Welcome from the Division of Extended Learning

Thank you for your interest in the Division of Extended Learning, formally the School of Professional Programs. In July 2025 we adopted the Division title to more accurately articulate the diverse work we do. Whether you stopped by to find out more information about our fully online degree completion program (BA/BS in Professional Studies), or the Hybrid Weekend Paralegal Certificate program, or about taking online summer or winter courses, or maybe you want to attend Marist as a non-matriculated student.  High School students can become members of the Marist community during our Summer Pre-College Programs and local retirees of the area can become members of our vibrant lifelong learning community, the Center for Lifetime Study. Regardless of the reason, I am happy you are exploring the available options.

In addition to the above programs, we were initially established as one of the Schools at Marist with the mission of supporting adult students.  We are still available to provide support to adult students.  We host the University’s new adult student orientation, and we induct adult students into the Gamma Eta Chapter of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society.  Each May we award one student the Spirit of Adult Education award which is recognized at the University’s Baccalaureate ceremony prior to graduation. 

As you look around, if you have any questions or we can support you on your academic journey, please reach out and we will get right back to you.

Sincerely,

Kristine Cullen, M.A.
Dean, Division of Extended Learning
Office Location: 69 West Cedar 
Email:  Kristine.Cullen@Marist.edu | ExtendedLearning@Marist.edu
Phone: 845-575-3202

Kristine came to Marist in the fall of 1993 as the Assistant Director in the Higher Education Opportunity Program where she was promoted to the Associate Director.  Having come to Marist with a master’s in counseling and personnel services and experience working in Housing and Residential Life, college admissions and counseling the position in H.E.O.P. was a perfect blend of her passions and experience.  In the fall of 2004 Kristine became the Director for the Center for Advising & Academic Services (CAAS). Many new initiatives were implemented during her tenure in the CAAS Office.  In 2016 Kristine became the Assistant Dean for the School of Professional Programs and was responsible for operational excellence in a time of program development.  Kristine is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for the Division of Extended Learning.