Internships and Co-ops at Harvard University

Get everything you need to know about internships and co-ops at Harvard University, including application processes, eligibility, and gaining industry experience. We also discussed Harvard internships and co-ops and Student internships at Harvard. As well as Co-op opportunities Harvard and Harvard University career programs.

Harvard Internships and Co-Ops

Internships and co-ops at Harvard University offer hands on learning and each has its own benefits. Internships are shorter, flexible work experiences that fit into summer, winter or part-time schedules, while co-ops are structured, full-time work placements that often span a semester or more. Both offer Harvard students the opportunity to learn more, gain skills beyond the classroom.

What Makes Harvard Internships Unique?

Harvard internships are special because of the university’s reputation and network. Internships connected to Harvard University often come with the added bonus of working with top companies, organizations and non-profits. These opportunities are in many fields including business, healthcare, engineering, public policy and more so there’s something for every student.

Plus, Harvard students have access to exclusive internships because of the university’s long standing relationships with top organizations and its vast alumni network. A Harvard internship doesn’t just add credibility to a resume; it also gives students insight into career paths and industries they may want to pursue in the long term.

What are Co-Ops at Harvard?

Many schools have dedicated co-op programs but co-ops at Harvard are different. Harvard does not have a formal co-op program across all departments. Instead students are encouraged to find long-term, full-time placements that align with their studies and career goals. For students who want to dive into an industry, these Harvard co-op opportunities can provide valuable hands on experience over an extended period.

Harvard co-ops allow students to dive deep into a field while earning academic credit or gaining practical knowledge they can apply to their courses. These experiences may involve extensive research, project management and in-depth skill building that adds a different kind of intensity to a student’s educational journey.

Student Internships at Harvard

There are many ways Harvard students can do internships throughout the academic year and during breaks. Student internships at Harvard range from lab research to corporate internships with global companies so you can find one that fits your major and interests.

Types of Internships

Harvard student internships come in many forms:

1. Summer Internships:

Most students do internships in the summer. Since these internships don’t overlap with the regular school year, students can work full-time and get immersed. Many summer internships are paid and they’re often with companies that target Harvard students or participate in Harvard’s career fairs and on-campus recruitment programs.

2. Winter Session Internships:

During Harvard’s winter break students can do short-term internships that last a few weeks. Though short, these internships can be powerful for students who want to get a taste of a new field or gain skills in a specific area. Winter internships are also a great way to test out a company or organization before committing to a longer term position.

3. Academic Year Part-Time Internships:

For students who want to work while studying, part-time internships are an option. Students can do coursework and internships, so they can gain work experience without compromising their academic progress. Many organizations in Cambridge and Boston offer part-time positions so it’s convenient for students.

Fields for Harvard Internships

Harvard internships cover many fields but some of the most popular are:

Business and Finance: From investment banks to consulting firms, many finance and business organizations offer structured internship programs for Harvard students.
Public Policy and Government: Students interested in government, law and policy can find internships with government agencies, NGOs and think tanks in Washington D.C. and beyond.
Healthcare and Biotechnology: For pre-med or health focused students, internships in healthcare settings, research labs and biotech companies give hands on experience to the industry.
Non-Profit and Community Service: Many Harvard students are drawn to internships with non-profits which often align with their passion to make a positive impact. Harvard’s connections with NGOs and other service oriented organizations give students access to meaningful work.

For more information, check out Harvard’s Office of Career Services which lists available internship opportunities, application tips and helps students connect with employers.

Co-Op Opportunities at Harvard

Co-op at Harvard is perfect for students who want immersive, extended work experience. Unlike internships which are short-term, co-op is longer-term positions where students can alternate between semesters of study and work.

How to Find Harvard Co-Op

Since Harvard doesn’t have a standardized co-op program across all departments, students are advised to seek guidance from their academic advisors, professors and the Office of Career Services. Many departments have partnerships with organizations and companies that welcome students for extended, hands-on roles similar to a co-op structure.

Here are some ways to find co-op opportunities at Harvard:

1. Contact Academic Advisors and Professors:

Many professors and advisors have professional contacts or are involved in industry research and can help students find co-op positions.

2. Department-Specific Co-Op Programs:

Some departments especially in fields like engineering, environmental science and business have pre-established co-op programs.

3. Networking with Alumni:

Harvard’s alumni network is huge and active. Students can use LinkedIn, Harvard Alumni Association and other networking tools to reach out to alumni who work in fields or companies of interest. Alumni are often happy to help current students gain work experience and may know about co-op opportunities.

Fields with Co-Op Opportunities at Harvard

Engineering and Computer Science: Co-ops with tech companies, research labs and start-ups.
Environmental and Sustainability Studies: Co-ops with non-profits, government agencies and research institutions.
Public Health and Medicine: Co-ops with research institutions, hospitals or non-profits.

Through co-ops students gain experience and build professional relationships that can carry over into their post-graduate careers.

Harvard University Career Programs

Harvard University has many career programs to help students find internships, co-ops and other work experiences. These programs are run by the Office of Career Services (OCS) which offers career counseling, resume workshops, on-campus recruitment and employer networking events.

Harvard Office of Career Services (OCS)

The Harvard Office of Career Services is the go-to resource for students looking for internships and co-ops. OCS offers resources for students from all backgrounds and majors:

1. Resume and Interview Prep:

OCS offers resume-building workshops, cover letter guidance and mock interviews. These services help students prepare for the application and interview process and present themselves well.

2. Career Counseling:

Students can schedule one-on-one career counseling sessions to discuss their career goals, explore possible paths and get guidance on job search strategies. OCS counselors are trained to help students find internships and co-ops that match their academic and career goals. See more Harvard University career programs.

3. On-Campus Recruitment Events:

Harvard’s on-campus recruitment events bring employers to campus so students can network and learn about job and internship opportunities. These events often feature organizations that offer both short-term internships as well as longer-term co-ops.

Funding for Internships

The Summer Internship Funding Program supports students pursuing unpaid or low-paid internships. This program provides funding so students can pursue opportunities that might not be otherwise possible. Harvard’s commitment to funding students through this program is part of the university’s broader effort to make every student equally able to access career-enriching opportunities.

Networking Events and Career Treks

Harvard University hosts career treks where groups of students visit companies in major cities, including New York, San Francisco and Boston. These treks give students a behind the scenes look at companies and industries of interest and often allow them to meet employees and Harvard alumni who work in those fields.

Career networking events also allow students to meet representatives from various companies and organizations. These are great for students to learn about potential internships and co-op opportunities and make lasting connections.

Making the Most of Internships and Co-Ops at Harvard

Internships and co-ops are great but you have to participate to get the most out of them. Here are some tips to make the most of your time:

1. Set Goals:

Before you start your internship or co-op, set your personal goals. What do you want to learn? What skills do you want to develop? Having goals will keep you focused and also measure your success.

2. Ask for Feedback:

Throughout your internship or co-op, ask for feedback from your supervisors and peers. Feedback is good for personal and professional growth.

3. Network and Connect:

Connecting with professionals at your workplace can be a support system, mentorship opportunities and stay connected to your industry.

4. Reflect on Your Experience:

After your internship or co-op, take time to reflect. What did you enjoy? What challenged you? How did the experience impact your career goals. These reflections will be helpful as you plan your next steps.

Conclusion

Internships and co-ops at Harvard University are more than just job experience—they are a chance to apply what you learned in the classroom, gain confidence and develop skills. Whether summer internships, winter session or co-op style placements Harvard students have access to career building opportunities that can be stepping stones.

Harvard’s resources including the Office of Career Services will support students as they pursue these opportunities from connecting with employers at networking events to preparing application materials.

For more information on available programs and services, explore the Harvard Office of Career Services and Crimson Careers. With the right preparation and Harvard’s backing, you’re well on your way to building a rewarding career!

Internships and Co-Ops at Harvard University: Everything You Need to Know