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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 of Science in Nursing Program Receives CCNE Accreditation

North Central College’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program has earned accreditation by the Commission on College Nursing Education (CCNE). The accreditation includes all four graduate nursing programs offered by North Central – Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Executive Leader, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – as well as two Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) post-graduate certificates. CCNE is a national accrediting agency that ensures nursing programs meet high standards of excellence for curriculum, faculty proficiency, and student support.

MBA Named Among Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report

North Central College’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program has been ranked among the 2025 Best Online MBA Programs by U.S. News & World Report.

“Our one-year, fully online MBA program is designed to be fast-paced and flexible—perfect for busy professionals looking to advance their careers, and recent graduates eager to dive into the business world,” said Dr. David Green, dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship at North Central College. “One of the things that makes our program unique is that courses are designed and primarily taught by experienced, full-time faculty members, many of whom have deep business experience and connections in the Chicago area.”

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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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