Academic Advising
At Lesley, academic advising is not just a service; it's a partnership dedicated to guiding students on their path to success. We are committed to providing students with a proactive and holistic advising experience tailored to their unique needs.
Within our coordinated advising model, students receive specialized guidance from advisors aligned with each academic area, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Education, Art & Design, and Liberal Arts & Business.
Our advisors employ a student-centric approach, recognizing that every individual has distinct goals, interests, and challenges. Through one-on-one consultations, group workshops, and ongoing communication, we aim to foster an inclusive, supportive environment that empowers students to explore their academic and professional aspirations.
Undergraduate Advising Teams
Undergraduate student advising at Lesley University is facilitated by advisors who are knowledgeable as to supporting first time college students, transfers, adult learners, online, and the variety of needs and diverse experiences students bring upon enrollment. Professional advisors assist students in identifying programs and opportunities that best fit their educational and professional goals. Students are encouraged to work closely with both their faculty and their advisors. Faculty mentors are available to undergraduate students who wish to explore professional fields in greater depth.
Upon acceptance into a program, students are required to initiate contact with their academic advisor, marking the beginning of the academic advising and program planning process. Advisors assist with inquiries on a wide range of topics that may include university policies, registration procedures, course sequencing, elective choices, licensure exams, and other program-specific requirements. Acting as liaisons between students and university support offices, advisors play a crucial role in facilitating a seamless academic experience.
Academic and faculty advisor contact information is accessible through the Self-Service portal, allowing students to proactively engage with the available supports.
Email questions to advising@lesley.edu or find out more about your advisor at https://linktr.ee/LU_advising.
Advising Roles and Responsibilities
The advisee-advisor relationship is based on a philosophy of shared responsibility. This collaborative effort ensures a dynamic advising relationship that fosters both personal and academic growth. Ultimate responsibility for satisfying university, academic, and professional requirements rests with the student. Students are therefore encouraged to take ownership of their educational journey by staying informed about university policies, utilizing available resources, and engaging in open communication with their advisors.
Advisee's Role and Responsibilities
- Refer to the academic catalog and program handbooks to familiarize yourself with requirements, university policies, and resources.
- Come to advising meetings prepared by gathering all relevant decision-making information.
- Accept responsibility for your decisions and behaviors.
- Keep your advisor up to date on any changes in your academic progress and/or plans and any medical, financial, or personal issues that may affect your academic performance.
- Read Lesley University email.
- Communicate with your advisor; ask questions if a specific concern or an issue is not clear.
- Attend advising meetings as needed.
- Monitor your program progression.
- Utilize university resources.
- Meet deadlines as appropriate.
Advisor's Role and Responsibilities
- Assist you in developing an educational plan that is consistent with your goals and interests.
- Facilitate your understanding of the curriculum, graduation requirements, and university policies and procedures.
- Refer you to the resources you need.
- Listen to your concerns and respect your values and choices.
- Assist you in monitoring your academic progress.
- Be accessible.
- Develop a collaborative relationship with you.
- Encourage and support your educational exploration.
- Assist you in completing your program within your intended timeline.
- Help you prepare for post-graduation goals
Student-Athlete Academic Support
Students who represent the University in intercollegiate competition are assisted with transitions to the campus and balancing athletics with college academic life. Lesley University Athletics is committed to ensuring that student-athletes meet University and NCAA standards while working on academic requirements for degree completion. Student athletes are encouraged to excel in the classroom and on the field, supported by advisors and the Student Athlete Specialist advisor. Student-athletes are encouraged to utilize tutoring and academic support services provided by the Center for Academic Achievement, which is located on the second floor in Doble Hall.
Change of Advisor
Students requesting a change of advisor should email Advising@Lesley.edu.
Declaration of Major
Undergraduate students (other than those in Art and Design) usually declare a major at the point of admission. Students in most programs who enter as undeclared however, must declare a major by the completion of 48 credits. Students choosing to major in Education must declare their major upon the completion of 30 credits.
Art and Design students who are unsure as to the major upon entry are recommended to choose a major upon completion of 30 credits.
Program Progress
Any student with a declared major has access to their program progress through Lesley’s online “Student Planner” system at any time during their Lesley career. Program degree audits are maintained by the Registrar’s Office and are updated as necessary. Using the information detailed through their program progress, each student is required (in most programs) to meet with their academic advisor every semester to plan an appropriate schedule for the upcoming semesters. Students and advisors should communicate any adjustments to their program progress (such as course substitutions, course waivers, or changes to the distribution of credits) to the Registrar’s Office. It is the student's responsibility to schedule this appointment with their academic advisor. Failure to do so may result in an error in course selection, which could adversely affect a student's graduation date.