Harvard undergraduates choose from a broad set of fields that combine interdisciplinary flexibility with deep departmental depth. The structure of Harvard majors is designed to let you build a coherent intellectual focus while pairing your primary area with secondary fields or certificates.
Below is a quick reference table that captures the most popular majors, typical department homes, sample courses, and notable opportunities offered to students.
| Major | Primary Department | Sample Coursework | Signature Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences | CS50, Algorithms, Distributed Systems | Software teams, Startup practicums, Systems capstone |
| Economics | Economics Department, Harvard Kennedy School | Microeconomic Theory, Econometrics, Public Finance | Policy labs, Finance internships, Data analysis projects |
| Biomedical Sciences | Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard Medical School | Molecular Biology, Physiology, Biostatistics | Hospital rotations, Research labs, Global health electives |
| History & Literature | History and Literature Department | Historical Methods, Thematic seminars, Historiography | Archive work, Directed seminars, Thesis writing |
| Government | Government Department, Harvard Kennedy School | American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations | Campaign internships, Model UN, Policy practicums |
Computer Science as a Harvard Major
The Computer Science major at Harvard emphasizes both theory and hands-on building. Students work with foundational algorithms, modern systems, and cutting-edge applications while collaborating with peers in project-driven courses.
Project-based classes pair students with industry mentors, and many learners explore concentrations in intelligent systems, systems and networking, or theoretical foundations. The curriculum is intentionally flexible so you can combine CS with fields such as economics, biology, or design.
Extracurricular pathways include hackathons, research groups, and capstone teams that ship real software. These experiences help you translate coursework into portfolio-ready projects and internships across tech, finance, and startups.
Economics as a Harvard Major
The Economics major at Harvard blends quantitative rigor with real-world policy analysis. You will study micro and macro theory, econometrics, and applied topics such as labor markets or development finance.
Many Economics students complement their major with data science tools, enabling them to analyze large datasets and produce evidence-based research. The curriculum emphasizes clear communication, preparing you to explain complex results to non-technical audiences.
Career pathways are diverse, with alumni moving into finance, public policy, analytics, and consulting. The program encourages internships at central banks, NGOs, hedge funds, and technology firms, turning classroom models into actionable insights.
Biomedical Sciences and Research Pathways
Biomedical Sciences at Harvard is rooted in the Division of Medical Sciences, with opportunities to engage Harvard Medical School faculty and teaching hospitals. Coursework emphasizes molecular mechanisms, clinical reasoning, and statistical literacy.
Research-intensive tracks let you join labs early, contributing to projects in genomics, neurobiology, or global health. You will learn experimental design, data interpretation, and ethical considerations that shape modern medicine.
Longitudinal experiences such as hospital rotations, summer research, and capstone theses prepare you for health professions or advanced study in the life sciences. The major balances breadth in the sciences with depth in chosen subfields.
History & Literature and Government
History & Literature cultivates critical reading, archival research, and argumentative writing. You will analyze primary sources across periods and cultures while situating them in broader intellectual traditions.
The Government major focuses on political institutions, public policy, and global affairs, offering flexible pathways in American politics, comparative governance, and international relations. Both programs emphasize evidence-based reasoning and persuasive communication.
Combined concentrations and interdisciplinary certificates allow you to blend methods, such as using data science to study political behavior or historical context to inform public policy. These options create a distinctive profile for law, public service, journalism, or further academic work.
Key Takeaways for Selecting a Harvard Major
- Align your major with genuine intellectual interests and long-term career objectives.
- Use project-based courses and capstones to build a strong portfolio.
- Combine your primary major with complementary fields to broaden your impact.
- Engage in research and internships early to test paths and gain real-world experience.
- Leverage Harvard’s advising and interdisciplinary resources to design a coherent, flexible academic plan.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I choose between similar majors like Economics and Government?
Consider whether you prefer data-driven analysis of markets and institutions (Economics) or the study of political power, institutions, and policy processes (Government). Align your choice with career goals, preferred skill sets, and the types of questions that motivate you.
Can I pursue research as a freshman in majors like Computer Science or Biomedical Sciences?
Yes, Harvard encourages early research via freshman seminars, directed readings, and lab positions. Many first-year students build meaningful contributions to ongoing projects and use these experiences to refine their academic and career paths.
What support exists for interdisciplinary majors that combine fields such as Computer Science and Economics?
The school offers flexible tracks, joint concentrations, and advising to help you design coherent interdisciplinary plans. You will map courses and projects that integrate methods from each field while meeting requirements for both departments.
How do internships and extracurriculars shape my major experience and future opportunities?
Internships translate classroom concepts into practical skills, expand professional networks, and often lead to mentorship and full-time offers. Extracurricular activities such as clubs, competitions, and research groups further enrich your portfolio and help you refine your interests.