Navigating the world of Harvard can be confusing! You hear 'Harvard College' and 'Harvard University' thrown around, but what do they actually mean? Simply put, Harvard College is the undergraduate liberal arts college within Harvard University. Think of Harvard University as the umbrella, encompassing various graduate and professional schools like Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and Harvard Business School.
If you're applying for a bachelor's degree, you're applying to Harvard College. Students at Harvard College pursue a wide range of undergraduate majors, from English to Engineering. Once you graduate, you’ll often say you graduated from “Harvard University,” as that's the name everyone recognizes. So, while distinct entities within the larger structure, the terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, but knowing the difference helps you understand the intricate structure of this prestigious institution.