Completing the Northwestern MSC degree can be viewed a few different ways. 

• The communication masters curriculum requirements indicate you must complete nine (9) credits. Each credit is one course. 
• The masters in communication length is designed to be completed in one (1) academic year – from September to August. 
• The MS Communication hours depend on which delivery model you choose:

The Custom Leadership Program (CLP) meets for 36 Saturdays from 9:30am – 5:00pm over the course of one year. This includes two 3-hour classes and an executive lunch where co-curricular opportunities are offered. Each week you are in class for a total of 6 hours. You may also have approximately 5 – 10 hours of work outside of class per week. This ebbs and flows and also varies with the elective courses you choose. 

The Hybrid Leadership Program (HLP) consists of a seven 5-week and four 1-week asynchronous online classes. You take one class at a time with a minimum of a weeklong break in between. Each week of class is designed to have approximately 6 – 8 hours of work within the class portal. Prep work and assignments may take more time. Additionally, you are required to attend four “In Residence Seminars.” Generally, these are 2.5 days on the Evanston campus with your cohort. 

Both the CLP and the HLP also complete a culminating Capstone project that counts as one full credit toward their degree requirements.

Regardless of which model you choose, you will complete nine credits to earn your Master in Communication Degree.  

Amy Hauenstein
Director of Curriculum and Non-Degree Programs