Lesley Center for the Adult Learner

Degree Planning Process

Degree planning and academic advising

Through the degree planning process you can create a program as traditional or innovative as you need it to be. The completed plan then serves as your academic roadmap to keep you on track to the completion of your degree. Degree planning requires four simple steps:

Step 1: Pre-admissions advising
The intent of the first meeting with an advisor is to help you make a well-informed decision about returning to school. We will introduce you to Lesley’s wide range of degree options and academic resources so that you can learn what you will need to do to meet your particular goals. You will also discuss how much of your degree plan might already be completed through the award of advanced credit.

Step 2: Initial degree planning and application advising
If you decide you are interested in applying to Lesley, you will continue your conversation with the same advisor. At your next meeting you will receive consultation on completing the application and financial aid process and finalizing your degree plan to make sure you are taking advantage of all relevant classes or programs that Lesley has to offer. The focus will be on learning approaches that work best for you.

Step 3: Begin your program
Once you are admitted, you will contact your advisor to discuss class registration. Most students take an introductory seminar as the first course where the focus is on developing the skills and resources needed to successfully manage your degree plan and on refining the research and writing skills needed for academic work. The seminar also serves as a first step in evaluating your prior learning and the degree credits you may be able to earn for on-the-job training, work and life experience, and previously completed college courses.

Support for your learning never ends

As you work through your degree plan, you might encounter challenges. Your advisor will always be available to you to offer advice and any assistance needed in modifying the plan and will serve as a source of on-going support to help you successfully complete your degree. Your advisor will serve as a link to other Lesley services such as the Center for Academic Achievement, which offers academic support services both on campus and online as well as community resources such as child care.

updated 09/14/09 | 01:05 PM