Ten sequential degree steps are the core of the SNL learning experience, providing the tools necessary for self-directed learning. While several requirements can be satisfied by proficiency exams or transfer learning, most can only be satisfied by SNL coursework. Completion of these degree steps is mandatory; however, each student proceeds through the sequence at her or his own pace.

The Learning Assessment Seminar is the first of the required courses in the Lifelong Learning Area and designed to help students make educational decisions in the context of their educational and personal goals, become well-versed in SNL’s philosophy and competence framework, and make concrete plans for completion of their degree.  This course is also the first step toward admission to baccalaureate degree-seeking status within SNL. 2 tuition credit hours. Competence: L-1.

In this course, students explore the foundations of liberal education, examine ways of learning from experience, articulate educational goals and objectives, develop evidence of prior learning, and plan ways to fulfill remaining program requirements. This requirement is satisfied by LL 250 Foundations of Adult Learning. At completion of the course, the student has written a learning plan, identified an area of inquiry, and acquired an academic committee (faculty mentor and a professional advisor) who will advise the student through the rest of his or her program. 6 tuition credit hours. Competences:  L-2, L-3, F-1.

This requirement focuses on writing skills associated with effective performance in a variety of settings. In LL 102 Learning Assessment Seminar, student writing is assessed. Students are then recommended to satisfy this requirement in one of three ways: by completing LL150 Academic Writing for Adults; by completing LL 150 and LL 140 Writing Workshop; or, by passing the Academic Writing proficiency exam. The Academic Writing course is structured in a format where students review and practice good writing essentials by building on strengths and improving areas of difficulty. English Composition courses are not accepted against this requirement. 4 tuition credit hours. 2 additional hours for LL 140 if required. The Academic Writing proficiency exam requires a non-refundable fee and carries no credit hours. Competence: L-4.

This requirement introduces students to the concepts of critical thinking, careful listening, effective speaking and sound reasoning and provides an opportunity to practice these skills within an active and experiential context. It is satisfied by the course LL 155 Critical Thinking or the Critical Thinking proficiency exam. 4 tuition credit hours. The proficiency exam requires a non-refundable fee and carries no credit hours. Competence: L-5.

This requirement calls for students to use mathematical symbols, concepts, and methods to describe and solve problems. It is satisfied in one of three ways: by successful completion of the course LL 205 Quantitative Reasoning; by passing the Quantitative Reasoning proficiency exam; or by an appropriate algebra transfer course. The proficiency exam requires a non-refundable fee and carries no credit hours. Competence: L-6

This requirement calls for students to learn collaboratively and examine the skills, knowledge, and values that contribute to such learning. It can be satisfied by either SNL courses with the L-7 competence or appropriate transfer coursework. Competence: L-7.

This requirement advances the development of critical thinking and explores methods of formal inquiry as preparation for LL 302 Externship and FA 303 Advanced Project. It is satisfied by the course LL 300 Research Seminar. 6 tuition credit hours. Competences:  L-8, L-9.

For this requirement, the student plans and executes an independent learning project or completes coursework which engages her or him in learning under new conditions and in reflecting on the methods of independent learning. This is satisfied by LL 302 Externship taken either as an independent study course with a student's faculty mentor or as a course offering service learning. 4 tuition credit hours. Competences: L-10, L-11.

This requirement is a problem-solving experience which represents the culmination of a student’s learning in a specific area. The student designs and executes an independent project which demonstrates the integration of theory and practice, and the ability to pursue an avenue of inquiry with excellence.  It is satisfied by FA 303 Advanced Project. 4 tuition credit hours. Competences:  F-11, F-12.

This requirement is satisfied by LL 390 Summit Seminar. In this course, after completing their learning programs to the satisfaction of their academic committee, students gather to evaluate their total learning experiences in the program, to examine their skills and attitudes as lifelong learners, and to set new goals for learning. 2 tuition credit hours. Competence:  L-12.