Northwestern University Online

Highlights

• Online extension of Northwestern University, an institution founded over 150 years ago
• University has been included in the "America's Best Colleges" list of top schools by U.S. News & World Report
• Flexible course schedules tailored to meet the needs of working professionals
• Low Faculty to student ratio
• Accreditation provided by the Higher Learning Commission

About the School

Established in 1851 and located just outside of Chicago, Illinois, Northwestern University is a non-sectarian research institution with 11 schools and colleges. The university offers education programs across a wide variety of subjects.

The institution's online extension, Northwestern University Online, offers a master's degree in Public Policy Administration (MPPA). It also provides a master's degree in Medical Informatics (MMI), in partnership with the Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University. According to the school, the MMI program provides students access to established leaders in healthcare informatics in the metropolitan Chicago Community, including doctors and academic appointees.

Academic Programs

• Master's of Science in Medical Informatics – Designed for a diverse group of students, including people from computing, information technology and various healthcare fields. The program emphasizes integrating and leveraging information in order to improve the quality of healthcare and to improve patient outcomes. The curriculum blends conceptual and applied knowledge and computing and clinical skills. Graduates of the program have opportunities for careers in information services organizations in hospitals, health systems, academic settings and also the health systems and equipment industry. The program emphasizes the study and application of the principles of information management and the design, integration, implementation and evaluation of healthcare information systems.
• Master's Degree in Public Policy Administration – Examines public policy issues, applications and analysis and also examines the administrative systems required to implement policy. The program is designed to be of particular benefit for managers and executives in local and state government agencies. However, much of the program is applicable for careers in foundations, associations and the federal government.

Learning Options

• The MMI program can be completed in two to three years with part-time study
• The programs are available completely online

Faculty

Northwestern notes that its experienced instructors have expertise in their field of teaching. The Public Policy Administration program instructors offer students a combination of public sector leadership and academic experience.

Student Life

Many of the online students are working professionals seeking to advance in their careers or develop their professional skills. Northwestern University campus includes over 9,000 graduate and professional students. The online students have opportunities to communicate with other students and their instructors.

Admissions and Financial Aid

The university has a selective admissions policy. The financial aid department representatives assist students with finding financial assistance. Federal grants and loans and other types of financial aid are available for those who qualify.