Threshold Program at Lesley University

Lesley University’s Threshold Program is a comprehensive, campus-based, postsecondary program for motivated young adults with diverse learning challenges. We are located in Cambridge, MA just minutes from historical Harvard Square. Threshold students are between 18 and 26 years old and have typically received special education services in either public or private schools. At Threshold we provide the full college experience, including dormitory living and college courses, for students whose unique academic profile would not otherwise allow them to attend a university. Our students are fully immersed in the university as active participants in sports, clubs and other activities they wish to pursue. The core program is two years, and includes coursework, internships, skills for adept social interaction, and independent living skills. Postgraduate programming is also available and recommended to assist students in attaining their goals for employment and independent living. During the second year of the core program and in our postgraduate programs, students may be eligible to take undergraduate courses. Upon completion of the core program students receive six college credits; Additional credits are available through our postgraduate options. Graduates of Threshold continue to benefit from comprehensive and person-centered supports throughout their lives through our Alumni Center. Alumni services include employment support, social programming, courses, domestic and international travel opportunities, referrals, and a variety of independent living supports. With nearly 700 alumni, 2/3 of whom lives within an hour of Cambridge, our graduate community is active, supportive, and engaged. We remain in contact with even our earliest graduates from 1984, our first graduating class, and our annual survey of alumni shows the success of students in our program; 85% of graduates are employed for pay, 77% live independently (outside of family homes or staffed housing), 95% are satisfied with their level of independence, and 89% are satisfied with their social lives. Threshold offers an unparalleled, unique opportunity for young men and women to experience college in an environment that supports their unique learning profiles and prepares them for an independent life. Our alumni are the best evidence of the value of a postsecondary education, and we are honored to support and engage with them throughout their lives. Join us for an informational meeting to tour our campus and our new, accessible facilities and meet some of our wonderful students! The schedule of our info meetings can be found on our website.