NorthWestern vs NU Pro

Northwestern University and Northeastern University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning, offer a diverse array of professional programs that cater to students with varying aspirations. While they share a commitment to academic excellence and career preparation, there are distinct differences between the two universities that may influence your choice. Northwestern boasts a lower acceptance rate, indicating a highly selective admissions process, while Northeastern's acceptance rate is more accessible. In terms of popular majors, Northwestern excels in fields like engineering, economics, and political science, while Northeastern is renowned for its programs in business, computer science, and engineering. Explore the comparison table to delve deeper into the acceptance rates, popular majors, student body demographics, and graduation rates of these two prestigious universities, and make an informed decision that aligns with your academic goals and preferences.
Northeastern University Professional Programs logo

Northeastern University Professional Programs

Northwestern University logo

Northwestern University

Overview

Location Boston, Massachusetts Evanston, Illinois
Campus setting City: Large City: Small
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (Non Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Non Traditional Quarter
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 99.0%
Common app member No Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate N/A 7.0%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $75

Graduate: $95
SAT range N/A 1470 - 1570
ACT range N/A 34 - 35
Students submitting SAT score 43.0%
Students submitting ACT score 39.0%
Total number of applicants 47,636
Total number of admissions given out 3,321
Admitted students who chose to enroll 2,086
Yield rate 62.8%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) Not required N/A
High school GPA N/A Not required
Recommendation letters N/A Required
High school transcript N/A Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) N/A Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $83,838
Average net price $29,999
Tuition $60,276
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $11,271

Meal plan: $6,993
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

57.0%
Average amount $51,087
Students receiving federal student loan 23.0%
Average amount $4,625
Students taking out private loans 2.0%
Average amount $38,595

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 4,795
Men 43.0% Women 57.0%
8,847
Men 46.1% Women 53.9%
Graduate students 6,123
Men 42.9% Women 57.1%
14,562
Men 47.3% Women 52.7%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Moderate
Out-of-state students N/A N/A
International students 33.2% 17.8%
Campus local/setting City: Large City: Small
Dormitory capacity N/A 4,409
First year students are required to live on campus? N/A No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from N/A N/A

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Business
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Business
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Engineering
  • Health Professions
  • Legal Profession
Students to faculty ratio 15:1 6:1
Institutional accreditation New England Commission on Higher Education Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate N/A 95.2%
Dropout rate N/A 4.2%
Transferred out N/A N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Taxation (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $103,863
  • Year 2: $100,518
  • Year 3: $122,957
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $113,631
  • Year 2: $110,878
  • Year 3: $121,357
Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $105,065
  • Year 2: $101,072
  • Year 3: $110,392
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $95,288
  • Year 2: $89,413
  • Year 3: $108,000
Information Science/Studies (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $86,867
  • Year 3: $104,196
Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $100,801
  • Year 2: $89,415
  • Year 3: $103,529
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $98,777
  • Year 2: $86,867
  • Year 3: $102,904
Biotechnology (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $79,825
  • Year 2: $80,556
  • Year 3: $98,428
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,339
  • Year 2: $92,124
  • Year 3: $97,859
Medical Illustration and Informatics (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $80,886
  • Year 2: $91,744
  • Year 3: $94,172
Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $150,242
  • Year 2: $188,472
  • Year 3: $221,242
Business/Commerce, General (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $188,472
  • Year 3: $216,176
Law (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $187,194
  • Year 2: $170,971
  • Year 3: $206,288
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $120,709
  • Year 2: $189,565
  • Year 3: $194,961
Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $162,478
  • Year 2: $163,561
  • Year 3: $177,652
Engineering-Related Fields (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $111,200
  • Year 2: $157,779
  • Year 3: $159,304
Engineering, Other (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $140,321
  • Year 2: $141,586
  • Year 3: $154,556
Medical Illustration and Informatics (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $88,288
  • Year 2: $118,465
  • Year 3: $132,325
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $118,780
  • Year 2: $111,323
  • Year 3: $130,124
Community Organization and Advocacy (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $115,760
  • Year 2: $113,668
  • Year 3: $128,046

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Northwestern University and Northeastern University Professional Programs?

    Northwestern University is a highly selective, private research university located in Evanston, Illinois, offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. It's known for its strong emphasis on research, particularly in fields like journalism, law, and engineering. Northeastern University Professional Programs, on the other hand, focuses on career-oriented education and offers flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats, primarily for working professionals seeking to advance their skills or change careers. Northeastern's main campus is in Boston, Massachusetts.

  • Which university is better for traditional undergraduate programs?

    Northwestern University is generally considered the stronger choice for traditional undergraduate programs. It offers a comprehensive residential college experience with a wide array of majors, research opportunities, and extracurricular activities designed for full-time students. Northeastern University Professional Programs are geared towards working adults and may not offer the same level of traditional undergraduate experience.

  • Which university is better for working professionals seeking career advancement?

    Northeastern University Professional Programs are specifically designed for working professionals. They offer flexible scheduling, online courses, and programs tailored to meet the needs of individuals looking to enhance their skills, gain new knowledge, or transition into different career paths. While Northwestern offers some professional development programs, Northeastern's focus and structure are more directly aligned with the needs of working adults.

  • How do the locations of Northwestern and Northeastern University Professional Programs differ?

    Northwestern University's main campus is located in Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. This provides students with access to both a traditional college town environment and the resources of a major metropolitan area. Northeastern University Professional Programs are offered at various locations, including the main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, as well as online. The specific location will depend on the program you choose.

  • What types of programs are offered at Northeastern University Professional Programs?

    Northeastern University Professional Programs offer a wide range of programs, including master's degrees, graduate certificates, bachelor's completion programs, and professional development courses. These programs cover various fields such as business, technology, healthcare, and project management, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and industry relevance.

  • How does the cost of attendance compare between Northwestern University and Northeastern University Professional Programs?

    Northwestern University typically has a higher overall cost of attendance for traditional undergraduate and graduate programs due to its status as a private research university. Northeastern University Professional Programs may have varying tuition rates depending on the specific program and format (online vs. in-person). It's best to check the individual program websites for the most up-to-date tuition information for both institutions.

  • What is the application process like for each university?

    Northwestern University has a highly competitive application process for its undergraduate and graduate programs, requiring strong academic records, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may apply), essays, and letters of recommendation. Northeastern University Professional Programs typically have a more streamlined application process, often focusing on relevant work experience and professional goals. Specific requirements will vary by program, so it's essential to review the application guidelines for your desired program at each institution.

  • Which university is known for its research opportunities?

    Northwestern University is renowned for its extensive research opportunities across various disciplines. Students have the chance to work alongside leading faculty members on cutting-edge research projects. While Northeastern University also engages in research, Northwestern's emphasis and resources dedicated to research are generally more prominent, especially for traditional students.

  • Does Northeastern University Professional Programs offer online learning options?

    Yes, Northeastern University Professional Programs are known for their robust online learning options. Many of their programs are offered fully online or in a hybrid format, providing flexibility for working professionals to pursue their education while balancing their careers and other commitments.

  • What kind of career services are available at each university?

    Both Northwestern University and Northeastern University Professional Programs offer career services to their students. Northwestern provides comprehensive career counseling, resume workshops, and internship opportunities for its students. Northeastern University Professional Programs focus on career-oriented services, including career coaching, networking events, and job placement assistance tailored to the needs of working professionals.