Degree Overview
The Self Designed Master's Degree (SDMD) is a two-year, 36-credit, individualized program of graduate study. Students and their faculty advisor, with the collaboration of experts in the student’s field, craft a specialized degree to achieve the student’s academic, professional, and personal goals.
Design your own curriculum
With no required courses, each student will create an individualized Degree Plan that will result in either a Master of Arts or Master of Education. Each program of study is based on one of two models:
- In the Team-based Model students work closely with a core faculty advisor, and two experts/professionals from their field
- In the Course-based Model students work closely with a core faculty advisor, to either design independent study courses or to determine which courses at Lesley University will support their area of specialization
Study from anywhere in the world
The flexible program structure allows students to work independently during each semester, whether it is from home or abroad.
Benefit from exceptional faculty advising and resources
All Self Designed Master’s students work closely with a faculty advisor who serves in an advising, mentoring, and teaching role. Students are connected to Lesley's robust academic community and have access to a wealth of resources.
Our alumni have gone on to pursue doctoral programs, publish work, and establish themselves as leaders in their professional fields, which include:
- Music pedagogy
- Yoga psychology
- Contemplative studies
- Integrative Holistic Health
- Multicultural education
- Alternative Education, including Montessori and Reggio Emilia
- Non-profit management
- Women and gender studies
Take the Next Step
- View the Program of Study
- Contact Phil Waters, Senior Associate Director of Admissions, at pwaters@lesley.edu or 617.349.8307
