Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the program and what will I receive upon completion?
Students must complete a total of 7 courses to receive the Certificate of Completion from Northwestern’s School of Continuing Studies. For a complete list of program requirements, please view the program description page. Most students complete the program within two years.

**Note: Students who entered students the program prior to Fall 2006, will pursue requirements under their core.

What are the tuition and fees for the program?
Since courses are offered separately in each program, the tuition varies for each course depending on the number of weeks:

• 5 week courses: $435
• 8 week courses: $635
• 10 week courses: $795

The number of weeks for each course is usually indicated in the course description. Books and materials are not included in the tuition cost.

Is there an admissions process to become enrolled in the program?
There is no admissions process. Students can register by mail, fax or register online.

What are the class location(s) and time(s) of the classes?
Classes are held from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. or 9am-12pm on Northwestern's Evanston and Chicago Campuses. Students should make sure that they register for their preferred location.

Do the courses have to be taken in sequential order?
The courses in each program are all separate and do not have to be taken in sequential order. However, if students are planning on completing the certificate, it is recommended that the courses be completed in the suggested sequence. Students can also enroll in any individual course without completing the certificate program.

Where can I purchase books and materials?
Textbooks and/or required course materials will be posted on the class web site. Students may purchase books online at such sites as BN.com or Amazon.com.

What is the enrollment deadline?
Students may register up until 5:00 p.m. the last business day before the class begins, provided space is available. Early bird registration ends at 5:00 pm seven calendar days prior to the first class meeting. Students who register after this date will be charged a $50.00 late registration fee.

Is there a cancellation policy/fee?
The University reserves the right to cancel classes due to insufficient enrollments, instructor illness, severe weather or natural disaster. In the event of cancellation due to insufficient enrollment, registrants will be notified immediately and all fees will be returned.

Student-generated cancellations must be reported in writing (a fax or e-mail response is acceptable) before the first meeting of the course; however, a $50 processing fee will be withheld from the refunded amount. Please note that no refunds will be issued after the class begins.

How do I get my Certificate?
Within three months following the completion of your final course, complete and return the Certificate Completion form (PDF Format) to the Registration Office on the Chicago Campus.

Who are the instructors that teach in the program?
Our instructors are experienced, landscape professionals from the Chicago area. Instructors work as a team to develop and deliver a dynamic classroom experience. For instructor biographical information, please see the course listings page.

Who should enroll in this program?
The program is designed for professionals working in all sectors of the green industry, including nursery personnel, arborists, landscape contractors, landscape designers, retail sales persons and those interested in pursuing careers in any of these areas.

Whom can I contact for more information?
For further information regarding the program, students may call (847) 491-3225 or email ncpdp@northwestern.edu.