The Harvard MBA: History and Admissions

Pioneering Academic Excellence & Leadership

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Harvard University was founded in 1636 and is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States. It has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and leadership. Its ideas, scholarship, and alumni shape public discourse, policy-making, and cultural developments globally.

Notable alumni include:

  • Political Leaders: 8 U.S. presidents including John F. Kennedy, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Barack Obama.
  • Supreme Court Justices: Several justices including Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Elena Kagan.
  • Business Leaders: CEOs like Michael Bloomberg (Bloomberg LP), Sheryl Sandberg (Facebook), and Jamie Dimon (JPMorgan Chase).
  • Nobel Laureates: Over 150 affiliated with Harvard, recognized in fields like Peace, Literature, Economics, Medicine, and Physics.
  • Cultural Figures: Authors like T.S. Eliot, and influential thinkers such as Henry David Thoreau.

Harvard is renowned for rigorous programs across a wide range of disciplines, including law, medicine, business, arts, and sciences. It is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Harvard is at the forefront of medical breakthroughs, including pioneering work in genetics, cancer research, and public health. Advances in technology and innovation through collaborations between the engineering school and business faculty. Groundbreaking studies in social sciences, economics, and humanities shaping policies worldwide. Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research to tackle complex global issues.

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The Harvard MBA Program

The MBA (Master of Business Administration) degree was first introduced in the early 20th century as the business world grew more complex and required formal management education. Harvard Business School (HBS) launched the first MBA program in the United States in 1908, setting the standard for business education globally. Harvard pioneered the case method, using real-world business scenarios to develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.

1. Overview

  • The MBA at Harvard Business School (HBS) is a two-year, full-time residential program.
  • It focuses on general management and leadership development with a global perspective.

2. Curriculum

Year 1 (Required Curriculum):

  • Core courses in finance, marketing, strategy, operations, leadership, accounting, and economics.

Uses the case method extensively to develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Year 2 (Electives):

  • Wide range of elective courses allowing specialization in areas like entrepreneurship, finance, technology, healthcare, and social enterprise.

3. Teaching Methodology

  • Heavy emphasis on the case study method, group discussions, and experiential learning.
  • Leadership labs, FIELD (Field Immersion Experiences for Leadership Development), and FIELD Global Immersions.

4. Admissions

  • Competitive process including academic records, GMAT/GRE scores, work experience (typically 2-5 years), leadership potential, essays, recommendations, and interviews.

5. Community & Networking

  • Strong alumni network worldwide.
  • Numerous student clubs, conferences, and industry treks.
  • Access to Harvard’s extensive resources and global business connections.

6. Career Impact

  • Graduates pursue careers across diverse sectors including consulting, finance, technology, entrepreneurship, nonprofit, and more.
  • High employment rates and strong salary prospects.

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Harvard Business School Admissions

1. Eligibility

  • Typically requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
  • Work experience (usually 2-5 years) is highly valued but no strict minimum.

2. Application Components

  • Online Application: Personal information, education, and work history.
  • Essays: Usually one open-ended essay to understand your motivations and leadership potential.
  • Resume: Clear summary of professional experience and achievements.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Two recommendations, often from professional supervisors who can speak to leadership and impact.
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE scores are required (some flexibility introduced recently).
  • TOEFL/IELTS: For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency may be required.

3. Interview

  • By invitation only, after initial application review.
  • Usually conducted by an admissions officer or alumnus.
  • Focuses on leadership experiences, problem-solving, and fit with HBS culture.

4. Selection Criteria

  • Academic ability and intellectual curiosity.
  • Leadership potential and impact.
  • Professional achievements and career trajectory.
  • Personal qualities and values aligned with HBS mission.
  • Contribution to class diversity and community.


5. Admissions Timeline

  • Typically, multiple rounds of application deadlines (early fall, late fall, and early spring).
  • Decisions communicated a few months after each round.

 

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