Policy
It is the policy of the MSEd programs that any and all deficiency courses required for certification must be taken at Northwestern. Courses offered through Northwestern University's night school (the School of Continuing Studies) may be used to fill these deficiencies. Tuition for School of Continuing Studies classes is lower than that for regular day school classes, and the evening/weekend schedule observed by the School of Continuing Studies may be more compatible with your own schedule.
We do understand, however, that in certain extraordinary circumstances, it may not be possible or feasible to complete a general education deficiency course at Northwestern University. In such a case, you may petition to take a general education deficiency course at another institution. Petitions should be submitted prior to actually taking a course at another institution. This is for your own protection -- there is no guarantee that a petition will be approved, and you do not want to discover that your petition has been turned down after you have already spent your time and money on a course. All subject-area deficiency courses must be taken at Northwestern.
Even in the most extreme circumstances, you should be aware that the maximum number of deficiency courses which may be taken off campus is two. Petitions to take correspondence or on-line courses will not be approved.
If you have read and understand these policies, you may download a Petition to Take a General Education Course Off Campus form. The petition will need to be approved by both your advisor and the certification manager.