Fundamentals of Leadership Tuition, Northwestern University School of Professional Studies - Northwestern School of Professional Studies

Many companies and organizations have designated funds that their employees can use for educational or professional development training tuition payment or reimbursement. Students who intend to use tuition reimbursement benefits provided through their employer for a Professional Development course or certificate program should contact their employer directly to determine eligibility for non-credit-bearing, non-degree coursework before beginning the payment and registration process with Northwestern.

Benefits-eligible full-time Northwestern University employees may use Employee Reduced Tuition Benefits for School of Professional Studies non-credit Professional Development certificate programs, upon approval of their Tuition Reimbursement Application.

Northwestern University employees are responsible for (1) confirming their eligibility for Northwestern employee tuition benefits, (2) submitting the correct Tuition Benefit Application and (3) confirming that the benefit has been applied to their student account in CAESAR. Per Northwestern University HR policy, employees must submit a completed application no later than December 15 in the same calendar year for which the benefit is being requested. Employees who do not submit a Tuition Benefit Application by the stated deadline will be responsible for paying the full cost of tuition.

For further assistance, please contact the Office of Human Resources.

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to encourage saving for future education costs. 529 plans, legally known as “qualified tuition plans,” are sponsored by states, state agencies, or educational institutions and are authorized by Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. Each 529 plan has different requirements for its use.  It is the responsibility of the student and manager of the 529 plan to determine what uses are permitted. Please email pdp@northwestern.edu for more information.

Segal AmeriCorps Education Award - Northwestern University is an approved institution for the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. Eligible students may apply Award funds to Professional Development course tuition. Please contact the Office of Professional Development for more information. 

Professional Development programs do not qualify for benefits under Workforce Development, the Department of Veteran Affairs, or the Department of Defense. 

Loans: Students in non-degree Professional Development programs are not eligible for U.S. federal loans but may qualify for a private loan to offset tuition charges. Private loan eligibility may vary by lender and student.

In addition to paperwork required by the lender, non-degree Professional Development certificate program students need to complete a one-page University Aid Application for the relevant academic year. Please contact the Chicago Office of Financial Aid for comprehensive information and assistance with the process, and with any questions.