Harper was redshirted as a freshman at Fresno State University in 2010. As redshirt freshman in 2011, he played in 11 games with three starts and recorded 35 receptions for 497 yards and five touchdowns. As a sophomore in 2012, Harper played in only five games due to injuries. He finished the season with 24 receptions for 333 yards and four touchdowns. As a junior in 2013, he had 79 receptions for 1,011 yards and 13 touchdowns in 11 games. Harper entered his senior season in 2014 as a starter.