Dr. Harkey completed his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Los Angeles. He then pursued graduate studies supported by a National Research Service Award and received his Master of Public Health degree at UCLA. His medical training was completed at the University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine.

Dr. Harkey finished his post-graduate specialty training at the University of California, San Diego Medical Center, a program noted for excellence in the management of high-risk obstetrical patients. His training included the latest gynecological surgical techniques, including operative laparoscopy and hysteroscopy.

Dr. Harkey is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He serves as a the chairman of the department of obstetrics and gynecology and the chairman of the Quality Council at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla.