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Graduate and Professional Studies

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Exceed Your Personal Best 

For over 40 years, North Central College graduate students have become ethical and purposeful leaders in local, national, and global contexts. Through our programs you can advance your business career, develop leadership skills, excel in your health profession, increase your appreciation for liberal arts, or be at the forefront of education. Join our community of learners that will help you grow professionally and personally to impact the lives of others.

 

Have a question?

Email us: grad@noctrl.edu

Call us: 630-637-5555

Attend a virtual info session or visit campus: northcentralcollege.edu/grad-visit

Graduate Degree and Certificate Programs

We invite you to further your education and grow your skills so that you will be ready to practice your profession at an advanced level. 

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Online Programs

Degree and certificate options in business, education, leadership, trauma-informed practices, and writing. 

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Health Profession Programs

Degree and certificate options in athletic training, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy and physician assistant studies. 

Financing Your Education

We offer merit- and need-based financial aid, graduate assistant positions, and awards to help you pay for college. Your life goals are well within reach at North Central.

Education Alliance

Eligible employees from local businesses and school districts can receive 20% off tuition in some of our graduate degrees.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are designed to provide professional experiences that complement your studies and offer 100% tuition remission. 

FAFSA

Graduate students may complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for up to $20,500 in federal direct loan opportunities annually.

North Central Alumni

North Central College alumni can receive 20% off tuition in our online non-health graduate degree programs! 

Graduate News & Announcements

Master’s Entry to Nursing Practice Program Set to Launch in Fall 2026

North Central College will welcome its first cohort of students for its Master’s Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) program this fall. The Illinois Board of Nursing has granted its full approval, setting the stage for the College to begin accepting applications in preparation for the MENP program’s official launch in August 2026. The prelicensure, direct entry program is designed for anyone with a bachelor’s degree – regardless of their undergraduate major – to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program Earns Full Accreditation from ACOTE

North Central College’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Program has received maximum initial accreditation — seven years — from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). ACOTE is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation as the accrediting agency for occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educational programs.

“Earning a seven-year accreditation is a remarkable achievement that reflects North Central College’s commitment to excellence and the dedication of our occupational therapy faculty,” said Dr. Kristin Geraty, provost and vice president for academic affairs at North Central College. “ACOTE accreditation is a rigorous process ensuring that our OTD program meets the highest standards of preparing future occupational therapists to work in this rewarding and high-demand field.”

Graduate Student Spotlight

MBA student

"North Central helped me discover my career path. My undergrad degree in economics and finance taught me that business can be a vessel for change. My master’s showed me where I want to work to see that change happen. Working as a graduate assistant at North Central’s Coffee Lab developed my passion for business and the coffee industry and connected me with so many people." 

- Justin Simbol '20 / M '24

Occupational Therapy Student

"North Central College faculty were not only experts in their specialty, they were dedicated mentors who provided personal guidance. The amazing facility and equipment that students have access to simulates real-life scenarios, which truly helps learning."

 - Angelina Jones M '22, MOT, OTR/L

Master of Education student

"North Central's educational leadership degree program prepares all learners to lead with an inclusive and virtuous moral compass. It has strengthened the values of diversity, perspective, and reflection. This emphasis has positively impacted me both personally and professionally." 

- Arianna Sanders, M '24

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