Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the program and what will I receive upon completion?

There are three courses in the program and each course runs on a quarterly basis, for 10 weeks. The courses in the program are:

• Museum Origins and Missions
• Successful Museum Management in Today’s Environment
• Education for Museum Visitors
• View Course Listings

Upon successful completion of all required courses in either program, students will receive a Certificate of Completion from The School of Continuing Studies at Northwestern University.

What are the tuition and fees for the program?
Tuition is $925 for each class. Books and materials are not included in the tuition price and must be purchased separately.

Is there an admissions process to become enrolled in the program?
There is no formal admissions process for this program. Courses may be taken in any sequence and students may begin coursework at any time. 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. on our Chicago campus:
339 E. Chicago Avenue
Wieboldt Hall
Chicago, IL 60611

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.

Can I enroll in individual courses without having to complete the program?
Students who plan on earning the certificate should move through the program as a cohort, but classes may also be taken individually and out of sequence.

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.

Who are the instructors that teach in the program?
Our instructors are experienced, museum 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.

Who should enroll in this program?
This program is designed for those who seek careers as museum educators, registrars, administrators, fundraisers, and collection managers; museum professionals who seek to expand their knowledge and skills in museum careers; graduates of humanities degree programs who seek an overview of museum careers before pursuing graduate education; and museum board members and volunteers who seek an overview of museum practices and strategies.

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