Online Learning

Courses in the MMI online program have been carefully designed as academically rigorous learning experiences with the characteristics of working professionals in mind. Each course has been developed to leverage what adult learners offer - the rich life experiences they bring to the classroom, their motivation, focus and goal-orientation, and their strong desire to be active learners. Projects and assignments are designed to support learning outcomes, be meaningful and applicable to the professional work environment. Multimedia elements are integrated into the courses to provide a variety of ways for students to learn. Both synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences are provided in each course, though they take different formats.

Building a learning community is an important part of the adult learning experience and group projects and faculty-to-student and student-to-student interaction are essential elements of each course. The goal is to create an environment of learning that extends beyond individual courses with students sharing professional experiences and resources with each other on a regular basis.

FAQ's on Online Learning

Am I a good candidate for online learning?
If you are a highly motivated, independent starter with good communication skills, you should be able to succeed in the online MMI program. This format is designed for busy professionals and students who live out of the Chicago area and are therefore not able to take advantage of Northwestern's face to face program. The successful online student can effectively manage his/her time and is comfortable interacting with faculty and fellow students via email, chats, and web conferencing.

How much time should I devote to my online course?
Each weekly class session is about 3 hours of synchronous or asynchronous learning activities. In some sessions you will interact with faculty and fellow students-in live lectures and discussions. Other sessions will consist of learning activities that can be completed independently and with the advantage of time flexibility. Therefore, you should expect to spend about 8-10 hours per week total on each class.

What technology do I need?
This is an Internet-based program, so you will need:

• an Internet browser (such as Internet Explorer, Netscape, Safari - see system requirements below)
• the Northwestern University Course Management System (Blackboard)
• a web conferencing tool (WebEx)

System Requirements:

• For Windows 2000 or XP, use MS Internet Explorer 6.0, Netscape 7.0 or higher)
• For Mac OS X 10.1.x, 10.2.x, 10.3.x, use MS Internet Explorer 5.2, Netscape 7.x, Safari 1.0 (Mac OS 10.2.x only)
• 512Mb RAM or higher, sound flash 6.0 and a sound card (if audio is activated)

In order to participate, you will need:

• A high speed broadband Internet connection (DSL, cable, or higher).
• Phone for Webex or headset and microphone for convenience during Web conferences

Do I need to be an experienced Internet or computer user?
While you do not need to be a computer expert, you do need to feel comfortable browsing the Internet and using email.

Can I access course materials from more than one computer?
Yes, any computer with reliable Internet connection and your NetID (the university student account) and password are all that you will need.

How can I continue my studies if I am traveling?
As long as you are working on a computer that meets the system requirements and has a reliable high speed Internet connection with an acceptable Internet browser, you can log in and continue your studies while you are traveling.

Is there an orientation for new online students?
Yes, new MMI online students are required to participate in an online orientation session. For more information, please visit our new students page.

What courses are offered throughout the next year?
The yearly schedule is posted on our web site. Feel free to contact a graduate program coordinator for assistance mapping out your schedule.

How many classes may I take per quarter?
Most students in this program will be part-time (1-2 classes per quarter). You can take up to three classes if you are full-time. Please contact a graduate program coordinator to discuss the full-time option before attempting to sign up for more than 2 classes.

What is the typical size of an online class?
Class sizes will usually be about 20-25 students. This allows us to conduct small group projects effectively while still supporting individual student needs.

I am an international student; can I apply to the MMI Online program?
Yes. Since you can complete the program without coming to the US, no visa is needed to take classes. A visa may be required for students planning to attend graduation ceremonies. At this time, you will need to speak with a program coordinator to make arrangements for taking examinations.

What accommodations can be made for students with disabilities?
It is Northwestern University policy to ensure that no qualified student with a disability is denied the benefits of, excluded from participation in, or otherwise subjected to discrimination in any University program or activity. Students enrolling in distance education programs requiring disability accommodations should contact Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) at 312-503-4042 as soon as possible. Accommodation requests are addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Do I need a Northwestern University email account?
Yes, this is required because Northwestern uses its email system as an official means of communication with students. Even if you already have email, you must activate your Northwestern University account. For more information on setting up and using this account, please go to the Northwestern email information page.

How will this program appear on my diploma and transcript?
You will receive a master of science degree, awarded by Northwestern University and conferred by the School of Continuing Studies. Your transcript will show the courses you took and the name of the program, Medical Informatics.

Are there any on-ground requirements?
All students will be required to schedule an on-ground, proctored final examination for each course. The purpose of this is to authenticate the student in the course. Your instructor will provide this information and details will be listed on the course management system.

Do I have to sign on at one particular time? Or place?
Courses in the MMI program will require some times when faculty and students meet during live, synchronous sessions. These sessions will be scheduled during times typically convenient for working professionals. The synchronous interaction between faculty and students distinguishes this program by providing opportunities to discuss difficult technical material, complex issues in healthcare and information technology. For students who cannot attend the synchronous or wish to review the sessions, all sessions will be recorded and archived. More information is available on the course management system.