Frequently Asked Questions
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Program Information
What is the EMDC program?
EMDC stands for "Executive Management for Design and Construction." This accelerated program equips current and future executives with the enhanced insights and strategic competencies needed to become successful, senior-level leaders in the design and construction industries, as well as related industries.
Who is a typical EMDC student?
A typical student has eight or more progressive years of experience in the design and/or construction industries and is motivated to enhance his or her career portfolio for advancement into a senior management role.
Other likely candidates for this program are key employees being prepared for the next generation of leadership for a business, top talents aspiring to move into an executive position, targeted successors in a family business, active military personnel seeking advancement in rank, or retiring military personnel transitioning to a civilian work environment.
Curriculum
What kinds of courses are offered?
The business and management expertise gained through the EMDC program transcends the tactical skills needed to manage projects (delivery systems, cost control, estimating, etc.) and uses real-time case studies to emphasize the more strategic competencies and insights required to lead an organization.
Learn more about the curriculum
Who teaches in the program?
EMDC students benefit from faculty with 20 or more years of experience in the design and construction industry, as well as interactive networking among the students themselves. The online interactive format affords students the opportunity to collaborate with fellow professionals on team projects and to network with faculty and professionals in the industry through electronic media and professional social media discussion groups.
How are the online core courses delivered?
Each core course will provide about an hour of prerecorded video lecture by the instructor each week to expand upon the lessons presented in the video lectures. These videos can be viewed by students at their convenience. An interactive webinar between instructors and students will be scheduled on one evening each week. During these webinars, course material will be discussed by the faculty, guest experts will make presentations, and/or students will report on group projects.
When will courses be taught?
Each quarter, one online core course and two or more elective courses (depending on demand) will be offered. Quarters are ten weeks long and span the following periods: mid-September to early December, early January to mid-March, and late March to early June.
Does the EMDC program offer summer courses?
The EMDC program offers no courses during the summer quarter.
Can these courses be used to satisfy the continuing education requirement for maintaining professional licensure?
Yes, they can. Each full course in this program is equivalent to 30 Professional Development Hours (PDHs) or three Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Degree Information
What is the actual degree received by completing the EMDC program?
Upon satisfying all requirements of the EMDC program, a Master of Science in Executive Management for Design and Construction degree will be awarded.
Is EMDC a STEM degree?
Yes, Northwestern's EMDC program is a STEM degree. EMDC's STEM degree's CIP code is 15.9999.
How long does it normally take to earn the Master's degree?
The 12-course program will normally take six quarters or about two years, excluding summer sessions. If the candidate has completed up to three appropriate courses in other accredited universities, the normal course time could be reduced to less than five quarters. Allowable transfer of course credit must be approved by the director.
Additional Information
What is the tuition cost of the program?
Tuition for this program for the 2022-2023 academic year is $5,180 per course. Annual tuition increases have been on the order of 4-5%.
What financial support is available for military personnel?
The EMDC program is military friendly and supports both military veterans and active-duty personnel in their pursuit of graduate education. Limited financial aid is available to match funds provided by the Yellow Ribbon Program and to assist those who might not be eligible for Post-9/11 GI benefits, or who have already used their benefits to support others.
Where can I learn more?
For more information about the Executive Management for Design and Construction MS degree program, contact the Admissions Coordinator, Jamelle Apolinar. You can also visit the Financial Aid section of our Overview for more details.
Updated 6/16/2021
