Harvard University is organized into ten principal academic units, or faculties. These faculties oversee the operation of the eleven Harvard Schools. The work of a number of allied institutions and University-wide initiatives further expand Harvard's academic reach. HMS students are encouraged to explore Harvard's academic resources to examine medicine from an interdisciplinary perspective.

Students at HMS are encouraged to take advantage of the resources of the larger Harvard University community. Many of the organizations, facilities, and activities located at Harvard's Cambridge and Allston campuses welcome the participation of medical students. The Harvard Graduate Council, a University-wide organization, sponsors activities that bring together students from all of Harvard's graduate programs.