The Independent Study Degree Program is the oldest graduate program offered at Lesley University. The program's flexible structure allows self-directed, mature adults the opportunity to create their own programs and to pursue an advanced degree in their field of choice.
Students develop their own unique plan as part of the application process.
The initial study plan includes goals, learning methods and documentation, and ideas for the preparation of the integrative final project. Learning methods include a combination of activities appropriate to the student's field of interest, such as tutorials, directed reading, coursework, seminars or institutes at Lesley University or elsewhere, fieldwork, practica, apprenticeships, and artistic productions. Upon acceptance, the study plan becomes the student's program of study. Students carry out their graduate studies over a period of one to three years, with advisement from their faculty team. Upon completion of the approved study plan, the student is awarded the Master of Arts in Independent Study or Master of Education in Independent Study degree.