Off-Campus Programs Frequently Asked Questions

• Are off-campus graduate programs the same as those offered at the Lesley main campus?
• What is the course format?
• Who are the faculty?
• Can I enroll in a course if I am not pursuing a degree at this time?
• Is financial aid available to off-campus students?
• Who do I contact for application materials or for more information?
• What are the requirements for admission?
• What happens once I'm accepted?
• Who do I contact for answers to questions once I'm admitted?
• How will I register for classes?
• Are transfer credits accepted?
• Is Lesley accredited in every location?

Are Off-Campus Graduate Programs the same as those offered at the main Lesley campus in Cambridge, MA?

Although a nontraditional format is used for teaching classes at the off-campus learning sites across the country, the content of the classes is the same as those taught on-campus at the main Lesley campus. The courses are not distinguished from on-campus courses on the transcript, and credits earned at an off-campus learning site can be applied to the same degree on campus.

What is the course format?

With the exception of the accelerated and online courses, each 3-credit course is scheduled around two weekends, separated by two to four weeks. Assignments, readings, and other activities are delivered to students prior to class. Students are usually expected to complete assignments at home prior to the first class session, between the class sessions, and after the last session.

Who are the faculty?

Your classes will be taught by Lesley core faculty members, adjunct faculty from other universities and acclaimed institutions, skilled consultants, and other outstanding professionals. All instructors are experts in their content area, and highly qualified to teach.

Can I enroll in a course if I am not pursuing a degree at this time?

You may enroll in a course on a space-available basis (students in degree programs will be given priority for registration in classes). However, Lesley strongly urges that everyone complete an application for admission and all supporting documents for the degree program before beginning any courses.

Is financial aid available to off-campus students?

Yes, all students who fulfill basic eligibility requirements, have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and are formally admitted to a program of study at least part-time are eligible for some type of financial aid. If you feel you will need financial assistance, you are encouraged to apply for aid at the same time as applying for admission. You can learn more about specific types off financial aid available to you through the Office of Financial Aid.

Who do I contact for application materials or for more information?

Your first contact for questions regarding admissions, registration, or general program information is Lesley's Student Care department. Each one of Lesley's Student Care professionals can help you with questions concerning:

• academic program
• course schedule
• application process
• financial aid award
• course registrations

If there's ever a time you need help, when you're applying or even when you are already a student at Lesley, you can contact Student Care for assistance at 888-LESLEY-U (888-537-5398).

What are the requirements for admission?

A completed Application for Admission and Financial Aid, two letters of reference, a written personal statement, official transcripts, and the application fee (unless waived) must be submitted in order to receive consideration for admission. Students enrolling in a Master's degree program must have a Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants for the Professional Counseling program are also required to take the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) as part of their application.

What happens once I'm accepted?

A Student Care representative will notify you when you have been accepted to a program. You will also receive a formal letter of acceptance. A Lesley representative in your area (also called a site coordinator) will keep you informed about when your cohort group will begin classes as well as where your classes will take place.

Who do I contact for answers to questions once I'm admitted?

After you are admitted to a program, a local Lesley University representative (a site coordinator) will be your main contact for issues related to your specific group/location. Site coordinators set up class facilities and meeting times, handle course registration, and serve as liaison with the main Lesley campus in Cambridge, MA. You should direct your academic questions to your program advisor, and ask your faculty advisor for help with academic program questions.

How will I register for classes?

At the start of the program, you will be invited to an orientation meeting for your cohort. At this meeting you will fill out an initial registration form to enroll in the first course. You will also sign an agreement for automatic registration. This is your authorization to the university to automatically register you for the remainder of your courses in the program sequence. You can sign up for automatic registration but pay tuition for one class at a time. If you are receiving financial aid, you must register according to loan requirements.

Are transfer credits accepted?

Some degree programs offered by Lesley allow transfer credits. After acceptance, students should submit a Transfer of Credit form to be approved/disapproved by a faculty review process. Students are notified of final acceptance, or rejection, of transfer credits by the Lesley Registrar's Office.

Is Lesley accredited in every location?

Yes. Lesley is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges because its main campus is in Massachusetts, part of the NEASC region. Because of reciprocity agreements among the six regional associations, Lesley may operate in other regions as an accredited institution. In addition, Lesley University is approved by state regulatory bodies of each state in which its programs are offered.