http://www.extension.harvard.edu/programs/perks.jsp;jsessionid=CJOPDEENHKOH
This page lists some of the perks diploma candidates receive that we don't. I think that's BS; if we're accepted into the program, we should receive the same benefits.
Ok, look. I'm not trying to play devil's advocate here or anything. I'm just trying to help people make an informed decision. The benefits page? I can DO 95% OF THESE as an HCP student.
I was going to go down and affirm them for you individually, but I have studying to do. Replace "with your ID card" with "registration or class schedule" and it's the same thing! I get discounts, I get lab access, I can go into libraries, I have advising, I can obtain career counseling, I can use tutoring, and so forth. About the only thing on this list that's blocked from me is a business card....which is semi superfluous.
My biggest concern here is that all of your research is being done via the website, and that is incredibly inefficient. If you talk to current and past students, you'll find it all to be contrary to the case.
Good luck.
Benefits before you are admitted to the program
By registering for a course, you are eligible to use a number of resources through the Extension School, such as:
State-of-the-art computer labs
Writing and math tutoring
Career, academic, and graduate school workshops
Computer software and hardware discounts
Access to approximately 3,000 databases and journals through the Harvard Libraries Portal
Details can be found in the Resources and Benefits section.
Benefits after you are admitted
Priority registration
Program candidates have the privilege of enrolling in classes before the general population. See the calendar for dates.
ID card privileges
As a candidate in a program, you receive a photo ID card that opens the doors to the following benefits.
World-class libraries
With your student ID, you may use many Harvard libraries.
Arts and entertainment
Harvards renowned museums include 3 art museums and 4 research centers and are free with your ID card.
Office for the Arts at Harvard programs enable Harvard students to explore an art form in depth and to work directly with professional artists in a wide range of classes, workshops, and apprenticeships.
American Repertory Theatre offers tickets for 5 plays for just $60 when you present your ID at the box office.
Discounts
As a registered candidate, you can purchase athletic privileges at a discount (see the athletics website), open a Crimson Cash debit account for on- and off-campus purchases, get help with your apartment or home-buying searches with the Harvard Real Estate Services, and dine on campus with ease.
Student employment
Using your Harvard ID card, you can search for non-workstudy jobssuch as research and library positionsat the Student Employment Office.
Business cards
If you are currently registered in courses or are pursuing a thesis or internship, you may order business cards with the Harvard Extension School official shield through Harvards Mail Communication Center. You must be in good academic standing with no disciplinary action or charges pending.
Example of degree representation on card: Harvard University Extension School, Master of Liberal Arts (ALM), Biotechnology, Concentration: Bioinformatics
Only your Extension School degree candidacy information may be printed on the card. Previous degrees or professional designations will not be authorized.
To order cards, visit the Mail Services website and fill out the Extension School order form.
Program and academic advising
Your program staff is here to guide you, providing advice on choosing courses and fulfilling requirements.
In addition, Harvards Bureau of Study Counsel provides academic counseling to a limited number of candidates on a referral basis. Find information at Study Skills and Tutoring.
Career services
The Office of Career Services (OCS) helps you identify career options and develop résumé-writing, job-search, and interviewing skills. The OCS also provides access to a number of resources, such as the reading room and a variety of databases containing alumni contact information and internship listings. Additionally, candidates and alumni can set up appointments for career counseling. Visit the Career Services section to learn more about how OCS can help you in your career search.
Additionally, the Career and Academic Resource Center offers free academic, career, and graduate school workshops.
Harvard University housing
Full-time masters degree candidates who are currently registered in courses are eligible to live in Harvard University Housing. See the Harvard Real Estate Services website to fill out an application.
Harvard Extension Student Association
The Harvard Extension Student Association (HESA) is the umbrella organization for all student groups at the Extension School. Program candidates are voting members of HESA, and many of the organizations events and activities are open to all Extension School students. Visit the HESA website.
Beyond graduation
Harvard Extension Alumni Association
Alumni can attend the many events sponsored by the Harvard Extension Alumni Association (HEAA). These events are often free and open to all HEAA and HESA members. Look forward to stimulating colloquiums and lectures by fellow alumni and thought-leaders, banquets that welcome new alumni and honor others, and fun sunset or island cruises. For information about upcoming events, see Alumni.
Harvard Alumni Association
Alumni of the Harvard Extension School also have access to the benefits of the Harvard Alumni Association (HAA). The HAA is the official alumni association of Harvard University, and it sponsors events, continuing education opportunities, and activities around the world. To find out more, visit the HAA website.
I emailed them and got a response back from Owen Peterson very quickly saying more or less the same thing as you though he didn't mention sponsorship. I take it the program is still worth going through even without the possibility of sponsorship? I liked the list of electives I saw...
