Strategic Plan
Charting a Course for the Century Ahead
As it approaches its centennial in 2029, the Woods College of Advancing Studies is setting its course toward a flourishing future by drawing from Boston College鈥檚 Jesuit, Catholic heritage and reputation for academic excellence to enhance its distinctive role within the University and the contemporary world.聽
Strategic Directions
The Woods College's strategic plan for 2026鈥�2030 is organized around four strategic directions:
Strategic Direction 1
Strengthen the Jesuit, Catholic dimensions of WCAS as a school and learning community
Boston College鈥檚 mission, heritage, and values as a Jesuit, Catholic university serve as the bedrock for the intellectual, spiritual, social, and personal development of WCAS community members, especially students. Accordingly, WCAS aspires to strengthen the Jesuit, Catholic dimensions of its programs, curricula, and community life, particularly through more coherent and consistent integration of intellectual excellence, personal formation, and whole-person education. Doing so will not only benefit students, faculty, and staff but also yield significant external benefits for WCAS in the increasingly competitive landscape of American higher education.
Strategic聽Direction 2
Foster personal, communal, and professional connections at WCAS, particularly among students, faculty, and alumni
WCAS is committed to cultivating stronger relationships within and among the student and alumni communities. WCAS seeks to emphasize the importance of a more integrated ecosystem that blends academic, professional, and social support, building on Jesuit, Catholic traditions of care, community, and accompaniment.
Strategic Direction 3
Enhance curriculum, teaching, and student success at WCAS
WCAS is dedicated to delivering an academic experience that is both distinctive and deeply connected to Boston College鈥檚 mission. WCAS intends to offer new and existing programs that are innovative, high quality, and aligned with student and workforce needs while also strengthening faculty capacity to ensure graduates are prepared for both professional success and personal development.
Strategic聽Direction 4
Implement a mission-driven recruitment and enrollment strategy
WCAS aims to expand access and opportunity for students. To meet the needs of students seeking nontraditional pathways for their education, WCAS will improve the timing of award letters, access to financial aid, and alternative funding models, including fellowships, partnership discounts, and employer sponsorships.
“ This plan both honors our legacy and embraces our exciting future. It is rooted in the Jesuit, Catholic foundations of Boston College and our dedication to serving nontraditional students through formative educational experiences, community engagement, and academic excellence. This is not just a roadmap; it is a shared vision for transforming student lives and strengthening the Woods College as it enters its second century. ”
View the Strategic Plan
Questions & Contact
Claudia Pouravelis, Ed.D.
Senior Advisor to the Dean • Woods College of Advancing Studies
claudia.pouravelis@bc.edu | 617-552-6373
Woods College of Advancing Studies
Woods College of Advancing Studies offers Bachelor's and Master's degrees, certificates, and professional education opportunities.聽 If you're interested in furthering your education, we have something for you.聽
Professional Education
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Non-Degree Offerings
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