Discover Harvard University's top leadership programs, costs, admission requirements, and career benefits. Compare executive education options at HBS and HKS.
Written by Laura Bouttell
Harvard University's leadership programs attract over 500 senior executives annually, offering world-class executive education through Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School. These transformative programs combine cutting-edge research with practical leadership development, creating a powerful catalyst for career advancement.
What Leadership Programs Does Harvard University Offer?
Harvard provides leadership development through three primary divisions, each targeting different executive needs and career stages:
Harvard Business School (HBS) Executive Education
HBS offers comprehensive leadership programs designed for corporate executives and business leaders:
Program for Leadership Development (PLD): 6-month blended program with virtual and on-campus modules
Leadership for Senior Executives: Intensive program focusing on contextual intelligence and adaptability
General Management Program: 4-month program for experienced executives
Advanced Management Program: 6-month leadership development for C-suite executives
Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Executive Education
HKS specialises in public sector and nonprofit leadership development:
Leadership for the 21st Century: One-week intensive program for public sector leaders
Women and Power: Leadership advancement program for senior women executives
Public Leadership Credential: Online certificate program with flexible learning paths
Harvard Division of Continuing Education
Professional development programs for emerging and mid-level leaders:
Certificate of Leadership Excellence: Structured learning pathway requiring completion of four programs
Executive Leadership Training Courses: Targeted skills development programs
Leadership and Management Programs: Comprehensive skill-building curriculum
How Much Do Harvard Leadership Programs Cost?
Leadership program costs vary significantly based on duration, format, and institution:
Harvard Business School Program Fees
Program for Leadership Development: £42,000 (approximately $52,000)
General Management Program: £58,000 (approximately $72,000)
Leadership for the 21st Century: Program fee includes tuition, housing, and materials
Public Leadership Credential: £880 per course (approximately $1,095)
Executive Education Programs: Fees vary by program duration and format
Harvard Division of Continuing Education
Professional Development Programs: Starting from £2,300 (approximately $2,900)
Certificate Programs: Multiple program bundle pricing with 10% discounts
Financial considerations: Program fees typically include tuition, course materials, on-campus accommodation, and most meals. Limited financial assistance is available for executive education programs, unlike degree programmes.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Harvard Leadership Programs?
Experience Requirements
Most Harvard leadership programs require substantial professional experience:
Minimum 10 years of professional experience for senior executive programs
Leadership responsibility in current or previous roles
Organisational impact demonstrated through achievements
Career progression showing increasing responsibility levels
Application Process
The application process varies by program but typically includes:
Online Application: Comprehensive form detailing professional background
Professional Essays: Leadership philosophy and career objectives
Recommendations: Letters from supervisors or board members
CV/Resume: Detailed professional history
Interview Process: Selected programs require virtual or in-person interviews
Selection Criteria
Harvard evaluates candidates on:
Professional achievement and leadership track record
Organisational responsibility and scope of influence
Learning objectives alignment with program goals
Contribution potential to cohort discussions and learning
Language and Educational Requirements
English fluency in written and spoken communication
No specific educational requirements for executive programs
University degree preferred but extensive professional experience considered
What Career Benefits Do Harvard Leadership Programs Provide?
Professional Development Outcomes
Harvard leadership alumni report significant career advancement:
76% Net Promoter Score among Kennedy School alumni
Accelerated promotion rates within 2-3 years post-completion
Expanded leadership roles across industries and sectors
Enhanced strategic thinking capabilities and decision-making skills
Networking and Alumni Benefits
Program participants gain access to:
Global alumni network spanning 165 countries and territories
Professional and Lifelong Learning alumni status
Exclusive events and continuing education opportunities
Career advancement resources and mentorship programs
Skill Development Areas
Harvard's curriculum focuses on:
Contextual intelligence for navigating complex business environments
Adaptive leadership techniques for managing uncertainty
Strategic decision-making frameworks and analytical tools
Emotional intelligence and authentic leadership development
How Do I Choose the Right Harvard Leadership Program?
Program Selection Framework
Consider these factors when choosing your program:
Career Stage Assessment
Emerging leaders: Professional Development programs or Certificate tracks
Mid-level executives: Program for Leadership Development or sector-specific options
Senior executives: Advanced Management Program or Leadership for Senior Executives
C-suite leaders: Owner/Presidential Management or custom programs
Learning Format Preferences
Blended programs: Combine virtual learning with on-campus immersion
On-campus intensive: Full residential experience for maximum networking
Online programs: Flexible scheduling for busy executives
Modular format: Extended learning over 6-12 months
Industry Focus Areas
Corporate leadership: Harvard Business School programs
Public sector: Harvard Kennedy School offerings
Nonprofit leadership: Specialised Kennedy School programs
Healthcare leadership: Targeted Medical School programs
Program Comparison Table
Program
Duration
Format
Investment
Best For
Program for Leadership Development
6 months
Blended
£42,000
Emerging executives
Leadership for Senior Executives
1 week
On-campus
Varies
C-suite leaders
Public Leadership Credential
12 months
Online
£5,300
Public sector
Leadership for 21st Century
1 week
On-campus
Varies
Government leaders
What Makes Harvard Leadership Programs Unique?
Academic Excellence
Harvard's leadership education draws from:
World-renowned faculty conducting cutting-edge research
Case study methodology pioneered at Harvard Business School
Interdisciplinary approach combining business, policy, and behavioural sciences
Global perspective with international cohorts and case studies
Learning Methodology
Harvard employs distinctive teaching approaches:
Socratic dialogue encouraging critical thinking and debate
Peer learning from diverse, accomplished cohorts
Action learning projects addressing real organisational challenges
Executive coaching for personalised development planning
Historical Legacy
Harvard's leadership education heritage includes:
Over 100 years of executive education experience
Alumni networks including global CEOs, presidents, and Nobel laureates
Research contributions to leadership theory and practice
Innovation in education with pioneering online and blended formats
Frequently Asked Questions About Harvard Leadership Programs
How competitive is admission to Harvard leadership programs?
Harvard leadership programs maintain selective admission standards, typically accepting 20-30% of qualified applicants. Programs evaluate professional achievement, leadership potential, and contribution to cohort learning rather than academic credentials alone.
Can I attend Harvard leadership programs while working full-time?
Yes, many programs accommodate working professionals through blended formats combining virtual learning with intensive on-campus modules. Programs like the Public Leadership Credential offer completely online, self-paced learning options.
Do Harvard leadership programs offer academic credit?
Most executive education programs provide certificates of completion rather than academic credit. However, programs may count toward Harvard Extension School degree requirements or professional certification maintenance.
What is the typical cohort composition for Harvard leadership programs?
Cohorts typically include 30-60 participants from diverse industries, functions, and geographic regions. Average participant profile includes 15+ years experience and senior leadership responsibilities in their organisations.
How do Harvard leadership programs compare to other top business schools?
Harvard leadership programs consistently rank among the top executive education offerings globally, distinguished by faculty expertise, case study methodology, alumni networks, and comprehensive curriculum addressing both business and societal leadership challenges.
What ongoing support is available after program completion?
Alumni receive lifetime access to Harvard's professional networks, continuing education opportunities, regional events, and career advancement resources through the Professional and Lifelong Learning alumni programme.
Are there scholarship opportunities for Harvard leadership programs?
Limited financial assistance is available for executive education programs, primarily through employer sponsorship or organisational partnerships. Need-based assistance is rare compared to degree programmes, but payment plans may be available.
Conclusion: Transforming Leadership Through Harvard Excellence
Harvard University's leadership programs represent the pinnacle of executive education, combining academic rigour with practical application to develop transformational leaders. Whether you're an emerging executive seeking strategic skills through the Program for Leadership Development, a public sector leader pursuing the Kennedy School's specialised offerings, or a C-suite executive refining your leadership philosophy, Harvard provides unparalleled opportunities for growth.
The investment in Harvard leadership education extends far beyond program fees, offering access to global networks, cutting-edge research, and development methodologies that have shaped countless leaders across industries and sectors. With alumni networks spanning 165 countries and a 76% Net Promoter Score reflecting program satisfaction, Harvard's leadership programs continue setting the standard for executive education worldwide.
As you consider your leadership development journey, Harvard University offers not just programmes, but transformation—preparing you to tackle complex challenges with confidence, lead with authenticity, and create lasting impact in your organisation and beyond.