Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636 as Harvard College and named for its first benefactor, Puritan clergyman John Harvard, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Its influence, wealth, and rankings have made it one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
A 1767 engraving of Harvard College by Paul Revere
The Statue of John Harvard on Harvard Yard
A 1906 watercolor painting of the campus, facing northeast
An aerial view of Harvard University at night in July 2017
Private universities and private colleges are institutions of higher education that are not operated, owned, or institutionally funded by governments. However, they often receive tax breaks, public student loans, and grants from governments. Depending on their location, private universities may be subject to government regulation. Private universities may be contrasted with public universities and national universities. Many private universities are nonprofit organizations.
Harvard University, an Ivy League university in Cambridge, Massachusetts and the first university established in the United States
The entrance to Addis Ababa University in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Varsity College in Cape Town, South Africa
North South University in Dhaka