Professional & Career Development Programs

At Harvard, we understand that learning and career growth is a continuous journey, and we are here to support you at every stage. The Center for Workplace Development (CWD) provides a wide array of Professional Development Programs that address your unique development needs and interests. 

Bridge Program

This adult education initiative provides courses in areas such as computer skills, business writing, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), U.S. Citizenship preparation, and high school diploma programs. The program also offers tutoring services and a Resource Center to support learners at all levels. Learn more about the Bridge Program.

Harvard Internal Professional Pathways (HIPP)

HIPP is designed to connect first-generation professionals, early-career employees, and service and trades staff with Harvard managers in a supportive mentoring environment that enhances community and provides a pathway to professional growth. Current employees can learn more about participating in the HIPP Program (HarvardKey required) as a mentor or employee participant.

Administrative Fellowship Program

One of the cornerstones of Harvard University's diversity and inclusion efforts, the Administrative Fellowship Program (AFP) promotes leadership opportunities and careers in higher education. The University encourages applications from talented, mid-career professionals who will contribute to Harvard's leadership through their demonstrated personal and professional commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging values.

Harvard Senior Administrator Fellowships for Professional and Lifelong Learning

These fellowships give eligible staff the opportunity to access Harvard's world-class professional, executive, and lifelong learning programs – most at no cost. Topics include leadership, management, negotiation, strategy, and more. Eligible staff are invited to apply for a senior administrator fellowship (HarvardKey required) in an area that will advance their thinking and professional practice.

Harvard Leadership Development Program

The Harvard Leadership Development Program (HLDP) is a competency-based program designed to address the unique leadership development needs of leaders at all levels. The leadership programs are designed to develop the skills necessary for successful leadership at every level, from support staff, individual contributors (HarvardKey required), and front-line managers to mid- to senior-level managers (HarvardKey required).

Supervisor Skills Series

This learning experience is for employees who supervise and do not formally manage employees. Supervisors will hone their peer-leadership skills and explore how their unique role contributes to creating a culture of excellence in their department.

Talent Development Program

The Talent Development Program (HarvardKey required) empowers University executives to invest in their career growth and development through cultivating a professional brand, discovering knowledge and resources that exist within the University through peer exchange and exposure to University leaders to gain a broad understanding of university functions.

Universal Manager Training

This is a multiday program (HarvardKey required) designed to provide managers with essential tools and knowledge to succeed in their roles at Harvard. The program covers laws, policies, and community standards, key interpersonal skills such as delegation, feedback, and coaching, and how to create a safe, productive work environment.

After completing Universal Manager Training, managers have access to a wide array of professional development classes (HarvardKey required) and resources and are encouraged to review the Harvard manager competencies (HarvardKey required) as a starting point for identifying areas for growth and development.