What is the Difference Between Harvard College and Harvard University?

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The main difference between Harvard College and Harvard University lies in the level of education they offer. Harvard College is the undergraduate college of Harvard University, offering a four-year liberal arts program for students seeking their first degree. On the other hand, Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university that encompasses Harvard College and 12 graduate and professional schools.

Key distinctions between Harvard College and Harvard University:

  • Level of Education: Harvard College focuses on undergraduate studies, while Harvard University includes graduate and professional schools that offer advanced degree programs.
  • Schools: Harvard College is the oldest and largest of Harvard University's schools, with about 6,600 undergraduates. In addition to Harvard College, Harvard University has 12 graduate and professional schools, each operating independently from Harvard College.
  • Admissions: Harvard College is responsible for undergraduate admissions, while each of the 12 graduate and professional schools has its own admissions office and teaching facilities.

In summary, Harvard College is the undergraduate division of Harvard University, offering a four-year liberal arts program for students seeking their first degree. Harvard University, on the other hand, is a research university that incorporates Harvard College and 12 graduate and professional schools, offering advanced degree programs.

Comparative Table: Harvard College vs Harvard University

The main difference between Harvard College and Harvard University lies in the level of education they offer and their administrative structures. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Feature Harvard College Harvard University
Definition Harvard College is a four-year undergraduate, liberal arts institution that offers bachelor's degrees. Harvard University is a larger institution that includes Harvard College and 12 graduate and professional schools, each with its own admissions, teaching facilities, and administration.
Age Founded in 1636, Harvard College is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States. Harvard University, as a whole, has a long history, but it was established as a corporation separate from Harvard College in 1650.
Student Body Harvard College has about 6,600 undergraduates, with nearly equal numbers of men and women. Harvard University enrolls a total of over 20,000 students across its 13 schools, including undergraduate and graduate students.
Programs Harvard College offers a wide range of academic programs within its liberal arts curriculum. In addition to Harvard College, Harvard University includes 12 graduate and professional schools, each offering specialized programs for students seeking advanced degrees.
Administration Harvard College's administration is separate from that of Harvard University's other schools. Harvard University's graduate programs are separately administered by their respective schools and operate independently of each other and Harvard College.

In summary, Harvard College is an undergraduate institution within Harvard University, which is a larger entity that includes 13 schools, with each offering specialized programs for students at different stages of their academic careers.