Duration

The MSA program is designed to be completed in two to three years of uninterrupted part-time study (one to two classes per quarter), although students are allowed five years to finish the program.

Please note that courses completed in the certificate program cannot be transferred to the corresponding graduate degree.

Application Checklist

• Meet application deadlines
• Complete the online application
• Include all supplemental materials
• Submit a nonrefundable application fee of $75

Supplemental Materials

Supplemental materials, with the exception of transcripts, must be uploaded to the online application. Official transcripts may be sent to our Admissions office at spsadmissions@northwestern.edu or mailed to our Chicago office. Please be sure to include the name of your intended program when addressing transcripts. Applicants will be notified once all materials have been received and the application is complete.

• One sealed copy of official transcripts from ALL previously attended colleges and universities. Official transcripts must arrive in our office in the original sealed envelope issued by the institution. Northwestern University School of Professional Studies accepts electronic transcripts from U.S. institutions via secure electronic transcript providers. Consult with your institution to see if they are part of a secure e-delivery network. All electronic transcripts should be sent to spsadmissions@northwestern.edu. Please note transcripts are not accepted by fax or email. If you are currently enrolled, please submit an official transcript showing courses in-progress. Applicants with international transcripts must request an official course-by-course evaluation of transcripts from a NACES member such as WES or ECE. A course-by-course evaluation will translate courses, degrees and grades to U.S. equivalency.
• Two letters of recommendation focusing on academic achievement and ability
• Statement of purpose
• A writing sample
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae

Transcript mailing address:
MSA Graduate Admissions
Northwestern University School of Professional Studies
Wieboldt Hall, Sixth floor
339 E. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60611-3008

Statement of Purpose and Writing Sample

Applicants must submit a 300-word statement of purpose explaining how the degree program will help them meet their academic and professional goals. Applicants who did not major in sports administration or a related field should explain how other academic and nonacademic experiences have prepared them to undertake graduate study in this program.

The writing sample allows the applicant to demonstrate the ability to present ideas and arguments in a manner appropriate to a graduate-level program. The sample should be a critical analysis paper or essay not exceeding 10 pages and should consist of the following:

• A clearly articulated thesis
• An argument that persuasively supports the thesis and demonstrates an awareness of contrary arguments
• Documentation of quoted material and acknowledgement of ideas taken from the works of others using an accepted academic style guide

Application Tips

• Make sure to highlight relevant work, internship and volunteer experience within your resume
• The statement of purpose should clearly indicate if you are currently in sports administration how you plan on using the degree in the future
• If you are not currently in the sports administration field, the statement of purpose provides an opportunity to express why you would like to pursue the degree and how you plan on using the available resources to obtain a position
• The writing sample should be a critical analysis including citations

System Requirements