Can Northeastern University Students Sit in on Undergraduate Classes at Harvard and MIT?

The answer to whether students from Northeastern University can sit in on undergraduate classes at Harvard and MIT often hinges on the policies of each institution and the individual course's requirements. These policies can vary widely and may involve gaining formal approval.

Harvard University

Harvard University generally permits cross-registration for students from partner institutions. However, this typically necessitates formal approval. Students must secure permission from the course instructor and may be subject to available space in the class. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, students should contact Harvard’s Office of the Registrar or the specific department.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT also has policies similar to those of Harvard, where students from other universities can sometimes sit in on classes. These students need to obtain permission from the professor. Depending on the course, there may be restrictions, and some courses may not permit auditors at all.

Informal Sit-ins and Direct Approaches

Not all institutions have formal mechanisms for non-registered students to sit in on classes. In such cases, walking into a lecture without prior permission is possible, especially if the class does not take attendance. However, this approach is not recommended as it may not be ethical and can lead to negative consequences, such as being asked to leave or facing disciplinary action. It's also generally advised against as it does not build a meaningful relationship with the professor.

Best Practices for Obtaining Permission

For the best and most ethical approach, it is highly recommended to seek formal permission from the professor or relevant academic office. Here are some steps:

Research the specific policies of the institution and the course you are interested in attending. Reach out to the academic office of the institution and the professor of the course directly to inquire about the possibility of sitting in. Prepare a brief introduction and explain your intentions and how you plan to benefit from attending the class. Be ready to commit to not taking any formal credit, but rather to sit in as an auditor with the consent of the professor.

Additionally, slight variations in approaches may be necessary, but the overarching advice remains the same: obtain permission and be respectful of the professor's time and the institution's policies.

Conclusion

The ability for Northeastern University students to sit in on undergraduate classes at Harvard and MIT is contingent on the policies of these institutions and each course. For the most accurate and ethical information, students should formally seek permission from the relevant academic offices or professors. This approach respects institutional policies and helps to maintain a positive academic environment.