Program Overview

Introduction to the Advanced Study Program

The MIT Professional Education Advanced Study Program (ASP) offers non-degree students the opportunity to enroll in MIT classes for a semester, a year, or longer. This program provides maximum flexibility for working professionals and exceptional graduate students looking to enhance their knowledge and further their careers with an MIT education.

Program Structure

• The program allows students to create a customized course of study by browsing the MIT Course Catalog for classes that match their interests and goals.
• There are no required classes for the program.
• Students apply to specific classes through the program.

Eligibility and Application

• Applications are accepted each Fall and Spring semester for both part-time and full-time students.
• Students from more than 35 different countries have participated in the Advanced Study Program in recent years and are eligible for visa sponsorship.

Part-Time Students

Overview

The Advanced Study Program welcomes part-time students from the greater Boston area who wish to continue their education by taking one or two classes per semester while working.

• All classes are held on campus in Cambridge, accessible by bicycle, foot, and public transit with limited parking options in the area.
• Classes generally necessitate just 2 to 5 hours of on-campus commitments per week, requiring a minimal distraction from your day job.
• Other work is done outside of class and can be scheduled on your own time.

Benefits

• Part-time students have full access to MIT libraries and MIT community events.
• Participation in the Professional Education Advanced Study Program has allowed part-time students to go on to enroll in graduate degree programs, travel for hands-on research, and even found their own companies.

Full-Time Students

Overview

Full-time students enroll in a full course load (36 or more units) for the semester and study for one or more semesters.

• They may be from the United States or from abroad.

Benefits

• Full-time students often come to MIT while enrolled in a degree program at another institution, or they may be taking a sabbatical from work or transitioning into a new field of employment.

MIT Employees

Overview

Academically qualified MIT employees may apply to take classes at MIT through the MIT Professional Education Advanced Study Program.

• Benefits-eligible employees accepted into the program may also have their tuition covered by the Tuition Assistance Plan.
• Employees may apply to take classes in any department at the Institute.