School for Lifelong Education
The School for Lifelong Education (SLE) meets the need for higher education in the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. This school is the first nontraditional, comprehensive, university degree program designed to accommodate this population, providing individualized courses of study for men and women without sacrificing the quality of the education or the need to maintain cultural sensitivity. GUIDED DEGREE PROGRAMS SLE’s guided study model supports the needs of all students who are able to achieve their goals due to flexible scheduling, customized plans, ongoing advisement and class modalities. Located in the Hasidic community of Borough Park, Brooklyn, SLE’s academic excellence begins with its faculty, comprised of highly qualified professionals who deliver top-quality academics with keen understanding of the unique background of the student body. SLE students earn associate and bachelor’s degrees in interdisciplinary liberal arts and sciences, math and computers, psychology, human services and Judaic studies. Graduates go on to professional schools in business, medicine, research and health sciences. “The SLE modality of instruction has proven to be instrumental in transitioning
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work and life experience into formal education. First-time university students receive assistance in creating degree plans and upper-level students receive structured advisement toward graduate and professional goals. All students consult with our assistant dean and receive individualized step-by-step programs. We continue to offer increased educational opportunities and additional degree programs while supporting our students through every stage of their academic and professional careers,” says Shoshana Grun, SLE program director. DIFFERENT WAYS TO LEARN SLE offers three teaching modalities: traditional classroom settings; small classes or learning collaboratives; and guided, one-on-one mentoring. The curriculum emphasizes skill-building, effective communication, problem-solving and ethics to prepare students for the demands of the workplace. The program’s flexibility creates an environment conducive to independent learners. “The supportive atmosphere at the School for Lifelong Education encourages student success and allows our nontraditional students to make their dreams a reality,” says Dr. Briendy Stern, assistant dean at SLE.