School of Professional Studies

Providing access to an exceptional education

Serving degree-seekers, career-changers, and early to mid-career professionals, the Northwestern University School of Professional Studies offers diverse educational pathways to serve the goals and ambitions of its students. Founded in 1933 as University College and later the School of Continuing Studies, the school was renamed in 2014 to better reflect its expanded mission and student body.

Today, the School of Professional Studies (SPS) is at the forefront of an unprecedented change in how education is delivered, how students access learning, and how we value and measure learning outcomes.

Your gift to SPS will enhance this academic experience through investments in these priorities:

Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships

Scholarships are critical to attracting new students, such as community college students applying to SPS degree-completion programs. Scholarships also provide critical support to students whose persistence is threatened by financial challenges, allowing them to continue their education.

The Student Experience

Support for student research, experiential learning, and professional development opportunities will allow our students to enrich their education and help them achieve their career objectives. This priority area provides:

• Research opportunities and field studies
• Internships stipends
• Tutoring
• Conference attendance and related expenses
• Professional association memberships

Dean’s Innovation Fund

SPS is continuously assessing current offerings as well as identifying new program areas that will be of the highest value to our students. This fund provides for research and innovation as well as faculty support to pioneer new teaching methods and enhance the classroom experience.

Designate your gift to an individual program or give to the School of Professional Studies Annual Fund, which provides resources to support new activities and sustained opportunities.

Leadership contributions of $1,000 or more annually to SPS are recognized by membership in the Chester Gould Society.