HARVARD DIVISION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION LAUNCHES HARVARD DIGITAL DISCOVERY FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WORLDWIDE

New online program helps students explore academic interests, build essential skills, and prepare for college through flexible Harvard learning experiences.

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Harvard University Division of Continuing Education (DCE) has launched Harvard Digital Discovery, an online program that gives high school students worldwide a flexible way to explore college-level subjects and build skills for college and beyond.

Designed for students still exploring what they want to study, Harvard Digital Discovery offers flexible, self-paced Harvard-developed courses including artificial intelligence, law, psychology, business, economics, and more. Students can explore a range of fields without committing to one or joining a traditional summer residential program.

"High school is a time of tremendous curiosity and possibility, but students are increasingly expected to make important decisions about their futures before they've had the opportunity to explore their interests," said Nancy Coleman, Ed.D., Dean of Harvard Extension School and Continuing Studies. "Harvard Digital Discovery gives students the freedom to discover what excites them, learn from pre-eminent Harvard faculty, build confidence in their abilities, and develop skills that will serve them throughout their education." 

The program offers workshops on critical thinking, communication, time management, and resilience; academic webinars; and college preparation resources for students and families. Students who complete courses can earn digital badges recognizing their achievements.

"Bringing Harvard's tremendous intellectual breadth together with world class digital classes and college skill readiness is an amazing opportunity for young learners everywhere," said Vice Provost for Advances in Learning, Dustin Tingley, Ph.D.

The subscription-based program offers asynchronous courses students can take year-round, from anywhere in the world.

Developed by DCE and Harvard's Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning (VPAL), Harvard Digital Discovery joins DCE's Pre-College Program and Secondary School Program. Together, these programs offer high school students academic exploration, immersive learning, and college-level study.

"We are delighted to bring this important learning experience to students around the world, extending Harvard's tradition of educational excellence and expanding access to meaningful opportunities for academic discovery," said Coleman.

About Harvard's Division of Continuing Education

The Harvard Division of Continuing Education is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to learners in all phases of life from high school to career through retirement. DCE also includes the Harvard Extension School, one of the 12 degree granting colleges of Harvard University.

About Harvard's Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning

The Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning creates and catalyzes deeply engaging and scalable learning experiences that make a difference at Harvard and beyond through on campus workshops bringing together educators, scalable technology investments, and deeply engaging digital learning offerings. 

Media contact: Harry Pierre, [email protected]

SOURCE Harvard University Division of Continuing Education