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Yes, an MSc in Marketing from Harvard can be worth it but only if you’re referring to the ALM in Management (with marketing electives) offered by Harvard Extension School. Harvard doesn’t offer a traditional MSc in Marketing under Harvard Business School or the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.
The ALM degree is flexible, part-time, and costs about $40,080 USD in total, based on 12 courses at $3,340 each. It’s a good option for working professionals who want to study marketing at Harvard without committing to a full-time MBA or relocating. The degree is officially granted by Harvard University and is taught by Harvard faculty.
That said, it’s important to know this program doesn’t carry the same global brand value as an MBA from Harvard Business School. It’s not designed for those targeting top-tier consulting or brand leadership roles immediately after graduation, but more for professionals looking to upgrade their marketing skills or switch fields.
So yes it’s worth it for the right person with the right goals. But if you're aiming for top marketing jobs at companies like Google, P&G, or McKinsey, you might also want to explore MSc Marketing programs at schools like Columbia, USC, or LBS, which are better known specifically for this degree.
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A degree in marketing from Harvard can sound impressive, but it really depends on what you expect from it. Harvard does not offer a separate MSc in Marketing. What they do offer is the Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Management at Harvard Extension School, which includes marketing-focused courses.
This program is part-time and is designed for professionals who want to keep working while studying. It costs around $40,080 in total, based on 12 courses at $3,340 each, as listed on the official Harvard Extension website. The faculty are Harvard instructors, and the degree is officially awarded by Harvard University.
You won’t get access to Harvard Business School’s brand or network through this program. It’s not aimed at students targeting consulting, CPG leadership, or top marketing strategy roles. But for someone who wants a flexible, affordable way to study marketing at Harvard and apply it directly to their current job, it can be a practical and respected choice.
So yes, it’s worth it only if your goal is skill-building and you’re not expecting the same recognition as an MBA from HBS. For a more career-focused marketing degree, programs at schools like USC, LSE, or Northwestern may give you a stronger edge in the job market.