Harvard University stands as one of the most prestigious and influential institutions of higher learning in the world, renowned for its groundbreaking research, innovative teaching methodologies, and a legacy of producing global leaders across diverse fields. Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest university in the United States and consistently ranks at the top of global university rankings, such as QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education. With an acceptance rate hovering around 3-4%, gaining admission is highly competitive, requiring exceptional academic records, standardized test scores, compelling personal essays, and strong letters of recommendation. The university’s endowment, exceeding $50 billion, supports cutting-edge facilities, world-class faculty, and generous financial aid programs that make education accessible to talented students from all backgrounds. Harvard’s campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, spans 209 acres and includes historic buildings, state-of-the-art labs, and extensive libraries housing over 20 million volumes. Beyond academics, Harvard fosters a vibrant community through hundreds of student organizations, athletic teams (the Harvard Crimson), and cultural events, preparing graduates not just for careers but for lifelong impact in society.
Here are some of the best faculties at Harvard, each excelling in their respective domains and contributing to the university’s unparalleled reputation for excellence in education, research, and innovation:
1. Harvard Law School – A global leader in legal education, known for its Socratic method, influential faculty, and extensive clinical programs that provide hands-on experience in real-world legal scenarios.
2. Harvard Medical School – Pioneering medical breakthroughs and training physicians who advance healthcare worldwide through rigorous curriculum and affiliations with top hospitals like Massachusetts General and Brigham and Women’s.
3. Harvard Business School – Famous for its case study method, MBA program, and executive education that equip leaders with strategic thinking, ethical decision-making, and entrepreneurial skills for the global business landscape.
4. Harvard Graduate School of Education – Transforming educational practices through research-driven programs that address policy, leadership, and pedagogy, influencing schools and systems internationally.
5. Harvard Kennedy School – Preparing public servants with expertise in policy analysis, governance, and leadership to tackle complex global challenges like climate change, inequality, and international relations.
6. Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences – Driving innovation in fields like computer science, bioengineering, and environmental engineering, with interdisciplinary collaborations that solve real-world problems through technology and science.
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1. Harvard Law School
One of the top legal schools in the world is Harvard Law School (HLS), offering internationally renowned JD (Juris Doctor) and LLM (Master of Laws) programs that attract students from over 70 countries. The school emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and practical skills through its famous Socratic method, where professors engage students in rigorous dialogue to sharpen legal analysis. Numerous Harvard Law School alumni have gone on to achieve success in politics, business, and the legal profession, including Supreme Court justices, senators, and Fortune 500 general counsels. HLS boasts over 250 courses, 40+ clinics, and partnerships with global law firms, providing unparalleled opportunities for moot courts, internships, and research in areas like international law, human rights, and corporate governance.
One of the most famous law schools in the world, Harvard Law School is renowned for its demanding academic program, stellar alumni network, and commitment to public service. This institution frequently appears on lists of the top law schools in the country, fostering an environment where students collaborate on landmark cases and contribute to policy reforms. With a faculty of over 100 full-time professors—who are often cited by courts and consulted by governments—HLS ensures cutting-edge legal education that adapts to evolving global challenges like cybersecurity law and climate litigation.
- Rating: Harvard Law School is listed as the second-best law school in the United States in the US News & World Report rating for 2022, just behind Yale Law School. Its consistent top-tier ranking reflects excellence in bar passage rates (over 97%), employment outcomes (95%+ in Big Law or clerkships), and scholarly impact measured by citations in legal journals.
- Alumni: Harvard Law School has produced a large number of exceptional graduates, including eight US presidents (such as John Adams and Rutherford B. Hayes), numerous members of Congress, and numerous well-known commercial and legal figures. Barack Obama (JD ’91, former President and community organizer), Franklin D. Roosevelt (attended briefly), Elena Kagan (current Supreme Court Justice), and Chief Justice John Roberts (JD ’79) are a few noteworthy former students. The alumni network spans 40,000+ professionals, offering mentorship, job placements, and lifelong connections.
- Education Quality: The school is famous for its faculty, who are leaders in a range of legal specialties including intellectual property, antitrust, and environmental law. Courses at Harvard Law School cover a wide range of topics, including business law, constitutional law, criminal law, and many more. Students benefit from small class sizes in upper years, joint degree programs with HBS or Kennedy School, and access to the world’s largest academic law library with 2 million+ volumes.
- Cost: The cost of attending Harvard Law School can be high. The cost of tuition for JD students is $70,880 for the 2021–2022 academic year, and the expected cost of living is $26,608, bringing the total to around $97,488 annually. However, nearly 80% of students at Harvard Law School receive financial aid, thanks to the school’s sizable financial aid program, which includes need-based grants (average $40,000+), low-interest loans, and public service scholarships that forgive debt for nonprofit or government work.
In general, Harvard Law School is a terrific option for anybody looking for a top-notch legal education with lots of job options, from Big Law firms paying $215,000 starting salaries to influential roles in international organizations like the UN or World Bank. Prospective students should prepare early by building a strong LSAT score (median 174), gaining relevant experience through internships, and crafting essays that highlight personal growth and commitment to justice.
2. Harvard Medical School
Source: Celline Wijaya on YouTube – An insightful overview of life at HMS, student experiences, and tips for aspiring medical professionals navigating the competitive admissions process.
One of the top medical institutions in the world, Harvard Medical School (HMS) has a demanding academic program, notable former students, and a legacy of medical innovations that have saved countless lives. Established in 1782, HMS integrates basic science with clinical practice from day one through its Pathways and Health Sciences & Technology (HST) tracks. This institution consistently holds a top spot among American medical schools, with affiliations to 15 Nobel Prize-winning discoveries and hospitals that perform over 1 million patient visits annually.
- Ranking: Harvard Medical School is listed as the top medical school in the United States in the US News & World Report ranking for 2022, excelling in research funding ($1.7 billion annually from NIH and private sources), primary care training, and specialty areas like radiology and psychiatry.
- Alumni: The Harvard Medical School has produced a large number of accomplished graduates, including 15 Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine and several illustrious doctors, researchers, and business executives. John F. Enders (polio vaccine pioneer), Baruj Benacerraf (immunology), and Joseph Murray (first organ transplant) are a few famous former students. HMS alumni lead major institutions like the CDC, WHO, and biotech firms, with a network supporting career advancement and collaborative research.
- Education Level: Harvard Medical School faculty members are experts in a variety of medical specialties, from genomics to global health. Courses at Harvard Medical School span fundamental biomedical sciences, clinical sciences, and public health sciences, with required scholarly projects that often result in publications in journals like NEJM. Students rotate through world-class hospitals, gaining exposure to diverse patient populations and cutting-edge treatments like CAR-T cell therapy.
- Cost: The cost of attending Harvard Medical School is relatively high. Tuition for medical students is $66,259 per year, and living expenses are projected to be roughly $28,440, for a total cost of about $94,699 for the 2021–2022 academic year. Though most students receive financial aid, Harvard Medical School has a sizable financial aid program offering grants (average $50,000+), scholarships for underrepresented minorities, and debt-free options for low-income families.
All things considered, Harvard Medical School is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a medical education at a respected institution with lots of employment options, including residencies at top programs (match rate 99%) and roles in academia, pharma, or public health. Tips for applicants: Excel in MCAT (median 520), shadow physicians, volunteer in healthcare settings, and demonstrate research experience to stand out in the holistic review process.
3. Harvard Business School
One of the top business schools in the world, Harvard Business School (HBS) is renowned for its challenging academic program, the iconic case study method (over 80% of classes), and a strong alumni base that dominates Fortune 500 boards. Founded in 1908, HBS pioneered the MBA degree and continues to shape business education with FIELD global immersions, entrepreneurship labs, and executive programs attended by 80,000+ leaders annually.
- Quality: Harvard Business School is ranked second on our list of the top business schools in the United States in the US News & World Report ranking for 2021. The faculty at Harvard Business School is well known for being extremely skilled, with several professors being thought leaders in their specialties. A wide range of subjects, such as finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship, are included in the HBS curriculum, enhanced by real-time case studies from companies like Amazon and Tesla.
- Alumni: HBS has produced a large number of accomplished graduates, including CEOs of well-known corporations, business owners, and public leaders. Michael Bloomberg (founder of Bloomberg LP), Sheryl Sandberg (COO of Meta), Jeffrey Immelt (former GE CEO), and Jamie Dimon (JPMorgan Chase CEO) are a few noteworthy former students. The 90,000+ alumni network provides exclusive job boards, funding for startups, and global events.
- Cost: The cost of attending HBS is high. The MBA program’s annual tuition is $73,440, and its estimated cost of living is $24,792 for the academic year 2021–2022. But in order to better control costs, HBS provides a range of scholarships and financial aid to qualified students, including need-based awards covering full tuition for families earning under $180,000.
- Scholarships: HBS offers a range of financial aid options, including need-based, merit-based, and criteria-based awards. Additionally, HBS offers a loan program with no interest to students who require additional financial assistance, plus fellowships for social enterprise and women in business.
In general, Harvard Business School is a great option for anybody looking for a top-notch business education with several professional options, boasting 89% employment rate within 3 months and median salary of $175,000. Despite the expensive tuition, there are numerous financial aid programs available to assist students in covering the expense of education. Admission tips: Aim for GMAT/GRE 730+, showcase leadership in resumes, and write reflective essays on failures and growth.
4. Harvard Graduate School of Education
One of the top schools of education in the world is the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE), which is part of Harvard University and focuses on master’s and doctoral programs that blend theory with practice. HGSE is renowned for its remarkable alumni, rigorous, cutting-edge academic program, and initiatives like the Ed.L.D. for system-level leaders. Here is information on HGSE fees, quality alumni, and scholarships, along with insights into its impact on global education reform.
Quality: HGSE remains at the top of the list of the world’s leading colleges of education, with programs emphasizing data-driven decision-making, equity in learning, and technology integration. The HGSE Faculty is made up of specialists in many areas of education who offer cutting-edge methods of instruction, including design thinking workshops and policy simulations. The educational programs at HGSE have a strong emphasis on creating future educational leaders who can impact change in the field of education through research centers like the Harvard Family Research Project.
Notable alumni include Michelle Obama (influential advocate), Arne Duncan (former US Secretary of Education), Wendy Kopp (founder of Teach for America), and many other notable graduates have received degrees from HGSE, applying their expertise to improve K-12 systems, higher education, and nonprofit organizations worldwide.
Cost: The HGSE is highly expensive to attend. The cost of attending a master’s program ranges from $49,448 to $57,876 per year for the 2021–2022 academic year. However, HGSE provides a variety of financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships, to assist students who excel but require financial support, with over 60% receiving aid averaging $30,000+.
Scholarships: To assist students in paying for their study, HGSE offers a range of scholarships and awards. The Merit awards, External Funding Awards, and the Harvard Alumni Fellowship are a few of the well-known awards provided by HGSE, plus specialized funds for international students and those in teacher preparation.
In general, HGSE is a great option for anybody looking for cutting-edge, high-quality education and opportunity to shape the future of education, with graduates leading reforms in over 100 countries. Application advice: Highlight teaching experience, submit GRE if strong, and propose innovative capstone projects.
5. Harvard Kennedy School
One of the top universities for political science and public policy in the world is Harvard Kennedy School (HKS), offering master’s (MPP, MPA) and doctoral degrees with a concentration on public administration, leadership, and policy analysis. Founded in 1936, HKS trains ethical leaders through case studies, simulations, and fellowships at think tanks. Many Harvard Kennedy School alumni have achieved success as politicians, diplomats, and government officials, influencing policies on trade, security, and development. The school hosts centers like the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, conducting research on nuclear non-proliferation and cybersecurity. With mid-career programs for professionals, HKS fosters cross-sector collaboration, preparing graduates for roles in NGOs, multilateral organizations, and national governments.
6. Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
One of the top engineering schools in the world is the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in a variety of engineering and applied science fields like electrical, mechanical, and materials science. SEAS emphasizes interdisciplinary work, collaborating with HMS on bioengineering and HBS on tech entrepreneurship. The Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences produces a large number of scientists, tech industry leaders, and innovators who found startups (e.g., via the Harvard Innovation Lab). With $150 million+ in annual research funding, facilities include nanofabrication labs and quantum computing centers. Those are some of Harvard University’s top faculties. But keep in mind that every faculty at Harvard is of the highest caliber and offers courses that are essential for one’s academic and professional growth, promoting critical inquiry, ethical leadership, and societal contribution.
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Diverse Harvard Alumnae Who Have Achieved Success
Harvard University, one of the leading universities in the world, has produced many successful Americans and Indonesians across politics, business, technology, and social impact. This article will discuss several prominent figures from Indonesia and around the globe who are Harvard University alumni, highlighting how their education fueled groundbreaking achievements and inspired future generations.
1. Nadiem Anwar Makarim: Transforming Indonesia’s Educational System
Nadiem Anwar Makarim, the Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Mendikbud Ristek), is a successful Harvard University graduate (MBA ’13 from HBS). Founder of Gojek (Indonesia’s first unicorn), he has accomplished a great deal in transforming the Indonesian educational system through initiatives like Merdeka Belajar (freedom to learn) and digital platforms. At Harvard, Nadiem Anwar Makarim pursued a major that aided him in his role as a leader in education, honing entrepreneurial skills and policy acumen that scaled Gojek to 190 million+ users before public service.
2. Yenny Zannuba Wahid: Political Participation
Another graduate of Harvard University (MPP from HKS) is Yenny Zannuba Wahid, daughter of former President Abdurrahman Wahid. She has contributed to her political career by actively participating in Indonesian politics, founding the Wahid Foundation for interfaith dialogue, and gaining valuable insights during her time at Harvard on governance and conflict resolution, which inform her advocacy for tolerance and women’s rights.
3. Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY): Keeping the Family Tradition Alive
Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (MPA from HKS) is a youthful politician as well as a graduate of Harvard University. Son of former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, he continues the political legacy of his family in Indonesia as Minister of Agrarian Affairs, applying Harvard-trained leadership in public administration and strategic planning.
4. Adamas Belva Syah Devara: Establishing Technology Companies
Adamas Belva Syah Devara (MBA from HBS) is an example of a technologically successful Harvard graduate. Co-founder of Ruangguru (edtech unicorn serving 15 million+ students), Belva’s knowledge has been instrumental in the development of numerous technology companies in Indonesia, leveraging case studies and venture networks from HBS to secure $150 million+ in funding.
Other Notable Graduates of Harvard University from Around the World
Not only has Harvard University produced a number of notable Indonesians, but it has also contributed to the success of individuals in a variety of disciplines across the globe. These are just a few, showcasing the university’s role in nurturing talent that drives economic, cultural, and scientific progress:
1. Obama, Barack
Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States (JD from HLS), is a renowned Harvard University alumnus and former president. He spent his childhood in Indonesia and pursued a law degree, editing the Harvard Law Review. In addition to his political career, Barack Obama is an accomplished basketball player and author of bestsellers like “Dreams from My Father.”
2. William Gates
The founder of Microsoft Corporation, Bill Gates, was once a Harvard undergraduate (dropped out after sophomore year). Although he left college to work for Microsoft, the knowledge he gained at Harvard in applied mathematics and computer science was crucial to his success in revolutionizing personal computing and philanthropy via the Gates Foundation.
3. The television host Conan O’Brien
Conan O’Brien (AB in History and Literature) is a graduate of Harvard University who has attained success as a writer, producer, and comedian. During his college years, he served as president of the Harvard Lampoon, honing satirical skills that launched his late-night TV empire.
4. Basketball’s Jeremy Lin
NBA sensation Jeremy Lin earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard University (no athletic scholarship). He continues to excel in the realm of basketball to this day, inspiring “Linsanity” and advocating for Asian-American representation in sports.
5. Benjamin Bernanke
Ben Bernanke, the former chairman of the Federal Reserve Central Bank of the United States (PhD in Economics), is a cum laude graduate of Harvard University. His economics expertise is well-known, particularly in guiding the US through the 2008 financial crisis with innovative monetary policies.
These successful individuals demonstrate that a Harvard education can serve as a springboard to success in a variety of fields, from tech billionaires to world leaders. The common thread? Rigorous academics, diverse peers, and a culture of excellence that equips alumni to innovate and lead. If you’re inspired, start your preparation today—strong grades, extracurricular leadership, and authentic storytelling in applications are key to joining this illustrious community.
