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Admissions

Join the next generation of design innovation leaders.

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Quick Facts

Degree earned: Master of Science in Engineering Design Innovation

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Timing

  • 18 months:  five quarters of study plus optional - but highly recommended - summer quarter internship
  • Full-time, hands-on, cohort-model program
  • Classes begin in September - fall quarter
  • Students graduate in March after the second winter quarter
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Location

  • Northwestern University's Evanston campus
  • Easy access to Chicago-area design firms
  • Many internships located in the greater Chicagoland area
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Admissions

  • Application season opens September 1 of the year preceding the start of class
  • Recommended application deadline:  January 15 
  • Receive admit decision:  mid-March
  • If necessary, the final application deadline is July 14th

Watch

What makes EDI different?

Watch our admissions video to find out.

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Getting Started

Application Requirements

EDI students are selected based on their backgrounds, ability to learn, and their contributions to the overall program experience. Learn more about what goes into your application to the EDI program.

View a list of application requirements

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Applying to Multiple Programs

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Tuition & Financial Aid

Please refer to The Graduate School website for detailed information about the cost of tuition. In 2023-2024, the EDI program will require four full-time quarters (fall, winter, spring, and fall), one part-time quarter (winter of the second year), and participation in the pre-term summer session Camp EDI ($1500) for incoming students. 

Many master’s students find funding through a variety of loan options or through other scholarship and resource opportunities, some of which are listed on McCormick’s website. Additionally, students are encouraged to visit the Evanston Office of Graduate Financial Aid for information on a variety of federal and private loan and funding options.

Students using financial aid to fund their graduate degree must comply with the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy to maintain eligibility.

 

Opportunities

Design Coaching   Students interested in supporting undergraduate coursework in design and innovation are encouraged to apply for Design Coach positions within the Segal Design Institute.  These positions pay hourly and applications are open prior to the start of each quarter.

Shop Leaders  Students interested in working in the Ford Motor Company Engineering Design Center's shop facility can apply to work teaching safety and equipment use to patrons.

Four EDI students talk around a table.

FAQs

Still have questions?

Explore our FAQs about the admissions process, the program, and more.

Learn more

Northwestern University does not make decisions related to admissions, including but not limited to financial aid and scholarships, based upon any category protected by the law. The University is committed to complying with all applicable laws. The University believes different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds are critical to building a dynamic student body, and as such encourages all qualified applicants to apply.

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