To better reflect its mission and growth, SESP's Master's of Science in Learning and Organizational Change (MSLOC) program has adopted a new degree name and added a new course requirement. The announcement of these changes, which take effect fall quarter of 2006, coincides with the launch of a new web site for the program at www.sesp.northwestern.edu/msloc.The name of the degree that students receive through the MSLOC program is changing to Master of Science in Learning and Organizational Change. Previously, the degree graduates were awarded was Master of Science in Education and Social Policy. The move more accurately reflects the program, which has become increasingly distinct from other master's of education programs in the School of Education and Social Policy, according to program director Kimberly Scott.
The MSLOC program's new required core course is entitled MSLOC Foundations. With this addition, the program now requires seven core courses to be included in the 15 courses required for graduation. Additional courses are four electives and four applied courses, specifically a practicum and a capstone project that extends over three terms.
The new MSLOC Foundations course, which was based on student and alumni feedback, provides an overview of "key ideas related to organizational function and behavior, applied cognition, and learning theories," says Scott. "This will ensure new students are better positioned to have a successful academic experience." To build skills and individual growth, the course will also include a yearlong learning team project that will develop leadership experience. "We want to set the scene very early on for a strong learning community and encourage students to form a robust social and professional network," Scott notes.
At the same time as these changes occur, tuition for the MSLOC program is increasing to $3,000 per course, as of fall 2006. Currently enrolled students will receive financial aid to offset the increase. "The new tuition rate beginning fall 2006 will enable us to provide the programming that our students have requested and to gather the resources we need to achieve our vision of being the best program of its kind anywhere," Scott explains. "We have benchmarked similar programs around the country to ensure that our new tuition rate is competitive."
The MSLOC program, which was established in 2001, is designed to prepare leaders and professionals to experience a new way of thinking about organizational issues, especially organizational effectiveness.
Last Modified: 8/14/09