Admissions

The Harvard Business Analytics Program is no longer accepting new students.

If you are looking for ways to advance your knowledge and career in business analytics, we encourage you to explore other programs at HBS Online and the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, including AI Essentials for Business, Business Analytics, Machine Learning and AI with Python, Computer Science for Artificial Intelligence, or CS50’s Computer Science for Business Professionals.

A Certificate That Could Change Your Entire Trajectory

The Harvard Business Analytics Program (HBAP) brings together industry-leading faculty and diverse, data-driven professionals to translate data into better business decisions.

This program is designed with ambitious leaders from all industries in mind. We’re looking for candidates who are eager to get better results from their organization and fearlessly lead their teams in a technology- and data-centric marketplace.

“What set HBAP apart was a deeply immersive experience that developed novel skills, as well as a highly engaged network of industry leaders—in every imaginable field—that is continuing to have profound impacts on my career trajectory over time.”

– Rajesh Nagle, HBAP ’21

“I wanted to make a major change as I could see other industries embracing change more rapidly and with more transparency and opportunity. I applied to Harvard Business Analytics Program as a way to catapult myself in a new direction. I wanted to be on the right side of digital transformation.

Renee Becker Bourbeau, HBAP ’19

Admissions Guidelines

We accept candidates from across all fields and backgrounds to bring a diversity of perspectives to the classroom. There are no prerequisite courses; however, keep in mind the following:

  • A bachelor’s degree is preferred but not required. Candidates without a bachelor’s degree should demonstrate significant work experience including leadership impact.
  • Ideal candidates should have significant experience in a professional setting, especially in roles that demonstrate leadership capabilities.
  • Quantitative experience is not required but will be vital to your success.

English Proficiency

We are proud to have many countries represented in our student body and graduate network. You must be proficient in English to do assignments and participate in discussions. If you are not a native English speaker, you must complete at least one of the following:

  • Have one or more years of experience working in an English-speaking environment.
  • Hold a certificate or degree from an English-speaking institution.
  • Take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

International applicants are also expected to hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and must provide copies of transcripts (in English) and a diploma for an admissions decision. If admitted to the program, you will be required to submit a course-by-course World Education Services (WES) transcript evaluation.

Application Requirements

To complete your application, you will need to submit the following:

Harvard University
Application Processing Center
Harvard Business Analytics Program
PO Box 30096 009-001
College Station, TX 77842

  • At least one letter of recommendation from a professional reference (maximum of two letters accepted).
  • Current professional resume (maximum of 6 pages).
  • Statement of purpose: In approximately 500 words, please explain your career objectives and goals as they relate to attending this program. Below is a checklist of topics on which to focus as you prepare your statement.
    • Why is the Harvard Business Analytics Program right for you at this moment? Describe your commitment to this rigorous program. Be specific.
    • How does this program fit your specific career goals?
    • What does your professional background and perspective bring to the program?
  • Nonrefundable application fee of $75. Speak to an enrollment counselor if you are interested in receiving an application fee waiver before you submit your application.

Ready to Become a Member of the HBAP Network?

We invite you to attend an upcoming information session to learn more about the program. If you have any questions about admissions requirements or the application, our team of enrollment counselors are available to support you at 855-624-8222 or admissions@analytics.hbs.edu.