Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? You’re in the right place. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions about our programs, admissions process, and student experience to help you find the information you need quickly and easily.

If you still need further information, fill out the form to the right or give us a call at 847-290-6425.

Can you tell me more about Northwest Suburban College?

Northwest Suburban College is a non-profit health sciences college located in suburban Rolling Meadows, IL. We are single-minded about our mission as educators: to graduate students in science and healthcare while focusing on high-quality academics and building applicable skills through hands-on learning. Our tailored programs are offered to prepare students for employment in high-demand fields. For most of our programs, classes are conveniently offered every month.

Our typical students are non-traditional, adult learners seeking new employment opportunities, re-entry into the workforce, a career change, or growth prospects in their current industry.

We are keenly aware of the challenges faced by many first-generation students, minorities, and individuals looking to re-enter the workforce, including financial hurdles. Our philosophy centers on breaking down barriers to education and related employment, and graduation on time with as little debt as possible.

What programs are offered at your college?

NWSC offers a range of programs designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare. This includes five certificate programs— Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, MRI Technologist, and Healthcare Management—as well as undergraduate degree programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Health Science, and Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting.

What is the benefit of attending NWSC versus the traditional 2 to 4-year university?

According to CLASP, the Center for Postsecondary and Economic Success, the number of non-traditional students is expected to grow more than twice as fast as traditional students from 2012 to 2022. Today, the barriers to education are many, including the inability to commit to a 4-year traditional university. At NWSC, we understand the unique needs of our students and provide alternatives to a traditional college education. We offer quality education over shorter durations and in high-demand fields.

Our low student-to-faculty ratio ensures an almost customized educational experience, where students build a strong network of professional ties with faculty, advisors, and peers. Also, our programs are financially accessible and made even more so through institutional grants.

In most programs, classes are conveniently offered every month and you can be admitted in as little as three days. For more information, feel free to call us at 847-290-6425 or visit our campus at 5999 S. New Wilke Road, Bldg. 500, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008.

Do you have financial aid assistance?

Yes, the Institutional Aid Office is available to assist prospective and current students with financial information.

Northwest Suburban College believes in providing affordable education for each one of its students who are deserving and are willing to work hard to make a difference in their lives through education. Although the cost of a college education at NWSC is relatively low, many students need and receive institutional aid. NWSC offers institutional aid for truly deserving students who are eager to pursue a career in the field of allied health sciences and demonstrate a need for financial assistance.

Students interested in institutional aid must complete the Institutional Aid Application and submit it along with proof of income (copy of the past year’s tax documents, pay stubs, bank statements, or W-2 form) to the Institutional Aid office. Students are encouraged to complete and submit this application along with the application for admission.

How often do your classes start?

Program starts are dependent on the area of study and program type:

Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, and Pharmacy Technician Certificates: Every Month
MRI Technologist Certificate: 3 Starts Per Year (Spring, Summer & Fall)
Healthcare Management Certificate: Every 2 Months
Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Health Science, and Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting: 3 Semesters Per Year (Spring, Summer & Fall)

What authorizations and accreditations does NWSC have?

Northwest Suburban College is approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) to grant undergraduate degrees under its degree-granting authority, and by the Private Business and Vocational Schools (PBVS) unit of the IBHE to offer certificate programs. These approvals affirm NWSC’s standing as an institution committed to academic growth and workforce development, allowing the College to expand beyond its traditional certificate programs and deliver comprehensive undergraduate offerings that promote career advancement in healthcare and related fields.

Additionally, NWSC is institutionally and programmatically accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a national accrediting agency for institutions that provide health education. This accreditation demonstrates NWSC’s dedication to academic excellence, institutional accountability, and high-quality, career-focused education in the health sciences.