registration. Late fees are assessed for late registration. Financial aid is available, but the bulk of these funds are reserved for students in a degree program.