Many of our graduates have gone on to develop their own workshops and businesses, and are currently working in education, publishing, human services, and the arts. The Learning Community Residency was designed in response to the requests of many adults who were looking for quality academic support in an alternative, non-classroom based approach to obtaining a Master's Degree. Each semester begins with a six day learning retreat during which students take a core course, attend workshops, and work with faculty and peers in planning groups to design the studies they will complete independently over the next six months. The residency experience offers a unique learning milieu, a diverse and sustaining cohort group, and a respite from the logistics of daily life - a place to fully focus on one's study plans and self as a learner. During periods of independent work, students receive on-going, personalized support from Faculty Advisor, Program Advisor and the collaborative community of peers.
Students come from all areas of the United States and other countries to attend the residencies.
All say that being part of such a unique community of interests and experiences inspires and sustains their commitment to the program. The traditional classroom model is a 33 credit program which is typically completed in four semesters. This model works well for students who prefer the resources and contact of a classroom. The program allows students to design their degrees by selecting courses from four schools at Lesley University, including the School of Education, the School of Management, the Adult Baccalaureate College, and the Graduate School of Arts and Social Science. Classes are offered on weeknights and weekends.