Cambridge, United States of America
Cambridge, United States of America
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Lesley University stands out for its focus on combining arts, education, and social sciences with real-world applications. It offers tailored programs for adult learners and innovative hybrid learning formats. The university is recognized for fostering creativity through its College of Art and Design and its emphasis on social justice education. Lesley’s integration of academics with hands-on experience equips students to excel in meaningful, socially impactful careers.
An author, philanthropist, and former wife of U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, she is known for her contributions to the arts a... View More
An author, philanthropist, and former wife of U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, she is known for her contributions to the arts and education, particularly advocating for music therapy programs. View Less
The first African American appointed as the Adjutant General of Massachusetts, overseeing the Massachusetts National Gua... View More
The first African American appointed as the Adjutant General of Massachusetts, overseeing the Massachusetts National Guard and state military forces. View Less
An actress, writer, and director, Jessica has made significant contributions to independent films, including writing and... View More
An actress, writer, and director, Jessica has made significant contributions to independent films, including writing and starring in Alice D. View Less
Author and mental health advocate, Katharine is the wife of former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis and has worked... View More
Author and mental health advocate, Katharine is the wife of former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis and has worked extensively on mental health and addiction awareness. View Less
A celebrated author of young adult novels, her works like My Heart and Other Black Holes explore themes of mental health... View More
A celebrated author of young adult novels, her works like My Heart and Other Black Holes explore themes of mental health and resilience. View Less
Former Rhode Island State Senator, she championed healthcare reforms and LGBTQ+ rights, making a significant impact on s... View More
Former Rhode Island State Senator, she championed healthcare reforms and LGBTQ+ rights, making a significant impact on state policies. View Less
Best known as the puppeteer and voice of Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street, Spinney left a legacy in childr... View More
Best known as the puppeteer and voice of Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street, Spinney left a legacy in children’s entertainment and education. View Less
An award-winning author whose works, such as The Good Negress, have been recognized for their exploration of African Ame... View More
An award-winning author whose works, such as The Good Negress, have been recognized for their exploration of African American identity and culture View Less
A former Manson Family member turned advocate for prison reform, she has been involved in promoting restorative justice ... View More
A former Manson Family member turned advocate for prison reform, she has been involved in promoting restorative justice efforts. View Less
Renowned editor-in-chief of Essence magazine, she has been a leader in African American media and an advocate for commun... View More
Renowned editor-in-chief of Essence magazine, she has been a leader in African American media and an advocate for community-building initiatives. View Less
Lesley University boasts a well-developed infrastructure that supports its academic, social, and extracurricular activities. Here are five key aspects of its infrastructure:
Multi-Campus Layout
Lesley University operates across three campuses in Cambridge: the South Campus, Doble Campus, and Porter Campus. Each campus offers unique facilities tailored to specific academic programs. The South Campus features residence halls, dining areas, and the Graduate School of Arts and Social Sciences, while the Doble Campus houses the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and student life facilities. The Porter Campus, located near Porter Square, focuses on art and design programs and includes the Lunder Arts Center and the Moriarty Library.
State-of-the-Art Libraries and Research Centers
The university boasts well-equipped libraries and research centers. The Moriarty Library at Porter Campus is the primary resource hub, offering a large collection of academic materials. Lesley’s archives and special collections preserve its history, while the research centers across various disciplines promote academic research and collaboration. These facilities are integral to the university's academic mission, providing students with the resources needed for coursework and independent study.
Residential and Student Life Facilities
Lesley offers a variety of housing options, including traditional dormitories, Victorian homes, and suite-style residence halls. These are spread across the South and Doble campuses. The university emphasizes community building, personal growth, and leadership opportunities through Residential Life programs, which are integral to the overall student experience. Additionally, student life facilities such as the Margaret McKenna Student Center and the Information Commons provide spaces for studying, socializing, and engaging in extracurricular activities.
Fitness and Sports Facilities
Lesley University features a well-equipped fitness center that caters to students' physical well-being. It includes a gym, sports courts, running tracks, and other fitness amenities. Additionally, the university's athletic programs are supported by a comprehensive sports complex, providing students opportunities for physical activity and competition. These facilities contribute to the overall health and wellness of the student body.
Sustainable and Green Initiatives
Lesley University is committed to sustainability, reflected in its infrastructure. The university implements green building standards in many of its newer buildings and offers programs related to environmental science and sustainable business. Its campuses feature energy-efficient systems, recycling programs, and sustainable landscaping, aligning with the university’s commitment to environmental responsibility. These initiatives support both academic learning in sustainability and practical environmental consciousness.
Lesley University offers a dynamic and engaging student life experience. Here are key aspects of student life on campus:
Vibrant Campus Locations
Lesley’s campuses span across Cambridge, starting at South Campus near Harvard Square and extending to Porter Campus in the eclectic Porter Square. This central location provides students with easy access to the rich cultural and academic environment of Cambridge while offering a unique mix of historic and modern settings.
Diverse Housing Options
Lesley University offers a variety of residence halls, each with its own distinct culture and community. Students can choose from modern high-rise buildings to charming, historic homes, allowing them to find a housing style that suits their preferences and lifestyle.
Fitness and Recreation
The Lesley University Fitness Center offers students the opportunity to stay active with access to fitness classes and recreational facilities. With extended hours, students can easily incorporate fitness into their schedules and develop personalized wellness plans.
Convenient Transportation
Lesley University provides multiple transportation options, including a campus shuttle that connects South, Doble, and Porter campuses. Students can also use the Hubway bike-sharing program, MBTA commuter rail, or local buses to navigate the city with ease.
Rich History and Community Engagement
Lesley’s campus is steeped in history, with its origins dating back to Edith Lesley’s home on Doble Campus. Today, students are part of a vibrant community that builds on its 100-year legacy, while actively shaping the future of the university and engaging with the broader Cambridge area.
Career Resource Center: Lesley University's Career Resource Center assists both undergraduate and graduate students with career exploration, job search strategies, and effective self-promotion.
Personalized Career Coaching: Students can access career coaching appointments through the Handshake platform, where they receive tailored guidance on major selection, job opportunities, and graduate school applications.
Work-Study Opportunities: The university also offers part-time job opportunities for students through its Federal Work-Study and Lesley Works programs, helping students gain practical work experience.
The below information is required while
completing the university application :
A high school diploma or equivalent, a competitive high school GPA, SAT/ACT scores (often optional), completed CUNY application, and letters of recommendation. Specific programs may have additional prerequisites.
Know moreLesley University’s Career Resource Center actively supports students with career coaching, internships, and job placements. Over 90% of graduates secure employment or enroll in further studies within six months of graduation. The university partners with organizations across education, arts, and social sciences to provide tailored recruitment opportunities. Students utilize platforms like Handshake for job applications and career development services.
Lesley University is renowned for integrating rigorous academics with practical, professional experience, preparing socially responsible graduates. It emphasizes transformative education through active learning and research, fostering ethical judgment and lifelong learning. The university excels in arts and education, with its alumni making significant contributions in fields like animation, creative writing, and occupational therapy. Lesley has consistently shaped leaders who advocate for social justice and sustainability.
In 2020, Lesley University’s MFA in Creative Writing program was ranked among the best in the country for its focus on social justice and community engagement. The program emphasizes using literature to address real-world issues, helping students become storytellers for change. This innovative approach to creative writing education continues to shape the future of the literary world.
In 2019, Lesley University expanded its online and hybrid learning options to increase access to graduate programs. The university began offering a wide range of flexible programs in arts, education, and social sciences, allowing students worldwide to earn degrees while balancing their personal and professional lives.
In 2018, Lesley University was recognized for its leadership in social justice education, particularly through its Graduate School of Education. The university focuses on preparing educators to address social inequities, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the classroom. This commitment to social change has shaped its educational philosophy and curriculum.
In 2016, Lesley University earned accreditation for its Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, a first for the institution. This program, designed to produce highly qualified occupational therapists, has had a significant impact on the healthcare industry, producing graduates who contribute to the well-being of communities nationwide.
In 2015, Lesley University launched the Sustainable Business Initiative to foster business practices that promote sustainability. The initiative combines business acumen with environmental consciousness, equipping students with the tools to launch socially responsible companies and address global environmental challenges.
In 2008, Lesley University’s inclusive education programs were nationally recognized for their pioneering efforts in integrating students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. The university’s research in this field continues to shape special education policies and practices in the U.S.
Lesley University’s Graduate School of Arts and Social Sciences created one of the first Art Therapy programs in the U.S., establishing a comprehensive curriculum that integrates creative expression with mental health treatment. This program has been influential in training art therapists worldwide and remains a cornerstone of the university’s contributions to the field of therapy.
In 1909, Lesley University was founded by Edith Lesley as the Lesley Normal School, dedicated to training women to become educators. This early advocacy for women's education helped lay the foundation for gender equality in academia and paved the way for future generations of women in leadership and education.
Lesley University established its Graduate School of Education in the 1970s, emphasizing progressive teaching methods and focusing on diversity, inclusion, and social justice. This school became a leader in training educators to meet the diverse needs of students in a rapidly changing world.
In the 1960s, Lesley University established one of the first programs dedicated to Expressive Therapies, integrating art, dance, music, and drama therapies into its curriculum. This groundbreaking program contributed to the development of art therapy as a recognized field in mental health treatment.
Lesley University excels in innovation and research through initiatives like its Expressive Therapies program, pioneering art and music therapy for mental health. The Graduate School of Education drives educational advancements with projects in inclusive teaching and technology integration. Research in environmental science and sustainability is bolstered by community partnerships in Cambridge. The university’s Lunder Arts Center fosters creative innovation with cutting-edge facilities for art and design exploration.
In the 2020s, Lesley University initiated community-based art projects aimed at healing racial and social trauma. These projects are designed to use art as a vehicle for understanding and processing historical injustices, promoting dialogue and healing through creative expression.
The university developed an innovative program in arts education that trains teachers to integrate creative arts into STEM subjects, particularly to help engage underrepresented and at-risk youth. This program has been instrumental in bridging the gap between creative expression and traditional education models.
In the 2010s, Lesley’s Graduate School of Arts and Social Sciences began exploring how technology could be used in art therapy. The university developed programs integrating digital art tools with therapeutic practices, creating new ways for therapists to engage clients in healing and expression.
Lesley University implemented campus-wide sustainability initiatives, including urban agriculture programs that provided hands-on learning experiences in sustainable food production. The university’s commitment to environmental education helped cultivate awareness of urban farming as a sustainable practice.
Lesley’s MFA in Creative Writing program introduced new methods for using literature as a tool for social change. The program emphasized storytelling as a means of advocacy, with students focusing on marginalized voices and social justice issues.
Lesley University was an early adopter of hybrid and online learning formats for graduate programs, especially in education and the arts. By the early 2000s, the university developed comprehensive online programs that helped students balance work, life, and education, expanding access to higher learning.
Lesley’s environmental science programs began conducting community-based research in the 1990s, focusing on sustainability practices and local environmental issues. This research contributed to the development of more sustainable urban planning models and environmental education programs in Cambridge.
In the 1980s, Lesley’s College of Education began developing and refining inclusive education strategies. These models focused on integrating students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms, a pioneering approach at the time. The university’s research helped influence policies on special education across the U.S.
Lesley became one of the first universities to integrate art therapy into its educational curriculum. It developed innovative programs for training therapists who use artistic expression as a tool for emotional and psychological healing. The curriculum helped to shape modern art therapy education.
Lesley University pioneered the integration of creative arts into therapy. The university’s Graduate School of Arts and Social Sciences developed the Expressive Therapies approach, using art, music, and dance to treat mental health disorders. This method is now widely used in counseling, social work, and psychology worldwide.
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