How to Explore Classes Outside of HDS as a Student
Are you wondering how to take classes across Harvard University during your time at HDS? In this article, Elinor Bate, MTS '27, provides an overview of how to navigate the wealth of options available to HDS students at Harvard and beyond.
One of the greatest perks of being a student at Harvard Divinity School is that your campus doesn’t stop at the edges of Swartz Hall. Whether you’re looking to pair ethics with economics or law, theology with technology, or ministry with medicine, the doors to the entire University and beyond are open to you. For example, this semester, I’m taking a class named Book Theory in the English department. Having the chance to work and learn from Harvard College undergraduates, master's students, and even PhDs, is an incredible opportunity.
HDS students are encouraged to explore the rich academic landscape of Harvard, MIT, Tufts, and the Boston Theological Interreligious Consortium (BTI). In fact, you can take up to half of your courses in any given semester at these partner institutions. Here is your roadmap to navigating cross-registration and maximizing your academic experience.
Exploring the Harvard Ecosystem
Through the my.harvard portal, you can cross-register into eligible courses at almost every Harvard graduate school. You can see options right now through the Public Course Search. Note that each school operates on its own timeline. Be sure to check the specific academic calendars for each school. The Harvard Extension School is not eligible for cross-registration.
The BTI Consortium
If you want to dive deeper into specific denominational studies or interreligious dialogue, the Boston Theological Interreligious Consortium (BTI) offers a massive network. This includes schools like Boston College, Boston University, Gordon-Conwell, and Hebrew College. Additionally, HDS students can take the MBTA Red Line to MIT or to the Fletcher School at Tufts for international affairs.
Auditing: For the Love of Learning!
If you want the knowledge without the pressure of a grade, or if you want to test the waters of a school or a new area of interest, most HDS classes are open to auditors. Definitions of auditing vary; some professors want you to participate in discussions and assignments, while others prefer you simply observe. Degree candidates can audit for free. Auditors do not take final exams and do not receive grades, though the course will appear on your transcript if you are a degree-seeking student.
Reading & Research Courses
If you’ve already completed foundational work in a specific area and want to go deeper, you can propose a Reading and Research (R&R) course. You must find a regular HDS faculty member to supervise you. These are typically available after you’ve completed your first semester.
Your Best Resource: Faculty Advisors
Before you start adding credits from other schools, talk to your advisor. Your relationship with your advisor is central to the HDS experience. They don't just "sign off" on your Crimson Cart, they help you curate a trajectory that aligns with your academic and career goals.