Welcome to National Louis
National Louis University (NLU) is a private, non-profit institution established in 1886, with its main campus located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers hybrid executive Master's and Doctoral programs. NLU is a highly popular and compliant option for international students seeking Day 1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT), as practical training is an integral part of its required curriculum.
Location
- Chicago, IL
- Private Non-Profit
On-Site Frequency
- Once per semester (1 weekend session)
Annual Tuition
- $18,960 (4 quarters/year)
Program Duration
- 15 months (5 quarters)
Why Choose National Louis University CPT?
NLU combines the benefits of a long-standing, non-profit institution with a flexible program structure ideal for working F-1 students:
- Non-Profit Status: As a non-profit institution, NLU graduates are eligible for the H-1B Master's Cap in the visa lottery, offering a significant advantage over for-profit schools.
- STEM Designation: The Master of Science in Business Data Analytics (MSBDA) and the DBA programs are STEM-certified, allowing graduates to apply for the 24-month OPT extension.
- Prime Location: The campus is centrally located in downtown Chicago, providing students immediate access to one of the largest and most diverse employment markets in the U.S.
- Minimal On-Site Requirement: Students attend only one 3-day weekend session per quarter (MS) or per semester (DBA), minimizing disruption to full-time employment.
- All-Inclusive CPT Cost: The program's tuition structure includes the CPT course fee, meaning there is typically no additional charge for CPT authorization renewal each term.
Location
Programs
Master of Science (M.S.) - Business Data Analytics (MSBDA)
The MSBDA at National Louis University is a 30-credit, STEM-designated program designed to transform professionals into data-driven decision-makers. Students master essential competencies in predictive modeling, big data management, and data visualization using industry-relevant software and tools. The 15-month curriculum follows a hybrid model, combining online coursework with one on-campus residency weekend per quarter at the Chicago or Tampa locations. Graduates emerge as skilled "data storytellers" capable of translating complex analytical insights into compelling narratives that drive organizational performance and strategic growth.
Master of Science (M.S.) - Organizational Leadership (MSOL)
The MSOL program focuses on the "human side" of management, equipping students with the interpersonal and analytical skills required to lead diverse teams in a globalized economy. The 30-credit-hour curriculum explores cutting-edge theories in ethical leadership, conflict resolution, and the psychology of organizational behavior. Students benefit from an 18-month cohort model that fosters deep professional networking while allowing for the immediate application of leadership best practices in their current workplaces. This degree is ideal for those seeking to become authentic, value-driven leaders in corporate, nonprofit, or governmental sectors.
Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA)
National Louis University's DBA is a 60-semester-hour professional doctorate designed for experienced executives and academics who wish to attain the highest level of business expertise. The program utilizes a "scholar-practitioner" model, where students apply rigorous research methodologies to solve real-world organizational challenges through a specialized management concentration. Delivered in a flexible hybrid format, the degree includes three-day on-campus immersions each term, providing high-level mentorship and collaboration with global business experts. Graduates are prepared for prestigious roles in executive leadership, high-level consulting, or university-level teaching.
Tuition Fees
NLU maintains a set tuition cost per quarter (for MS) or per semester (for DBA) that includes all necessary CPT costs.
M.S. Programs:
Cost Per Term: $4,740 / Quarter
Total Program Cost: $23,700 (5 Quarters)
Annual Cost Estimate: $18,960 (4 Quarters)
DBA Program:
Cost Per Term: $4,992 / Semester
Total Program Cost: $49,920 (10 Semesters)
Annual Cost Estimate: $14,976 (3 Semesters)
CPT fees included in the quarterly/ semester cost.
Academic Calendar
The calendar differs between the Master’s (Quarter system) and Doctoral (Semester system) programs.
| Policy Item | M.S. (Quarter System) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Intake Terms | 4 per year (January, April, June, September) | ||
| CPT Start Eligibility | Day 1 CPT for eligible transfer students, as the internship/practicum component is required. CPT can start up to 30 days before the class start date. | ||
| On-Site Requirement | Once per quarter (1 weekend: Friday–Sunday). | ||
| Enrollment | Continuous full-time enrollment (6 credits/quarter) is mandatory. | ||
| CPT Renewal | Must be renewed every quarter. | ||