Pregraduate Specialized Studies

Create a custom course of study to prepare for graduate school, professional school and PhD programs. Students develop a specialized academic plan of at least four and up to eight courses that capitalizes on their backgrounds and perfectly suits their academic goals. Academic plans should be aligned with the admission requirements of students' graduate programs of interest. Courses for the specialized plan can be built across subject areas for interdisciplinary study, or grouped within a single subject (based on course availability in SPS).

Students will have the opportunity to strengthen their academic transcript, show recent academic success and secure current letters of recommendation from Northwestern faculty. This certificate is a credential that will enable students to stand out in their application for advanced study.

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Students interested in pursuing specialized study for professional or career advancement should explore the Specialized Studies for Career Advancement post-baccalaureate program.

 

Program Details

 

Time to Completion
  • Two quarters to two years, based on your goals and number of courses
Location and Times
  • Evening courses on Northwestern's Evanston and Chicago campuses
  • Fully online courses
Application
  • When applying, choose Specialized Studies as Certificate Program

 

Areas of Study

Choose SPS undergraduate courses from multiple subjects to create a specialized program of study that meet specific academic goals. In some subjects, 300-level courses may have prerequisites, which are noted in course descriptions.

To view available courses in the subjects below, applicants should consult the SPS undergraduate course schedule.

view current course schedule

Subjects include:

  • Biological Sciences
  • Communication Studies
  • Economics
  • English 
  • Health Sciences
  • History
  • Information Systems
  • Journalism
  • Mathematics (algebra, calculus)
  • Organization Behavior
  • Philosophy
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Sociology

 

Specialized studies can also be an ideal means of preparation for law school and health policy and administration programs.

Law School Preparation

Coursework at SPS provides the opportunity to develop strong writing and verbal communication skills, an understanding of society and human nature, and critical and creative thinking skills—all assets for the study of law. Students can lay the groundwork for law school by completing courses in English, history, political science, social sciences, communication studies, and psychology. Students can develop a program of study that is geared toward their specific academic needs and that will augment their application to law school.

Health Policy and Administration Preparation

A specialized program of health sciences courses can prepare individuals interested in applying to Master’s in Health Administration or Public Health programs. Or, specialized studies in health sciences can enhance the resumes of those who are working in healthcare and seeking additional post-bachelor’s degree courses without pursuing a full master's degree. Students can select from relevant courses to build a custom plan that supports their academic or professional goals. Courses include:

  • HLTH SCI 250-DL Healthcare Principles
  • HLTH SCI 315-DL Communication in Health Science Professions
  • HLTH SCI 317-DL Culturally Responsive Healthcare
  • HLTH SCI 355-DL Managing Financial Resources in Healthcare
  • HLTH SCI 357-DL Quality Improvement
  • HLTH SCI 365-DL Data Management and Analytics
  • HLTH SCI 367-DL Research Methods in Health Sciences
  • PRO HLTH 390-DL Interprofessional Health Practice

 

Pregraduate Study Course Schedule

Search for courses in the subjects above in the undergraduate course schedule. Descriptions, schedules, and locations are included.

 

Admission for Pregraduate Study

In addition to completing an online application, you'll also need to submit a few supplemental materials. A list of requirements for admission including application deadlines and tips on how to apply can be found on the Admission page.

Pregraduate Study Tuition

Post-baccalaureate students at Northwestern's School of Professional Studies pay per course. For more information about financial obligations and tuition, please visit the Tuition page.

 

Pregraduate Study Registration Information

Whether you're a first-time registrant or current and returning student, all students register using our online student registration and records systems. Important information about registering for courses at SPS, including registration timelines and adding or dropping courses in which you are already enrolled, can be found on the Registration Information page.

Find out more about the Pregraduate Study