Flexible Programs for Professional Results
Experience world-class executive education from Harvard Kennedy School – anytime, anywhere.
HKS Access offers self-paced, online, registration-based programs designed to maximize both flexibility and engagement for professionals at any stage of their career. Alongside a global cohort, participants will experience the world-class faculty and rigorous curriculum of Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education at a lower cost and pace that works for their schedule.
Key Benefits
Upcoming HKS Access Programs
Explore our innovative HKS Access programs that prepare you to drive transformation in your organization.
Generative AI: How to Use It and Why It Matters
Leading People, Building Teams
Upcoming Sessions
Unlock Transformative Opportunities with HKS Access
HKS Access creates professional development opportunities for a wide range of learners with access to amazing faculty, unique content & learning. I'm excited to see HKS Access reach new segments of professionals, advance HKS's mission & deepen our impact.
Nathalie Laidler-Kylander
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of programs does HKS Executive Education offer?
We offer both application-based and registration-based executive programs.
What is the difference between these programs?
Application-based programs are offered both in person and live online. The target audience is typically senior leaders with 15 or more years of professional experience in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Registration-based programs are only offered online. These offerings are cohort-based and comprised of self-paced and live sessions. Those with a bachelor’s degree and English proficiency are eligible to register.
For registration-based programs, will I receive a certificate?
Yes, you will receive a Certificate of Completion.
For registration-based programs, will I have access to HKS Professional and Lifelong Learning (PLL) alumni benefits?
PLL alumni benefits are only offered for application-based executive programs. Registration-based executive programs do not confer alumni status.
I am working toward an HKS Executive Certificate. Do registration-based programs count toward this?
No, registration-based programs do not qualify toward an Executive Certificate. To earn your Executive Certificate, you must complete three application-based executive programs within six years.
How can I contact customer support?
You can reach us by emailing exed@hks.harvard.edu or calling us at 1-617-496-9000.
What is the time commitment for my program each week?
The time commitment varies by program. Please refer to the individual program website for details.
Will I be required to attend all live sessions to receive a Certificate of Completion?
Yes, attendance during live faculty sessions is required.
Will I be required to complete all assignments to receive a Certificate of Completion?
Yes, completion of all program assignments is required to complete the program.
What payment options are available?
All individual registrants are required to pay by credit card at the time of registration. For group sales contact: eegroupsales@hks.harvard.edu.
Is financial aid available?
No. Financial aid is not available for registration-based programs.
What is the withdrawal and refund policy?
To be eligible for a full refund, you must notify us (the program director) within 24 hours of the program materials being posted to your program course page.
How do I request accommodations for an online program?
Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education is committed to ensuring access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in all of our online programs and activities. Please note that accommodations cannot fundamentally alter the nature of the program and are not retroactive.
To help us best meet your needs, we encourage you to request any necessary accommodations at least three weeks before your program begins, as some services may take time to arrange. We will make every effort to fulfill accommodation requests, although availability of services may vary.
To request accommodations, please contact the program director, who will follow up with you directly for further information.