Is It Feasible to Obtain an ALM Degree in 6 to 7 Terms at Harvard Extension School for International Students?
Yes, it is entirely feasible for international students to earn an ALM (Master of Liberal Arts) degree within a span of 6 to 7 consecutive terms of full-time enrollment at the prestigious Harvard Extension School, provided they meet certain essential conditions.
Key Considerations for Success
To successfully complete the ALM degree within this timeframe, students should focus on key areas such as course load, course availability, enrollment requirements, academic performance, and effective advising.
Course Load
Typically, students are required to complete a total of 12 courses, which translates to 48 credits for the ALM degree. To meet this requirement within a 6 to 7 term period, it is advisable to take 2 to 3 courses per term, assuming a full-time course load.
Course Availability
It is crucial to ensure that the required courses are available in the terms you plan to enroll. Some courses may only be offered once a year, or they may have specific prerequisites that need to be fulfilled.
Enrollment Requirements
International students must comply with visa requirements and maintain full-time status, which generally means enrolling in at least 2 courses per term. Adhering to these requirements is essential to stay in compliance with immigration policies.
Academic Performance
Consistent academic performance is crucial for completing the degree within the desired timeframe. This includes maintaining good grades and meeting the expectations set by professors and advisors.
Advising
Working closely with an academic advisor is highly recommended to help plan your course schedule effectively and ensure a smooth academic journey. Advisors can provide valuable guidance on course selection and workload management.
Real-world Experiences and Tips
Dean's data suggests that while the program is typically completed in five years, it is possible to get a one-year extension if you're a dedicated student. Throughout that extra year, you could focus on completing your thesis. For instance, two years prior to completing the thesis, I was working at RI for around 50 hours a week and had another part-time job in the same field, which took up about 8 hours a week. I had a two-year gap in courses, and I lived 50 miles away from Cambridge, which added to the complexity of my academic journey. Despite these challenges, I managed to graduate, and the program has since been modified to make things slightly easier. Now, international students only need to take their first three courses on campus, compared to six required for me initially.
Planning your course schedule effectively is crucial. If you want to pursue all on-campus courses, you can allocate 2 courses in the fall, 2 in the spring, one in the summer, and 2 each in the next two semesters. This approach allows you ample time to complete your thesis or capstone project within your timeline. However, several factors must be considered, such as working full-time, visa compliance, and living proximity to the school.
If you need to work full-time, ensure you have the legal right to do so according to your student visa status. Also, living in a more central location can save you commuter time but might also result in higher rent costs. Balancing these factors is essential for a successful academic journey.
Conclusion
With careful planning and commitment, completing the ALM degree within 6 to 7 terms is indeed achievable. By considering course load, course availability, enrollment requirements, academic performance, and effective advising, international students can navigate the complexities of the Harvard Extension School program and successfully earn their ALM degree.