Lesley University
Cambridge, Massachusetts
About Lesley University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1909, Lesley University is a university serving students in Cambridge, Massachusetts. With a tradition of academic excellence, Lesley University prepares graduates for success in Visual & Performing Arts, Psychology, Humanities, and more.
A Diverse Community in Cambridge
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Lesley University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $26,173, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Lesley University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Lesley University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 60% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 49% |
| First-year retention rate | 77% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $41,277 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $51,173 |
| Median debt at graduation | $21,000 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Lesley University
| Total enrollment | 3,134 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 1,342 |
| Graduate students | 1,792 |
| International students | 3% |
| First-generation students | 29% |
What you can study at Lesley University
65 programs, most of them in these fields:
Education (14)
Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Education, General, Elementary Education and Teaching, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (13)
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects, Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, and more
Health Professions (4)
Art Therapy/Therapist, Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General, Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other, and more
Liberal Arts and Sciences (4)
Humanities/Humanistic Studies, Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other, Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, and more
Psychology (4)
Community Psychology, Counseling Psychology, Developmental and Child Psychology, and more
Family and Consumer Sciences (3)
Child Development, Family Systems, Human Development and Family Studies, General
Human Services (3)
Community Organization and Advocacy, Human Services, General, Social Work
Social Sciences (3)
Political Science and Government, General, Social Sciences, General, Sociology, General
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