Dix Scholars Program at Simmons
The Dorothea Lynde Dix Scholars program, designed for women who are 24 years or older, provides adult women with the opportunity to benefit from the unique combination of liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional study that Simmons undergraduate programs offer.
If you're thinking, "How can I possibly do this?" you are in good company. Many successful Dix students and alumnae once felt overwhelmed at the prospect of going back to school, mastering new technology, and finding the time to study and "be a student" while balancing work, family, and numerous other obligations. The truth is, Dix Scholars—women like you—comprise approximately 25 percent of our undergraduate student body and often attain higher grade point averages than do younger students.
The moment you decide to apply to Simmons, our admission staff is ready to help. We personalize our admission process to fit busy, often complex lives of forward thinking women like you. Take some time to explore our site, request more information, or contact us with questions. We look forward to getting to know you!
Thinking about Nursing?
Be sure to check out the options and requirements for applying as an adult nursing student »
Academics
Founded in 1899, Simmons was the first college in the nation to offer women an liberal arts education integrated with career preparation. Today, Simmons offers a challenging, interdisciplinary curriculum with more than 40 undergraduate majors and programs. A 13:1 student/faculty ratio ensures that every student gets the attention she needs.
Preparation for the Real World
Simmons's independent learning requirement ensures that students gain hands-on experience, impressive resumes, and professional contacts through internships, fieldwork, and independent projects. Simmons also offers lifelong career services, exceptional alumnae mentoring programs, and a powerful alumnae professional network.
Explore Careers through Simmons
Beyond the Classroom: Life at Simmons
Simmons women say they enjoy "all the benefits of a world-class college town, plus a safe, friendly campus that feels like home." Students balance academic life with more than 50 clubs and academic liaisons, as well as sports, volunteer projects, cultural events, campus traditions, and outings around town. Dix Scholars even have their own social and academic groups, or you can start your own!
Dedicated Support for Adult Students
While students in the Dix Scholars program enjoy the full benefits and the range of services provided to all Simmons students, Simmons College realizes that returning to school later in life has its unique challenges.
The Student Life Office offers tailored support and advising to Dix Scholars, encouraging and supporting you as you work to attain your goals, while recognizing your need to balance student life, work, family, and other obligations. And a student-run Dix Scholars support network brings together current and new Dix Scholars to share experiences, support one another, relax, and learn!
Tuition and Financial Aid
Contrary to what you might think, attending a top notch private college like Simmons doesn't have to be as expensive as it first appears. Finding the right college—not the one that appears most affordable—should be your top priority.
Learn more on the Tuition and Financial Aid site
Come Find Out for Yourself: Visit Simmons
The best way to get a feel for Simmons is to visit. We invite you attend a Simmons Dix Scholars admission event or schedule an individual visit tailored to your interests. And don't forget to take some time to explore the beautiful city of Boston while you're here!
Ready to take the next step?
You've looked around and seen all that Simmons has to offer, so what's next? Check the requirements and deadlines, start collecting your application materials, and get ready to apply.
Check the Requirements and Deadlines
Applying to Simmons is Easy
We've brought all the information you'll need to apply together on the Dix Scholars Application Requirements page. Once you have all your materials collected and are ready to apply, visit the apply page and select the Simmons Online Application or download the print application and mail it in. It's that easy!
Start Your Application! Go to the Apply page
Tips for prospective Dix Scholars... from current Dix Scholars
Jill Hurtibise, Political Science major
Tip # 11: "Go with a private college because you're a person and not a number."
Tip #29: "Research and apply to outside scholarships. During the application process, I spent every free moment on www.fastweb.org. It seemed as though I applied to every $500 or $1000 scholarship."
Tip #8: "It's pretty normal to feel terrified when starting your first semester! Take time to meet individually with your first professors and to acknowledge being scared."
Tip # 3: "As a single mom, my going to school had had a transformative impact on my three sons. They see me doing homework, of placing such a high value on education..."
Tip # 16: "Once you make the decision to attend college, push through. I've had crazy schedules but it is so worth pushing yourself toward your goal."
Tracy Wrighton, Arts Administration major
Tip #3: "It is easy to feel apprehensive about returning to college as a thirty-something or as someone older than traditional students. Read articles and become familiar with different options. When I read an article about the Dix Scholars program at Simmons, I felt such a weight lifted off my shoulders. Here was a place for me to complete my education where I wouldn't be regarded (because of my age) as crazy."
Tip # 25: "You're not alone at Simmons—there is a real community. Get to know faculty, staff, and fellow students. If you have a question, ask!"
Tip # 19: "MCC 103 (multidisciplinary core course) is for Dix Scholars only and is great to take in your first semester."
Nanette Savides, Sociology major
Tip #1: "If age is holding you back from returning to college, you'll only be older tomorrow!"
Tip # 33: "Take the time to attend college. It's not just about career opportunities—your education goes much more deeply. It's easy to grow complacent in the workplace and it becomes harder to step back to take the time to pursue longstanding or new goals."
Tip #6: "There is always a cost to your education; but there is no deeper personal reward."
Tip #19: "Get involved! At Simmons, there is no preconceived idea of what getting involved means. You can join campus organizations or simply participate in small, informal groups such as a walking group, lunch group, etc. While there is no expectation for involvement, getting involved and building connections with fellow students definitely adds dimension to your Simmons experience."
Carol Harper, Sociology/English double major
Tip #5: "Adult students need to be taught by people dedicated to teaching; at Simmons, professor love to teach."
Tip #31: "Size matters. The intimate learning environment at Simmons means you matter and your aspirations matter."
Tip #13: "Consider starting part-time, to put your foot in the water and to gain confidence. Moving from working to studying mode can initially be intimidating, but once here at Simmons, you'll wish you had started sooner."
