Resource Center

J-Term

What is J-Term?
J-Term is an opportunity for GSD students, staff and faculty to hone skills, learn new ones, or just have fun. Workshops are non-credited courses during the first two weeks in January.  Participation is voluntary, for fun, and a way to learn something new!  Workshops are taught by invited guests and members of the GSD community for the GSD community.

Is there a charge to enroll in a J-Term course?
Enrollment is free (although there may be associated costs for materials and/or transportation – check the individual course listings for details), and is only open to current GSD students, staff and faculty. A $75 drop/withdrawal fee is charged to anyone who does not withdraw by December 8, 2025 or does not attend the course in its entirety.

Can students from other schools take a GSD J-Term course?
GSD J-Term Courses are open to GSD faculty, staff, students and alumni and do not allow for cross-registration at this time.

Where can I find a list of course offerings?
2026 J-Term Courses

How do I sign up?
Enrollment information is located within each individual course listing on the J-Term course page linked above.

Want to propose a J-Term course?
Course proposals should be submitted using the link below by October 24th 2025.

2026 J-Term Course Proposal Form

  • One course per proposal form.
  • Courses must be held between January 5-16, 2026 during business hours from 9am -5pm, Monday – Friday.
  • Teach a tangible skill.
  • Does not require a physical installation, sponsorship, or funding from Harvard University.
  • Cannot require travel.
  • Use of the Fabrication Lab is restricted and must seek prior approval from Fabrication Lab administrators.
  • Approximately 2 hours class time, with approximately 10 hours preparation, or any variant based on those numbers, with a suggested cap of 12 overall hours.
  • GSD students who wish to instruct a course must be in good academic standing and enrolled for the spring semester as well as be able to provide two GSD faculty or staff refences.
  • References are contacted as part of the evaluation process.

The Office of Student Life administers the J-Term programs, please contact [email protected] with additional questions.