HARVARD T.H. CHAN
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
STUDENT HANDBOOK 2023–2024
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Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 4
Education Statement ...................................................................................................................... 5
Academics and Program Policies .................................................................................................... 6
Degree Programs and Requirements ...................................................................................... 6
Non-Degree Programs and Information ................................................................................ 21
WinterSession (January) ........................................................................................................ 24
Independent Studies and Research Sections ........................................................................ 24
Core-Course Requirements ................................................................................................... 24
Class Attendance ................................................................................................................... 25
Harvard Chan School Grading System ................................................................................... 26
Grade Changes ....................................................................................................................... 29
Grade Notification ................................................................................................................. 30
Final Examination Policy ........................................................................................................ 30
Absence Due to Religious Beliefs .......................................................................................... 30
Inclement Weather Policy ..................................................................................................... 31
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA).............................................................. 31
Policy on Patents ................................................................................................................... 31
University Access to Electronic Information ......................................................................... 32
Policy on Computing and IT ................................................................................................... 32
Enrollment, Registration and Graduation Policies........................................................................ 34
Enrollment Check-in Requirements....................................................................................... 34
my.harvard (Student Information System) ........................................................................... 34
Course Enrollment Policies .................................................................................................... 35
Online Course Schedules and Catalogs ................................................................................. 35
Cross-Registration.................................................................................................................. 35
Transfer Credits ..................................................................................................................... 37
Leaves of Absence ................................................................................................................. 38
Petition Process ..................................................................................................................... 43
Withdrawal ............................................................................................................................ 44
Transcripts ............................................................................................................................. 45
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Certifications .......................................................................................................................... 46
Applying for Graduation ........................................................................................................ 47
Loan Exit Counseling Requirements ...................................................................................... 47
Diplomas ................................................................................................................................ 48
Health Insurance for Degree Candidates .............................................................................. 48
Awards ................................................................................................................................... 48
Harvard Chan Military Student Readmission Policy .............................................................. 48
Academic Integrity and Standards of Conduct ............................................................................. 50
University-Wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities .................................................. 50
Standards of Conduct in the Harvard Community ................................................................ 50
Academic Standards and Integrity ........................................................................................ 51
Code of Conduct Council ....................................................................................................... 55
Policies on Sexual and Gender Based Harassment ............................................................... 60
Policy on Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying ................................................................... 63
Policy on Drugs and Alcohol .................................................................................................. 64
Policy on Hazing ..................................................................................................................... 65
Policy on Missing Persons ...................................................................................................... 66
Guidelines for Free Expression, Open Debate, Protest, and Dissent .................................... 67
Academic and Student Support .................................................................................................... 70
Advisers.................................................................................................................................. 70
Tutors ..................................................................................................................................... 70
Learning Support ................................................................................................................... 70
Travel Grants for Travel-Related Courses.............................................................................. 71
Harvard Libraries ................................................................................................................... 71
Housing .................................................................................................................................. 72
Disability Services .................................................................................................................. 72
Student Organizations ........................................................................................................... 72
Harvard International Office.................................................................................................. 72
Ombuds Office ....................................................................................................................... 73
Financial Information .................................................................................................................... 75
Tuition and Fees .................................................................................................................... 75
Financial Aid ........................................................................................................................... 76
Student Hardship Fund .......................................................................................................... 77
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Professional Development Support Fund ............................................................................. 77
Health and Wellness ..................................................................................................................... 78
Health Insurance and Fees .................................................................................................... 78
Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) .......................................................................... 79
Counseling and Mental Health Services (CAMHS) ................................................................ 82
Campus and Safety ....................................................................................................................... 83
Harvard University Identification Card .................................................................................. 83
Campus Resources ................................................................................................................. 84
Harvard University Police ...................................................................................................... 84
Walking Escort Service ........................................................................................................... 85
Sensitive Crimes ..................................................................................................................... 85
Dangerous Weapons and Threats ......................................................................................... 86
Bicycles .................................................................................................................................. 87
Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Campus ................................................................................ 87
Trademarks and Use of Harvard’s Name ...................................................................................... 88
Privacy and Other Statements ...................................................................................................... 92
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) .............................................................. 92
Gramm-Leach Bliley Act ........................................................................................................ 94
Veterans Affairs Compliance ................................................................................................. 94
Administration .............................................................................................................................. 96
Departments and Programs .................................................................................................. 96
Office for Student Services .................................................................................................... 97
Office of Admissions .............................................................................................................. 97
Office for Student Affairs ....................................................................................................... 98
Office of Career and Professional Development ................................................................... 99
Registrar’s Office ................................................................................................................... 99
Office of Financial Aid .......................................................................................................... 100
Acronyms .................................................................................................................................... 101
INDEX .......................................................................................................................................... 102
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Introduction
Welcome to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Student Handbook for the 2023-24 academic
year. This Handbook contains policies and procedures for the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Students should become familiar with the material pertaining to their degree program and, together
with their advisors, make certain that their chosen program of study complies with all policies.
Although we have attempted to include most of the regulations governing graduate academic programs,
many programs have additional requirements and regulations of their own. Students should also
become familiar with the academic policies relevant to their individual program.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health reserves the right to make changes to the Student Handbook
at any time without advance notice. These changes may affect such matters as tuition and other fees,
degrees and programs offered (including the modification or possible elimination of degrees and
programs), degree and other academic requirements, academic policies, rules pertaining to student
conduct and discipline, fields or areas of concentration, and other rules and regulations applicable to
students.
In addition, Harvard Chan School retains the discretion to act as it deems necessary in extraordinary
circumstances to protect the health and safety of the Harvard community. For these purposes
“extraordinary circumstances” include, but are not limited to, public health emergencies, extreme
weather events, and other conditions posing broad threats to community health and safety or
significantly disrupting campus life or learning.
Discretionary measures available to Harvard Chan School may include, but are not limited to, making
recourse to remote or hybrid instruction, suspending or limiting access to University-provided
residential housing, limiting its provision of or access to certain activities and services, introducing or
modifying vaccination, mask, and physical distancing mandates, and implementing compulsory testing
and tracing programs as required conditions for accessing the Harvard campus or Harvard facilities.
As a matter of policy, law, and commitment, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not
discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, national
or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or handicap in admissions to, access to, treatment in, or
employment in its programs and activities.
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Education Statement
The Harvard T.H. Chan School of School of Public Health retains the discretion to act as it deems
necessary in extraordinary circumstances to protect the health and safety of the Harvard
community. For these purposes “extraordinary circumstances” include, but are not limited to, public
health emergencies, extreme weather events, and other conditions posing broad threats to community
health and safety or significantly disrupting campus life or learning. Discretionary measures available to
Harvard Chan School may include, but are not limited to, making recourse to remote or hybrid
instruction; suspending or limiting access to University-provided residential housing; limiting its
provision of or access to certain activities and services, introducing or modifying vaccination, mask, and
physical distancing mandates and implementing compulsory testing and tracing programs as required
conditions for accessing the Harvard campus or Harvard facilities.
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Academics and Program Policies
Degree Programs and Requirements
To complete a degree program successfully, a student must satisfy both academic and financial
requirements. Financial degree requirements can be found by program in the Harvard Chan School
Billing Policy.
Academic Requirements
All Harvard Chan School degree candidates have course load requirements to ensure the successful
completion of their designated degree program by the date of graduation. The following table shows the
number of credits required to graduate for each degree program offered at the Harvard Chan School, as
well as the breakdown of the number of ordinal credits required and the number of cross-registered
credits permitted.
Note that exceptions to the ordinal credit requirement for graduation have been made for students
enrolled in spring 2020 through spring 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic conditions. Students should
contact their department or program director for details.
Master’s Programs
Minimum Number of Credits Required to Graduate, by Degree Program
42.5-Credit
SM
42.5-
Credit
MHCM
45-
Credit
MPH
60-Credit
SM
65-Credit
MPH
80-Credit
SM
Total program
credits
42.5
42.5
45
60
65
80
Ordinal credits
30
42.5
32.5
45
47.5
60
Cross-
registered
credits
permitted
No more than half of the total credits of degree program.
Students in the MHCM, MPH-EPI, MPH-GEN, summer-focused, and
summer-only degree programs are not eligible to cross-register.
Other
requirements
Check with your academic adviser for departmental/program requirements.
To maintain satisfactory academic progress in a degree program, students are required to take an
appropriate number of credits each term to meet the expected graduation date defined in each
student’s letter of admission.
Master's Degree Academic Requirements
All Master's degree students are required to complete an Introduction to Public Health course.
Students should refer to their department’s/program’s student manual for requirement details.
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Consecutive Programs
Students who are accepted into two consecutive degree programs must fulfill the requirements for the
first program prior to beginning the second program. Credits may not be carried over from the first
program into the second. Harvard Chan School students are not permitted to be enrolled in concurrent
degree programs unless those programs are approved joint-degree programs.
Joint, Combined, and Concurrent Degree Information
Harvard Chan School students may enroll in joint or combined degree programs, or concurrent degree
programs, as defined by the School. Participation in these programs requires acceptance into both
institutions involved.
Change in Degree, Department, or Environmental Health Concentration
Currently enrolled students wishing to make a change to their degree or department may do so by
completing a short application and submitting materials to the Registrar’s Office. Students must secure
the approval of their current department before beginning this process.
Academic Standing
In addition to meeting course load requirements and distributions, Harvard Chan School students must
remain in good academic standing, must complete department/program requirements within the
designated time to degree, and must meet the following academic conditions:
• All students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.70 or above. Some
departments and programs require students to maintain an average above the 2.70 minimum.
• DrPH students must receive a B- or better in all courses proposed in the Prospective/Final
Program (the plan in which students indicate the formal coursework they are taking to support
their degree), must adhere to the doctoral student timetables, and must successfully meet other
specified departmental/program requirements. The Doctor of Public Health section of this
handbook contains more information.
Failure to Meet Academic Requirements
Doctoral students may be deemed not to be making satisfactory academic progress for:
• failing to maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.70 and/or maintain the standards of the
department,
• failing to adhere to the doctoral timetable or other doctoral requirements specified by the
Committee on Admissions and Degrees (CAD), or
• failing to complete courses/credits that delay completion of the degree by the designated
degree date.
Students determined to be making unsatisfactory academic progress will be withdrawn from degree
candidacy or will be permitted to register for the subsequent term under academic probation and
subject to specific academic conditions, which, if not fulfilled by the specified time, may result in the
termination of degree candidacy.
“A student who is permitted to register conditionally for a subsequent term following notification of
unsatisfactory academic progress in a prior term will be on academic probation until specific academic
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conditions are fulfilled or until he/she is required to withdraw for failure to fulfill conditions.” (CAD
1/89)
The academic review process begins with notification to the department/program director and adviser
that the student is on academic probation. The department/program reviews the student’s status and
may recommend that the student be allowed to register for courses during the following term. The CAD
reviews the student’s academic progress and the department’s/program’s recommendations. Additional
policies and procedures regarding unsatisfactory academic performance appear in Academic Standards
and Integrity.
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
Federal regulations require that federal student aid recipients maintain satisfactory academic progress.
In addition to the required qualitative component (GPA 2.70), a quantitative component to satisfactory
academic progress states that a student cannot receive federal student aid for more than 150% of the
length of time required to complete the program of study. More information is available on the Office of
Financial Aid’s webpage.
Waiving Degree Requirements
Students should consult their program/department administrator for procedures regarding waiving a
degree requirement.
Master of Public Health Programs
The information in this section pertains to students in the Master of Public Health (MPH) programs only.
Committee on Admissions and Degrees
The Committee on Admissions and Degrees is responsible for monitoring the academic progress of all
students at the School. The committee reviews petitions and forms submitted during the course of
study.
Liaisons to the Committee on Admissions and Degrees:
Registrar’s Office, 617-432-1032
Master of Public Health (Academic Year; 45-credit) Steve Bearden
Master of Public Health (Summer-Focused; 45-credit) Katie Schiepers
Master of Public Health (65-credit) Crystel Feliciano
Master of Public Health (Epidemiology) Donna McLean
Master of Public Health (Generalist) Crystel Feliciano
Committee Chair Paul Catalano
Master of Public Health Information
The Master of Public Health is a 45-credit or 65-credit program that students may complete on a full- or
part-time basis. All students must complete School-wide core requirements and required courses in
their selected field of study. Additionally, all students must complete an MPH practicum and culminating
experience, in accordance with the guidelines of the various fields of study.
MPH students must meet the following requirements:
• Complete the School-wide biostatistics and epidemiology core requirements
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• Complete departmental course requirements
• Maintain a GPA of 2.70 or better
• Complete at least half of total earned credits at the Harvard Chan School
• Complete the full number of credits required for each degree program:
o A minimum of 32.5 ordinal credits for the 45-credit program
o A minimum of 47.5 ordinal credits for the 65-credit program
In addition, the MPH program will audit for the following:
• MPH-45 students are limited to a maximum of 12.5 credits completed as Pass/Fail.
• MPH-65 students are limited to a maximum of 17.5 credits completed as Pass/Fail.
• MPH-45 academic-year (residential) students are limited to a maximum of 3.75 online credits
per term of enrollment and 10 online credits out of the total required 45 credits.
• Summer-focused students are limited to a maximum of 5 online credits per term of enrollment
and 10 online credits out of the total required 45 credits.
• MPH-65 students are limited to a maximum of 3.75 online credits per term of enrollment and 10
online credits out of the total required 65 credits.
Time Status Definitions:
• Full-time MPH candidates must register for a minimum of 15 credits and a maximum of 27.5
credits in the fall and spring semesters.
o MPH-45 academic year (residential) full-time students are expected to meet all
academic and financial degree requirements within one academic year (2 semesters).
o MPH-45 summer-focused students are expected to meet all academic and financial
degree requirements within three academic years (3 summers plus optional fall & spring
enrollment in years one and two).
o MPH-65 full-time students are expected to meet all academic and financial degree
requirements within 3 consecutive terms of enrollment (excluding summer).
o These timelines may change if circumstances require a leave of absence or a transition
to part-time academic status. Please contact the Registrar’s Office for more information,
and also review the tuition requirements for Master’s students on the Student Billing
website.
• Part-time MPH candidates must register for a minimum of 1 course and a maximum of 14.75
credits in the fall and spring semesters.
o MPH-45 academic year (residential) part-time students are expected to meet all
academic and financial degree requirements within 2 academic years (4 semesters).
o MPH-65 part-time students are expected to meet all academic and financial degree
requirements within 6 consecutive terms of enrollment (excluding summer).
o These timelines may change if circumstances require a leave of absence or a transition
to full-time academic status. Please contact the Registrar’s Office for more information,
and also review the tuition requirements for Master’s students on the Student Billing
website.
• For time status definitions specific to the summer term, please see “Summer Credit Limits for
Degree-Seeking Students.”
More information is available in the MPH Curriculum Guides.
Students in the MPH program are enrolled in one of the following options:
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• MPH academic-year degree
• MPH joint degree (MD/MPH, JD/MPH, or MPH/MUP)
• MPH summer-focused degree
• MPH in Epidemiology degree (blended online/on-campus program)
• MPH Generalist degree (entirely online)
Continuation Fee
Students are expected to complete all program requirements within the stated time-to degree. Time-to-
degree begins with the semester a student is enrolled/matriculated. If a student enrolls in required
credits beyond the time-to-degree policy, they will ordinarily be assessed a continuation fee at the
beginning of each additional semester of enrollment. Exceptions to assessing the continuation fee will
be considered for extenuating circumstances by submitting the General Petition Form.
• Academic year students that enroll beyond their approved time-to-degree will ordinarily incur a
$3,267 continuation fee at the beginning of each additional semester of enrollment.
• Summer-focused students that enroll beyond their approved time-to-degree will ordinarily incur
a $2,178 continuation fee at the beginning of each additional semester of enrollment.
• MPH-EPI students that enroll beyond their approved time-to-degree will ordinarily incur a
$1,170 continuation fee at the beginning of each additional semester of enrollment.
MPH Summer-Focused Degree
The Summer-Focused Degree Program section contains information on summer-focused degree
programs.
MPH Joint/Combined Degree Programs
The School offers a MD/DO/MPH combined degree program to medical students with a baccalaureate
degree currently enrolled in LCME-accredited MD or DO programs in the U.S. or Canada, who have a
career interest in public health and/or preventive medicine, the opportunity to complete a master of
public health degree. Medical students undertake the residential MPH 45-credit program while on leave
of absence post-primary clinical year. They receive the MPH degree upon successful completion of the
academic requirements for the MPH degree. The MPH program serves as a required academic year for
residency training in general preventive medicine, aerospace medicine, or occupational and
environmental medicine.
The School offers a DMD/DDS/MPH combined degree program to dental students with a baccalaureate
degree currently enrolled in LCME-accredited DMD or DDS programs in the U.S. or Canada, who have a
career interest in public health and/or preventive dentistry, the opportunity to complete a master of
public health degree. Dental students undertake the residential MPH 45-credit program while on leave
of absence post-primary clinical year. They receive the MPH degree upon successful completion of the
academic requirements for the MPH degree.
Students accepted to Harvard Law School (HLS) may simultaneously pursue an MPH under Harvard’s
JD/MPH joint degree program. Prospective students should apply to the joint degree program during
their first semester at Harvard Law School. Students may enroll in either the health policy or global
health fields of study of the MPH program. Harvard Chan School coursework begins full-time in the fall
following the first year at HLS and continues over the following two years. The MPH will be awarded in
conjunction with the law degree.
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A joint MPH/Master of Urban Planning (MUP) degree is offered in conjunction with the Harvard
Graduate School of Design (GSD). Having been accepted to both degree programs, students enroll in the
45-credit MPH in various fields of study. During their first year, students complete the first half of the
MUP program at GSD and are granted a one-year deferral to the MPH 45-credit program. During their
second year, Students complete the MPH 45-credit program at the Harvard Chan School, full-time.
During their third year, Students complete the second half of the MUP program at GSD. Students receive
the MUP and MPH degrees upon successful completion of the academic requirements for each degree.
The Admissions Office and student billing policy websites provide more information regarding the
joint/combined MPH degree programs.
Master in Health Care Management Program
The information in this section pertains to those students who are in the Master in Health Care
Management (MHCM) program only.
The Committee on Admissions and Degrees
The Committee on Admissions and Degrees (CAD) is responsible for monitoring the academic progress
of all students at the School. Petitions and forms submitted during the course of study are reviewed by
the CAD.
Liaisons to the Committee on Admissions and Degrees:
Registrar’s Office, 617-432-1032
Master in Health Care Management Donna McLean
Committee Chair Paul Catalano
Master in Health Care Management (MHCM) Information
The Master in Health Care Management is a 42.5-credit low residency program that students complete
over 2 years that includes attending in-person sessions consisting of a 3-week intensive summer session,
followed by five, 4-day intensive weekend sessions roughly every 8 weeks from September to May. This
schedule is repeated in the second year. Home and small-group assignments using email and the
internet maximize the flexibility and enhance the value that students derive from the program.
All students must complete School-wide core requirements, and both recommended and required
courses in their program.
MHCM students must meet the following requirements:
• Complete the School-wide public health core requirements
• Complete an Introduction to Public Health course as detailed by their department/program
• Meet departmental course requirements
• Maintain a GPA of 2.7 or better
• Complete the full number of ordinal credits required for degree program
Students in the MHCM program are required to meet all academic and financial requirements within 2
academic years. This timeline may be adjusted for any students with circumstances that require a leave
of absence.
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Continuation Fee
Students are expected to complete all program requirements within the stated time-to degree. Time-to-
degree begins with the semester a student is enrolled/matriculated. If a student enrolls in required
credits beyond the time-to-degree policy, a continuation fee will ordinarily be assessed at the beginning
of each additional semester of enrollment. Exceptions to assessing the continuation fee will be
considered for extenuating circumstances by submitting the General Petition Form.
Students that enroll beyond their approved time-to-degree will ordinarily incur a $1,170 continuation
fee at the beginning of each additional semester of enrollment.
Master of Science Programs
The information in this section pertains to students in the Master of Science (SM) programs only.
Committee on Admissions and Degrees
The Committee on Admissions and Degrees is responsible for monitoring the academic progress of all
students at The School. Petitions and forms submitted during the study are reviewed by the committee.
Liaisons to the Committee on Admissions and Degrees:
Registrar’s Office, 617-432-1032
Master of Science (Academic Year; 42.5-, 60-, and 80-credit) Sabrina Taileb-Houmel
Master of Science (Summer Focused; 42.5-credit) Sabrina Taileb-Houmel
Committee Chair Paul Catalano
Master of Science Information
The SM is a 42.5-credit, 60-credit, or 80-credit program that students may complete on a full- or part-
time basis on most programs. All students must complete School-wide core requirements and required
courses in their program. Additionally, all students may be required to complete a thesis, in accordance
with the guidelines of the various fields of specialization.
SM students must meet the following requirements:
• Complete the School-wide biostatistics and epidemiology core requirements
• Meet departmental course requirements
• Maintain a GPA of 2.70 or better, or as indicated by the department
• Complete at least half of total earned credits at the Harvard Chan School
• Complete the full number of credits required for each degree program:
o Complete a minimum of 30 ordinal credits for the 42.5-credit program
o Complete a minimum of 45 ordinal credits for the 60-credit program
o Complete a minimum of 60 ordinal credits for the 80-credit program
Time Status Definitions
• Academic year SM full-time candidates must register for a minimum of 15 credits and a
maximum of 27.5 credits per semester in the fall and spring semesters.
o SM 80 full-time students are expected to meet all academic and financial degree
requirements within four semesters.
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o SM 60 full-time students are expected to meet all academic and financial degree
requirements within three semesters.
o SM 42.5 academic year full-time students are expected to meet all academic and
financial degree requirements within two semesters.
o SM 42.5 summer-focused are expected to meet all academic and financial degree
requirements within 3 summers plus optional fall & spring enrollment.
o These timelines may change if circumstances require a leave of absence or a transition to
part-time study. Please contact the Registrar’s Office for more information and review
the tuition requirements for master's students on the Student Billing website.
• Summer-Only SM 42.5 candidates must register for a minimum of 10 credits for the summer
where at least 7.5 credits are in one session.
o SM 42.5 summer-focused students are expected to meet all academic and financial
degree requirements within 3 semesters plus optional fall and spring enrollment.
• Part-time SM candidates must register for a minimum of 1 course and a maximum of 14.75
credits in the fall and spring semesters.
o SM-80 academic year (residential) part-time students are expected to meet all academic
and financial degree requirements within 8 semesters.
o SM-60 part-time students are expected to meet all academic and financial degree
requirements within 6 semesters.
o SM-42.5 part-time students are expected to meet all academic and financial degree
requirements within 4 semesters.
o These timelines may change if circumstances require a leave of absence or a transition to
full-time study. Please contact the Registrar’s Office for more information, and review
the tuition requirements for master's students on the Student Billing website.
• For time status definitions specific to the summer term, please see “Summer Credit Limits for
Degree-Seeking Students.”
Continuation Fee
Students are expected to complete all program requirements within the stated time-to degree. Time-to-
degree begins with the semester a student is enrolled/matriculated. If a student enrolls in required
credits beyond the time-to-degree policy, a continuation fee will ordinarily be assessed at the beginning
of each additional semester of enrollment. Exceptions to assessing the continuation fee will be
considered for extenuating circumstances by submitting the General Petition Form.
• Academic year students that enroll beyond their approved time-to-degree will ordinarily incur a
$3,267 continuation fee at the beginning of each additional semester of enrollment.
• Summer-focused students that enroll beyond their approved time-to-degree will ordinarily incur
a $2,178 continuation fee at the beginning of each additional semester of enrollment.
Doctor of Public Health Program
The Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) Program at the Harvard Chan School requires that doctoral students
perform the following:
• Adhere to the DrPH student timetable (see timetable below)
• Meet DrPH course requirements as outlined in the DrPH Student Manual
• Complete the doctoral student residency requirement, which includes payment of two years of
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full-time tuition and one year of full-time reduced tuition (tuition amounts are subject to
change)
• Complete the program on a full-time basis—no part-time option is available
• Complete the doctor of public health degree program in three academic years (with an option to
petition to extend to a fourth year)
• Maintain a GPA of 2.70 or better
• Pass the DrPH qualifying examinations
Tuition and Fees
Tuition will be assessed at the full-time rate in three equal payments (summer/fall/spring) during the
first two years of enrollment. Tuition will be assessed at the full-time reduced rate in three equal
payments in the third year of enrollment. For tuition and fee information for DrPH students, visit the
Student Billing website.
Academic Requirements
Course requirements are provided on the Prospective/Final Program Form. The required courses serve
to demonstrate that the student has gained expertise in the competencies of the program and is
prepared to be examined during qualifying examinations, as well as undertake the DrPH Doctoral
Project.
All courses applied to the DrPH must be taken for ordinal credits, and students must receive a grade of
B- or better for each course taken. For courses that are offered with only a Pass/Fail option, students
must achieve a passing grade for each one taken.
Students who have received a master’s degree from the Harvard Chan School will follow the same
timetable as the other DrPH students and will not be accelerated in the program.
Required Courses
DrPH students are required to take courses as specified in the online DrPH Student Manual.
Course Performance
Throughout the DrPH student’s career at the School, the Committee on Admissions and Degrees and the
Registrar’s Office monitor student performance in coursework. Grades of B- or better (Harvard Business
School grade equivalents are I and II; Harvard Law School grade equivalent of P or better) must be
obtained in all courses taken to meet the DrPH degree requirements. As noted previously, a passing
grade must be obtained in all courses offered as only Pass/Fail.
Students making unsatisfactory progress will either be required to withdraw from degree candidacy or
be permitted to register for the subsequent term, subject to specific academic conditions. If specified
conditions are not fulfilled by the date set by the registrar, degree candidacy may be terminated.
Student Timetable
DrPH students must adhere to the following timetable to be considered in satisfactory academic
standing. This progress must be reported to and approved by the Committee on Admissions and
Degrees. The timetable outlines the academic year in which each progressive task and/or milestone
must be completed. Since the DrPH Program begins in July, an academic year goes from July to June.
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DrPH Student Timetable*
Tasks and Milestones
Timing
Adviser Meetings
At least quarterly throughout program
Term-Based Field Immersion
Winter of Year 1 (December–January)
Written Qualifying Examination
End of Year 1
Summer Field Immersion
Summer of Year 2 (June–August)
Prospective Program Submitted for Approval
Middle of Year 2 (December)
Final Program Submitted for Approval
End of Year 2 (May)
Nominations for Doctoral Committee
End of Year 2 (May)
Oral Qualifying Exam Passed
End of Year 2 (June)
Doctoral Project Commences
Beginning of Year 3 (Summer)
Doctoral Project Progress Reports
From Students: Every three months during Doctoral
Project
Oral Final Examination
Year 3 (March–April)
Doctoral Project Deliverables Submitted
Year 3 (March–April)
*Subject to Change
Students in noncompliance with the timetable will have an administrative hold placed on their records.
They will be unable to register until the required milestone is met or appropriate paperwork is
submitted. Receipt of the appropriate form(s) by the Registrar’s Office and/or completion or submission
of the progress milestone will clear this administrative hold. Students who fail to clear these holds by
the specified date will be administratively withdrawn from Harvard Chan School degree candidacy.
Questions regarding the doctoral timetable may be directed to the assistant registrar, Katie Greiner, via
email or by phone at 617-432-1032.
DrPH students have three academic years from date of entry into the program (July of academic year 1)
to complete required coursework, and to defend and submit the Doctoral Project deliverables.
Requesting to extend to a fourth year must be approved by the Committee on Admissions and Degrees
and the DrPH faculty director in the third year.
Prospective/Final Program
The Prospective/Final Program is a plan in which students indicate the formal coursework they are
taking to support their DrPH degree. The Prospective Program must be submitted to the Committee on
Admissions and Degrees no later than the middle of the second academic year (end of December). The
Final Program must be submitted to the committee no later than the beginning of May of the second
year. The Final Program must be approved by the Registrar’s Office for the degree candidates to sit for
their Oral Qualifying Examination. It is in the best interest of students to submit the Prospective/Final
Program Form as early as possible.
Guidelines
Each course listed in the Prospective/Final Program must be taken for ordinal (e.g., A-, B-, etc.) credit,
except for those that are offered only with a Pass/Fail option. As mentioned above, a grade of B- or
better must be obtained in all the courses proposed, with ordinal grading and a passing grade for those
with a Pass/Fail grading option. Each course must be taken for graduate credit. This is of special note if a
16
student is cross-registering into another school. In certain situations, a course can be used to waive a
program-required course, with the expectation that the student completes the course with the same
competency at a higher level.
Written Qualifying Examination
The Written Qualifying Examination covers the required coursework of the first year of the program.
Faculty members anonymously grade the exam, and students are notified of their grade. Students do
not receive the examination or individual feedback on the exam. Students must pass this exam before
going on to their Oral Qualifying Examination. More information on the Written Qualifying Examination
appears in the DrPH Student Manual.
Nomination of Doctoral Project Committee
The Doctoral Project Committee is the primary vehicle in the DrPH Program for both guiding and
evaluating DrPH students in their culminating experience, the Doctoral Project. The committee should
advise and guide students on developing the Doctoral Project final proposal and provide guidance and
feedback during the experiential learning phase itself, with the overall objective of assisting students in
achieving their professional and personal goals as outlined in the Project Proposal. The committee
consists of three members:
• The committee chair, who must be a faculty member (professor, associate professor, assistant
professor, senior lecturer, or lecturer) holding an appointment at the Harvard Chan School.
• Committee member number two, who must be a faculty member (professor, associate
professor, assistant professor, senior lecturer, or lecturer) at the School or elsewhere within
Harvard.
• Committee member number three, who may be either a faculty member (adjunct faculty
included) or a professional in the public health field (with appropriate education and experience
to assess work at the doctoral level at Harvard). To avoid any conflict of interest, the
professional cannot be employed at the student’s host organization.
Further information on the Doctoral Project Committee may be found in the DrPH Doctoral Project
Manual.
Oral Qualifying Examination
After passing the Written Qualifying Examination, DrPH students take the Oral Qualifying Examination.
Students preparing to take the oral exam should submit their Oral Qualifying Examination Scheduling
Form to the Registrar’s Office at least three weeks before the date of the exam. Students may take the
Oral Qualifying Examination only after passing the Written Qualifying Examination and receiving
approval of the final program.
Procedure for Scheduling the Doctoral Project Oral Qualifying Examination
1. Schedule a room for the Oral Qualifying Examination. Please contact the DrPH Program Assistant
Director.
2. Submit the form to the Harvard Chan School Registrar's Office at least three weeks prior to the
exam. Arrangements then will be made by the Registrar’s Office for the announcement of the
examination to be placed on the School’s event calendar. Please note: The examination is not
valid unless this announcement has been made.
17
3. The Doctoral Project Proposal must be distributed to the Doctoral Project Committee and the
Harvard Chan School Registrar's Office approximately three weeks prior to the exam. Please
reference the DrPH Doctoral Project Manual for further details on proposal format.
4. Meet with members of the Doctoral Project Committee prior to the examination. The student is
encouraged to meet with each examiner to discuss the general nature of the questions to be
asked during the examination.
5. Distribute copies of both sides of the Doctoral Project Oral Qualifying Examination Scheduling
Form to each examiner well in advance of the examination.
6. Faculty members other than the examiners may attend the student’s examination only if prior
permission is given by both the Committee Chair and the student. These other faculty members
may question the student only with the consent of the chair of the examination committee. No
one else may attend.
7. Prior to the examination, the DrPH Program Office will provide the committee with the
student's Report of Doctoral Oral Qualifying Examination. This form must be completed by the
examiners and returned to the DrPH Program Office by a committee member immediately after
the student's exam, to be recorded by Registrar's Office.
Oral Qualifying Examination Results
At the end of the examination, the Oral Qualifying Examination Committee must report the
examination result on the Report of Doctoral Project Oral Qualifying Examination. This form must be
returned to the DrPH Program Office by a committee member immediately after the student's exam,
to be recorded by the Registrar's Office. The results of the exam may be the following:
1. Passed Examination: The committee approves the student to move forward with their
Doctoral Project.
2. Pass with Qualifications: The committee requires the student to meet specific qualifications
prior to the student moving forward with their Doctoral Project. The committee must detail the
specific qualifications the student is required to complete to secure a pass and must designate a
deadline for completion of no later than three months from the examination date. Note that
this may impact a student’s time-to-degree; the student’s Doctoral Timetable may be adjusted
per the discretion of the Committee on Admissions and Degrees. A student who fails to meet
the qualifications and/or deadline(s) outlined by the committee is subject to withdrawal from
degree candidacy.
3. Failure of the Examination: The committee does not approve the student to move forward with
their Doctoral Project. A student who receives a grade of Fail may schedule a second
examination within three months of having received the Fail. Note that this may impact a
student’s time-to-degree; the Doctoral Timetable may be adjusted per the discretion of the
Committee on Admissions and Degrees. A student who fails the examination twice will be
withdrawn from degree candidacy.
Doctoral Project Progress Reports
A Student Progress Report is designed to help the committee monitor satisfactory progress of the
student’s Doctoral Project and experience at the host organization. Progress Reports are to be
completed as assigned by the Registrar’s Office. During the meeting, all committee members must be
present, in person or via a virtual chat platform. If a committee member cannot make the meeting, the
meeting must be rescheduled. It is the student’s responsibility to organize the meeting, secure all
requisite signatures, and ensure that the required forms are submitted to the Registrar's Office on
18
time. Students who extend their graduation date past the three academic years (with permission) will
be required to submit additional Progress Reports.
Nonresident Doctoral Status (Thesis Work in Absentia)
Doctoral students occasionally need to perform thesis research in absentia (outside the Boston
metropolitan area). The student must apply to the Committee on Admissions and Degrees for approval
of nonresident status. The completion of the minimum two years’ residency requirement and the
satisfactory completion of the Oral Qualifying Examination are prerequisites to gain nonresident
status. A Non-Resident Status Petition must be submitted to the committee before the end of the term
preceding the requested departure.
• Nonresident status will be granted for one year at a time only. Progress Reports will be due
minimally every three months (or more frequently, if stipulated by the committee) while the
student is a nonresident. Nonresident students are required to return to the School at least
once a year for a committee meeting. By exception, nonresident students may request (via
General Petition) the other three-month meetings be conducted via conference call. Before the
Committee on Admissions and Degrees will consider a request for nonresident status, the
Doctoral Committee must meet with the candidate to appraise the thesis plan.
It is assumed that the doctoral student will pursue thesis work on a full-time basis while a nonresident.
Therefore, the student must adhere to the timetable specified in this handbook.
Nonresident students pay only a nonresident fee. They do not pay facilities fees and have limited access
to Harvard facilities.
Nonresident students must meet the financial degree requirements of two years’ full-time tuition and
one year’s full-time reduced tuition before their tuition is assessed at the nonresident rate. The
Committee on Admissions and Degrees will not grant nonresident status for more than one year at a
time.
Doctoral Project Oral Final Examination
The Oral Final Examination marks the completion of the project phase in the DrPH Program. It is the last
evaluation of the student’s work in the program, focusing on the Doctoral Project. All Harvard Chan
School DrPH students must complete the field phase and deliverables before proceeding to the Oral
Final Examination.
Procedure for scheduling the Oral Final Examination:
1. Schedule a room for the Oral Final Examination. Please contact the DrPH Program Assistant
Director.
2. Submit the scheduling form to the Harvard Chan School Registrar's Office at least three weeks
prior to the exam. Arrangements then will be made by the Registrar’s Office for the
announcement of the examination to be placed on the School’s event calendar. Please note: The
examination is not valid unless this announcement has been made.
3. Meet with members of the Doctoral Project Committee prior to the examination. The student is
encouraged to meet with each examiner to discuss the general nature of the questions to be
asked during the Examination.
19
4. Distribute copies of both sides of the Doctoral Project Oral Final Examination Scheduling Form to
each examiner well in advance of the examination.
5. The Doctoral Project Oral Final Examination is open to the public.
6. Prior to the examination, the DrPH Program Office will provide the committee with the
student's Report of Doctoral Oral Final Examination. This form must be completed by the
examiners and returned to the DrPH Program Office by a committee member immediately after
the student's exam, to be recorded by the Registrar's Office.
Oral Final Examination Results
The following are the possible outcomes:
1. Pass: The committee approves the student's Doctoral Project.
2. Pass with Qualifications: The committee requires the student to meet specific qualifications
prior to the student completing their Doctoral Project. The committee must detail the specific
qualifications the student is required to complete to secure a Pass. Note: This will impact a
student’s time-to-degree. A student who fails to meet the qualifications and/or
deadline(s) outlined by the committee is subject to withdrawal from degree candidacy.
Students are allotted three months to complete revisions for their project. However, the
committee can decide to have the student submit their work earlier. The committee
must specify the date by which the student must meet the conditions. The chair of the
Examination Committee and/or the academic adviser must submit written confirmation to the
Registrar's Office once the student has met all the specified conditions.
3. Fail: The committee does not approve the student's Doctoral Project. A student who receives a
grade of Fail may schedule a second examination within three months of having received the
Fail. Note that this may impact a student’s time-to-degree; the Doctoral Timetable may be
adjusted per the discretion of the Committee on Admissions and Degrees. A student who fails
the examination twice will be withdrawn from degree candidacy.
After Successful Completion of the Defense
Students must submit their thesis electronically via ETDs @ ProQuest by the dates listed below:
November 2023 degree candidates September 15, 2023
March 2024 degree candidates January 12, 2024
May 2024 degree candidates April 12, 2024
On the recommendation of the department(s) and the Research Committee, the Committee on
Admissions and Degrees recommends the student for the degree to the faculty, which then votes to
award the degree to the student. After the degree has been voted on by the faculty, it is awarded by the
Harvard University Governing Board.
Publishing the Thesis
Information for DrPH degree candidates regarding publishing their thesis is provided in the DrPH Student
Manual and in the Doctoral Thesis Guidelines online.
The DrPH Student Manual contains further details and the most updated information on the DrPH
Program.
20
Doctor of Philosophy Programs
Ph.D. candidates are expected to be enrolled full time at the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and
Sciences (GSAS) and to complete all coursework, comprehensive examinations (written and oral), and
dissertation requirements within the five-year program limit. Please visit the GSAS Student Handbook
for information on tuition assessment.
Summer Programs
The School offers degree and non-degree program options during the summer, which starts in June and
ends in August. Most summer programs take place during July and August.
June
July
August
June Session
Summer
Summer 1
Session
Summer 2
Session
• Newly admitted degree students who enroll in Summer 2 courses must also enroll in Summer 1
courses.
• Students taking Summer 2 courses will need to complete their Summer 2 enrollment by the
add/drop/change deadline for Summer 1.
• Returning degree students are not required to enroll in both Summer 1 and Summer 2 courses.
However, returning students only enrolling in Summer 2 courses must complete their Summer 2
enrollment by the Summer I add/drop/change deadline.
Students completing the MPH-65 Program are not eligible to enroll in summer courses. Cross-
registration and auditing are not permitted during the summer.
For information about applying to a summer degree or non-degree program, interested individuals
should visit the Admissions webpage. Continuing degree-seeking students who are part of a degree
program for which summer enrollment is optional must indicate their plans to enroll in Summer Session
courses by completing the pre-enrollment eform which is available to students in my.havard in the
spring.
Students who withdraw from a summer program may receive some or all of their tuition refunded as
per the Student Withdrawal Refund Policy posted on the Registrar’s Office website.
Summer Credit Limits for Degree-Seeking Students
Academic
Load
Enrollment Period
ACADEMIC YEAR
Degree Programs
SUMMER
Degree Programs
ACADEMIC YEAR
(summer required)
Degree Programs
Full-time
Full-Summer
10 credits*
10-15 credits
21
Session 1 & Session 2
5 credits per session
7.5 credits per session
DrPH, MHCM, and
MPH-EPI
Credit requirements
vary by program.
Refer to program
for details.
Part-time
Full-Summer
1-5 credits
1-10 credits
Session 1 & Session 2
2.5 credits per session
5 credits per session
*Students in the Program in Clinical Effectiveness (PCE) must follow the credit requirements outlined by the PCE
program.
International students should confirm their credit requirements for visa purposes with the Harvard
International Office.
Summer-Focused Degree Programs
Summer-focused degree students are required to be in residence and take courses on campus during
the summer. Master's students who need to complete only their practicum/thesis during their final
summer should review this webpage for further information and submit the Final Summer
Practicum/Thesis Intent Form if applicable to their circumstances.
Summer-focused degree students are considered nonresident during the fall and spring and have
limited enrollment options during these semesters. Given this nonresident status, summer-focused
degree students are not allowed to cross-register during the fall and spring semesters and are limited to
online courses, * on a space-available basis, if they choose to enroll. Summer-focused degree students
may enroll in multiple instances of courses required for completing their practicum/thesis project during
the fall and/or spring semesters. Student records will be inactive during optional semesters when
students are not enrolled, and as a result, students will not have access to resources such as the library.
If taking online courses, all applicable academic policies still apply.
Students should consult their program/department adviser to confirm other online credit limits per
semester and program and to review fall and spring semester course offerings.
*During WinterSession, students may enroll in up to 5 credits (not limited to online credits). Students
should contact their program/department regarding WinterSession enrollment. International students
on school-sponsored visas should discuss in-person WinterSession enrollment with HIO.
Summer Courses, Independent Studies, and Research
Students may elect to take independent studies or research during the summer period. Certain grants
require that continuing doctoral and master’s students enroll in the summer period. Students interested
in summer independent study or research credit should contact the Registrar’s Office at 617-432-1032
for details.
Non-Degree Programs and Information
Summer Non-Degree Programs
22
Summer programs let students experience the classes and culture of the Harvard Chan School while also
meeting and learning from leading professors and practitioners similarly dedicated to assisting others.
The Harvard Chan School offers several non-degrees programs, listed below. The summer non-degree
programs take place during July and August. New students will need to apply to the prospective non-
degree summer program through the Admissions Office.
Please note, cross-registration and auditing are not permitted during summer.
July
August
Full-Summer
Summer 1 Session
Summer 2 Session
Summer Credit Limits for Non-Degree Students
FULL- or
PART-TIME
Term
Program in Clinical
Effectiveness
Global Health
Delivery Intensive
Summer Session
In Public Health
Studies*
Full-Time
Summer
15 credits for summer
Not applicable
10 credits for
summer
Per Summer 1 &
Summer 2
7.5-credit max in
Summer 1 and/or
Summer 2
6.25-credit max in
Summer 1
5-credit max in
Summer 1 or
Summer 2
Part-Time
Summer
Not applicable
Not applicable
5 credits for
Summer
Per Summer 1 &
Summer 2
Not applicable
Not applicable
2.5-credit max in
Summer 1 or
Summer 2
*Students in programs such as Global Infectious Diseases, Lown Scholars, and exchange programs
should consult their program coordinators.
Summer Non-Degree Course Requirements
For information about your course requirements, please contact your Program Coordinator. Contact
information is available in the “Administration” section of this Handbook. Students can also find
program information on their respective program websites:
• Global Health Delivery Intensive
• Global Infectious Diseases Program
• Lown Scholars Program
• Program in Clinical Effectiveness
23
• Summer Session for Public Health Studies
Summer Non-Degree Withdrawal
For the summer tuition refund schedule, please visit Student Withdrawal Refund Policy for summer
students.
Academic Year Non-Degree Programs
Non-Degree Course Enrollment Policies and Procedures
Students are required to complete all course enrollment activities prior to the enrollment deadline(s)
specified in the academic calendar. Students are expected to have their enrollments finalized in
my.harvard by the posted deadlines. Students are encouraged to enroll in courses as early in the
enrollment period as possible. The Harvard Chan School does not allow students to enroll in courses that
have conflicting meeting times under any circumstance. If there is a wait list at the time of enrollment,
the student should add themselves to the list for the course. Students placed on the wait list will not be
adjusted for any reason.
All non-degree students must abide by the following policies:
• Students must have their enrollments finalized in my.harvard by the session’s add/drop
deadline.
• Students must enroll in courses as early in the enrollment period as possible.
• Harvard Chan does not allow students to enroll in courses that have conflicting meeting times
under any circumstance.
• Cross-registration is not permitted for non-degree students.
• Online courses are not permitted; all courses must have an in-person component.
• Requesting an exception to increase the maximum credits allowed is not permitted.
• Non-degree students must take all their courses on campus without exception.
• Auditing courses (except for Auditors) is not allowed under any circumstances.
The following procedures must be followed to complete the course enrollment process:
• Select courses on the my.harvard portal.
• Select grading options for each course on my.harvard (ordinal, Pass/Fail or Audit).
• Obtain all appropriate course-related permissions if required.
• Complete all registration requirements on or before the add/drop deadline.
Detailed instructions for processing course enrollment transactions and requesting instructor permission
can be found in the Knowledge Center at https://about.my.harvard.edu/students. Please note that
students may not, under any circumstance, enroll in courses that meet at the same or overlapping time
periods. Changes to one’s schedule may be made up until the add/drop/change deadline.
24
Non-Degree Academic Standing
In addition to meeting course load requirements and distributions, Harvard Chan School students must
remain in good academic standing, must complete program requirements within the designated time,
and must meet the following academic conditions:
All students must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.70 or above. If a non-degree student
receives a cumulative grade point average of 2.70 or below for a semester/part of term, the student will
be in academic suspension and ineligible to take non-degree courses at the Harvard Chan School.
Non-Degree Withdrawal
Students must clear their holds by the add/drop/change deadline to prevent a withdrawal from their
course(s). During the academic year, students are responsible for the full tuition of course(s) that have
been withdrawn.
WinterSession (January)
Considered part of the spring term, WinterSession is a term at the Harvard Chan School that runs during
the month of January. During WinterSession, students may enroll in up to 5 credits (not limited to online
credits). Students should contact their program/department regarding WinterSession enrollment.
Students enrolling in WinterSession courses should pay particular attention to enrollment deadlines.
Independent Studies and Research Sections
Independent studies and research sections are modes of study that involve substantial interaction with
and instruction by faculty and are set up on an ad hoc basis. All independent study and research courses
are taken for Pass/Fail credit only. Independent studies may be set up with variable credits.
A Harvard Chan faculty member or an adjunct faculty member must supervise all independent studies
and research sections taken for degree credit at the School. Students who wish to enroll with a faculty
member who has an annual appointment at the School or a faculty member from another Harvard
school must enroll in the section sponsored by their Harvard Chan School academic adviser. By
sponsoring the independent study, the School adviser agrees to the appropriateness of both the work
and the non-School supervisor. The academic adviser must contact the non-School section supervisor to
assign a grade for the student. The student’s academic adviser must submit the grade at the end of the
course as required by the School’s Committee on Educational Policy.
Non-degree students may enroll only with a faculty member with a School “annual appointment.” Non-
degree students are not permitted to take research courses.
Core-Course Requirements
School-Wide Biostatistics and Epidemiology Requirements
Each professional degree–granting department/program is responsible for constructing a curriculum
that meets core requirement objectives. As departmental/program core courses vary, students should
consult their respective department(s)/program(s) for specific requirements. All students, however,
must successfully complete the School-wide core course requirements, including introductory core
courses in biostatistics and epidemiology.
25
COURSE CODE COURSE TITLE
ID 201 Core Principles of Biostatistics and Epidemiology for Public Health Practice
BST 201 Introduction to Statistical Methods
EPI 201 Introduction to Epidemiology: Methods I
EPI 202 Epidemiologic Methods 2: Elements of Epidemiologic Research
BST 202 Principles of Biostatistics I
BST 203 Principles of Biostatistics II
BST 206 Introductory Statistics for Medical Research
BST 207 Statistics for Medical Research II
BST 208 Statistics for Medical Research, Advanced
EPI 208 Introduction to Clinical Epidemiology
EPI 500 Fundamentals of Epidemiology
Doctoral students must pass two intermediate-level biostatistics courses and one epidemiology course.
SD students should refer to the Doctor of Science portion of this handbook (pg. 18) for further details.
Waiving
The School does not accept transfer credits for courses taken at other academic institutions. In certain
situations, students may waive a core course. Students wishing to waive School-wide core courses in
either biostatistics or epidemiology must submit a Waiver of Core Course Requirement Form, signed by
the relevant instructor(s) and department administrators. Students must present an official transcript
and a copy of the course description and syllabi to the instructor(s) to verify appropriate coursework. If
the request to waive a core course is approved, the student will not be required to enroll in the core
course. Students within the Department of Biostatistics are automatically exempted from an
introductory core course in biostatistics. A student waiving the requirement must still register for the
minimum credits necessary for full- or part-time status. Students who wish to waive a noncore course as
a prerequisite because of previous qualifications should make their request by submitting a petition to
the instructor when adding the course in my.harvard.
Class Attendance
Class attendance, whether in-person or virtual, is required for successful class performance. An absence
for any reason, including participation in a site visit or other School-related activity, does not relieve a
student of responsibility for any part of the work covered in the class during the period of absence.
Absences are excused in the event of a personal illness or family emergency. In those instances,
absences from class will not count against a class participation policy, and students will be given an
opportunity to make up missed work. Students who must be absent for more than a few days due to
illness must contact studentsuppor[email protected] for support and guidance.
Travel for recruiting, interviews, or research trips will not be excused, and students may be penalized in
accordance with any class rules articulated in the course syllabus.
Extended absences may preclude receiving course credit at the discretion of the faculty member or
program director. On occasion, rare, extenuating circumstances may prevent a student from being
present in class for longer than two weeks. In these exceptional cases when remote participation allows
a student to finish a nearly completed term, the student may petition the Exceptions Committee to
allow remote participation. If absence is due to illness, please contact Colleen Cronin for support and
guidance.
26
The Exceptions Committee has sole discretion to evaluate and decide whether to grant the request. The
Exceptions Committee’s decision is final. If the absence is approved by the Exceptions Committee, the
teaching faculty will determine how to implement the decision in consultation with the appropriate
Program Chair, Office for Student Services, and Chan School information technology services. For
students who participate remotely, all other school policies and processes apply, including the processes
for taking exams.
Exam Schedules
Students are required to take examinations as scheduled. Absence from examinations is permitted only
in extraordinary circumstances, and the reason must be verified. If authorized by the instructor to do so,
the program administrator will plan for a makeup exam.
Voting in Governmental Elections
Voting is not an excused absence. The polls open early and close late, so voting can be scheduled around
classes.
Jury Duty
Jury duty or a court summons that cannot be postponed is an excused absence.
Harvard Chan School Grading System
Harvard Chan School offers ordinal (letter), Pass/Fail, and Audit grading options for degree candidates.
Harvard Chan School does not have a policy on the equivalence between grade percentages and letter
grades. For example, the distinction between an A and an A- is determined for each class by the
instructor.
Grading Option
Grade Definition
Grade Point Average
Ordinal
A–C, F grading scale
Calculated in final GPA
Pass/Fail
P = Pass, F = Fail
P not calculated in GPA, F calculated in GPA
Audit
Not graded
Not calculated in GPA
The table below reflects the grades used and their corresponding grade point values.
A
=
4.00 (Excellent)
F
=
0.00 (Failing/ordinal)
A-
=
3.70
WD*
=
Withdrawn
B+
=
3.30 (Good)
P*
=
Passing
B
B-
=
=
3.00
2.70 (Satisfactory)
F
INC*
=
=
Failing (Pass/Fail)
Incomplete (pending completion of
work)
C+
=
2.30
INP*
=
Permanent Incomplete
C
=
2.00 (Poor)
ABS*
=
Absent from Exam
C-
=
1.70
IP*
=
In Progress
AU*
=
Audit
WDA*
=
Withdrawn Auditor
UA* Unassigned
*Does not calculate into GPA
27
To calculate the term grade point average:
For each course, multiply the number of credits by the numerical value of the ordinal grade
received. (Number of credits) x (Numerical value of the ordinal grade) = grade points
Example:
2.5 credits x 3.30 for a B+ =
8.25 grade points
5.0 credits x 2.70 for a B- =
13.50 grade points
2.5 credits x 3.00 for a B =
7.50 grade points
2.5 credits x 3.30 for a B+ =
8.25 grade points
2.5 credits x 3.30 for a B+ =
8.25 grade points
Then, calculate the term grade point average by dividing the sum of grade points by the sum of the credits.
2.5 credits
8.25
5.0 credits
13.50
2.5 credits
7.50
2.5 credits
8.25
Totals
+2.5 credits
15.0 credits
+ 8.25
45.75 grade points
45.75 grade points ÷ 15.0 credits = 3.05 term cumulative average
Grades of Pass, Incomplete, Absent from Exam, In Progress, or Not Satisfactory are not calculated into
the grade point average. Certain grades received from Harvard Law School, Harvard Business School (I,
II, III, and Excellent), and Harvard Medical School (Satisfactory and Unsatisfactory) are not calculated
into the grade point average, although they will appear on the transcript and will count toward degree
credits. Harvard Business School grades count as ordinal credit.
Auditing Courses
Only courses that have the Audit grading option allow auditors. This information appears on individual
course listings in the my.harvard Course Search. There is a limit of 5 credits per term of audited
coursework allowed while registered as a full- or part-time student fulfilling degree requirements.
Students do not receive credit for audited courses, but audited courses do count towards the semester’s
attempted credits. Audited courses will appear on transcripts with the grade of AU. This grade will not
be calculated in the GPA. Students who do not meet the instructors’ expectations of an auditor will
receive the grade of WDA. This grade will not be calculated in the GPA. Summer courses and cross-
registered courses may not be audited.
Non-degree students are not permitted to audit any courses under any circumstances with the
exception of Special Fellows.
Grade of Withdrawal
Students who petition and receive approval for withdrawing from a course after the period’s add/drop
deadline for any course at the Harvard Chan School will receive a grade of WD. The withdrawal will be
part of their permanent academic record. Withdrawn course credits will not count toward attempted
nor earned credits. Tuition is not refunded for withdrawn courses after the withdrawal deadline, per the
Student Withdrawal Refund Policy schedule.
Grade of Absence from Examination
A student who cannot attend a regularly scheduled examination must request permission for an
alternate examination from the instructor before the examination. At the discretion of the instructor,
and in the case of significant medical or personal reasons, an alternate examination may be permitted.
28
Ordinarily, the instructor will consult with the Sr. Associate Director for Student Support concerning
medical and personal problems. An excuse for absence from an examination and permission for an
alternate examination must be recorded on the Absence from Examination Form from the Registrar’s
Office. In the case of an unexcused absence, the instructor will give a grade of F for the examination.
(CEP 2/89)
Grade of Failure
Students failing any course at the School will receive a grade of F. The failure will be part of their
permanent academic record. Students who fail a course other than a core course can repeat the course
for a new grade. Graduation dates will not be extended to repeat courses. A new grade will be given for
the repeated course, but the F previously received will remain on the student’s record and will continue
to be calculated into the GPA.
Failure of Core Courses
Students who fail one of the core requirements (listed in this handbook under Core Course
Requirements pg. 36) or any required departmental or program courses must follow procedures
established by the CAD:
• A student who is in their first year of a two-year or longer program and who fails a core or
departmental/program requirement must retake the course in its entirety.
• A student who is in their final year, or in a one-year degree program and who fails a core or
departmental/program requirement may (with the approval of the student’s department chair,
as well as the chair of the department in which the course is taught) retake the course in the
form of an independent study. The CAD must approve the proposed course of study.
The following procedures apply if the student has failed a core requirement:
• The student must register for one of the following independent studies
corresponding to the failed course (BST 201R, BST 202R, EPI 201R, EPI 202R, etc.).
These independent studies are each 2.5 credits and will remain on the student’s
record.
• The faculty member who taught the failed core course must supervise the makeup
independent study.
• The makeup independent study must have a final examination.
• At the successful completion of the makeup independent study, the department
chair/program director must certify in writing that the student has met the
minimum departmental/program requirements for the subject matter of the failed
course. The makeup independent study does not replace the original failure on the
student’s official academic transcript.
The following procedures apply if the student has failed a department/program requirement:
• The student is required to take the independent study for the same number of
credits as the failed course. The CAD recommends a minimum of 2.5 credits to be
awarded upon the successful completion of the independent study.
• The makeup independent study must have a final examination.
• At the successful completion of the makeup independent study, the department
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chair/program director must certify in writing that the student has met the
minimum departmental/program requirements for the subject matter of the failed
course. The makeup independent study does not replace the original failure on the
student’s official academic transcript.
• A student who fails two or more core or departmental/program requirements will
not be awarded the degree for which they are a candidate. A student who has
extenuating circumstances and who has the approval of their chair and of the chair
in whose department they failed the course may petition for permission to retake
each failed course in its entirety. Makeup independent studies will not be allowed.
Grade of Incomplete
Instructors may grant an extension to students who fail to submit an assignment by a deadline date. The
penalty for missing a deadline ordinarily is a lowering of the student’s grade on the assignment by one
letter (e.g., from A- to B-); however, the instructor may decide that a lesser or greater penalty is
required. Instructors should set a policy at the beginning of the course concerning the impact of missed
deadlines on students’ grades.
Students who do not complete coursework will receive a grade on the work completed to date or will
receive an Incomplete, represented by the grade of INC, at the discretion of the instructor. Students
who need additional time to complete course requirements must meet and discuss the issue with the
course instructor. Both parties agree to the work to be performed, the completion deadline, and the
penalty, if any, to be assigned if the work is not completed. When assigning an INC grade, an instructor
will also determine a Lapse-To grade, the grade assigned if the student does not complete additional
work by the Incomplete grade deadline.
When an Incomplete grade has been assigned, students will receive a notification that they have an
Incomplete Grade Contract in my.harvard. In my.harvard, the student will be prompted to read the
contract details and electronically acknowledge the contract if they agree with its contents. The note
“Formerly Incomplete Grade” is added to the transcript beneath any grade that was changed from INC.
Policy on the grade of Incomplete: The deadline for making up incomplete coursework should be no
later than one term after the term in which the course was taken, and may be earlier, at the discretion
of the instructor. If the instructor will not be present when the deadline arrives, a designated
surrogate must be appointed by the instructor to receive and evaluate the completed coursework. If
the completed work is submitted by the deadline date, the instructor (or surrogate) will evaluate it,
and the grade given will replace the incomplete (“INC”) on the student’s record, so that the final grade
will be “the final grade,” with a notation on the student’s transcript. If the incomplete work is not
made up by the deadline date, a grade of “INC” will be given for the work not completed. If this work
accounts for the whole grade, the final grade given will be an “INC.” (CEP 7/2016)
Grade Changes
Final authority for the designation of grades rests with the primary instructor of each course. Only
primary instructors may initiate a change in grade once a grade has been submitted to the Registrar’s
Office. Change of Grade Forms will not be accepted from a student. The instructor must request a
Change of Grade Form from the Registrar’s Office and submit it when completed. Grades cannot be
changed after a degree has been voted, nor will a grade change be considered beyond one term
following the initial due date of the grade.
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For grade changes other than those made to resolve an incomplete, the primary instructor is expected
to indicate that they have reviewed the work of all other students in the course to determine that no
similar errors have been made and gone uncorrected (CAD 1/89).
Grade Notification
Harvard Chan School grades are available to students in the form of official transcripts. In addition,
students can view their grades online via my.harvard. The Transcripts section of this handbook contains
further information on official transcripts.
Federal regulations outlined in the Buckley Amendment (aka Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
restrict the reporting of grades via telephone or fax. Students who would like to know a grade
immediately after a course ends may make arrangements with the course instructor or check
my.harvard to see whether the grade has been posted.
Final Examination Policy
No student should be required to take more than two examinations during any one day at the end of
term. Students who have more than two examinations scheduled during a particular day during the final
examination period may take their class schedules to the director for student affairs for assistance in
arranging for an alternate time for all exams in excess of two.
Absence Due to Religious Beliefs
Students shall be excused from class, review, or an exam due to their religious beliefs (Chapter 151c,
Section 2B, of the Massachusetts General Laws). It is the responsibility of the student to inform the
instructor of conflicts caused by religious holidays. Students who will miss class, review, or an exam for
religious reasons will be offered an opportunity to make up the work without penalty, unless it can be
demonstrated that such a makeup opportunity would constitute an “unreasonable burden” to the
instructor. Students must request this accommodation during the first week of classes, or whenever the
dates of exams or reviews are announced. Students should alert the instructor to any religious absences
during the first week of classes, or whenever the dates of exams or reviews are announced.
The student’s absence notification should be made in writing and should state: (i) the specific
accommodation being requested, (ii) the religious practice or belief the student is observing, and (iii) the
particular date(s) on which the student will be absent. Please note that the length of time between the
submission of the absence notification and the date of the student’s absence may affect whether it is
reasonable to provide the student an opportunity to make up the work.
Students are asked to consider that it is more difficult to arrange appropriate makeup opportunities in
some course formats – for example, those that have group assignments or a significant experiential
learning component –so students should consider their need to be absent for religious observances as
they plan their schedule each semester.
Students who are requesting extensions on assignment deadlines related to the observance of their
religious beliefs should submit such requests during the first week of classes, or whenever the dates for
such assignments are announced. While instructors generally will try to accommodate such requests,
advance notice is required, and the length of time between when the submission of the request and the
date of the assignment may affect whether the extension is permitted.
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We recognize that the faith traditions observed by our diverse community include more holidays than
can be captured adequately in a list. In addition, some observances vary by tradition and by country and
are defined by the lunar calendar. However, to assist in identifying religious observance days, the
Harvard Divinity School has compiled a Multifaith Calendar that is intended to capture the dates of
many religious observances.
Inclement Weather Policy
In general, the School’s teaching and research activities are expected to continue during inclement
weather. An absence due to a student’s concern about weather (from a class that was held) should be
discussed with the faculty member to determine whether options for making up the lost time in class
are possible. In the event of a severe storm in which state officials advise against travel and/or when
public transportation facilities are limited or not functioning, the dean may elect to close the School in
the interest of faculty, staff, and student safety. In this event, television stations Channel 7 and Channel
4, as well as CBSBoston.com and whdh.com will be notified to announce the closing. The School will also
post a telephone hotline message at 617-432-NEWS if a decision has been made to close the School. In
addition, notification of School closure will be posted on the School’s homepage. A School-wide email
message will communicate any decisions related to the suspension of normal operations, including
delayed starts, early releases, cancellation of classes, or suspension of normal operations.
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)
Harvard is authorized to offer distance education under the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement
(SARA), an agreement that allows institutions of higher education in Massachusetts to offer distance
education to students residing in other states that participate in SARA. For information about SARA-
related student complaint processes for distance education students, please see
https://vpal.harvard.edu/nc-sara.
Policy on Patents
Office of Technology Development
Smith Campus Center, Suite 727
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-495-3067
Email: [email protected]
Web: otd.harvard.edu
Everyone, including students, is expected to notify and to disclose to the Office of Technology
Development (OTD) any invention that they have made in connection with their University work and/or
through the use of University-administered resources. The University’s Statement of Policy in Regard to
Intellectual Property (the IP Policy) provides additional details.
When an invention is owned by Harvard under the IP Policy, OTD may seek to patent it, in which case the
cost of doing so is borne by the University; however, OTD makes both patented and unpatented Harvard
technologies available for commercial license so they may be developed into new products and services.
Net royalties received from licenses are shared with the inventors according to the formula provided in
the IP Policy.
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University Access to Electronic Information
Harvard University policy sets out guidelines and processes for University access to user electronic
information stored in or transmitted through any University system. This policy applies to all schools and
units of the University. The Policy on Access to Electronic Information is located on the provost’s
website.
Policy on Computing and IT
Student IT Guide
SHP publishes a Student Guide as well as student account policies on the IT website.
Laptop Requirement
SPH has established a laptop requirement to ensure that students have an optimal learning experience
while using our virtual computing laboratory (VDI), Zoom, Canvas and other software. Information on
requirements may be found at Student Guide.
Email
Harvard neither sanctions nor censors individual expression of opinion on its systems. The same
standards of behavior, however, are expected in the use of electronic mail as in the use of telephones
and written and oral communication.
Therefore, electronic mail, like telephone messages, must be neither obscene nor harassing. Similarly,
messages must not misrepresent the identity of the sender and should not be sent as chain letters or
broadcast indiscriminately to large numbers of individuals. This prohibition includes unauthorized mass
electronic mailings. For example, email on a given topic that is sent to large numbers of recipients
should in general be directed only to those who have indicated a willingness to receive such email.
Software
Users of the Harvard Chan School computing facility (VDI) should note that commercial software and
databases are protected by copyright laws and license agreements. Users are expected to abide by the
restrictions inherent in these contractual agreements. These restrictions include prohibitions against the
following:
• Copying programs for use on other systems
• Distribution or resale of programs outside Harvard
• Use of programs for noneducational purposes or for financial gain
• Altering or disclosure of program source code
Illegal copies of software may not be used on machines owned by the School, and copy-protected
software owned by the facility may not be illegally duplicated.
Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA)
DMCA laws have extended copyright protection to additional forms of electronic materials, such as
music and videos. The University is committed to maintaining the integrity and availability of the
Harvard network for the vital educational and research purposes for which it was designed. All Harvard
community members should be familiar with the laws pertaining to the use of digital material and
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comply with federal law and University policy regarding use of copyrighted materials.
Harvard University Technology Resources Policy (excerpts)
• Access to and use of technology resources at Harvard University are provided to members of the
Harvard community to assist in fulfilling the education, research, and service missions of the
University. Such resources include email, telephone, voicemail, computer hardware and
software, internet access, and the campus computer network. All technology resources and
their components or peripheral parts are the property of Harvard University. All users have the
responsibility to employ those resources in an efficient, ethical, and legal manner. Access to
such resources is limited to authorized users and is for approved purposes only.
• As has been the custom with the telephone, use of these facilities for incidental personal
purposes is permitted, as long as it does not interfere with job performance, consume
significant time or resources, interfere with the activities of others, or otherwise violate this
policy, the rules of the Harvard Chan School, or other University policies.
• University technology resources should not be used in connection with lobbying or political
campaigns. In addition, such resources should not be used for private business or commercial
activities, except where such activities are otherwise permitted under applicable University
policies.
• IT users should note that distribution, storage, or viewing of pornography on University
computers violates the Technology Resources Policy.
Support
Student support for IT services is available from the IT Service Desk by phone at 617-432-HELP, via email
at helpdesk@hsph.harvard.edu, or on the IT website.
34
Enrollment, Registration and Graduation Policies
Enrollment Check-in Requirements
All students are required to check in each term. The check-in process involves confirming a student’s
address, FERPA status (pg. 98), and other information. Students who do not complete the check-in
process will be blocked from enrollment. Detailed enrollment and check-in information is posted on the
New Degree Student Information page of the Registrar’s Office website. In addition to completing check-
in, incoming students should please note the following:
1. Email is the official mode of communication at the School. Students are expected to claim and
activate their Harvard email soon after receiving notification from Harvard University IT with
instructions to do so. After activating their Harvard email, students are expected check their
Harvard email account regularly for important notices. Note that all email correspondence will
be directed to the official Harvard email once it is activated.
2. All students—except pregnant women, women of childbearing age attempting conception, and
persons whose religious beliefs prevent them from being immunized—must demonstrate that
they have received the required immunizations, as specified on the Harvard University Health
Services (HUHS) website.
3. Students who fail to obtain administrative, financial, and/or enrollment clearance by the
required date will be administratively withdrawn from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public
Health.
4. All students are required to have laptops loaded with VDI software. The laptop policy and the
instructions for loading VDI software onto the laptop can be found on the Registrar’s Office
Laptop Requirement Policy webpage.
5. Incoming students who have not satisfied admissions contingencies will be blocked from
enrollment activities. Students should note that the Schools of Public Health Application Service
(SOPHAS) does not forward transcripts. All incoming students are required to submit official
transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended. Unless a student is in a Harvard Chan
School joint (JD/MPH, MUP/MPH) or combined (MD/MPH) degree program, all degrees must
have been awarded/conferred prior to matriculation at the School. If degree conferral has not
occurred prior to matriculation at the School, official documentation regarding the completion of
all degree requirements must be submitted to the School for the student to be allowed to
proceed with enrollment.
my.harvard (Student Information System)
my.harvard, the Harvard student information system, is the system of record for course enrollments for
Harvard Chan students and Harvard Chan courses. my.harvard is used to maintain student records,
manage course enrollment, and schedule classes. Using the my.harvard Student Portal, students can
access information about their academic program, enroll in classes, view course history, view their
student accounts, access to-do lists and holds, and update their personal information. Please note that
academic credit will be given for coursework only if an enrollment record exists in my.harvard.
Academic Year Non-Degree my.harvard
During the academic year, non-degree students need to review the Non-Degree Academic Year
Programs website for instructions.
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Course Enrollment Policies
Students are required to complete all course enrollment activities prior to the enrollment deadline(s)
specified in the academic calendar. If a student is required to take a course to graduate, the student
should enroll in the course as soon as possible to secure their space in the course. The School does not
allow students to enroll in courses that have conflicting meeting times, under any circumstance. Verbal
or email permission from an instructor to a student shall not be considered approval to override an
enrollment policy. If there is a wait list at the time of enrollment, students should add themselves to the
wait list for the course. A student’s place on the wait list will not be adjusted for any reason.
Courses may be taken only for the grading options listed in the course catalog. Note that students will
not be permitted to add, drop, or change their grading option after the add/drop/change deadline.
Courses with variable credits may not be edited after the add/drop/change deadline. A course is not
considered to have been dropped until the student has officially dropped it through my.harvard.
Students will not be permitted to withdraw from a course after the withdrawal deadline. Residential
degree program students must be enrolled in at least one on campus course in a term of enrollment.
Academic year Master of Science (non-Summer-only) students are not permitted to enroll in courses
with an "Online" component as stated in the Course Catalog.
Online Course Schedules and Catalogs
Course listings from all Harvard faculties are available in the online my.harvard course search. The
course listings contain course descriptions, instructor information, credits, meeting times and locations,
enrollment requirements, and other general information about each course.
Cross-Registration
Harvard Chan degree students may enroll in courses offered by the cross-registration consortium,
which consists of the other Harvard faculties, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), MGH
Institute of Health Professions, The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and the Gerald A. and
Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University.
Cross-registration is offered only during the academic year, and only students in degree programs
classified as residential are eligible to cross-register. Master’s students in programs classified as
nonresidential during the fall and spring semesters are not eligible to cross-register, including MHCM,
MPH-EPI, MPH-GEN, and students completing summer-focused degree programs.
Harvard Chan non-degree students are not permitted to cross-register into other schools within the
cross-registration consortium as part of their School study.
The table below lists the members of the cross-registration consortium, their abbreviations, and their
telephone numbers.
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THE CROSS-REGISTRATION CONSORTIUM
NAME OF SCHOOL
SCHOOL CODE
TELEPHONE
Harvard Business School
HBS
617-495-6247
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
HSDM
617-432-1447
Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
SEAS
617-495-1543
Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
GSAS
617-495-1519
Harvard Graduate School of Design
GSD
617-495-1237
Harvard Divinity School
HDS
617-495-5760
Harvard Graduate School of Education
HGSE
617-495-3419
Harvard Kennedy School
HKS
617-495-1150
Harvard Law School
HLS
617-495-4612
Harvard Medical School
HMS
617-432-1515
The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University
FLE
617-627-3055
Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and
Policy, Tufts University
FRD and FRI
617-636-3777
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MIT
617-258-6432
Massachusetts General Hospital - Institute of Health Professions
MGH-IHP
617-726-2947
Cross-Registration Policies
For a cross-registered course to count toward a Harvard Chan degree and to appear on a corresponding
transcript, the course must meet the following requirements:
• It must be a graduate-level course relevant to the student’s degree program;
• It must be taken for Pass/Fail or ordinal credit; and
• It must be approved by the student’s adviser and, if required, the course instructor.
Obtaining credit for cross-registered courses is permitted only for graduate-level courses appropriate to
the student’s Harvard Chan degree program and if a similar course is not available at the School. Courses
may be taken for the grading basis listed in the course catalog but may not be taken for the grade of
Audit. Deadline dates for cross-registration and for class meetings vary from school to school across the
consortium. Students must consult the academic calendars at both Harvard Chan and the host school for
class meeting dates and course enrollment deadlines.
Please note that MIT grades may not be received in time for any spring MIT course to count toward Harvard
Chan May graduation requirements. Instead, MIT grades will count as additional credits and not toward
the minimum credits required for graduation. In addition, please note that certain spring courses offered
at Harvard may end too late in the semester to be counted toward graduation. Degree candidates are urged
to check the exam schedules of cross-registered courses to avoid possible problems of late grade reporting
to the Harvard Chan School Registrar. Questions about this policy should be directed to the Registrar’s
Office.
Undergraduate-level courses, as well as Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study seminars, Harvard Extension
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and Summer School courses, and certain Harvard Medical School courses are not counted toward degree
credit at the Harvard Chan School, nor is cross-registration into these courses permitted.
Cross-Registration Credit Limits
Harvard Chan degree students may not take more than half of their total degree credits in courses outside
the School, or in any given semester. Degree candidates can cross-register for a maximum of half of their total
credits per term. For example, a full-time student who is planning to register for a total of 20 credits may not
register for more than 10 cross-registered credits.
Cross-Registration Credit Conversion
Credit values for cross-registration courses are converted from the host school’s credit values
into Harvard Chan School credit values using the credit-conversion chart in the Student
Knowledge Center of the Registrar’s Office.
Cross-Registration Deadlines
Harvard Chan students cross-registering into consortium schools must abide by the deadlines
set by both the Harvard Chan School and the host school. Harvard Chan students must finalize
their cross-registration enrollment according to the cross-registration deadlines set forth by the
host school and before the cross-registration add/drop/change deadline in the Harvard Chan
academic calendar.
Cross-Registration Grades
Students who cross-register are bound by the rules and regulations of the respective faculties
regarding grades, examination schedules, makeup examinations, and incomplete work. These
regulations are often very different from those at the Harvard Chan School. Auditing a cross-
registered course is strictly prohibited.
The Harvard Chan School Registrar’s Office receives the grades from the host school’s
Registrar’s Office, and they are included as part of the student’s official academic record. These
grades will not be translated into the Harvard Chan School’s grading system. For example,
Harvard Business School has a Roman numeral grading system (i.e., I, II, and III). Business School
grades will appear on the student’s official transcript as Roman numerals. Grades for such
grading systems will not calculate into the Harvard Chan School GPA, the credit taken however,
will count for ordinal credit. Individual instructors may not determine grading options for cross-
registered students but must conform to their faculty’s official regulations.
Transfer Credits
Under no circumstance does the Harvard Chan School accept transfer credits from other
academic institutions. If a Harvard Chan non-degree student applies for and is granted
admission into a master’s degree program, up to 20 credits of completed coursework may be
applied to the financial-degree requirement, if the courses taken were within the preceding five
years of matriculating in a degree program. If the tuition was paid in full for these non-degree
credits, they may be applied toward financial degree requirements as well. To determine how
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this may apply to your degree program please visit the Non-Degree Transfer Credits page of our
website. Non-degree students participating in the PCE program will have their credits
automatically transferred to their degree program. Cohort-based programs are not eligible to
transfer non-degree credits. Note that upon entering the degree program, students will be
billed at the corresponding flat tuition rate for the year for the remaining terms necessary to
complete program requirements. Students should carefully consider enrollment options (i.e.,
full-time, part-time, or summer) for completing the degree when transferring in prior credits, as
this may not guarantee a lower total cost of the degree.
MPH-GEN degree program students are not permitted to waive, substitute, or transfer credits
into the program and no financial credit will be granted towards the program’s tuition
requirement.
Leaves of Absence
Voluntary Leaves of Absence
Students who wish to interrupt their studies at any time before graduation may request a leave
of absence. Requests for a leave of absence may be granted by the Associate Dean for Student
Services in consultation with other officers of the School and University, as appropriate. With
respect to a voluntary leave of absence for medical reasons, the Associate Dean for Student
Services ordinarily will consult with Harvard University Health Services (which may consider
information from the student’s current and/or former health care providers, if made available
by the student).
Students may be granted a leave for a maximum of one academic year at a time. Students may reapply
for additional leaves. Leaves of absence are generally limited to two years.
Students approved for a leave of absence will not be assessed tuition for the term(s) of leave that is
approved. Students on leave are not covered by the University’s health plan. Information regarding
insurance coverage during a leave of absence is available on the Harvard University Student Health
Program website. Email Member Services or call 617-495-2008.
Students on leave will not have access to electronic library and other University resources.
To petition to obtain a leave of absence, students must complete a Leave of Absence Petition, obtain the
signatures of the Associate Dean for Student Services and the financial aid officer, and then submit the
completed form to the Registrar’s Office for review before the start of the semester.
With respect to a voluntary leave of absence for medical reasons, the Sr. Associate Director of Student
Support Services and/or the Associate Dean for Student Services may consult with Harvard University
Health Services (which may consider information from the student’s current and/or former health care
providers, if made available by the student), as appropriate.
Involuntary Leaves of Absence
Under certain circumstances, a student may be placed on an involuntary leave of absence. An
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involuntary leave of absence is not a disciplinary sanction. However, an incident that gives rise to a leave
of absence, whether voluntary or involuntary, may subsequently be the basis for disciplinary action. A
student who prefers to take a voluntary leave of absence for medical reasons rather than to be placed
on an involuntary leave of absence for medical reasons is ordinarily allowed to do so. Transcripts do not
distinguish between voluntary and involuntary leaves of absence.
An involuntary leave of absence may be required for the following reasons:
1. Medical circumstances:
a. (i) The student’s behavior poses a direct threat to the health or safety of any person or
has seriously disrupted others in the student’s residential community or academic
environment; and (ii) either the student’s threatening, self-destructive, or disruptive
behavior is determined to be the result of a medical condition or the student has
refused to cooperate with efforts by Harvard University Health Services or other
clinicians to determine the cause of the behavior.
b. The student is not cleared to return to enrollment and/or residence at the Harvard T.H.
Chan School of Public Health (Harvard Chan School) following either: (i) a hospitalization
or emergency room visit that raises serious concerns about the student’s health or well-
being; or (ii) other circumstances that raise serious concerns about the student’s health
or well-being and reasonably call into question their ability to function as a student in
the Harvard Chan School environment. More information about the process of
clearance to return to enrollment and/or residence after a hospitalization or emergency
room visit is provided in Clearance for Return (see below). The decision to place a
student on an involuntary leave of absence for health related reasons is made by the
Associate Dean for Student Services in consultation with Harvard University Health
Services (which may consider information from the student’s current and/or former
health care providers, if made available by the student), after an individualized
assessment of all of the pertinent factors, such as: the nature of the student’s conduct;
the nature, duration and severity of the risk; the likelihood of potential injury; and
whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices or procedures will mitigate the
risk, such as a reduced course load or course modifications. However, reasonable
modifications do not include changes that would fundamentally alter the academic
program or unduly burden the School’s resources or staffing capabilities or, with respect
to the required level of care or monitoring, that would exceed the standard of care that
a university health service can be expected to provide.
2. Failure to adhere to the terms of an agreement to engage in treatment. The student’s continued
enrollment and/or residence is conditioned on the student’s agreement to meet the
expectations set forth in an agreement to engage in treatment, such as following the
recommendations of the student’s treatment team, and the student has failed to adhere to the
terms of that agreement.
3. Alleged criminal behavior. The student has been arrested on allegations of serious criminal
behavior or has been charged with such behavior by law enforcement authorities.
4. Risk to the community. The student has allegedly violated a disciplinary rule of the School, and
their presence on campus poses a significant risk to the safety of others or to the educational
environment of the community.
5. Indebtedness. The student’s term bill is unpaid and the student has not made arrangements
40
acceptable to the School to address the issue.
6. Failure to provide medical documentation of required immunizations.
7. Unfulfilled School requirements. The student has not met an academic or other School
requirement, including without limitation, attending class or participating in required activities,
and has not taken steps acceptable to the School to meet the requirement.
8. Failure to register. The student has not registered as required at the beginning of each term.
The decision to place a student on involuntary leave is made by the Associate Dean for Student Services
in consultation with other officers of the School and University, as appropriate or such other person as
the Dean designates. As noted above, in the case of an involuntary leave of absence for medical reasons,
the School will consult with an appropriate person at Harvard University Health Services.
Students are notified in writing that they have been placed on involuntary leave. A student may petition
the Dean of Education for reconsideration, generally within five calendar days, and may appeal a final
decision to the Dean of the School.
While on Leave of Absence
Students who go on leave of absence during the academic year are not charged tuition but are charged
applicable fees, including rent if living in University housing to the end of the period in which they leave.
Students receiving scholarship or other financial aid should consult the Financial Aid Office concerning
the financial implications of going on leave. Students on F1 and J1 visas should consult the Harvard
International Office concerning their status.
The date a student goes on leave will affect the student's health insurance through Harvard. For details,
review the Leave of Absence policy on the HUHSP website, or contact the Student Health Insurance
Office, Member Services, at 617-495-2008 or [email protected].
Libraries and other School or University facilities normally may be used only by students who are
currently registered. Students on leave may not participate in extracurricular activities. Exceptions to
this rule must be specifically approved in advance by the School. If so, instructed by the Associate Dean
for Student Services, a student on leave must remain away from the University campus.
Students going on leave are reminded that all degree candidates, whether currently registered or not,
are expected to maintain a satisfactory standard of conduct.
Following an individualized assessment, the School may require students who are on leave for medical
reasons to comply with a treatment plan during their time away.
Returning to School
A student in good standing on a voluntary leave of absence ordinarily may return by notifying the
Registrar’s Office twelve weeks in advance of the start of any term, although it remains the student’s
responsibility to ensure that they have adequate time to complete the degree within the time limits
established by the School.
Students who were not in good standing at the time a voluntary leave of absence was granted and
students who were placed on an involuntary leave of absence must petition the Associate Dean for
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Student Services for permission to return to the School and must demonstrate that the circumstances
that led to their leave have been satisfactorily addressed and that they are ready to resume their
studies. The decision whether to allow a student to return is made by the Associate Dean for Student
Services, in consultation with other officers of the School and University, as appropriate. or such other
person as the Dean designates.
If the leave, whether voluntary or involuntary, was for medical reasons, then the student must petition
the Associate Dean for Student Services for permission to return to the School and must demonstrate
that the circumstances that led to their leave have been satisfactorily addressed and they are ready to
resume their studies. In addition, so that the School may conduct an individualized assessment of their
circumstances, students on medical leave ordinarily will be required to consult with Harvard University
Health Services (and to grant permission to Harvard University Health Services to obtain their relevant
treatment records and communicate with their treatment providers) so that a professional assessment
about the student’s productivity during their time away and readiness to return can be shared with the
School. In addition, if the School learns of serious concerns about the health or well-being of a student
who either has been hospitalized or visited the emergency room or whose behavior reasonably calls into
question their ability to function as a student in the Harvard Chan School environment, then the School
similarly may require the student to consult with Harvard University Health Services (and to grant
permission to Harvard University Health Services to obtain their relevant treatment records and
communicate with their treatment providers). The purpose of such consultation is so that a professional
assessment can be shared with the School about the student’s readiness to return and function in the
student environment, with or without reasonable accommodation. Note that while the input of a
student’s treatment provider is an important consideration in the petition process, Harvard University
Health Services clinicians may have special knowledge of the University context to which students will
be returning. In all such cases, the decision whether to allow a student to return is made by the
Associate Dean for Student Services, in consultation with other officers of the School and University, as
appropriate or such other person as the Dean designates. Any student whose petition to return from a
medical leave of absence is denied will receive a written explanation of the decision and may submit a
written appeal of the decision to the Dean of Education or their designee within five (5) calendar days,
based on the following grounds: (a) new materially relevant information has become available; and/or
(b) there is reasonable evidence of a procedural error in the decision-making process.
Any disciplinary matter must be resolved before a student on leave of absence will be allowed to return
and, if the student has been required to withdraw while on leave of absence, then any conditions for
return after a required withdrawal also must be satisfied.
Students returning from a leave who wish to apply for financial aid must notify the Financial Aid Office
and file the necessary application forms by mid-April for the following fall term, and by October 1 for the
following spring term. Late applicants cannot be assured that their aid will be available in time for
registration payment deadlines.
Students who have been granted a leave and who have borrowed money through Harvard must submit
an annual loan deferment form to the Student Loan Office upon their return to Harvard. Deferment
forms may be obtained through either the Student Loan Office or the Financial Aid Office and must be
completed and certified by the Registrar immediately following Registration. Failure to file a deferment
form upon return will cause payments to be due on loans and could affect future borrowing eligibility.
A student will not be allowed to register in the University again until all previous term-bill charges have
42
been paid and no loan is in default.
Agreements to Engage in Treatment
The School may condition a student’s enrollment and/or residence on certain terms or conditions, as set
forth in a written contract between the School and the student, when the student’s conduct or
circumstances have caused heightened concerns about the student’s safety and/or well-being and: (a)
the appropriateness of the student’s continued enrollment and/or residence; or (b) the student’s
readiness to return to the Harvard community. The agreement to engage in treatment may include,
among other things, compliance with a medical treatment plan, regular consultations with health care
professionals, communication with administrators, and limited disclosure of relevant medical
information, on a need-to-know basis, such as compliance with treatment and restrictions on certain
activities. The decision to require such an agreement is arrived at in consultation with Harvard University
Health Services after an individualized assessment of the nature of the student’s conduct and
circumstances and any other pertinent factors.
Clearance for Return
After a hospitalization or emergency room visit by one of its students that raises serious concerns about
the students health or well-being, or in other circumstances that raise serious questions about the
student’s health or well-being and reasonably call into question their ability to function as a student in
the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health environment, the Harvard Chan School ordinarily will not
permit that student to return to residence and enrollment or participation in any Harvard-related
programs or activities before making its own assessment of the suitability of the student’s return. (See
“Procedure for Notice and Consultation” below). To better inform that assessment, students are
expected to notify both the Harvard Chan School and HUHS of any hospitalization or emergency
department visit. HUHS can be notified by phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 617-495-5711.
Reason for Policy
An important consideration in the Harvard Chan School’s decision as to whether a student may continue
in or return to residence and enrollment is the impact of the student’s presence on the community. A
student who is injured, ill, or exhibiting disturbing or disruptive behavior may require ongoing care.
Serious alcohol- or drug-related problems, in particular, have the potential to disrupt residential life
and/or life in the academic community significantly and impair a student’s ability to function
academically and socially. The Harvard Chan School regards as unreasonable the expectation that
roommates, suitemates, friends, or Harvard Chan School staff will take on health care responsibilities for
other students.
Any student may, of course, refuse to allow consultation between the student’s clinician(s) and Harvard
Chan School, but such a refusal will not prevent Harvard Chan School from making a decision regarding a
student’s return to residence or continued enrollment.
Procedure for Notice and Consultation
The Harvard Chan School will consult with clinicians at HUHS and/or, if the student has been treated
elsewhere, clinicians at other facilities or in private practice, ordinarily with the student’s permission.
Depending on all of the relevant circumstances, such consultation may be initiated either by the Harvard
Chan School or by clinicians at HUHS. Notice that a student has been hospitalized or treated in an
emergency department of an area hospital may prompt the Harvard Chan School to begin a process of
consultation through which it will decide whether and under what circumstances the student may
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continue in or return to residence or enrollment.
The Harvard Chan School also may independently decide that, based on its observations or other
information it has about a student, it should initiate the process of consultation with HUHS clinicians,
which may include ascertaining whether that student has been hospitalized or treated by an emergency
department.
Consultation will be focused on the concerns raised by the student’s condition or behavior and
requirements for continued care, in order to facilitate Harvard Chan School’s decision about the
student’s capacity to continue in or return to residence and enrollment.
Family Leave Policy
Doctoral students have several options designed to maximize flexibility during periods of family leave. A
student may apply for parental leave or leave to assist an immediate family member in need of care
under the standard procedures for leaves of absence. Students may choose to take time away from the
School and make no progress toward their degree (leave of absence). Students on leave of absence may
continue to have access to their School email account but will not be considered active students and will
thus not have access to electronic library resources nor be able to use a student ID for access to
facilities. Students on leave may maintain some physical access to the Harvard Chan School and
Countway Library. Arrangements for this access may be made through the School’s Office for Student
Affairs.
Alternatively, a doctoral student may make arrangements to enroll as a part-time student and register
for a small number of independent study or research credits (1.25-credit minimum to 5-credit
maximum). If the student chooses the latter alternative, tuition will be assessed at the standard per-
credit rate. Students enrolled in part-time status will maintain access to all Harvard facilities and
electronic library resources available to students at the School. Doctoral students who elect this option
should be aware that tuition paid while on family leave will not count toward the residency
requirement. The GSAS policies website contains more details for PhD candidates. All degree candidates,
whether currently registered or not, are expected to maintain a satisfactory standard of conduct.
Students considering taking family leave should consult with their adviser, the Registrar’s Office, and the
Office for Student Affairs.
Petition Process
The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Registrar’s Office is the administrative body of the
Harvard Chan School responsible for receiving requests for exceptions to the school’s financial and
registration policies and coordinating the review process with the appropriate offices. The Registrar’s
Office is empowered to receive and coordinate the review and decision process for exceptions to
policies and procedures pertaining (but not limited) to the following:
1. Late registration
2. Late registration fees and Continuation Fee
3. Adding courses beyond the school deadline in cases in which the instructor approves the
change
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4. Dropping courses beyond the school deadline
5. Grade option changes beyond the school deadline in cases in which the instructor approves the
change
6. Waiver of processing fees and fines
Student Responsibilities and the Petition Process
A student who wishes to request an exception to a specific policy, procedure, or deadline must submit
a General Petition Form to the Harvard Chan School Registrar’s Office. Petitions must meet the
following standards:
1. The circumstances of the request are beyond their control and compelling, as determined by the
reviewers.
2. The student provides documentation of the circumstances.
Decision Guidelines
The Registrar’s Office, Office of Education Programs, and Academic Administrators understand and work
to preserve and maintain the standards and the integrity of Harvard Chan School. Decisions are guided
by several considerations:
• Students’ agreement to abide by Harvard Chan School Standards of Conduct, as well as all
Harvard Chan School rules and regulations as described in this handbook.
• Issues of equity and consistency, which are considered whenever a student is requesting an
exception to a policy or procedure to which other students remain accountable (the reviewers
will strive to have consistency in decision making based on previous cases and fairness so that
students are treated equitably).
• The school’s requirement to comply with governmental statutes and regulations.
• The strength of the appeal and degree to which special circumstances are relevant (including
appropriate documentation, e.g., for a relevant medical issue)
As part of the process, the staff may contact course instructors or other school officials as appropriate to
gather additional relevant information.
Administrators understand and respect the rights and responsibilities of all individuals while supporting
and protecting the principles of due process and confidentiality. The committee accepts responsibility
for administering fair, thoughtful, and equal consideration of all financial and registration appeals.
Students’ requests, supporting documentation, deliberations, and correspondence are treated
confidentially. Students will be notified in writing of the final decision.
Withdrawal
Refund Schedule for Leaves of Absence/Withdrawal
Tuition is prorated according to the schedule below for students who take a leave of absence or
withdraw after the term has begun. The effective date of a leave of absence or withdrawal is the date
the petition is filed with the Registrar’s Office or a future date if so requested in the student’s letter.
Academic Year 2023–2024 Leave of Absence/Withdrawal Tuition Refund Schedule
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Fall 2023
Spring 2024
Refund
of Tuition
Withdrawal Deadline*
September 7
February 1
100%
Withdrawal Deadline*
September 21
February 15
90%
Withdrawal Deadline*
October 5
February 29
75%
Withdrawal Deadline*
October 26
March 21
50%
Withdrawal Deadline*
October 27
March 22
25%
Withdrawal Deadline*
October 28†
March 23†
0%
*Date by which the student must notify the Harvard Chan Registrar’s Office.
†If students exceed the October 27 or March 22 deadlines, then a refund will not be issued.
Students who take a leave of absence may pay a higher tuition rate upon their return to the program.
Students who withdraw or take a leave of absence and who are federal student aid recipients are
subject to the return of federal/Title IV funding. This policy may affect the amount of federal aid both
the School and the student are allowed to retain for the period of enrollment. Please see the Financial
Aid Policies on the Office of Financial Aid web site for a more detailed description of the Return of Title
IV Funds policy including the refund.
Students’ Harvard health insurance will be affected by their withdrawal. For details, contact the
Harvard University Student Health Program by phone at 617-495-2008 or by email.
Transcripts
An official transcript includes the student’s name, degree program(s), courses taken, grades received,
date(s) of the degree(s) conferred, and GPA. The transcript is printed with the registrar’s signature and
the Harvard Chan School seal, placed in an envelope with an explanation of the School’s grading system,
and sealed. If the seal is broken, the transcript is considered unofficial. Students who would like to
review their grades before sending them to a third party should use the grade report feature via
my.harvard.
Students can request transcripts through Parchment. There are fees associated with this service.
If a student requests a transcript (official/unofficial) and has an outstanding financial obligation to the
Harvard Chan School or Harvard University, the transcript will bear the notations “Issued to Student”
and “Student’s financial obligations to the University have not been met.” These transcripts will not be
sent to third parties. Transcripts cannot be issued to third parties for students facing disciplinary
proceedings.
Transcripts from other schools submitted by students to the Harvard Chan School as part of the
admissions process to the School remain part of the student’s permanent record. These transcripts are
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never sent to third parties. Students must obtain copies of these transcripts from the school where the
academic credits were earned and the degree awarded.
Some institutions will not accept transcripts that have not been sent directly to them by the registrar.
Students should check with the third party before requesting a transcript.
Certifications
Certifications of Enrollment
Students who require certification of enrollment, tuition and fees, or graduation must complete the
Request for Certification Form via my.harvard. The processing time for certification is 7-10 business
days. Certifications may be forwarded directly to third parties if requested by the student. There is no
fee for this type of certification.
Certifications of Loan Deferrals
Students who have loans from Harvard or other institutions must keep in mind that enrollment may be
certified only for the terms in which students are currently enrolled or for previous terms. For most
student loans to be deferred, students must be registered for a minimum of 10 credits each term. Most
student loan deferrals will be completed electronically. Students should consult the appropriate lending
institution regarding requirements. Harvard University participates in the National Student Loan
Clearinghouse for loans. Students whose lender does not participate in this program should take their
loan deferral forms to the Registrar’s Office for processing or send them by email.
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Applying for Graduation
Once students have met their degree requirements, they must apply for graduation. The Harvard Chan
School has three degree-granting periods: November, March, and May. To apply for graduation,
students must complete the Application for Degree by clicking on the Apply to Graduate link on the
my.harvard portal.
Students expecting to graduate must apply to graduate via the my.harvard portal by the following dates:
Diploma awarded date
Deadline for degree application
Doctoral dissertations due
November 14, 2023
August 11, 2023
September 15, 2023
March 5, 2024
December 8, 2023
January 12, 2024
May 23, 2024
March 1, 2024
April 12, 2024
Students who fail to comply with the above deadlines must apply for the degree in the next granting
period.
An academic degree audit by both the Registrar’s Office and the student’s department/program
occurs shortly after the degree application deadline for all degree candidates even if an application to
graduate was not submitted. The Registrar’s Office also conducts a financial audit. Students who have
met all academic and financial requirements will be placed on the degree list.
All degree candidates must make restitution to the Harvard Chan School and Harvard University by
paying their Student Account and any other financial obligation to the University in full.
• Payments are due October 2023 for November degrees,
• February 2024 for March degrees, and
• May 2024 for May degrees.
Students who do not pay their Student Account or other financial obligations to the University in full will
not receive their diploma(s) until this obligation is met and approval is granted by the Governing Board.
November, March, and May graduates are invited to attend Convocation and Graduation ceremonies in
May at the Harvard Chan School and at Harvard Yard. It is the graduate’s responsibility to obtain
information from this site. November and March graduates should continue to check their Harvard
email accounts for May Convocation and Graduation details.
The process by which students apply to graduate is separate and distinct from declaring one’s intention
to attend the ceremonies.
Loan Exit Counseling Requirements
Graduates who are either federal student loan or private student loan borrowers are required to
complete loan exit counseling. Information regarding the scheduling of an appointment is found on the
loan exit counseling requirements website.
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Diplomas
All diplomas for graduates will be mailed 10-15 business days following graduation. In order to ensure
that your diploma arrives at your desired address, log in to my.harvard and enter your “Diploma Mailing
Address”. Further information regarding diplomas is found on the graduation website.
Prior to receiving their diplomas, graduates should review their final grades on the grade report via
my.harvard. If in reviewing their grades, graduates find errors or have questions, they should contact
the Registrar’s Office.
Health Insurance for Degree Candidates
November degree candidates may or may not be eligible for health insurance coverage through
Harvard, depending on the date of completion of their degree requirements. November degree
candidates who do not want to retain the Student Health Insurance Plan must complete their degree
requirements on or before September 7, 2023. November degree candidates who want to retain the
Student Health Insurance Plan must complete their degree requirements on or after September 8, 2023.
The complete Harvard University Student Health Program’s November Degree Policy website contains
more information.
March degree candidates’ coverage will terminate on January 31.
Students graduating in November or March must consult the Harvard University Student Health
Program website and/or contact Member Services by phone at 617-495-2008 or by email regarding the
policy on health insurance coverage during the student’s final term and after graduation.
Awards
Each year, several awards are presented to students, faculty, instructors, and staff who have
distinguished themselves at the School. The criteria and selection processes vary. Deadlines for awards
open to nomination by the community will be advertised on Student News and on the Graduation
webpage in the spring.
Harvard Chan Military Student Readmission Policy
I. SCOPE AND PURPOSE
In accordance with federal regulations, 34 C.F.R. § 668.18 and the Department of Defense (DoD)
Voluntary Education Partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the Harvard T.H. Chan School
of Public Health (HSPH) will promptly readmit service members who seek readmission to a program that
was interrupted due to a uniformed service obligation.
II. ELIGIBILITY
This policy shall apply to:
1. Service members who are unable to attend classes for more than 30 consecutive days; and
2. Service members who are unable to attend classes for less than 30 days when such an absence would
result in a withdrawal from the college.
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A student is eligible for readmission under this policy if, during an absence, the student performs
uniformed service, voluntary or involuntary, in the Armed Forces, including the National Guard or
Reserve, active duty, active duty for training or full-time National Guard (under federal authority). The
cumulative length of all absences for uniformed service (service time only) must not exceed five years.
A student must provide orders, or written notice by Commanding Officer, of a Uniformed Service
Obligation, such as Temporary Duty (TDY), etc., to the Registrar’s Office or designee as far in advance as
possible, unless precluded by military necessity. Such notice does not need to indicate when the student
will return to the college.
III. NOTIFICATION OF INTENT TO RETURN
The student must also give oral or written notice of Intent to Return to HSPH within three years after the
completion of the period of service. Immediately upon the student's return to school, the student must
provide notice that he/she may be entitled to the tuition and enrollment benefits outlined in this policy.
The student is required to provide official military obligation documentation to the Registrar’s Office or
designee.
IV. TUITION AND FEES
A returning student must be charged the same tuition and fees in effect during the last academic year
the student attended unless veterans’ education benefits or other service member education benefits
will pay the amount in excess. For subsequent academic years, the returning student may not be
charged tuition and fees more than what other students in the program are charged.
V. READMISSION REQUIREMENTS
A returning student will be permitted to reenroll in the next class(es) scheduled in the same academic
program unless the student requests a later date of reenrollment or agrees to a different program. A
returning student will be readmitted into the same academic program the student was enrolled in prior
to the military service obligation. If the exact program no longer exists, the student must be admitted to
the program that is most similar, unless the student requests or agrees to admission to a different
program. Returning students will be reenrolled with the same enrollment status, number of completed
credit hours, and academic standing as the last academic year of attendance.
If the college determines that a returning student is not prepared to reenroll in the same academic
program with the same academic status or is unable to complete the program, the college must make
reasonable efforts to enable the student to resume or complete the program at no additional cost to the
student. If such efforts are unsuccessful or place an undue hardship on the college, the college is not
required to readmit the student.
In accordance with federal regulations, returning students who receive a dishonorable or bad conduct
discharge from the Armed Forces (including the National Guard and Reserves) are not eligible for
readmission under this policy. However, service members who receive dishonorable or bad conduct
discharge may remain eligible for readmission even though they will not be entitled to the benefits
outlined in this policy.
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Academic Integrity and Standards of Conduct
University-Wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities
The central functions of an academic community are learning, teaching, research, and scholarship. By
accepting membership in the University, an individual joins a community ideally characterized by free
expression, free inquiry, intellectual honesty, respect for the dignity of others, and openness to
constructive change. The rights and responsibilities exercised within the community must be compatible
with these qualities.
See University-Wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities for more details.
Standards of Conduct in the Harvard Community
It is the expectation of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health that its students, whether or not
they are on campus or are currently enrolled as degree candidates, will behave in a mature and
responsible manner, in accordance with Harvard Chan School standards of personal and professional
conduct and accountability. In doing so, students help create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere for
learning and growth and demonstrate the core values of effective public health professionals instill in
their work and uphold in their daily lives. This expectation for mature and responsible conduct also
encompasses accountability for one’s own well-being, including responsible decision-making regarding
physical and mental health. Further, the Harvard Chan School expects every student to be familiar with
the regulations governing membership in the Harvard community set forth in this Handbook.
All Harvard Chan School students are expected to adhere to these overarching values:
• Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others
• Honest and ethical preparation and submission of all academic work
• Honesty and integrity in dealing with all members of the community
• Accountability for personal and professional behavior
Specific examples of ways in which students demonstrate these values include but are not limited to:
• Regular and timely attendance and participation in all courses, program, and other required
activities
• Respectful, attentive behavior within and outside courses
• Appropriate conduct, judgment, and tact in all personal and professional situations
• Effective and timely communication with all members of the Harvard community
• Appropriate judgement in responding to unethical, unprofessional or dangerous behavior on the
part of others
• Respectful behavior regarding the privacy of all members of the Harvard community
• Maintenance of appropriate boundaries when dealing with others at the Harvard Chan School.
In addition, students may not:
• Provide false information to School or University officials
• Disrupt or obstruct teaching, research or other University or School activities
• Remove or misuse library books, computer networks or other University or School property
• Threaten or use force against others
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• Harass, coerce or engage in other conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person
(including without limitation sexual or gender-based harassment and threats involving deadly
weapons, explosives, bombs, chemical or biological agents, or other deadly devices)
• Discriminate against others on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation,
religion, creed, national origin, age, ancestry, veteran status, disability, or any other legally
protected basis
• Engage in theft of or damage to property; hazing; or other infractions of University or School
regulations
• Violate any city, state, and federal laws that reflect upon the person’s suitability to be a health
professional
• Engage in any other illegal, unethical, or inappropriate behavior
Because students are expected to show good judgment and use common sense at all times, not all kinds
of misconduct or behavioral standards are codified here.
Students are expected to comply with the School’s standards for conduct from matriculation until the
conferring of the degree. A degree will not be granted to a student who is not in good standing or
against whom a disciplinary charge is pending.
Academic Standards and Integrity
The Harvard Chan School is committed to cultivating and maintaining a learning environment marked by
high academic standards and integrity. Harvard Chan students are expected to conduction themselves in
keeping with those values.
To report a code of conduct violation, please submit a Code of Conduct form.
Admissions Application Policy
Occasionally, candidates for admission will make inaccurate or incomplete statements or submit false
material in connection with their application. In most cases, these misrepresentations or omissions are
discovered during the admission process and the application is rejected. If a misrepresentation or
omission is discovered after a student is admitted, the offer of admission ordinarily will be withdrawn. If
a misrepresentation or omission is discovered after a student has registered, or registered and
completed courses, the offer of admission ordinarily will be rescinded, the course credit and grades will
be revoked, and the student will be required to leave the School. If the discovery occurs after a degree
has been awarded, the offer of admission ordinarily will be rescinded, and the course credit, grades, and
degree will be revoked.
The determination that an application is inaccurate, incomplete, or contains misrepresentations or
omissions rests with the Office of Admissions, which has the authority to resolve the matter outside the
student disciplinary process. The Office of Admissions also may rescind an offer of admission in other
circumstances, including without limitation if: there is a discrepancy between the transcripts originally
provided as part of the application and the official versions (or translations) submitted after acceptance;
the admitted candidate did not satisfactorily complete any courses and degree programs in progress at
the time of application; or the admitted candidate has engaged in academic or personal conduct that
calls into question their honesty, maturity or moral character or is otherwise inconsistent with the
School’s expectations for conduct.
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Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct is antithetical to the core values of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Students who engage in academic misconduct (including, for example, plagiarizing, cheating or falsifying
data) are misrepresenting their level of mastery and skill.
Please see below for specific policies on plagiarism, self-plagiarism, unapproved collaboration,
fabrication and falsification, cheating or colluding to cheat on exams, and use of artificial intelligence
tools.
All students are responsible for understanding the expectations and requirements of their academic
work and knowing whether collaborative work is permitted for each of their courses and with respect
to each assignment. While instructors and teaching fellows should make every effort to outline
expectations clearly, the onus for seeking clarification is on the student.
The School’s code of conduct also applies to general behavior, outside of the classroom context.
For example, violations of our standards could include falsifying one’s identity for academic and
professional purposes, unauthorized use of accounts, unauthorized sharing or selling of proprietary
academic content, or research-related misconduct.
Research misconduct by students ordinarily will be reviewed by the Office of Regulatory Affairs and
Research Compliance, as detailed in the Research Misconduct Policy. The Office of Regulatory and
Research Compliance then will coordinate with the Office for Student Services, which may impose
sanctions pursuant to this Code of Conduct policy, depending upon the circumstances.
The School reserves the right to determine, in a given instance, what action constitutes an infringement
of honesty and integrity. Sanctions will be aligned with the seriousness of the violation and will apply to
all student at the Harvard Chan School, including PhD students officially enrolled at the Graduate School
of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), though GSAS may be consulted if an incident involves a PhD student.
Similarly, for students who are cross-registered into a Harvard Chan class from another Harvard School,
the Harvard Chan School will coordinate with the student’s home school on review processes and any
recommended sanctions.
Academic Integrity Reporting Procedures
All members of the Harvard Chan community are responsible for upholding the School’s values and
standards. There are also context-specific elements to every potential violation of standards. In
recognition that contexts and situations vary, the governance of these standards includes flexibility and
multiple paths toward addressing perceived student academic misconduct that include:
Consultation is a path for asking questions and obtaining confidential guidance prior to the formal
reporting of an incident or at any time during the review of evidence about an incident. It might, for
example, be useful to talk with the Associate Dean for Student Services if it is unclear whether an
incident rises to the level of needing to be reported. Another example might include getting guidance
about how best to talk with students about perceived or potential violations. A third example is to
determine the path forward if a student is involved in a research misconduct incident, which will require
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coordination with the Office of Regulatory Affairs and Research Compliance. Consultation is available
both for someone who believes they have observed an incident of misconduct and for those who have
been accused of misconduct, or both. Consultation is provided by the Associate Dean for Student
Services. The Associate Dean may refer individuals to the Office for Student Affairs, or other support
services at the School or University, suggest that there be further consultations between the involved
parties (e.g., instructors, TFs, students, research staff, other staff members), provide advice about how
to complete a form to register a violation, or any number of other actions designed to facilitate learning
and adherence to our values and standards.
Internal review (usually within-course review) is a path for an incident to be documented but handled
within the context of the perceived violation, without need for a hearing by the Student Code of
Conduct Council. This most commonly occurs for incidents of academic misconduct, within the context
of a course. Instructional staff who perceive academic misconduct would, in this context, determine
whether there was a violation, complete a misconduct form, and determine the appropriate sanction
and communicate it to the student without a hearing. Instructors are encouraged to contact the
Associate Dean for Student Services to discuss options.
Internal review is optional for both instructors and students. If either instructor or student (or both)
prefer a Student Code of Conduct Council hearing, that is an option for a perceived incident of
misconduct.
Student Code of Conduct Council hearing involves an incident that is reviewed by the council (a) either
when one or both parties prefer a hearing to an internal review or (b) when the incident is serious
enough to require a hearing.
The School’s code of conduct also applies to general behavior, outside of the classroom context. For
example, violations of our standards could include falsifying one’s identity for academic and professional
purposes, unauthorized use of accounts, unauthorized sharing or selling proprietary academic content,
or research-related misconduct. Research misconduct by students ordinarily will be reviewed by the
Office of Regulatory Affairs and Research Compliance, as detailed in the Research Misconduct Policy.
The Office of Regulatory Affairs and Research Compliance then will coordinate with the Office for
Student Services, which may impose sanctions pursuant to this Code of Conduct policy, depending upon
the circumstances.
The examples below, while not intended to be exhaustive, are meant to establish a standard set of
definitions of academic misconduct. The School reserves the right to determine, in a given instance,
what action constitutes an infringement of honesty and integrity. Sanctions will be aligned with the
seriousness of the violation and will apply to all students at Harvard Chan, including PhD students
officially enrolled in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), though GSAS may be consulted if
an incident involves a PhD student. Similarly, for students who are cross-registered into a Harvard Chan
class from another Harvard School, Harvard Chan will coordinate with the student’s home school on
review processes and any recommended sanctions.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is the appropriation of another person’s ideas, processes, results, or words without giving
appropriate credit. All work submitted to meet course requirements is expected to be a student’s own
work. Students should always take great care to distinguish their own ideas and knowledge from
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information derived from sources. Whenever ideas or facts are derived from a student’s reading and
research, the sources must be indicated. The term “sources” includes not only published primary and
secondary material but also information and opinions gained directly from other people (e.g., lecture,
video, past presentations from students previously in the course, etc.). The responsibility for using
proper forms of citation lies with the individual student. Direct quotes from other sources must be
placed within quotation marks, and the original source must be clearly credited. All paraphrased
material also must be acknowledged. If a student is unsure about the proper way to attribute credit for
ideas other than their own, they should seek guidance from instructional staff and/or from Student
Support Services. Allegations of plagiarism by a student with respect to research activities ordinarily will
be reviewed by the Office of Regulatory Affairs and Research Compliance, in coordination with the
Office of Student Services, as set forth above.
Self-Plagiarism/Reusing Previous Work
Self-plagiarism is trying to submit work previously completed in one context as original in a new context.
A paper or other work normally may be submitted only in one course. Students must obtain prior
written permission of the current instructor in order to submit the same or substantially the same work
in any other course. A student who submits the same or substantially the same work for more than one
course without such prior permission is subject to sanctions.
Unapproved Collaboration
The default assumption is that students must produce their own work. Unapproved collaboration – that
is, working with others outside the specified, assigned collaborative activities of a course – is prohibited.
The amount of permitted collaboration in the completion of assignments depends on the policy set by
the course instructor. Instructors are responsible for clearly stating collaboration policies in their
course syllabi. Students are in turn responsible for understanding the appropriate degree of
collaboration permitted by the instructional team, including clarifying any uncertainties with their
instructors, and appropriately acknowledging collaboration in submitted work. This requirement applies
to collaboration on editing as well as on substance.
A note on computer programs: Like other written material, code written to satisfy a course requirement
is expected to be the original work of the student submitting it. Copying a program from another
student or from any other source without appropriate attribution is a form of academic dishonesty, as is
deriving a program substantially from the work of others without proper citation or permission of the
instructor.
Fabrication and Falsification
Fabrication is making up data or results and recording or reporting them. Falsification is manipulating
research materials, equipment, or processes, or changing or omitting data or results such that the
research is not accurately represented in the research record. Original research is an integral part of
both academic training and the dissemination of general knowledge. While it comes in many forms, all
research is held to rigorous standards both within the school in which it is conducted and beyond. As
such, the fabrication or falsification of data, including but not limited to falsification of experimental
results or surveys that are part of a student’s academic training, will not be tolerated in any form.
Allegations of fabrication or falsification of data by a student with respect to research activities
ordinarily will be reviewed by the Office of Regulatory Affairs and Research Compliance, in coordination
with the Office of Student Services, as set forth above.
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Cheating or Colluding to Cheat on Examinations
Cheating on exams, whether take-home or in-class, involves either submitting test answers that are not
one’s own or providing test answers to others that they submit as if their own. Unless otherwise
specified, take-home exams are given with the understanding that students may consult their class
notes and other approved references but may not consult other students or other external sources.
Students who submit work that is either not their own or lacks clear attribution of sources will be
subject to sanctions. Students also should be aware that the school has common procedures for the
administration of in-class examinations. Depending on the size of the class, proctors may be used to
monitor examinations, and students may be asked to follow a certain seating arrangement. Before the
examination, the instructor or proctor will explain any procedures to be followed.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools
The School’s current Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) guidance and policy can be viewed for
information and guidance.
Code of Conduct Council
The Council handles the resolution of School or University rules, breaches of community standards
and/or other disciplinary matters involving student at the School.
The Council is charged promoting students’ adherence to the values and standards of the School,
encouraging the ongoing development of personal integrity, and helping students take responsibility for
their actions. In cases of academic misconduct, the goal of the CCC is to help develop and reinforce a
culture of authentic learning.
The council is not an adversarial or prosecutorial body. Its charge is to objectively consider the matters
that come before it, consistent with the values and standards for student conduct.
The Student Code of Conduct Council is composed of three to four faculty members, two doctoral
students, the Associate Dean for Student Services, and the Assistant Dean for Professional Education.
The faculty members are appointed by the Dean for Education for three-year terms; one of the
members is designated by the dean for Education to serve as co-chair with the Associate Dean for
Student Services. Student roles on the council may depend upon the specifics of the case (for example, a
student representative could be recused if a student being reviewed by the council comes from the
representative’s department or program).
Rules for Disciplinary Proceedings
1. Upon issuance of a formal charge by the Associate Dean for Student Services, the Student Code
of Conduct Council begins its review of the alleged misconduct.
2. A member of the council who believes they cannot properly discharge responsibilities in a given
case may excuse him or herself. The council also may, either in response to a student’s request
or on its own, decide to excuse a council member.
3. Within one week of the issuance of a formal charge, the student should submit a written
statement on the incident to the council, which should include the student’s perspective on the
situation along with copies of any additional information bearing on the matter. This statement
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should be written by the student in their own words, but the student is encouraged to seek the
help of their adviser, another faculty member, the Director for Student Affairs, or the Associate
Dean for Student Services.
4. When a complaint involves allegations of serious criminal conduct, students are advised to seek
legal counsel before making any written or oral statements to the School. The School’s
disciplinary process is pedagogical rather than judicial, and attorneys for students are not
permitted to participate. However, students are advised to seek legal advice about how the
School’s disciplinary process could affect any criminal case in which they may be involved.
Ordinarily, if a complaint is being pursued through the criminal justice system, the council may
assess the timing of the investigation so that it does not compromise the integrity of the
criminal investigation. In some cases, the council may choose to postpone or suspend its own
review of the matter until the criminal case has been concluded.
5. The student has a right to a hearing before the Student Code of Conduct Council. Hearings will
be private. A recording may be made of that portion of the meeting in which the student meets
with the council. A copy of the recording, if made, shall be made available to the student
(without charge) upon request.
6. A student appearing before the Student Code of Conduct Council may be accompanied by an
adviser (chosen by the student) from within the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
community. As noted above, in keeping with the nonadversarial character of the council’s
proceedings, attorneys for students cannot be present at hearings of the council.
7. The student, after giving prior notice to the council, may bring to the hearing persons who have
information relevant to the facts of the alleged misconduct. Individuals wishing to attest to the
character of a student may not attend the hearing but will be allowed to communicate with the
council in writing.
8. The council considers any information that it deems to be relevant and credible. Formal rules of
evidence do not apply.
9. The council may draw such reasonable inferences from a student’s decision not to cooperate
with the disciplinary process as it deems appropriate. Statements made to members of the
council and others may be considered by the council at the hearing regardless of when made.
10. If the student wishes the council to consider a medical excuse, explanation, or justification in a
particular case, the student must consent to the release to the council their relevant medical or
psychiatric records by Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) or another health care
provider. Refusal to authorize disclosure of information obtained by HUHS or other health care
provider shall not be weighed against the student. The absence of such information, may,
however, properly preclude the council from considering a medical excuse, explanation, or
justification in a particular case.
11. Disciplinary sanctions will not be imposed unless conduct warranting sanction is established by a
preponderance of the evidence. Decisions of the council are final, except for those
recommending expulsion or dismissal, which require a two-thirds vote by the Harvard Chan
School Faculty Council.
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12. All Student Code of Conduct Council business is treated confidentially. The student against
whom allegations were raised will be told only the disposition of their own case and only by the
co-chair of the council (usually the Associate Dean for Student Services).
13. All decisions of the council to impose sanctions shall be communicated to the student in writing,
along with specific findings of fact and conclusions, including, wherever appropriate, a
statement of the reasons for the specific sanction and the principles upon which the council
relied in setting the sanction. This information also may be conveyed to relevant faculty and
staff of the School, including the student’s adviser, their department chair or program head, the
registrar, and others as appropriate.
14. If the council concludes that no disciplinary action is warranted, then a written statement of this
decision is sent to the student and no record of the charge shall appear on the student’s
transcript.
15. The council’s decision takes effect immediately. When dismissal or expulsion is recommended
(in addition to the requirement to withdraw), then the dismissal or expulsion becomes effective
upon a two-thirds vote at a Faculty Council meeting.
16. When a disciplinary case comes before the Faculty Council for a vote on dismissal or expulsion,
the Associate Dean for Student Services will present the facts of the case in a written report to
the Faculty Council.
17. A student may request that the Student Code of Conduct Council reconsider its decision if new
materially relevant information becomes available. If the council refuses such a request, it must
notify the student in writing of the reason for the refusal.
18. In the case of a disciplinary proceeding involving any crime of violence or nonforcible sex
offense, the School may disclose the results of the proceeding to the alleged victim, without
prior written consent of the student whose conduct was at issue, regardless of whether the
council concluded a violation was committed.
19. Should situations arise that are not covered by these rules and procedures or in which the
application of these rules and procedures, in the judgment of the council, would be
inappropriate, the council may formulate and follow an appropriate ad hoc procedure.
20. Disciplinary cases are ordinarily considered by the Student Code of Conduct Council as quickly as
is reasonably possible, given the council’s schedule and the need to investigate matters
carefully. The Code of Conduct Council does not meet during the summer months.
Sanctions for Misconduct
If a determination is made that there was no violation—whether through internal review or a Student
Code of Conduct Council hearing—there will be no record of the incident kept in the student’s file.
Formal sanctions, which become part of the student’s official record, are described below. Also below
are sanctions specific to academic misconduct. Please note that the Student Code of Conduct Council
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may also (or instead) impose sanctions as appropriate to a specific case.
Admonition: A formal reprimand that becomes part of the student’s official record but does not appear
on the transcript.
Probation: A warning to the student that they are in serious danger of being required to withdraw from
the School, usually imposed for a specified period of time. At the end of the probationary period, the
student may be relieved from probation by vote of the Student Code of Conduct Council if the student’s
conduct has been satisfactory. A student on probation may be required to withdraw from the School by
vote of the Student Code of Conduct Council at any time if their conduct is unsatisfactory. No student on
probation may be recommended for a degree. That the student is on probation appears on the
student’s transcript during the period of probation. The notation on the transcript will normally read
“Disciplinary Probation” and will include the dates of the period of the probation.
Requirement to Withdraw: An action taken in serious disciplinary cases indicating that the student’s
behavior is unacceptable in the School community. A student who has been required to withdraw is not
in good standing as a candidate for a degree and must surrender their Harvard University student ID
card and leave School property for a period determined by the Council, usually two terms. Without
exception, students who have been required to withdraw must petition the council to be readmitted to
the Harvard Chan School; readmission is not guaranteed but is decided on a case-by-case basis by the
council based on its judgment of the student’s conduct during their time away from the School and the
student’s readiness to rejoin the School community. That the student was required to withdraw for
disciplinary reasons appears permanently on the student’s transcript. The notation on the transcript will
normally read “Disciplinary Withdrawal Required” and will include the date of the withdrawal.
Dismissal: An action taken in serious disciplinary cases whereby a student’s connection with the School
is terminated by a two-thirds vote of the Faculty Council attending the meeting where the case is
presented. (The action taken by the Student Code of Conduct Council is a vote of requirement to
withdraw with a recommendation to the Faculty Council that the student be dismissed.) Dismissal does
not necessarily preclude a student’s return, but readmission is granted rarely and only by a similar vote
of the Faculty Council. A dismissed student is not in good standing until readmitted. The fact of dismissal
appears permanently on the student’s transcript. The notation on the transcript will normally read
“Disciplinary Dismissal” and will include the date of the dismissal.
Expulsion: The most extreme disciplinary action possible. It signifies that the student is no longer
welcome in the community and can never be readmitted. Expulsion must be voted by the Faculty
Council as described under “Dismissal.” (The action taken by the council is a vote of requirement to
withdraw with a recommendation to the Faculty Council that the student be expelled.) A student who is
expelled can never be readmitted and restored to good standing. The fact of expulsion appears
permanently on the student’s transcript. The notation on the transcript will normally read “Disciplinary
Expulsion” and will include the date of the expulsion.
Academic Misconduct Sanctions
Sanctions for academic misconduct will be determined based on the seriousness of the academic
violation, including any prior instances of misconduct by the student. The council will determine the
sanction, including whether, and for how long, a record of the sanction will appear in the student’s
school record and/or on the student’s transcript.
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The following are examples of possible sanctions and actions that can be imposed for academic
misconduct depending on the type and seriousness of the violation:
• Redoing the assignment
• Reduction of one letter grade on the assignment
• Reduction of multiple letter grades on the assignment
• Zero credit or score on the assignment
• Letter grade reduction in the course
• Loss of credit for the course – assign a failing grade for the course
• Discussion with the Associate Dean for Student Services regarding the School’s Code of Conduct
to determine if the case should be forwarded to the Code of Conduct Council for review and
determination of sanctions.
Research Misconduct Sanctions
In addition to the listed sanctions for misconduct, in the case of research misconduct, termination on a
research project and potential reimbursement of expended research funds.
Students are expected to comply with all disciplinary rules from matriculation until the conferring of the
degree. A degree will not be granted to a student who is not in good standing or against whom a
disciplinary charge is pending.
Note About Admission Materials: Occasionally, candidates for admission will make inaccurate or
incomplete statements or submit false material in connection with their application. In most cases,
these misrepresentations or omissions are discovered during the admission process and the application
is rejected. If a misrepresentation or omission is discovered after a candidate is admitted, the offer of
admission normally will be withdrawn. If a misrepresentation or omission is discovered after a student
has registered, or registered and completed courses, the offer of admission normally will be rescinded,
the course credit and grades will be revoked, and the student will be required to leave the School. If the
discovery occurs after a degree has been awarded, the offer of admission normally will be rescinded,
and the course credit, grades, and degree will be revoked. The determination that an application is
inaccurate, incomplete, or contains misrepresentations rests solely with the Admissions Office and will
be resolved outside the student disciplinary process. Cases involving misrepresentations or omissions in
connection with a student’s application may be decided by the Admissions Office rather than by the
Student Code of Conduct Council.
Policies on Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Discrimination
The Harvard Chan School has adopted the University Policy on Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment.
When information suggests the possibility of inappropriate conduct involving allegations of sexual or
gender-based harassment, the University Policy applies, as do the University’s Procedures for Handling
Complaints Involving Students Pursuant to the Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment Policy (the
“University Procedures”). Under the University Procedures, the Harvard University Office for Dispute
Resolution (ODR) is responsible for determining whether a student has violated the University Policy.
When the Student Code of Conduct Council learns that a formal complaint has been filed with ODR, the
Associate Dean for Student Services (or designee), on behalf of the Council, will meet with the
respondent to explain, among other things, the disciplinary process that may take place following the
issuance of the ODR’s final report, the range of disciplinary sanctions, and the appeals process following
60
the imposition of any discipline.
Whenever a formal complaint of sexual or gender-based harassment against a School student results in
the issuance of a final report from the ODR, the Student Code of Conduct Council must accept as final
and nonreviewable the report’s findings of fact and its conclusions as to whether a violation of the
University Policy has occurred. The role of the Student Code of Conduct Council is solely to determine
the appropriate disciplinary response.
The Student Code of Conduct Council may interview the parties and may undertake any other action it
deems necessary to arrive at its conclusions, including consulting with senior faculty or administrators at
the University when it feels additional expertise or advice would be useful. The council’s disciplinary
proceedings against the student based on conduct addressed by the ODR’s final report will proceed with
the understanding that the final report carries the same validity as a determination reached by the
council itself. All members of the Student Code of Conduct Council will receive appropriate training in
the handling and resolution of allegations of sexual or gender-based harassment. To the extent any
existing Harvard Chan School policies and procedures interfere with compliance with the University
Policy or Procedures, application of such Harvard Chan School policies and procedures shall be
suspended.
The council may take a number of disciplinary actions as set forth in the Sanctions for Misconduct
section . When no violation of the University Policy has been found, the Student Code of Conduct
Council will review the factual findings contained in the final report. Should the council conclude that
the alleged conduct, while not a violation of the University Policy, might violate other Harvard Chan
School policies or expectations for conduct, then the council will take up the case as set forth below. If
the council votes to impose discipline, it will notify the respondent and, as appropriate, the complainant,
of the discipline imposed.
Policies on Sexual and Gender Based Harassment
Sexual Harassment – Title IX
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HCSPH) has adopted the University-wide Interim Title IX
Sexual Harassment Policy and Interim Other Sexual Misconduct Policy. In addition, the University’s
Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment policy addresses sexual harassment and other sexual misconduct
alleged to have occurred between September 1, 2014, and August 14, 2020. Policies and their
associated grievance procedures can be viewed for additional information and guidance. In all such
cases, the Harvard University Office for Dispute Resolution (“ODR”) and the Office for Gender Equity are
responsible for implementing the University’s grievance procedures, which will determine whether a
student committed a policy violation. Whenever a formal complaint of sexual harassment or other
sexual misconduct is investigated and the University’s grievance procedures result in a finding that a
policy violation has occurred, the Student Code of Conduct Council must accept that finding as final and
nonreviewable. The only opportunity to appeal the determination of a policy violation is provided within
the grievance procedures implemented by the ODR and the Harvard University Office for Gender Equity.
Appeals within Harvard Chan pertain only to the decision of the Code Conduct Council in determining
discipline.
As expressed by the Faculty Council of Harvard College, “the determination of what constitutes sexual
harassment will vary with particular circumstance, but it may be described generally as unwanted sexual
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behavior, such as physical or verbal comments or suggestions, which adversely affects the working or
learning environment for an individual.” The administration of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public
Health wishes to do everything it can to maintain an environment free from harassment. Sexual
harassment, especially by persons with authority, be it faculty members or teaching assistants, will not
be tolerated.
Anyone believing themselves to be a victim of sexual or gender-based harassment should seek
assistance. This may take the form of just talking over the circumstances, informal counseling, or filing a
formal complaint. Persons at the School who are ready to help students include:
• Maritza Hernandez, Associate Dean for Student Services and Title IX Resource Coordinator at
617-432-4703;
• Luke Sutherland, Associate Director for Student Engagement and Experience, and Title IX
Resource Coordinator, at 617-432-5290;
• Yana Geyfman, Assistant Director of Student Support and Title IX Resource Coordinator;
• Shamika Harris, Assistant Director of Faculty Development and Title IX Resource Coordinator; at
617-432-1327;
• Jennifer Ivers, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Title IX Resource Coordinator; at 617-432-
1381.
• Linda Picard, Chief Human Resources Officer and Title IX Resource Coordinator, at 617-432-
2719.
Often, an informal process can help remedy the situation, so do not hesitate to seek help.
To file a formal complaint, contact the University Title IX Coordinator:
Nicole Merhill
Smith Campus Center, Suite 901
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-496-0200
Email: Titleix@harvard.edu
If you are considering filing a formal complaint or seeking informal resolution, you are encouraged to
consult your School or unit Title IX Resource Coordinator, the University’s Title IX Coordinator, or the
Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR).
Title IX Resource Coordinators have specialized experience in responding to disclosures of sexual
harassment and other sexual misconduct. They serve in a neutral role, support all members of the
Harvard community, and are expert resources around the University’s policies, procedures, and
resources in the realm of sexual harassment and other sexual misconduct. Resource Coordinators serve
as the primary point of contact for individuals seeking supportive measures, individualized supports that
enable Harvard community members impacted by sexual harassment or other sexual misconduct to
access their work or studies.
Contacting your local Title IX Resource Coordinator is not the same as filing a formal complaint with the
University Title IX Coordinator. Rather, the Resource Coordinators are a resource to help you make an
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informed decision about which pathways are right for you.
The Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR) impartially investigates formal complaints of sexual harassment
and other sexual misconduct against students, staff, and, with most Schools, faculty. ODR investigations
are handled by professional investigators working with the involved Schools and units. Any member of
the Harvard community may visit ODR to request information or advice, including how to file a formal
complaint with the University Title IX Coordinator and assistance in seeking informal resolution. You are
encouraged to bring your concerns to the relevant School or unit Title IX Resource Coordinator, the
University Title IX Coordinator, or staff in ODR, but may, if you choose, contact another School or
University officer, who will refer the matter as appropriate.
Office for Dispute Resolution
Smith Campus Center, Suite 935
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-495-3786
Email: odr@harvard.edu
Web: www.odr.harvard.edu
Procedures (including reporting procedures) of alleged violations of the University Policy on Sexual and
Gender-Based Harassment are set forth in the University Procedures discussed above and found here.
The procedures below apply to all other allegations of misconduct. For further information, please visit
the Office for Gender Equity website.
When the Student Code of Conduct Council learns that a formal complaint has been filed with ODR, the
Associate Dean for Student Services (or designee), on behalf of the Council, will meet with the
respondent to explain, among other things, the disciplinary process that may take place following the
issuance of the ODR’s final report, the range of disciplinary sanctions, and the appeals process following
the imposition of any discipline.
Whenever a formal complaint of sexual or gender-based harassment against a School student results in
the issuance of a final report from the ODR, the Student Code of Conduct Council must accept as final
and nonreviewable the report’s findings of fact and its conclusions as to whether a violation of the
University Policy has occurred. The role of the Student Code of Conduct Council is solely to determine
the appropriate disciplinary response.
The Student Code of Conduct Council may interview the parties and may undertake any other action it
deems necessary to arrive at its conclusions, including consulting with senior faculty or administrators at
the University when it feels additional expertise or advice would be useful. The council’s disciplinary
proceedings against the student based on conduct addressed by the ODR’s final report will proceed with
the understanding that the final report carries the same validity as a determination reached by the
council itself. All members of the Student Code of Conduct Council will receive appropriate training in
the handling and resolution of allegations of sexual or gender-based harassment. To the extent any
existing Harvard Chan School policies and procedures interfere with compliance with the University
Policy or Procedures, application of such Harvard Chan School policies and procedures shall be
suspended.
The council may take a number of disciplinary actions as set forth in the Sanctions for Misconduct
63
section. When no violation of the University Policy has been found, the Student Code of Conduct Council
will review the factual findings contained in the final report. Should the council conclude that the
alleged conduct, while not a violation of the University Policy, might violate other Harvard Chan School
policies or expectations for conduct, then the council will take up the case as set forth below. If the
council votes to impose discipline, it will notify the respondent and, as appropriate, the complainant, of
the discipline imposed.
Policy on Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying
The University has adopted new policies and procedures to address discrimination and bullying. These
policies apply to all students, faculty, staff, researchers, and other members of the Harvard community
across all Schools and units, including Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The University’s non-
discrimination and anti-bullying policies can be viewed for additional information and guidance.
Whenever a formal complaint of discrimination or bullying is investigated in accordance with the
University’s non-discrimination and anti-bullying policies and procedures, and those procedures result in
a finding that a policy violation has occurred, then sanctions or remedial measures will be determined
by Harvard Chan School Appropriate Official or designee(s), as set forth in those procedures. The
Harvard Chan School Appropriate Official or designee(s) must accept the finding of a policy violation as
final and non-reviewable. The only opportunity to appeal the determination of a policy violation is
provided within the University’s non-discrimination and anti-bullying policies and procedures. Decisions
about sanctions and remedial measures are final and cannot be appealed.
The following Local Designated Resources in Harvard Chan School serve as a resource for receiving
reports and complaints, directing community members to resources, and providing information on
supportive measures:
If you need guidance about a situation involving a student, contact Luke Sutherland, Associate Director
for Student Engagement and Experience or Maritza Hernandez, Associate Dean for Student Services.
If you need guidance about a situation involving faculty member, contact Jennifer Ivers, Associate Dean
for Faculty Affairs
If you need guidance about a situation involving a staff member, contact Linda Picard, Chief Human
Resources Officer.
At Harvard Chan School, the following individuals have been designated as Appropriate Officials, who
serve as the final authority to issue any sanctions under the University’s non-discrimination and anti-
bullying policies:
For situations involving students, the Appropriate Official is the Code of Conduct Council.
For situations involving faculty, the Appropriate Official is Jane Kim, Dean for Academic Affairs and
Interim Dean of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health or their designee.
For situations involving staff members, the Appropriate Official is Kate Calvin, Executive Dean for
Administration, or their designee.
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Policy on Drugs and Alcohol
The policy statement on drugs and alcohol is designed to address the University’s concerns about
substance abuse and to ensure that the Harvard community complies with the federal Drug-Free
Workplace Act of 1988 (the “Drug-Free Workplace Act”) and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities
Act Amendments of 1989 (the “Drug-Free Schools Act”).
The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of controlled substances or alcohol is prohibited in or on
Harvard premises, in vehicles provided by Harvard, at any worksite or location at which University duties
are being performed by Harvard employees or students, or as part of any of Harvard’s activities.
Common examples of controlled substances, as defined by law, are cocaine, marijuana, and heroin. The
University will take disciplinary action against violators, consistent with federal, state, and local laws.
Such action may include requiring satisfactory participation in a substance-use-disorder treatment,
counseling, or education program as a condition of reinstatement or continuation with Harvard;
suspension; and referral for prosecution. Although Massachusetts law now permits adults age 21 or
older to possess and consume marijuana under certain circumstances, federal law prohibits the
possession, use, or distribution of marijuana, including for medical purposes, on Harvard property or as
part of a Harvard activity. Thus, even if the possession or use of marijuana would be permitted under
Massachusetts law, it remains prohibited on campus.
Additionally, the misuse of prescription drugs (sharing, buying, or using in a manner different than that
prescribed) is a violation of University policy.
Because of the considerable health risks involved in drug and alcohol use, resources are available to
assist the Harvard community in dealing with drug and alcohol use disorders. The following are all
strictly confidential services:
• The medical staff at Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) provides diagnosis and treatment
recommendations. Students should contact their primary care physician or nurse practitioner’s
office to make an appointment. Students who have not yet selected a primary care clinician
should call medical area health services at 617-432-1370 (Longwood campus) or 617-495-5711
(Cambridge area) for assistance and scheduling.
• For immediate care of acute problems, the HUHS Acute Treatment Emergency Treatment Line in
Cambridge is available 24 hours a day at 617-495-2138. On evenings, weekends, and holidays,
HUHS urgent care is available at the HUHS Smith Campus Center Clinic, 75 Mount Auburn Street,
Cambridge, on the third floor from 8:00am to 6:00pm. After hours, call the HUHS nurse advice
line at 617-495-5711.
• Alcoholism is a chronic medical disease that can cause emotional and social problems. The HUHS
Counseling and Mental Health Services (CAMHS) staff is available to discuss such concerns and
provide referrals as needed. Call the Longwood campus branch of HUHS at 617-432-1370 or the
CAMHS staff at 617-495-2042.
• Alcoholics Anonymous is the well-established 12-step program for people who are trying to
achieve or maintain sobriety. There are several AA meetings each day of the week. Call 617-426-
9444.
• Al-Anon meetings provide help for friends and families of alcoholics, whether or not the alcoholic
is involved with AA. There are also special meetings for children of alcoholics. Call 617-426-9444.
• Narcotics Anonymous is a 12-step program for people trying to stop using drugs or keep off
them. Call 866-624-3578.
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These programs and offices are part of Harvard’s ongoing effort to maintain a drug-free workplace. The
University will adhere to strict policies of confidentiality for all participants in drug/alcohol abuse
rehabilitation programs, as described in University and federal regulations covering confidentiality of
student health records.
Information about alcohol at the School is available in the alcohol policy for student organization events,
as outlined in the Student Organization Handbook.
Policy on Hazing
Students are advised that Massachusetts law expressly prohibits any form of hazing in connection with
the initiation of students into student groups and organizations. The relevant statutes are provided
below. The law applies to both officially recognized and unrecognized student groups and to practices
conducted on and off campus.
Using the definition of “hazing” set forth in the Massachusetts hazing statute, the Disciplinary Board of
the Harvard Chan School will consider all reports of hazing in the normal course of its oversight, taking
disciplinary action in appropriate cases, and will report confirmed incidents to appropriate law
enforcement officials.
Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall
be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of
correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment.
The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct
or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which
willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such
conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced
consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug, or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or
forced physical activity which is likely to affect adversely the physical health or safety or any such student
or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including
extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a
defense to any prosecution under this action.
Section 18. Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen
and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril
to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably
practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one
thousand dollars.
Section 19. Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post-
secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team, or student organization which is
part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name
or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team or
student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however,
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that an institution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution issue copies of this
section and sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations shall
not constitute evidence of the institution’s recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student
groups, teams or organizations.
Each such group, team, or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and
eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of
each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually to the
institution an attested acknowledgment stating that such group, team, or organization has received a
copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes, pledges,
or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team, or
organization understands and agrees to comply with the provision of this section and sections seventeen
and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary education
shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full-
time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary
education shall file, at least annually, a report with the board of higher education and in the case of
secondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its
responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full-time student
enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen, and also certifying
that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of
hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or
similar means of communicating the institution’s policies to its students. The board of higher education
and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education, shall promulgate regulations
governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general
any such institution which fails to make such report. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 269.
No individual shall perform an act that is likely to cause physical, psychological, or social harm to any
person within the University community. Harvard Chan School students who organize or commit a crime
of hazing are subject to School disciplinary action, as well as to sanctions imposed by the
Commonwealth.
Policy on Missing Persons
As required under federal law, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health immediately will refer to the
Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) any missing persons report involving a student who lives
in on-campus housing. If any member of the Harvard community has reason to believe that a student
who resides in on-campus housing is missing, they should immediately notify HUPD at 617-495-1212. If
HUPD determines that the student has been missing for more than 24 hours, then, within the 24 hours
following this determination, the School or HUPD will: (1) notify an appropriate external law
enforcement agency, unless the local law enforcement agency was the entity that made the
determination that the student is missing; (2) contact anyone the student has identified as a missing
person contact under the procedures described below; and (3) notify others at the University, as
appropriate, about the student’s disappearance.
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In addition to identifying a general emergency contact person, students residing in on-campus housing
have the option to identify confidentially a separate person to be contacted by Harvard in the event that
the student is determined to be missing for more than 24 hours. Students are not required to designate
a separate individual for this purpose, and if they choose not to do so, then Harvard will assume that
they have chosen to treat their general emergency contact as their missing person contact.
Students who wish to identify a confidential missing person contact should notify the registrar. A
student’s confidential missing person contact information will be accessible only by authorized campus
officials and by law enforcement in the course of an investigation and may not be disclosed outside a
missing person investigation. In addition, if it has been determined that a student who is under 18 years
of age and not emancipated has been missing for more than 24 hours, then the Harvard Chan School or
HUPD will contact that student’s custodial parent or guardian, in addition to contacting any other
contact person designated by the student.
Students are reminded that they must provide the registrar with emergency contact information and/or
confidential missing person contact information if they have not already done so.
Guidelines for Free Expression, Open Debate, Protest, and
Dissent
The Value of Free Expression
Harvard’s University-Wide Statement of Rights and Responsibilities underscores the importance of
maintaining an academic environment that encourages the free exchange of ideas and protects the
rights of individuals to express their views within the bounds of reasoned dissent. Commitment to free
speech and reasoned dissent are also central to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s vision,
mission, and values.
We value free expression for many reasons. Among them:
• A diverse and inclusive community depends upon freedom of expression; we are not truly
inclusive if some perspectives can be voiced and heard while others cannot.
• Academic excellence depends upon freedom of expression; advances in research, practice,
and education are all fed by the open exchange of ideas.
• Effective action to protect the public health depends upon freedom of expression; we need
to understand the full range of views in order to serve the full range of communities’ public
health needs.
• Full, free, and open discourse accords greater legitimacy to the outcomes of academic
research; the public must be able to trust that our work reflects consideration of a range of
perspectives and a full evaluation of all available possibilities and ideas.
The Challenge of Open Debate
Harvard Chan School strives to nurture — and expects each of its community members to contribute
to — an affirming, respectful, and inclusive environment for learning and working. We do not encourage
or protect harassment or discrimination. Yet our commitment to freedom of expression by its nature
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entails tolerating some speech that members of the community may receive as offensive or harmful.
Although this expression may feel deeply injurious to some who hear it, it is nevertheless protected and
permissible speech, unless it takes on a character that violates University or School policies on
harassment, discrimination, or bullying.
Challenging as they may be, disagreement and dissent give members of our community an opportunity
to engage with ideas born of different value systems, perspectives, and life experience. Engaging in civil
disagreement can be a valuable learning experience and is indeed essential for students preparing for an
effective career in public health, as they will necessarily need to receive, consider, and respect a broad
range of viewpoints (often controversial, and many at odds with their own values) in the outside world.
For this reason, our default position is to approach controversies over free expression as opportunities
for learning rather than occasions for disciplinary or other adverse administrative action to be taken by
the School.
We appreciate that the ideal of free expression is often in tension with other important values held by
individuals and by the School itself. One source of complexity is the range of positions—and the
associated power dynamics—at play in a university community. Another is the porous nature of
university life: we cannot and should not try to separate the academic environment from the outside
world. As a result, the exercise of free speech may give rise to intense disagreement and even
controversy within the School community. Each circumstance is nuanced and can help inform our
ongoing work to learn from one another. The more we are able to learn from such controversies, even
when emotions are strong, the more likely we will be able to avoid the destructive pull of ideological
extremes.
The following guidelines frame the Harvard Chan School’s expectations for members of its community
during events, meetings, and other occasions when speakers present their views—at the School or
elsewhere at Harvard University. They draw heavily on guidelines that have been used by the Harvard
Kennedy School, Harvard Law School, and the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences.
The Right to Dissent
The right to dissent is the complement of the right to speak, but these rights need not occupy the same
forum at the same time.
Speakers are entitled to communicate their message to an audience during the allotted time, and all
members of the audience are entitled to hear the message and see the speaker during that time;
therefore, dissenters must not substantially interfere with a speaker’s ability to communicate or an
audience’s ability to see and hear the speaker.
Dissenters are entitled to express their objections in other ways. When an event is “closed,” i.e.,
accessible only to members of a particular organization and/or the host’s invitees, dissent by non-
attendees is limited to activity outside the event that does not impede access to the event or
substantially interfere with communication inside. When an event is open, appropriate means of dissent
depend on location and timing. The policies below offer more specific guidance.
Picketing and Distributing Literature
Picketing and protesting in an orderly way or distributing literature outside an event is acceptable unless
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it impedes access to the event or substantially interferes with communication inside the event. To
facilitate both dissent and access to the event, the Harvard Chan School may designate certain areas in
close proximity to an event in which picketing or protest can occur. Distributing literature inside an open
event is acceptable before the event is called to order and after the event is adjourned but not during
the speaking portion of the event.
Silent or Symbolic Protest
Displaying a sign, wearing symbolic clothing, gesturing, standing, or otherwise protesting noiselessly
inside an event is acceptable unless that protest interferes with an audience’s view or prevents a
speaker from effectively conveying their message. Therefore, signs, prolonged standing, and other
activity likely to block the view of a speaker should be confined to the back of a room.
Noise
Responding vocally to a speaker, spontaneously and temporarily, is generally acceptable. However,
chanting or making other sustained or repeated noise in a manner that substantially interferes with the
speaker’s communication is not permitted, whether inside or outside an event.
Force or Violence
Using or threatening force or violence—such as assaulting a speaker or a member of an audience, or
interfering with the freedom of movement of a speaker or a member of an audience—is never
permitted.
Responsibility of an Audience and Host
An audience and a host (including a host organization) must respect the right to dissent. For example,
audience members should not attempt to remove signs that are not blocking the view of a speaker or
shout down a questioner before a question has reasonably been finished. Anyone who substantially
interferes with acceptable dissent is violating these guidelines as much as a dissenter who violates the
rights of a speaker or audience.
Questions from Audience and Moderator Role
If the format of an event—as decided ahead of time with any guest speakers—includes open Q&A, the
Harvard Chan School requests that event organizers arrange for a moderator so as to encourage a
balanced set of questions or points of view from the audience. Harvard Chan School may determine that
open and civil discussion at an event requires the use of a moderator and may designate a moderator in
consultation with the host. A moderator will generally be a member of the faculty or administration of
Harvard Chan School or Harvard University. Decisions at the event about how to balance the rights of a
speaker with the rights of dissenters will be made by the moderator or other officials designated by
Harvard Chan School or Harvard University. Failure to comply with requests by these moderators or
other officials would be a violation of these guidelines.
Consequences
Any violations of these guidelines by Harvard Chan School students would represent violations of the
student Code of Conduct and Harvard’s University-Wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities, and
the violators would be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Any violations of the guidelines by staff
members, faculty members, speakers, or other audience members would also be grounds for
appropriate disciplinary action.
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Academic and Student Support
Advisers
Each department/program/division appoints a primary academic adviser to each student. The adviser
must have a School faculty appointment. The adviser provides the student with academic guidance,
information, and general assistance. At a minimum, the adviser and the student must meet before the
start of each term to discuss the student’s proposed course of study and any procedural or personal
issues relevant to the student’s academic experience.
After students meet with their adviser and enroll in courses for the term, the adviser approves the
student’s course enrollment in my.harvard, Harvard University’s student information system. The
adviser’s approval on the student’s record is required and indicates that the courses in which the
student has enrolled are appropriate for the successful completion of the student’s degree program in
the allotted time. If the student’s adviser is not available to approve the record, the student must check
with the department’s academic administrator/program director for assistance.
Students who wish to change their adviser must do so via their home department/program.
In addition to the primary academic adviser, degree-seeking students are also assigned at least one
advising committee. The advising committee consists of department/program administrator(s) and
faculty member(s) who have access to students’ records as part of their administrative and/or academic
roles with the department/program.
Students who experience academic difficulties should contact their academic adviser. If personal
problems or disabilities are a factor in a student’s academic performance, the student should also
consult with appropriate staff in the Office for Student Affairs.
Tutors
Students experiencing difficulty in a course should consult with the instructor and/or teaching assistant
in that course and should make full use of the resources available, including labs, teaching assistant
sessions and office hours, instructor office hours, and scheduled remedial sessions.
Students considered by the instructor to be in academic difficulty in a core course required for
graduation may be encouraged to arrange for a tutor. The Office for Student Affairs has limited funding
to help support tutoring for students, referred by their instructor, who are experiencing academic
difficulty in core biostatistics and/or epidemiology courses. Students should email
studentsuppor[email protected] for assistance.
Tutoring is not available for non-degree students.
Learning Support
Information on Learning Support can be found on its website.
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Travel Grants for Travel-Related Courses
Modest funds are available to support expenses for Harvard Chan School’s international travel-related
WinterSession courses that are approved for funding. The criteria for funding are as follows:
• Travel support will be provided only for credit-bearing courses. It is expected that these courses
will include content before and after the travel experience, and a student-generated academic
product is part of the course requirements. Support is not available for independent study.
• Funds are available only for students enrolled in a Harvard Chan School degree program.
• Students will receive 25% of the economy round-trip airfare, up to a set limit, for travel between
Boston and the location of the travel courses, regardless of where the student originates the
trip. Per Harvard University travel policy, travelers will not be reimbursed for tickets purchased
with frequent flyer miles. This policy also applies to tickets purchased with reward or award
miles. Travelers will, however, be reimbursed for fees associated with issuing a ticket, such as
taxes and agency or airline services fees.
• For group travel, a maximum of 15 students per course will be supported.
• Depending on the number of students and courses being supported, the funds may be used to
cover additional and modest incidental expenses ($75–$100/week) related to the course during
travel. Faculty may submit a budget for consideration by the Office for Student Services.
• Students may receive a modest contribution toward per diem expenses, based on the length of
the trip. Determination of the amount will depend on the availability of funds.
• It is expected that departments/programs will cover all faculty per diem and other course-
related expenses for travel-related courses.
• Non-degree students are not eligible for travel grants.
Harvard Libraries
The Countway Library of Medicine resources and services are available to all Harvard Chan students,
faculty, and staff. Visit Countway’s website at https://countway.harvard.edu/. Through the HOLLIS
catalog, you can access materials from 70 Harvard libraries. This includes an extensive collection of
current books and journals, as well as rare books, manuscripts, images, videos, and special collections.
Countway Chan School Liaisons are librarians and archivists from the Center for the History of Medicine,
Research & Instruction, Publishing & Data Services, and Access Services departments, and provide
support for:
• Thesis and dissertation development
• Research, scholarship, and instruction
• Mediated database searching
• Course assignments
• Digital inquiries
• Publication assistance
• Resource access
• Archives and historical discovery
Countway Chan School Liaisons might be involved in your Canvas course website as course librarians,
where they support discussion groups, provide one-on-one consultations, and provide resource
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suggestions for assignments.
This world-class collection of resources and expertise is located in the Countway Library, on the
Longwood Medical Area campus. The entrance is at 695 Huntington Avenue, next to the Harvard Chan
School, with a second entrance at 10 Shattuck Street. Note that a Harvard ID is required to enter the
library. The recently renovated building provides an open, social, and community-driven space with
plenty of areas for individual or group study. To reserve a group study room, go to
https://countway.info/studyrooms.
Renovation is ongoing on the lower level 1 (L1) in 2023; please consult library staff at the information
desk on L1 for assistance with locating library materials or study space.
Books on reserve for courses are available in the Russell Reading Room, on the 2
nd
floor. Currently, our
research services are available virtually.
Visit the library to work on assignments, enjoy a latte or a snack in our café, purchase Harvard Chan
School branded merchandise in our Harvard Coop, access materials and resources, and much more!
To ask questions, request support, or suggest new materials or classes, visit the Countway website and
click on Ask Countway.
Housing
Students at Harvard Chan have many housing options available while studying in Boston. The Office for
Student Affairs provides information on a variety of housing resources to support students attending
Harvard Chan on the student housing website.
Disability Services
The Harvard Chan School’s services for students with disabilities are located in the Office for Student
Affairs. Visit the Disability Services website for more information.
Student Organizations
The Office for Student Affairs (OSA) believes that student organizations are a vital part of the Harvard
T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Student organizations provide rich opportunities for networking, peer
learning, and professional and personal growth and support. OSA serves as a liaison between student
organizations and HSPH administrative offices and can assist you with your goals, program planning and
vetting new initiatives. Complete information regarding student organizations and activities can be
found on the student organizations website.
Harvard International Office
Smith Center, Room 864
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
73
Tel: 617-495-2789
Email: elizabeth_capuano@harvard.edu
Office Hours:
• For HIO’s on-campus and document pickup hours, please refer to their website here.
• For information about Zoom Drop-in Office hours, please refer to their website here. Scroll
down to the School Specific Office Hours section and refer to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of
Public Health drop-down for details including the days of the week/times; meeting link; and
cancellations.
The Harvard International Office (HIO) staff advises foreign nationals on immigration matters, social and
cultural differences, and financial and personal concerns. The office provides orientations throughout
the year to help new students and their spouses adjust quickly to life in the US and to minimize the
difficulties they may experience throughout their stay. Students may find that the HIO New Student
Welcome Guide will help them get settled quickly once they arrive on campus.
The HIO virtual “Getting Started” orientation covers many settling-in topics for new international
students. Please refer to the HIO website for more information and the schedule. The HIO’s Host
Program for International Students offers international graduate students the opportunity to get to
know a resident in the Boston area who will welcome them and ease their transition to life in the U.S.
Interested students may apply via the HIO website. Students who would like more information about
HIO orientations or the Host Program should contact Renne Burke via email at
renee_burke@harvard.edu.
Social Security Number
To work in the United States, students must have a Social Security number. They may start working
without a Social Security number as long as they provide evidence to their employer that they have
applied for one. If students have a Social Security number, they should use it when completing their tax
forms. Visit the HIO website for additional information on Social Security numbers.
Opening a Bank Account and Credit Card
The HIO website offers some information about opening a bank account. Students are usually not able
to obtain a credit card without a Social Security number. However, if students open an account at the
Harvard University Employees Credit Union (HUECU), they should be eligible for a credit card with
limited credit, even if they do not have a Social Security number. Visit the HUECU website for more
information.
Ombuds Office
164 Longwood Avenue, 1st Floor
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617-432-4041 (confidential line) or ombu[email protected]
Web: https://harvardombuds.harvard.edu (includes self-help resources)
Call to schedule a Zoom, phone or in-person appointment
Melissa Brodrick, Ombuds
Tel: 617-432-4040 (confidential line)
Email: melissa_brodr[email protected]
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Lisa Neale, Ombuds
Tel: 617-432-4043 (confidential line)
Email: [email protected]arvard.edu
The two Ombuds who serve the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard Medical School, and
Harvard School of Dental Medicine provide impartial assistance to students, faculty, staff, trainees, and
appointees at the affiliated institutions whose concerns are affecting their work or studies. The Ombuds
Office offers a highly confidential, independent, and informal forum in which to help visitors clarify their
concerns, identify their goals, and consider all their options in managing or resolving their situations. An
ombuds does not serve as an advocate for any party to a dispute but does advocate for fair treatment
and processes. An ombuds provides coaching in written and verbal communications, informal mediation,
meeting facilitation, shuttle diplomacy, upward feedback, and information about policies/procedures
and resources. Some typical concerns brought to the Ombuds Office include work/academic
environment and performance, research-related concerns, harassment and discrimination, illness and
disability, and policies and requirements. Any issue may be brought to an ombuds.
The Ombuds Office seeks to enhance the ability of all students to deal more effectively with challenging
situations on their own. If a student requires assistance beyond individual coaching, the Ombuds Office
can—with the permission of the student—gather further information about policies, procedures, or
resources; make referrals to with expertise in a specific area; or bring concerns forward to others at
the school or affiliated institution. The student decides which course of action, if any, they want to take
and that action is tailored to fit each situation.
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Financial Information
Tuition and Fees
Current and historic tuition and fee rates can be found on the Student Billing website.
Since the tuition and fee information is for a specific academic year, we have also put together
information on the total cost of our degree programs in the form of a Qualtrics survey.
Cost of Collections
Financial Hold: Students with outstanding financial obligations to the University may not register for
additional classes and the University will not provide an official transcript to a third party while there are
amounts outstanding.
Late Fees: Students that fail to pay any charges on their student account by the due date may be
charged late payment fees as published by the HSPH Registrar’s Office or the University Student
Financial Services Office.
Collection Charges and Fees: If Harvard University engages a third party to obtain payment on a
delinquent account, students will reimburse Harvard University for any collection fees and expenses that
may be as high as 40% of the debt but will not exceed the maximum permitted by applicable law. These
fees will be due in full at the time of the referral to the third party. Students shall also be responsible for
any court costs associated with collections.
Reporting Past Due Accounts to Credit Bureaus: Students that have a delinquent account may be
reported to one or more of the national credit bureaus.
Harvard Chan Billing Policy
Visit the Harvard Chan Billing Policy to view details based on academic program.
TAP Information Table
Credits
Tuition
TAP Tuition
TAP Refund
Credits
Tuition
TAP Tuition
TAP Refund
0.25
$ 372.00
$ 37.20
$ 334.80
5.25
$ 7,812.00
$ 781.20
$ 7,030.80
0.5
$ 744.00
$ 74.40
$ 669.60
5.5
$ 8,184.00
$ 818.40
$ 7,365.60
0.75
$ 1,116.00
$ 111.60
$ 1,004.40
5.75
$ 8,556.00
$ 855.60
$ 7,700.40
1
$ 1,488.00
$ 148.80
$ 1,339.20
6
$ 8,928.00
$ 892.80
$ 8,035.20
1.25
$ 1,860.00
$ 186.00
$ 1,674.00
6.25
$ 9,300.00
$ 930.00
$ 8,370.00
1.5
$ 2,232.00
$ 223.20
$ 2,008.80
6.5
$ 9,672.00
$ 967.20
$ 8,704.80
1.75
$ 2,604.00
$ 260.40
$ 2,343.60
6.75
$ 10,044.00
$ 1,004.40
$ 9,039.60
2
$ 2,976.00
$ 297.60
$ 2,678.40
7
$ 10,416.00
$ 1,041.60
$ 9,374.40
2.25
$ 3,348.00
$ 334.80
$ 3,013.20
7.25
$ 10,788.00
$ 1,078.80
$ 9,709.20
2.5
$ 3,720.00
$ 372.00
$ 3,348.00
7.5
$ 11,160.00
$ 1,116.00
$ 10,044.00
2.75
$ 4,092.00
$ 409.20
$ 3,682.80
7.75
$ 11,532.00
$ 1,153.20
$ 10,378.80
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3
$ 4,464.00
$ 446.40
$ 4,017.60
8
$ 11,904.00
$ 1,190.40
$ 10,713.60
3.25
$ 4,836.00
$ 483.60
$ 4,352.40
8.25
$ 12,276.00
$ 1,227.60
$ 11,048.40
3.5
$ 5,208.00
$ 520.80
$ 4,687.20
8.5
$ 12,648.00
$ 1,264.80
$ 11,383.20
3.75
$ 5,580.00
$ 558.00
$ 5,022.00
8.75
$ 13,020.00
$ 1,302.00
$ 11,718.00
4
$ 5,952.00
$ 595.20
$ 5,356.80
9
$ 13,392.00
$ 1,339.20
$ 12,052.80
4.25
$ 6,324.00
$ 632.40
$ 5,691.60
9.25
$ 13,764.00
$ 1,376.40
$ 12,387.60
4.5
$ 6,696.00
$ 669.60
$ 6,026.40
9.5
$ 14,136.00
$ 1,413.60
$ 12,722.40
4.75
$ 7,068.00
$ 706.80
$ 6,361.20
9.75
$ 14,508.00
$ 1,450.80
$ 13,057.20
5
$ 7,440.00
$ 744.00
$ 6,696.00
10
$ 14,880.00
$ 1,488.00
$ 13,392.00
Financial Aid
The mission of the Office of Financial Aid (OFA) is to help students meet their goals by reducing financial
barriers to education and promoting financial health. The Office of Financial Aid is dedicated to
providing high-quality, equitable, and compassionate service to our diverse community. In delivering our
services, we counsel applicants, students, and alumni to make well-informed decisions while being
responsible stewards of internal and external resources in compliance with regulatory requirements and
institutional policy.
Scholarships/Grants
Students are encouraged to explore all avenues of funding opportunities. In addition to reviewing
internal scholarship opportunities within the school and university, the Office of Financial Aid manages
and updates our external resource database. Our OFA Fund Finder not only allows you to search for
external opportunities but also is interactive, allowing students, faculty, and staff to submit outside
resources of which they are aware.
Student Loans
The Harvard Chan Office of Financial Aid determines eligibility for and administration of federal and
private student loan programs, which make up the majority of aid available. As such, debt management
counseling is considered an important service in OFA. Individual exit counseling is offered to graduating
students, as well as individual personal finance appointments and financial wellness programming
throughout their time as a student.
U.S. Military Benefits
For students with U.S. military benefits, including VA benefits, there is information on the website on
next steps to ensure these benefits are applied to the student account. Additionally, Harvard Chan does
offer a match through the Yellow Ribbon program (up to $10,000) for those that are eligible.
Third-Party Contracts
Students that are receiving sponsorship from their employer or another agency or organization may
need to set up a Third-Party Contract. Third-Party Contracts give Harvard University permission to send
an invoice directly to an outside agency on behalf of a student.
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Student Employment
Many students work part time while completing their degree, and many domestic students are eligible
for Federal Work-Study, a federal financial aid program in which the US government subsidizes the
students’ earnings. Federal Work-Study also can help students secure on-campus employment, as well
as off-campus employment at times. For more information on student employment opportunities,
please visit our website, for both international and domestic students.
More information about financial aid support and services can be found on the Office of Financial Aid
website.
Student Hardship Fund
The Student Hardship Fund is designed to provide temporary, short-term financial assistance to students
in degree programs who are managing demanding academic requirements while struggling with
unanticipated or emergency financial situations.
Unlike a loan, students are not expected to repay awards from the Student Hardship Fund. The fund is
managed by the Office for Student Affairs and the Office of Financial Aid. Please be aware that this fund
is limited and not all requests will be met with financial assistance.
The Harvard Chan School works to maintain privacy; however, information may be shared internally on a
need-to-know basis.
Complete information regarding the Student Hardship Fund can be found by visiting its website.
Professional Development Support Fund
The Professional Development Support Fund was established by the Office for Student Services to
support students at the School who are interested in taking advantage of opportunities to participate in
co-curricular and academic experiences. This can include attending or presenting at professional
conferences or development seminars, or organizing their own events such as seminars, panels,
symposiums, and fora. The goal of the fund is to reduce individual students’ costs to participate in or
organize experiences that contribute to their professional development. Information regarding the
professional development is found on the following website: Professional Development Support Fund
for Students.
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Health and Wellness
Health Insurance and Fees
Harvard University Student Health Program Member Services
75 Mount Auburn Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-495-2008
Email: [email protected]arvard.edu
Web: hushp.harvard.edu
Hours: By Phone: Monday-Friday (except for University Holidays), 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
By Email: Monday-Friday (except for University Holidays), 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Required Student Health Insurance
Massachusetts law requires that students enrolled in an institution of higher learning in Massachusetts
participate in a qualifying student health insurance program or in a health plan of comparable coverage.
All Harvard students are automatically enrolled in the Harvard University Student Health Program
(HUSHP), and charges are applied to their student bill.
The HUSHP includes two parts:
Student Health Fee
The Student Health Fee is required of all students who are enrolled more than half-time and studying in
Massachusetts. This fee covers most services at Harvard University Health Services, including internal
medicine, medical/surgical specialty care, mental health/counseling services, physical therapy,
radiology, and urgent care. Visit HUSHP for details.
Student Health Insurance Plan
HUHS will likely not be able to provide all healthcare needs during a student’s time at Harvard. Many
students need care that HUHS cannot or does not provide. These services can be expensive and health
insurance offers a way to reduce such costs to more affordable amounts. The Student Health Insurance
Plan, administered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA, provides coverage for emergency room visits,
hospitalizations, diagnostic lab/radiology services, ambulatory surgery, specialty care outside HUHS
(limited), and prescription drug coverage. Benefit limits and cost sharing may apply. Visit HUSHP for
details.
Students should also visit HUSHP for details on enrolling their dependents in HUHSP, optional dental
coverage, and waiving the Student Health Insurance Plan.
Non-Degree Health Insurance and Fees
Harvard University does not offer health insurance to non-degree students.
Health Insurance Coverage for Degree Candidates
November degree candidates may or may not be eligible for health insurance coverage through
Harvard, depending on the date of completion of their degree requirements. November degree
candidates who do not want to retain the Student Health Insurance Plan must complete their degree
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requirements on or before September 6, 2023. November degree candidates who want to retain the
Student Health Insurance Plan must complete their degree requirements on or after September 7, 2023.
The complete Harvard University Student Health Program’s November Degree Policy website contains
more information.
March degree candidates’ coverage will terminate on January 31.
Students graduating in November or March must consult the Harvard University Student Health
Program website and/or contact Member Services by phone at 617-495-2008 or by email regarding the
policy on health insurance coverage during the student’s final term and after graduation.
Harvard University Health Services (HUHS)
Below is a summary of the services available at Harvard University Health Services (HUHS). We
encourage you to visit huhs.harvard.edu for detailed, up-to-date information, including department
locations, phone numbers, and hours of operation; how to make appointments; event listings and
announcements; and additional health information and resources.
Harvard University Health Services is a multispecialty medical practice exclusively for members of the
Harvard community—students, faculty, staff, eligible postdocs, retirees, and their dependents. HUHS
has three locations across the Harvard campuses. The main location is in Smith Campus Center in
Harvard Square, with satellite clinics on the Longwood Medical Area and Law School campuses.
Harvard Square Clinic
Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center
75 Mount Auburn Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
617-495-5711
Medical Area Clinic
Vanderbilt Hall
275 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
617-432-1370
Law School Clinic
Pound Hall
1563 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
617-495-4414
Harvard University Health Services clinicians provide confidential, personal care for each patient. Our
services include:
• Internal medicine/primary care
• Mental and behavioral health
• Medical and surgical specialties
• Urgent care
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• On-site laboratory
• Radiography and ultrasound services
• Physical therapy
• Vision care
• Complementary and alternative medicine
A complete list of services can be found on the HUHS website.
For more information about HUHS or to make an online appointment, please visit huhs.harvard.edu.
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance of a scheduled appointment, or the student
will incur a charge.
Urgent Care
https://huhs.harvard.edu/services/urgent-care
Smith Campus Center
617-495-5711; TTY: 617-495-1211
Urgent care at HUHS provides advice and treatment for urgent health problems, both physical and
emotional, that require prompt attention but are not life-threatening emergencies. If a problem seems
life threatening, please call 911 immediately.
Please view the HUHS website for details on operating hours. Students are encouraged to call first to
schedule an appointment or to obtain advice if unsure whether a medical or mental health need is
urgent. Whenever possible, students are encouraged to call their primary care team or mental health
provider for advice during regular office hours. Students can find information about their primary care
provider in the Patient Portal.
Primary Care/Internal Medicine
https://huhs.harvard.edu/services/primary-care-internal-medicine
Harvard University Health Services provides comprehensive, coordinated health care led by a primary
care physician and a primary care team that includes a nurse practitioner, registered nurses, and health
assistants. The team works closely to provide high-quality outpatient care in a friendly, comfortable
environment. Routine care includes:
• Physical exams
• Diagnosis and treatment of illness
• Management of chronic conditions
• Routine health screenings
• Preventive care
We recommend that you establish a relationship with your primary care team prior to any urgent
medical needs. You can select another primary care physician at any time. Primary care/internal
medicine is available at each of our satellite clinic locations.
Required Immunizations
https://huhs.harvard.edu/med-recs-immunizations/immunizations-0
All students are required to comply with the Massachusetts immunization regulations and submit a
complete immunization history to Harvard University Health Services prior to registration. Incomplete
or overdue forms may delay registration. There is a fee for most immunizations at HUHS.
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We recommend that students receive any required immunizations before they arrive at Harvard, as
some health insurance plans will cover the associated costs. If you are unable to obtain these prior to
your arrival on campus, you may arrange to get immunizations at various locations in the area, including
HUHS. Please note that if you receive your immunizations at HUHS, you will be billed for the cost of the
immunization.
Center for Wellness and Health Promotion
https://wellness.huhs.harvard.edu/
All members of the Harvard community can take advantage of the innovative programs, services, and
initiatives at the Center for Wellness and Health Promotion. Students, faculty, staff, retirees, and
University affiliates can schedule a massage or acupuncture appointment, engage in movement-based
classes, daily guided meditation, or sign up for a health promotion workshop. Students and Harvard
University Group Health Plan members are eligible for discounts on these services.
Patient Advocate
https://huhs.harvard.edu/patient-advocate
The Patient Advocate is available to help students:
• Explore the resources available at Health Services
• Provide feedback or suggestions
• Resolve or mediate problems
• Discuss financial assistance options
• Coordinate accessibility arrangements
Conversations with the Patient Advocate are not reflected in your medical record.
Accessibility
HUHS is prepared to meet the general and individualized health care needs of students. Early contact
with a primary care clinician is advised to establish a base for continuity of care during a student’s active
stay at Harvard. A variety of access services are available through the Accessible Education Office,
aeo.fas.harvard.edu, including sign language and oral interpreters. The HUHS Patient Advocate is
available to assist in accommodating the needs of patients.
Confidentiality
Your right to privacy is important to Harvard University Health Services. We believe that patient
confidentiality is an essential aspect of excellent medical and mental health care, and each patient can
be assured that all health information is treated confidentially and protected to the fullest extent
permissible by law. Our staff members adhere to the following laws, policies, and practices:
• Notice of Privacy Practices.
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
• Patient rights and responsibilities.
• Release of health care information.
• Limitations of email: Harvard University Health Services cannot guarantee the privacy of email
communications; email should not be used for urgent or time-sensitive issues.
• Secure messaging: Students and HUGHP members with a Harvard University Health
Services primary care physician have access to the Patient Portal and can communicate directly
with clinicians via secure messaging.
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Counseling and Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
https://camhs.huhs.harvard.edu/
Counseling and Mental Health Services provides services to students year-round. Short-term counseling
is available for a wide variety of concerns, including:
•
Adjustment difficulties
•
Depression, anxiety, or stress
•
Mental health concerns affecting academics or work
•
Loss/bereavement
•
Relationship concerns and sexual health
•
Concerning issues around food or alcohol and/or other substances.
To learn how to get started at CAMHS, students can visit the CAMHS website.
In general, CAMHS services include the following:
•
The CAMHS Cares Line, 617-495-2042, is available 24/7 to students who want to talk with a
counselor at any time about a mental health concern or a crisis.
•
Short-term Counseling with our staff of CAMHS psychologists, social workers, and licensed
mental health clinicians and supervised interns.
•
Prescribers include CAMHS psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and medical residents who
conduct psychopharmacology evaluations and offer prescription management.
•
Referrals outside HUHS for longer-term counseling with providers and experts in the
surrounding communities.
•
The TimelyCare partnership with CAMHS provides up to 12 telehealth Counseling sessions per
academic year at no additional cost to students. TimelyCare telehealth Psychiatry services are
also available for a range of conditions (with some limitations). Health Coaching is offered to
address concerns like sleep, exercise and nutrition. Self-Care content on the app includes yoga
and meditation sessions, as well as group conservations on a variety of health and wellbeing
topics. There is also a Peer Support feature providing a moderated community forum with other
university students.
•
Virtual Workshops to learn coping skills/psychoeducation and Support Groups to address a
variety of mental health concerns and topics (see CAMHS calendar)
•
In-person CAMHS Urgent Care appointments during regular business hours (M-F) - always call
ahead!
Students may also use the anonymous mental health screening tools that may help them decide to try
counseling or other supports and/or CAMHS resources.
Please view the CAMHS website for details on operating hours and more information and resources. All
CAMHS visits are confidential, and mental health records are held separately from the rest of a student’s
medical record in HUHS, except for information on medications. CAMHS also offers services at satellite
HUHS sites, such as the Longwood Medical Area and/or Harvard Law School.
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Campus and Safety
Harvard University Identification Card
Campus Service Center ID Services
1350 Massachusetts Avenue, Smith Center, Room 807
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-496-7827
Email: id_services@harvard.edu
Web: huid.harvard.edu
Note: ID cards will not be distributed to students in programs that are offered remotely, but all
students are still required to upload a photo and validate their identity with Campus Services.
During incoming-student check-in, students are issued an official Harvard University Identification Card
(HUID or ID) for gaining access to Harvard University libraries, classroom buildings, and services
throughout the Harvard community.
New students are required to submit an ID card photo using Harvard University’s online ID Card Photo
Submission page. If a photo is successfully submitted, the student ID card will be printed. When new
students arrive on campus, they must bring government-issued identification to facilitate photo and
identity validation before they can receive their Harvard ID cards. If a photo is not successfully
submitted using the online ID Card Photo Submission Application, students must go to the ID Office,
where photographs will be taken to be placed on the front side of the permanent ID card. The
permanent ID card will be available at the Registrar’s Office. ID cards are valid through a student’s
expected date of graduation.
The ID card image may be used for proctor lists, class rosters, and other academic purposes. Images may
also be used for face books and internal electronic directories. Data and images are secured for internal
use only. Students who do not wish to see their picture in either face books or internal electronic
directories should contact the Registrar’s Office at 617-432-1032.
ID cards are required for admission to most Harvard activities and facilities, including libraries,
museums, dining halls, athletic buildings, student residences, and the M2 Shuttle service. Although
some facilities may require a sticker for entry, the front of the card and magnetic strips on the back must
be kept free from stickers. The Harvard ID identifies the bearer as a Harvard University member who has
the privileges given them by the University. Students should display their ID at all times to Harvard
University security personnel.
ID cards are not transferable. A student may not allow any other person to use their Harvard ID for any
purpose. ID cards are the property of Harvard University and are intended for University purposes only.
Every student is responsible for their ID and for any circumstantial misuse. A student who alters or
falsifies their Harvard ID card or produces or distributes false IDs of any kind is subject to disciplinary
action. Students who lose their card can disable it (removing all building clearances and removing access
to meal plan and Crimson Cash) by using the Report Lost Card feature in the ID Card application.
Students who withdraw from the Harvard Chan School before the end of the academic year must
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immediately surrender their Harvard ID cards to the Registrar’s Office. Students must also surrender
identification cards upon request to any properly identified employee of the University. Surrendered
cards will be sent immediately to ID Card Services.
Replacement of Harvard ID
Replacements may be ordered at the ID Office from 8:00am to 4:00pm at the NRB Building, 77 Avenue
Louis Pasteur Room 133. Each time a replacement ID is issued, the last digit of the ID increases by one.
The replacement fee is $35 for current students for each card lost (all fees are charged to the student’s
term bill). Nonstudents and alumni must go to the ID Office to pay the $35 cash replacement fee.
Rights of the University to Capture and Use Digital Images
The use of digital photographs for ID cards for academic and security purposes at the University is a
condition of employment for all employees and a condition of enrollment for all students. The University
is within its rights to require images for the purposes of security and academic integrity. Specifically,
Harvard University may use digitally recorded images of its populations for identification purposes,
including ID cards, security systems, and classroom and exam proctor lists.
Requests for exemptions from having a photo ID will be reviewed by the University’s Office of the
General Counsel and will be granted only in extreme circumstances.
If no previous objection is recorded, the University may print images of students, staff, faculty, or
administration in its many traditional house/dorm books, class books, and organizational charts for
purposes within the University. Should no previous objection be recorded, the University may print
images in internal publications of students and faculty who are receiving degrees or awards.
If permission is given, the University may distribute images of all students and faculty receiving degrees
or awards to parties outside the University. Images will not be distributed from the database for
purposes of negative publicity or publicity that could endanger a member of our community.
Campus Resources
Information regarding various campus resources can be found on the Student Life website.
Harvard University Police
Harvard University Police Business, 617-432-1215
Every major city has areas that have higher crime rates than others. Safety precautions can be taken to
maintain a safer city lifestyle. The University document “Playing it Safe,” available from the Harvard
University Police Department, contains important information on crime-prevention programs and
services at Harvard. It also outlines federal and state laws and University policies on sexual offenses
(including rape, date rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and other sexual offenses). For more
information, please call the Harvard University Police business number, 617-432-1215. In a life-safety
emergency, please call 911.
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Harvard University Police, 617-432-1212, 24 hours a day
Longwood Area Harvard Police are stationed at 90 Smith Street, Boston. Officers are available to provide
assistance 24 hours a day.
Harvard University Security Line, 617-432-1040, 24 hours a day
Security guards are posted at all Harvard Longwood Area building entrances. Guards will ask you to stop
and show your ID as you enter a building. Security staff is located in the School’s FXB Building.
MessageMe: Emergency Notification System
MessageMe allows the University to quickly distribute critical information to you, wherever you are
located, during an emergency. MessageMe helps you stay informed in the event of an emergency by
sending alerts to your personal electronic device (cellphone, PDA, smartphone, etc.) through text
messaging and voicemail and/or email. Please enroll in the MessageMe program.
Taxi Escort Service
The taxi escort service is available to School students on a first-come, first-served basis. The hours of
operation are 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., seven days a week. Those eligible to use the service must have a current,
valid Harvard University ID for the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The taxi escort is arranged
though the security officer stationed at the FXB Security Desk at 651 Huntington Avenue upon
presentation of a current, valid ID. Security will distribute a taxi voucher and coordinate taxi pickup. The
taxi service is free within a one-mile radius of the campus. Should your destination go beyond the one-
mile radius of the campus, the taxi meter will be turned on and you will be responsible for the additional
fare beyond the one-mile radius. Each taxi will go to only one destination with up to four riders. Multiple
riders going to different destinations will require separate taxis and vouchers. Traffic and weather
conditions may affect the timeliness of the taxi service.
Walking Escort Service
The Harvard Longwood Campus walking escort service is available 24 hours a day. On request, a security
officer will escort faculty, staff, or students to any of the Longwood Campus Area parking lots, buildings,
or local “T” stops. To use this service, call 617-432-1040. Please call ahead, as it may take as long as 15
minutes for your escort to arrive. Please wait for your escort once you have called.
Sensitive Crimes
If you or someone you know is or may be the victim of a sensitive crime (including rape, sexual assault
and battery, domestic violence, and hate crimes), please seek assistance right away. Resources at the
Harvard Chan School include the Office for Student Affairs, at 617-432-1036; Harvard University Office
for Sexual Assault Prevention and Response, at 617-495-9100; and Harvard University Police
Department, urgent Longwood number 617-432-1212. Additional resources and information, including
both Harvard and non-Harvard area resources, are also available on the following websites: Harvard
University Police Department and Harvard University Office for Sexual Assault Prevention and Response.
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Dangerous Weapons and Threats
Threats Involving Deadly Weapons, Explosives, Bombs, Chemical or Biological
Agents, or Other Deadly Devices or Substance
The following provision of Massachusetts law concerning certain kinds of threats underscores why such
behavior must be treated by the Harvard Chan School as an actionable offense:
Whoever willfully communicates or causes to be communicated, either directly or indirectly, orally,
in writing, by mail, by use of a telephone or telecommunication device including, but not limited to,
electronic mail, internet communications and facsimile communications, through an electronic
communication device or by any other means, a threat: (1) that a firearm, rifle, shotgun, machine
gun or assault weapon, as defined in section 121 of chapter 140, an explosive or incendiary device, a
dangerous chemical or biological agent, a poison, a harmful radioactive substance or any other
device, substance or item capable of causing death, serious bodily injury or substantial property
damage, will be used at a place or location, or is present or will be present at a place or location,
whether or not the same is in fact used or present; or (2) to hijack an aircraft, ship, or common
carrier thereby causing anxiety, unrest, fear, or personal discomfort to any person or group of
persons shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than 20 years or
imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than 2 1/2 years, or by fine of not more than
$10,000, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
Whoever willfully communicates or causes to be communicated such a threat thereby causing either
the evacuation or serious disruption of a school, school related event, school transportation, or a
dwelling, building, place of assembly, facility or public transport, or an aircraft, ship or common
carrier, or willfully communicates or causes serious public inconvenience or alarm, shall be punished
by imprisonment in the state prison for not less than 3 years nor more than 20 years or
imprisonment in the house of correction for not less than 6 months nor more than 2 1/2 years, or by
fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $50,000, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 269 §14(b)-(c).
Firearms, Explosives, Combustible Fuels, Firecrackers, and Dangerous Weapons
Possession and/or use on University property of firearms or other dangerous weapons (as defined
below) or ammunition, explosives, combustible fuels, firecrackers, and potential ingredients thereof is
forbidden by University policy. The applicable Massachusetts law is as follows:
For the purpose of this paragraph “firearm” shall mean any pistol, revolver, rifle or smoothbore arm
from which a shot, bullet or pellet can be discharged.
Whoever, not being a law enforcement officer, and notwithstanding any license obtained by the
person pursuant to chapter 140, carries on the person a firearm, loaded or unloaded, or other
dangerous weapon in any building or on the grounds of any elementary or secondary school, college
or university without the written authorization of the board or officer in charge of such elementary
or secondary school, college or university shall be punished by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by
imprisonment for not more than 2 years or both. A law enforcement officer may arrest without a
warrant and detain a person found carrying a firearm in violation of this paragraph.
Any officer in charge of an elementary or secondary school, college or university, or any faculty
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member or administrative officer of an elementary or secondary school, college or university that
fails to report violations of this paragraph shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punished by a fine
of not more than $500. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 269 §10(j).
Under Massachusetts law, the definition of “dangerous weapons” includes many items designed to do
bodily injury:
. . . any stiletto, dagger or a device or case which enables a knife with a locking blade to be drawn at
a locked position, any ballistic knife, or any knife with a detachable blade capable of being propelled
by any mechanism, dirk knife, any knife having a double-edged blade, or a switch knife, or any knife
having an automatic spring release device by which the blade is released from the handle, having a
blade of over one and one-half inches, or a slung shot, blowgun, blackjack, metallic knuckles or
knuckles of any substance which could be put to the same use with the same or similar effect as
metallic knuckles, nunchaku, zoobow, also known as klackers or kung fu sticks, or any similar
weapon consisting of two sticks of wood, plastic or metal connected at one end by a length of rope,
chain, wire or leather, a shuriken or any similar pointed starlike object intended to injure a person
when thrown, or any armband, made with leather which has metallic spikes, points or studs or any
similar device made from any other substance or a cestus or similar material weighted with metal or
other substance and worn on the hand, or a Manriki-Gusari or similar length of chain having
weighted ends. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 269 §10(b).
In addition, students should recognize that even when they are away from the University,
Massachusetts law requires a permit or firearms identification card or compliance with other
specialized rules (depending upon the type of weapon) for possession of any firearms. Carrying any
firearm (even if unloaded) in violation of the law is punishable by imprisonment with a mandatory
minimum sentence of 18 months, which cannot be suspended or reduced. Massachusetts General
Laws, Chapter 269 §10(a).
Students should consult the local police department in the city or town in which they reside if they
intend to possess firearms on non-University property, to ensure strict compliance with the applicable
statutes.
Bicycles
Bicycles are not allowed in the School’s buildings. There are numerous bike racks and bike cages located
on the Harvard Longwood campus. Students, faculty, and staff should register their bicycles with the HMS
Commuter Service and Parking Office. Information regarding registering bicycles is found on the HMS
Commuter Service and Parking Office website. The HMS Commuter Service and Parking Office can be
reached by phone at 617-432-1111 or via email at hms-parking@hms.harvard.edu.
Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Campus
As a part of the campaign for better health, the School has established a no-smoking policy, including e-
cigarettes, in School buildings and on School grounds. Smokers are encouraged to attend smoking-
cessation classes. The Tobacco Treatment Specialist, at 617-495-2068, offers smoking-cessation
counseling at Harvard University Health Services in the Smith Campus Center in Harvard Square. HUHS
waives the copay for these visits.
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Trademarks and Use of Harvard’s Name
Harvard Trademark Program
Tel: 617-495-9513
Email: trademark_progr[email protected]
Web: www.trademark.harvard.edu
General Information About the Harvard Trademark Program
The Trademark Program is charged with the protection and licensing of Harvard’s trademarks worldwide
and the administration of the University’s internal Use-of-Name policies and guidelines. The office also
provides advice to members of the Harvard community on a wide range of trademark-related issues.
In its protection efforts, the Trademark Program registers Harvard’s various trademarks and works to
stop their unauthorized use around the world. Through its domestic and international licensing
endeavors, the Trademark Program licenses the University’s trademarks to qualified companies to
produce a variety of insignia items. After covering the Trademark Programs’ operational expenses,
proceeds from the sales of these items help fund student financial aid initiatives of the University.
Use of Harvard’s Trademarks by Students and Student Organizations
The Harvard names, insignia, and logos are trademarks of the University and are used by members of
the Harvard community, including student organizations, with the permission of the President and
Fellows of Harvard College. Their use is governed by the University’s Use-of-Name policies, which are
administered by the Harvard Trademark Program on behalf of the provost and the University. Those
policies’ primary Standard of Accurate Representation states that “The University and its members have
a responsibility to ensure that any implied association with the University is accurate.”
In short, student organizations must make it clear, in all instances and contexts, that they and their
related activities are student activities, and not activities of the School or the University as a whole.
Failure of a student organization to abide by the University’s Use-of-Name policies and trademark
standards, as set forth in these guidelines, can result in the University’s revocation of the use of the
Harvard name by the student organization.
Any additional questions should be directed to the Office for Student Affairs
(StudentAffair[email protected]) and the Harvard Trademark Program
(trademar[email protected]).
Student Organization Names
Harvard comprises 12 schools, hundreds of departments, offices, and centers, and thousands of
students, faculty, and staff. Therefore, a student organization’s name must accurately and clearly
represent its relationship with the University. This helps avoid confusion and misinterpretation
regarding an organization’s University affiliation.
The names of all newly formed student organizations, as well as any student organizations requesting
permission to change their name, must satisfy the following criteria:
• The use of “Harvard” alone in the name is not permitted.
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• “Harvard Chan” or “Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health” must be in the name.
• “Student” must be in the name.
• The name must communicate the general purpose of the organization.
• “Organization,” “Club,” “Forum,” “Society,” “Committee,” “Consortium,” or equivalent must be
in the name.
• Cannot include “Fund,” “Institute,” “Academy,” or “Center” or other such words as these imply
that the organization is an official activity of the School or University.
• Occasionally, student organizations may be affiliated with larger pan-Harvard groups, in which
case “Chapter” may be used.
Logos and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Shield
Student organizations are permitted to use the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health shield for
organizational purposes. For questions regarding shield images, please contact
tradmark_pr[email protected].
Use of other shields, including the University’s Veritas shield, is not permitted.
The shield cannot be altered or edited in any way, including modifying the colors of the shield or
changing the lettering on the books. Additional design elements may be added around the shield,
provided they do not touch, overlap, or otherwise subsume the image.
Student organizations may also create their own shields and logos, provided they are consistent with the
University’s “Guidelines for the Creation of a New Shield Design or Logo by Harvard Departments, Units,
and Officially Recognized Organizations for Themselves or Their Activities.” These guidelines contain
specific instructions for designing a new shield or logo, including design criteria and the proper review
and approval process. New or redesigned logos cannot be used before receiving final approval by the
Office for Student Affairs and the Harvard Trademark Program.
Using Student Organization Names and Logos
The Trademark Program has established the following guidelines to help student organizations ensure
that they represent their association with Harvard in an appropriate and accurate manner:
• All communication external to the Harvard Chan School, including the general Harvard
community and/or the general public, must use the entire student organization name. This
includes communication with any other part of Harvard University.
• For communication within the School where there is a reasonable expectation of familiarity,
groups may use an approved abbreviation which shortens the name by omitting Harvard Chan
or Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, or an acronym which abbreviates the full,
approved name of the student organization. Hybrid acronyms, which spell out Harvard while
abbreviating the remainder of the name, are not permitted in any context.
Domain Names and Email Addresses
Domain names or email addresses that contain any form of “Harvard” require prior, written approval
from the Harvard Trademark Program. The organization’s domain name and email address should
accurately reflect the full approved name of the organization.
Any domain name that includes the word “Harvard” must be owned by the University and registered to
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“the President and Fellows of Harvard College.” External domain names that do not include the word
“Harvard” should belong to the student organization and not an individual.
Website Content and Social Media
In all electronic contexts, including social media and organization websites, student organizations may
use only an accurate representation of their full approved organization name, and the appropriate
Harvard shield or organization logo. They must also have a statement of affiliation, such as “an official
recognized Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health student organization,” clearly and prominently
displayed.
Student organization websites must include the following on the main page of their websites:
• The full, approved organization name in a prominent location, typically in the header of the
website. Subsequent references may use an accurate abbreviation or acronym.
• A statement of affiliation (“a student-run organization at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public
Health”) in a prominent location and in a font size and color comparable to other fonts being
used on the website, typically directly under the name in the header or in descriptive text in the
body.
• This statement on use of name and trademark, typically in the footer of the website: “The
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health name and/or shield are trademarks of the President
and Fellows of Harvard College and are used by permission of Harvard University.”
Student organizations should accurately represent themselves on social media platforms so that anyone
publicly viewing a profile can easily determine its relationship to the Harvard Chan School. To the best of
their abilities, the organization must:
• Choose an account name that is an accurate representation of their full, approved name or an
accurate abbreviation or acronym.
• Include the full, approved organization name and a statement of affiliation in the About section.
• Include a link to the organizational website in the appropriate field.
• Create events through an account linked to the organization, such as an organization’s Facebook
Group or Page, so that the event connects back to the hosting organization.
Student Organization Publications
Publications by student organizations must prominently state their affiliation on the cover or front page
of the publication. This statement of affiliation must include (1) the full, approved name of the
organization, (2) that it is a student-run publication, and (3) the name of the School with which the
organization is affiliated. For example: “a publication of (name of student group), an officially recognized
student organization at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.”
The copyright page (or relevant section) of the publication must state: “The Harvard name and the
VERITAS shield are trademarks of the President and Fellows of Harvard College and are used by
permission of Harvard University.” This statement can be modified to reflect the exact Harvard
trademarks being used.
Student Organization Events and Activities
The trademark guidelines also apply to student organization events and activities. All brochures, posters,
publicity materials, etc. related to any student group event or activity, whether taking place in the U.S.
or abroad, must clearly identify the full, approved name of the sponsoring student organization, in
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addition to including a clear statement of affiliation.
The use of the name “Harvard” in the name of an event without additional context can create the
inaccurate impression that an event is an activity of or is sponsored by the College or the University as a
whole. Therefore, special care must be taken to create accurate event names. Since student
organizations are recognized through the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, “Harvard” in an
event title must always be within the context of the phrase “Harvard Chan” or “Harvard T.H. Chan
School of Public Health.”
Although student organizations can collaborate with offices, departments, or centers on broader
initiatives, use of “Harvard” alone in an event title is permitted only when ALL of the following are true:
• The program or activity is University-wide, meaning its structure and governance has substantial
faculty involvement from at least three separate Harvard Schools.
• It has institutional accountability in that it reports formally to University-wide officers, such as
the president or provost or a group of deans from several faculties.
• There are not significant issues of confusion with activities elsewhere in the University (for
example, “the Harvard Project on Government” or “the Harvard Health Project” would raise
concerns of this nature).
The phrases “held at Harvard University,” “at Harvard University,” and “at Harvard” may be used as a
general geographic designation for activities held on campus, as long as they are accompanied by
language that makes it clear that the activity is being run by a student organization and not the
University or any other Harvard School or unit.
Ordering Apparel or Other Mercantile Items Bearing Harvard’s Trademarks
Requests by student organizations to have apparel or other mercantile items produced should first be
submitted to the Office for Student Affairs via studentaffairs@hsph.harvard.edu. Student organizations
must also follow up with the School’s Communication Office to obtain the correct digital files for
representation as well as style guidelines.
If a student organization wishes to include its organization name on merchandise, you must follow the
Harvard Trademark Program’s licensing process and review the “Guidelines for Ordering Internal
Insignia Items (“SWAG”) for Harvard Schools, Departments, Units, and Officially Recognized Student
Organizations and Affiliates” .
For further information about the Harvard Trademark Program, please visit the Trademark
Program website or contact the office at [email protected].
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Privacy and Other Statements
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) as amended is a federal law that gives
students certain rights with respect to their education records. The Harvard University FERPA policy is
available on the provost’s website.
Privacy of Educational Records
Students have the right to restrict the dissemination of their photo image and directory information.
According to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, known as FERPA, during check-in,
each student may restrict how and to whom directory data is provided (please see Privacy Statements).
Once a student restricts directory information, it will be used only for official Harvard University
business. It will not be given to fellow students, organizations, or outside parties and will not be
published in the online photo directory, commencement publications, or alumni directories. Students
should consider carefully whether to restrict access to their directory data. Please note that identifying
information, even if restricted for directory purposes, may be shared within the classroom setting and
through the use of electronic academic tools such as Canvas or Zoom.
Students who wish to revise their decision on restricting their directory data must inform the Registrar’s
Office by updating their Directory Profile indicator on the Student Home tab of my.harvard or via the
registration check-in on my.harvard.
Education Records
The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health routinely maintains records for its students that describe
and document their work and progress. These education records generally include documents such as
permanent and local addresses, admissions records, enrollment status, course grades, reports and
evaluations, completion of requirements and progress toward a degree, records of disciplinary actions,
letters of recommendation, and other correspondence with or concerning the student.
Access to Student Records
To be useful, a student’s records must be accurate and complete. The officials who maintain them are
those in charge of the functions reflected in the records and the offices where the records are kept.
These ordinarily include the registrar of the Harvard Chan School, the student’s academic adviser, the
student’s department chair or program head, departmental evaluation committees where appropriate,
the Committee on Admissions and Degrees, deans’ offices, the Admissions Office (if reapplying), the
Office of Financial Aid, and other officials of the University deemed to have appropriate educational
need. All students have access to their own education records and may contribute to them if they feel
there is need for clarification. Students wishing access to their education records should contact the
Harvard Chan School Registrar’s Office. Students are asked to submit a written request that identifies
the specific record or records they wish to inspect. Access will be given within 45 days from the receipt
of the request. When a record contains information about more than one student, the student
requesting access may inspect and review only the portion of the record relating to him or her. Students
also are not permitted to view letters and statements of recommendation to which they waived their
right of access, or that were placed in their file before January 1, 1975.
Students should direct any questions they have about the accuracy of records to the person in charge of
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the office where the records are kept. If questions still remain, the matter may be referred to the
Harvard Chan School Registrar. Should it be necessary, a hearing may be held to resolve challenges
concerning the accuracy of records in those cases where informal discussions have not satisfactorily
settled the questions raised.
Directory Information
The Harvard Chan School regards the following information as “directory information,” that is,
information that, under FERPA, can be made available to the general public: student name, image,
major field of study, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, previous schools attended and
degrees received, local and permanent address, phone number, email address, and photograph
captured for the HUID card. For student employees, directory information includes job title, teaching
appointment (if applicable), employing department, and dates of employment.
Please note that Harvard University’s definition of “directory information,” found on the Provost Office
website, may include elements in addition to those used by the Harvard Chan School and that requests
for directory information received at the University level thus may result in disclosure of such additional
elements.
Students may direct the Harvard Chan School of Public Health not to disclose their directory
information, usually known as putting in place a “FERPA Block.” To do so, a student must inform the
registrar of the Harvard Chan School, in writing, of that decision. Students should be aware of the
possible consequences of putting in place a FERPA Block, such as missed mailings, messages, and
announcements, nonverification of enrollment or degree status, and non-inclusion in the Harvard
Graduation booklet. Students who have previously chosen to put in place a FERPA Block may decide to
reverse this decision, also by informing the registrar of the Harvard Chan School in writing.
Other Disclosures Permitted Under FERPA
In addition to permitting the disclosure of directory information, as set forth above, FERPA permits
disclosure of educational records without a student’s knowledge or consent under certain
circumstances. For example, disclosure is permitted to Harvard officials with a legitimate educational
interest in the records, meaning that the person needs the information to fulfill their professional
responsibilities, including instructional, supervisory, advisory, administrative, academic or research, staff
support, or other duties. “Harvard officials” include faculty, administrators, clerical employees,
professional employees, Harvard University Health Services professionals, Harvard University police
officers, agents of the University, such as independent contractors or vendors performing functions on
behalf of a Harvard School or the University, members of Harvard’s governing boards, and students
serving on an official School or University committee or assisting another Harvard official in performing
their tasks. A student’s education record also may be shared with parties outside the University under
certain conditions, including, for example, situations involving a health and safety emergency. In
addition, a Harvard School will forward a student’s education records to other agencies or institutions
that have requested the records and in which the student seeks or intends to enroll or is already
enrolled as long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer.
If the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health finds that a student has committed a disciplinary
violation involving a crime of violence or a nonforcible sex offense, then it also may, if legally permitted
and in the Harvard Chan School’s judgment appropriate, disclose certain information about the
disciplinary case. The disclosure may include the student’s name, the violation committed, and the
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sanction imposed.
Student Rights Under FERPA
As set forth above, under both Harvard policy and FERPA, students and former students may inspect
and review certain education records of theirs that Harvard maintains. They also have the right to
exercise limited control over other people’s access to their education records; seek to correct their
education records if they believe them to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of their
FERPA rights; file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe Harvard has not
complied with the requirements of FERPA; and be fully informed of their rights under FERPA.
Complaints regarding alleged violation of rights of students under FERPA may be submitted in writing
within 180 days to the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland
Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202-5920.
GDPR Policy
Visit the Additional EEA Privacy Disclosures page to read the University’s European Economic Area (EEA)
privacy disclosures and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) disclosures.
Gramm-Leach Bliley Act
All information submitted for the purpose of securing financial aid is protected under Harvard’s
Enterprise Security Policy, FERPA, and the Gramm-Leach Bliley Act of 1999. Under these provisions,
Harvard ensures the privacy and safeguarding of all financial aid information. For more information,
contact the Office of Financial Aid at 617-432-1867 or via [email protected]vard.edu.
Veterans Affairs Compliance
As of August 1st, 2019, Harvard University adheres to the requirements of and complies with S2248 PL
1150497 Section 103. Harvard University does not impose late fees on any student and will not impose a
late fee on students utilizing Chapter 33 and Chapter 31 benefits. Additionally, Harvard University will
not prevent a student from attending classes or demand payment in advance for funds expected to be
paid by the VA until at least 90 days post certification. Under this policy, Harvard University defines a
covered individual as any student that has notified the University that they are eligible to receive
Chapter 33 or Chapter 31 benefits in writing prior to the start of the academic term in which they plan
to use those benefits. Covered individuals will see the amount anticipated from the VA on their student
account in the form of Anticipated Aid for Chapter 33 or a third-party deferment for Chapter 31. If the
VA fails to pay 90 days post certification, Harvard reserves the right to require payment from the
student directly.
Harvard University is compliant with the following trademark policy:
1. The GI Bill trademark is not to be incorporated or included in company or product names,
trademarks, logos, or internet domain names.
2. The term ‘‘GI Bill®’’ is to be used solely to promote official VA benefit programs and services
and must include the proper trademark symbol.
3. Use of the trademark attribution notice, indicating that the mark and all associated services
95
belong to VA, is required and shall be taken as evidence that use of the mark is in good faith.
4. No entity shall use the GI Bill trademark in any manner that directly or indirectly implies a
relationship, affiliation, or association with VA that does not exist.
5. Disparagement or misrepresentations of VA services through use of the mark, or by the use of
confusingly similar wording, are strictly prohibited.
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Administration
Departments and Programs
The following is a list of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health departments and programs and their
corresponding abbreviations and administrative points of contact:
DEPARTMENT/ PROGRAM
DEPARTMENT/
PROGRAM
ABBREVIATION
DEPARTMENT/ PROGRAM
ADMINISTRATOR
ADDRESS
TELEPHONE
Academic Year
Non-Degree
Boston Area Public Health Professional
Sabrina Taileb-Houmel
Kresge G4
617-432-7596
Harvard Affiliates
Harvard Chan School Alumni
Harvard Chan School Postdoctoral Fellows
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
ALI
Advanced Leadership Initiative
Anna Porter
14 Story St.
617-384-9533
BST
Biostatistics
Jelena Follweiler
SPH2-408
617-432-1087
CBQG
Computational Biology and Quantitative
Genetics
David Cruikshank
SPH2-408
617-432-5061
DBS/BPH
Division of Biological Sciences/PhD Program
in Biological Sciences in Public Health
Tatevik Holmgren
SPH2-111
617-432-4397
Eric Creighton
SPH2-119
617-432-7703
DrPH
Doctor of Public Health
Gary Williams
Kresge G29
617-432-5008
EH
Environmental Health
Barbara Zuckerman
SPH1-1304
617-432-2109
EPI
Epidemiology
Eric DiGiovanni
Kresge 902
617-432-1328
Caroline Huntington
Kresge 901
617-432-5250
Jeffrey Noyes
Kresge 901
617-432-7973
GHDI
Global Health Delivery Intensive
Lewis Seton
Ashton Wollett
300 Fenway
617-521-3367
GHP
Global Health and Population
Barbara Heil
SPH1-1108
617-432-1179
Allison Conary
SPH1-1108
617-432-2253
GID
Global Infectious Diseases Summer
Program
Andrea Sabaroff
FXB 301
617-432-1023
HDS
Health Data Science
David Cruikshank
SPH2-408
617-432-5061
HPM
Health Policy and Management
Jennifer Moltoni
Kresge 338
617-432-4324
Doug Scaffidi
Kresge 336
617-432-4506
MHCM Program
Colin Fleming
Kresge 320
617-432-7075
IID
Immunology and Infectious Diseases
Andrea Sabaroff
FXB 301
617-432-1023
Lown
The Bernard Lown Scholars in
Cardiovascular Health Program
Haley Cline
617-432-1337
MPH
Master of Public Health
Anne Occhipinti
Kresge G29
617-432-3530
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Emily Davies
Kresge G29
617-432-3042
Megan Kerin
Kresge G29
617-432-7718
Stephanie Lemoine
Kresge G29
617-432-1558
Nkwanzi Sabiti
Kresge G29
617-432-0090
MET
Molecular Metabolism
Katrina Soriano
SPH2-311
617-432-0760
PCE
Program in Clinical Effectiveness
Marion Mattke
1620
Tremont St.
617-525-3199
Caroline Walsh
Tiana Jurisic
617-525-3199
PHS
PhD in Population Health Sciences
Bruce Villineau
Kresge G10
617-432-2021
Matthew Boccuzzi
Kresge G10
617-432-2048
PREP-GSAS
Research Scholar Initiative
Katie Saibara
Smith Center
617-495-9551
NUT
Nutrition
Stefanie Dean
SPH2-310
617-432-1528
SBS
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Elizabeth Solomon
Kresge 711
617-432-3761
Whitney Waddell
Kresge 618
617-432-3689
Summer-PHS
Summer Session in Public Health Studies
Stephanie Lemoine
Kresge G29
617-432-1558
Takemi
Takemi Fellows
Emily Coles
SPH1-1210
617-432-6006
Yerby
Yerby Postdoctoral Fellows
Mollie-Anne Maxfield
90 Smith St.
617-432-7629
Office for Student Services
Kresge Building, G4
677 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617-432-4067
Web: hsph.harvard.edu/student-services
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Eastern time
Maritza Hernandez, Associate Dean for Student Services
Selma Abdul, Assistant Director of Student Services
Karen Brown, Office Manager
The Office for Student Services includes the Admissions Office, Office of Career and Professional
Development, Registrar’s Office, Office for Student Affairs, and Office of Financial Aid at the Harvard T.H.
Chan School of Public Health (the School). The office is responsible for all aspects of administration
pertaining to supporting students’ admission, registration, academic records, degree progress, social
and academic well-being, and financial support.
Office of Admissions
158 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617-432-1031
Web: hsph.harvard.edu/admissions
Email: admissions@hsph.harvard.edu
Fax: 617-432-7080
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Eastern time
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Kerri Noonan, Director of Admissions
Charlie Dill, Associate Director of Admissions
TBD, Assistant Director of Admissions
Ngan Nguyen, Assistant Director of Admissions
Sarah Habbour, Admissions Coordinator
Ruth Thompson, Senior Admissions Coordinator
TBD, Admissions Assistant
The Admissions Office strives to attract prospective students and admitted students to the School by
providing counseling and engagement opportunities through partnerships with current students,
alumni, staff, and faculty. We process applications for admission to the School’s master’s and DrPH
programs. We advise prospective applicants about the admissions process, opportunities offered by
departments and programs, and the School’s role in their professional development. We invite inquiries
and post engagement opportunities here:
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/admissions/admissions/campus-visits/
Office for Student Affairs
Kresge Building, G4
677 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617-432-1036
Web: hsph.harvard.edu/student-affairs
Email: studentaffair[email protected]
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Eastern time
Leah Kane, Director for Student Affairs
Colleen Cronin, Senior Associate Director for Student Support Services
Yana Geyfman, Assistant Director for Student Support Services
Luke Sutherland, Associate Director for Student Experience - Title IX Resource Coordinator
Amy De La Cerda, Senior Program Coordinator
Nelson Ysabel, Student Affairs Coordinator
The mission of the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) is to support and enrich the student experience at the
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health through a wide range of educational, cultural, and social
programming. The office works to help ensure the general well-being of the student body and to
support students who are experiencing challenges or difficulties. OSA plans both orientation and
graduation programs and events. The office assists students with disabilities, provides specialized
programming and support for our diverse student population, assists with housing and residence life
issues, works closely with officers of the Student Association, and advises and provides support to
student organizations on a variety of issues, including goal setting and event planning. In addition, OSA
administers the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s Semester Pass, a discount subway pass
program; assigns lockers; and serves as an information source for students.
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Office of Career and Professional Development
Kresge Building, G4
677 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617-432-1034
Web: hsph.harvard.edu/career-services
Email: [email protected]arvard.edu
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Eastern time
Sheila Krishnan, Director of Career and Professional Development
Courtney Burke, Assistant Director of Employer Relations
Alison McAlear, Assistant Director, Career Coaching and Education
Andrea Heller, Career Coach/Advisor
Maria Ramos, Senior Program Coordinator, Student and Employer Development
The mission of the Office of Career and Professional Development is to meet all Harvard Chan students
where they are on their individual career journeys to empower them in building careers that fulfill the
greater mission of advancing public health. The office provides individualized career coaching,
professional competency and skill development, network building, and education regarding career
paths, industries, and employers. Log in to CareerConnect to make an appointment, upload your
résumé, view job postings, and find upcoming events. Office staff are available to meet with students
and alumni in person or online.
Registrar’s Office
Kresge Building, G4
677 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617-432-1032
Web: hsph.harvard.edu/registrar
Email: registrar@hsph.harvard.edu
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Eastern time
Joann Wilson-Singleton, Registrar
Steven Bearden, Senior Associate Registrar
Michelle Flewelling, Senior Associate Registrar for Systems and Project Management
Katie Greiner, Assistant Registrar
Katie Schiepers, Special Programs Manager
Crystel Feliciano, Masters Student and Cross-Registration Coordinator
Donna McLean, Senior Billing and Credentials Coordinator
Prabhat Raut, Enrollment Systems and Reporting Specialist
Nate Smith, Registrar’s Office Liaison
Sabrina Taileb-Houmel, Masters of Science and Guest Student Coordinator
TBD, Course Management Coordinator
The Registrar’s Office manages student enrollment, maintains student records and grades, monitors
students’ compliance with degree requirements, certifies enrollment, assesses tuition, and schedules
courses.
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Office of Financial Aid
Kresge Building, G4
677 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617-432-1867
Web: hsph.harvard.edu/financial-aid
Email: financialaid@hsph.harvard.edu
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Eastern time, or by appointment
Kathryn Austin, Director of Financial Aid
Michael Silvernail, Associate Director of Financial Aid
Senait Mulu, Assistant Director of Financial Aid
Salam Kasu, Financial Aid Coordinator
The mission of the Office of Financial Aid is to assist students and applicants in all matters related to fee
assessments, billing, and financing education and expenses at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public
Health. The office coordinates scholarship and fellowship decisions with the Office of the Dean and
academic departments. The office also determines eligibility for federal student aid and administers
federal student loan programs. Counseling is available throughout the year on such topics as loan debt
management, student billing, refund process, and other areas, as required. Telephone inquiries are
welcome every day during office hours, and voicemail messages may be left during early morning and
evening hours.
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Acronyms
List of Acronyms
The following abbreviations are used throughout this Handbook and other School-affiliated websites
and documents.
ALI
Advanced Leadership Initiative
HUHS
Harvard University Health Services
AUD
Audit
HUIT
Harvard University Information
AV
Audio Visual
Technology
BAPHP
Boston Area Public Health
HUPD
Harvard University Police Department
Professional
HUSHP
Harvard University Student Health
BCBS
Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance
Program
BST
Biostatistics
ICF
Instructional Computing Facility
CAD
Committee on Admissions and Degrees
IECS
Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and
CAMHS
Counseling and Mental Health Services
Health Policy
CBQG
Computational Biology and
ID
Interdepartmental
Quantitative Genetics
IID
Immunology and Infectious Diseases
CCC
Code of Conduct Council
MET
Department of Molecular Metabolism
CEP
Committee on Educational Policy
MHCM
Master in Health Care Management
CLE
Clinical Effectiveness
MPH
Master of Public Health
DBS
Division of Biological Sciences
MPP
Monthly Payment Plan
DRPH
Doctor of Public Health
NUT
Nutrition
EH
Environmental Health
OCPD
Office of Career and Professional
EPI
Epidemiology
Development
FAS
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
ODI
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
FERPA
Family Educational Rights and Privacy
ODR
Office for Sexual and Gender-Based
Act of 1974
Dispute Resolution
FF
Facilities Fee
OFA
Office of Financial Aid
FT
Full-time
OQE
Oral Qualifying Examination (DrPH
FTR
Full-time Reduced Tuition
Students)
FWS
Federal Work Study
ORD
Ordinal
FXB
François-Xavier Bagnoud Building
OSA
Office for Student Affairs
GHDI
Global Health Delivery Intensive
OSAPR
Office for Sexual Assault Prevention
GHP
Global Health and Population
and Response
GID
Global Infectious Diseases
OSS
Office for Student Services
GSAS
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
OTD
Office of Technology Development
GSD
Graduate School of Design
PCE
Program in Clinical Effectiveness
GSE
Graduate School of Education
P/F
Pass/Fail
HBS
Harvard Business School
PT
Part-time
HCM
Health Care Management
SAP
Satisfactory Academic Practice
HDS
Harvard Divinity School
SBS
Social and Behavioral Sciences
HDS
Health Data Science
School
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
HIO
Harvard International Office
SD
Doctor of Science
HKS
Harvard Kennedy School
SM
Master of Science
HLC
Harvard Longwood Campus
TAP
Tuition Assistance Plan
HLS
Harvard Law School
VDI
Virtual Desktop Interface
HMS
Harvard Medical School
WQE
Written Qualifying Examination
HPM
Health Policy and Management
(DrPH Students only)
HSCF
Health Sciences Computing Facility
XREG
Cross-registration
677 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02115
www.hsph.harvard.edu
102
HSDM
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
INDEX
A
Absence Due to Religious Beliefs, 30
Academic Standards and Integrity, 51
A Note on Computer Programs, 54
Academic Integrity Reporting Procedures, 52
Academic Misconduct, 51
Admissions Application Policy, 51
Cheating or Colluding to Cheat on Examinations, 55
Consultation, 52
Fabrication and Falsification, 54
Internal Review, 53
Plagiarism, 53
Self-Plagiarism/Reusing Previous Work, 54
Student Code of Council Hearing, 53
Unapproved Collaboration, 54
Use of Artificial Intellence (AI) Tools, 55
Academic Year Non-Degree Programs, 23
Non-Degree Academic Standing, 24
Non-Degree Course Enrollment Policies and Procedures,
23
Non-Degree Withdrawal, 24
Acronyms, 101
Advisors, 70
Applying for Graduation, 47
Auditing Courses, 27
Awards, 48
B
Bicycles, 87
C
Campus Resources, 84
Certifications, 46
Certifications of Enrollment, 46
Certifications of Loan Deferrals, 46
Class
Attendance, 25
Exam Schedules, 26
Jury Duty, 26
Voting in Governmental Elections, 26
Code of Conduct Council, 55
Academic Misconduct Sanctions, 58
Note about Admission Materials, 59
Policies on Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and
Discrimination, 59
Research Misconduct Sanctions, 59
Rules for Disciplinary Proceedings, 55
Sanctions for Misconduct, 56
Commencement. See Applying for Graduation
Core-Course Requirements, 24
Waiving, 25
Counseling and Mental Health Services (CAMHS), 82
Course Enrollment Policies, 35
Cross-Registration, 35
Credit Conversion, 37
Credit LImits, 37
Cross-Registration Consortium, 36
Deadlines, 37
Grades, 37
Policies, 36
D
Dangerous Weapons and Threats, 86
Degree Programs and Requirements, 6
Academic Requirements, 6
Academic Standing, 7
Change in Degree, Department or Environmental Health
Concentration, 7
Consecutive Programs, 7
Failure to Meet Academic Requirements, 7
Joint, Combined, and Degree Information, 7
Master of Science Acadmic Requirements, 6
Master's Programs, 6
Satisfactory Academic Progress, 8
Waiving Degree Requirements, 8
Departments and Programs, 96
Diplomas, 48
Disability Services, 72
Doctor of Philosophy Programs, 20
Doctor of Public Health Program, 13
Academic Requirements, 14
After Successful Completion of the Defense, 19
Course Performance, 14
Doctoral Project Oral Final Examination, 18
Doctoral Project Progress Reports, 17
Guidelines, 15
Nomination of Doctoral Project Committee, 16
Nonresident Doctoral Status, 18
Oral Final Examination Results, 19
Oral Qualifying Examination, 16
Oral Qualifying Examination Results, 17
Procedure for Scheduling the Doctoral Project Oral
Qualifying Examination, 16
Prospective/Final Program, 15
Publishing the Thesis, 19
Required Courses, 14
Student Timetable, 14
Tuition and Fees, 14
Written Qualifying Examination, 16
103
E
Education Statement, 5
Enrollment Check-in Requirements, 34
F
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 92
Access to Student Records, 92
Directory Information, 93
Education Records, 92
GDPR Policy, 94
Other Disclosures Permitted under FERPA, 93
Privacy of Educational Records, 92
Student Rights Under FERPA, 94
FERPA, 92
Final Examination Policy, 30
Financial Aid, 76
Scholarships/Grants, 76
Student Employment, 77
Student Loans, 76
Third-Party Contracts, 76
U.S. Military Benefits, 76
G
Grade Changes, 29
Grade Notification, 30
Grading System, 26
Auditing Courses, 27
Failure of Core Courses, 28
Grade of Absence from Examination, 27
Grade of Failure, 28
Grade of Incomplete, 29
Grade of Withdrawal, 27
Gramm-Leach Bliley Act, 94
Guidelines for Free Expression, Open Debate, Protest, and
Dissent, 67
Consequences, 69
Force or Violence, 69
Noise, 69
Picketing and Distributing Literature, 68
Questions from Audience and Moderator Role, 69
Responsibility of an Audience and Host, 69
Silent or Symbolic Protest, 69
The Challenge of Open Debate, 67
The Right to Dissent, 68
The Value of Free Expression, 67
H
Harvard Chan Military Student Readmission Policy, 48
Harvard International Office, 72
Harvard University Identification Card, 83
Replacement of Harvard ID, 84
Rights of the University to Capture and Use Digital
Images, 84
Harvard University Police, 84
Harvard University Police Business, 84
MessageMe Emergency Notification System, 85
Security LIne, 84
Health Insurance and Fees, 78
Health Insurance Coverage for Degree Candidates, 78
Non-Degree Health Insurance and Fees, 78
Required Student Health Insurance, 78
Student Health Fee, 78
Student Health Insurance Plan, 78
Health Insurance for Degree Candidates. See Health
Insurance and Fees
Health Services (HUHS), 78
Accessibility, 81
Center for Wellness and Health Promotion, 81
Confidentiality, 81
Patient Advocate, 81
Primary Care/Internal Medicine, 80
Required Immunizations, 80
Urgent Care, 80
Housing, 72
I
Immunizations, 80
Inclement Weather Policy, 31
Independent Studies and Research Sections, 24
Introduction, 4
L
Learning Support, 70
Leaves of Absence, 38
Agreements to Engage in Treatment, 42
Clearance for Return, 42
Family Leave Policy, 43
Involuntary Leaves of Absence, 38
Refund Schedule for Leaves of Absence/Withdrawal, 44
Returning to School, 40
Voluntary Leaves of Absence, 38
While on Leave of Absence, 40
Libraries, 71
Loan Exit Counseling Requirements, 47
M
Master in Health Care Management Program, 11
Committee on Admissions and Degrees, 11
Continuation Fee, 12
Master in Health Care Management Information, 11
Master of Public Health Programs, 8
Committee on Admissions and Degrees, 8
Continuation Fee, 10
Master of Public Health Information, 8
MPH Joint/Combined Degree Programs, 10
MPH Summer-Focused Degree, 10
Master of Science Programs, 12
Committee on Admissions and Degrees, 12
Continuation Fee, 13
104
Master of Science Information, 12
MessageMe, 85
Military Student Readmission Policy, 48
MPH Summer-Focused Degree. See Summer-Focused
Degree Programs
my.harvard, 34
Academic Year Non-Degree my.harvard, 34
N
Non-Degree Programs and Information, 21
O
Office for Student Affairs, 98
Office for Student Services, 97
Office of Admissions, 97
Office of Career and Professional Development, 99
Office of Financial Aid, 100
Ombuds Office, 73
Online Course Schedules and Catalogs, 35
P
Petition Process, 43
Decision Guidelines, 44
Student Responsibilities and the Petition Process, 44
Policies on Sexual and Gender Based Harassment, 60
Office for Dispute Resolution, 62
Sexual Harassment, 60
Policy on Computing and IT, 31
Policy on Drugs and Alcohol, 64
Policy on Hazing, 65
Policy on Missing Persons, 66
Policy on Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying, 63
Policy on Patents, 31
Professional Development Support Fund, 77
R
Registrar's Office, 99
S
Sensitive Crimes, 85
Sexual Harassment, 60
Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Campus, 87
Standards of Conduct in the Harvard Community, 50
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), 31
Student Hardship Fund, 77
Student Information System. See my.harvard
Student Organizations, 72
Summer Courses, Independent Studies and Research, 21
Summer Credit Limits for Degree-Seeking Students. See
Summer Programs,
Summer Non-Degree Programs, 21
Non-Degree Withdrawal, 23
Summer Credit Limits for Non-Degree Students, 22
Summer Non-Degree Course Requirements, 22
Summer Programs, 20
Summer Credit Limits for Degree Seeking Students, 20
Summer-Focused Degree Programs, 21
T
Taxi Escort Service, 85
Trademarks and Use of Harvard's Name, 88
Transcripts, 45
Transfer Credits, 37
Travel Grants for Travel-Related Courses, 71
Tuition and Fees, 75
Cost of Collections, 75
Harvard Chan Billing Policy, 75
TAP Information Table, 75
Tutors, 70
U
University Access to Electronic Information, 31
University-Wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities,
50
V
Veterans Affairs Compliance, 94
W
Walking Escort Service, 85
WinterSession (January), 24
Withdrawal, 44
Refund Schedule for Leaves of Absence/Withdrawal, 44
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