Program Overview

Introduction to the Harvard Trade Union Program

The Harvard Trade Union Program is an intensive 5-week executive training program designed for trade union leaders. It is comparable to the advanced education that Harvard University offers to executive-level individuals in Business, Government, and Law.

Program Overview

The program selects a group of union members with the ability and potential for future leadership in the labor movement. It teaches the essential skills for the management and leadership of unions, as well as providing a unique opportunity to explore key issues for the labor movement, surrounded by dynamic classmates.

Program Benefits

Participants will:

• Gain insights into the complex political, social, and economic forces that shape their operating environment.
• Exchange perspectives with faculty who are internationally recognized for their expertise on labor issues.
• Develop relationships among people doing similar work in the national and international labor communities.
• Interact with future leaders in the corporate and public sectors by attending classes at the country’s most prestigious graduate schools of business, education, and government.

Qualifications

Applicants to the Program should have:

• Experience as an officer or staff member of a local, regional, or national union.
• Participants are expected to be in residence for the full term of the Program.
• The ability to learn in an academic environment.
• Financial sponsorship from their union or another source.

Admissions

The Program’s objective is to select participants with the ability and potential for future leadership in the labor movement. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, geographic regions, and a variety of union experiences. We are committed to the progress of women and a diverse labor movement.

Applications will be processed on a rolling basis, and candidates will be notified as they are accepted. The application deadline is November 7, 2025.

Visas for International Participants

Most participants who are not U.S. citizens or residents will need a non-immigrant visa to attend our programs in the United States. You should request the 90-day B-1/B-2 Visa rather than the F-1 Student Visa to attend the HTUP, as program participants are not considered full-time enrolled students at Harvard University, and the program is shorter than 90 days. When you are admitted to the program, the admission letter you receive should be sufficient to obtain a visa for entry into the United States.

Canadian citizens and citizens from Visa Waiver Program countries (including Australia and New Zealand) may come to the United States without a visa if they meet certain requirements.

Housing

Fully furnished, one-bedroom apartments are provided for each participant, located a short commute to the Harvard campus.

Cost

Tuition, housing, books, and class materials: $22,000 Additional expenses include transportation to and from Cambridge, meals, laundry, recreation, and incidentals. Many unions offer scholarships.

Program Schedule

The 113th Session of the Harvard Trade Union Program will take place from January 12 to February 13, 2026.