Pathways Programs

Northeastern University – Global Pathways

The Northeastern University Pathways program is your first step toward earning a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree from a top ranked US University.  Pathways students will take part in college level English preparation courses while completing university academic coursework taught by Northeastern University faculty.   Upon successful completion of your Global Pathways program, you will matriculate to your target degree program.

Global Pathways Undergraduate Program. Students enter through Pathways on a 1-3 term program at Northeastern University, before progressing to the 2nd semester of the university Bachelor’s degree.

• Over 35 different Bachelors degree options including majors in the field of Art, Media, Design, Humanities, Social Science, Engineering, Life Science, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer Science and more;
• Pathways courses include 12-16 undergraduate degree credits;
• Students progress to semester 2 of their Freshman year.

Global Pathways Postgraduate Program. Students enter through Pathways on a 1-2 term program at Northeastern University, before progressing to the university Master’s degree.

• Many top ranked graduate school programs including degrees in MBA, MS Finance, MS Engineering, MS Biotechnology, MS Computer Science, and more;
• Pathways courses include GRE / GMAT Test prep where necessary;
• 1 year fast track Masters program available through the College of Professional Studies.

Northeastern University Bachelors Completion Program. Students enter into a fast track 18-21 month program to graduate with a Bachelors degree, plus with the option to continue onto a 1 year Masters degree in Northeastern’s College of Professional studies.

• Bachelors of Science in Leadership in just 18 months. No pre-requisite;
• Bachelors of Science in Finance & Accounting Management (AACSB certified) in just 21 months. Pre-requisite of college level Algebra and some college mathematics experience;
• 2+1.5 to a BS degree, or 2+2.5 to a MS degree!

Highlights and Ranking

Why study at Northeastern University?

A Top Ranked American University!

• Ranked 1st for “Best Internships/Career Services” (Princeton Review)

• Ranked 1st for “Best Co-ops/Internships” (U.S. News and World Report)

• Graded “A+” for Job Placement (BusinessWeek)

• Over 100 years old, Northeastern started the first Co-op program of its kind.

• Get up to 18 months of work experience between your studies.

• Over 6,000 Co-op job placements per year and over 2500 employers in 160 cities and over 86 countries.  NU co-op students can work anywhere in the world and do their co-op with great companies like Apple, Google, General Electric, HSBC, Novartis, Procter & Gamble, and the US White House.

• www.northeastern.edu/experiential-learning

Boston is a Great Location!

• Boston is America’s college town with over 350,000 students at over 50 local universities.
• ·         Northeastern campus is located in the center of the city and is the largest campus in the city of Boston.
• ·         Excellent public transportation and easy to walk around to sites and entertainment.
• ·         Rich in history and academics culture.  There are museums, historic sites, and some of the best educational institutions.
• ·         Lots of entertainment and one of America’s best sports towns with the Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins and New England Patriots
• ·         Close to everything, you can go to New York City, Canada, and the beaches of the Atlantic coast in 2-3 hours.

Northeastern University’s Co-Op and Job Placement Program!

• Ranked #1 on the list of Best Internship/Career Service programs by Princeton Review.
• Northeastern’s Co-op program gives students the opportunity to alternate semesters of classroom study with up to 18 months of full time professional work experience.
• Co-Op placements are with some of the best companies and institutions in the world, including Google, Apple, General Electric, HSBC, Novartis, Procter & Gamble, and even the US White House.

Location

Located in Boston, Massachusetts

The number of outstanding universities located in the city is one of the reasons Boston is considered one of the intellectual capitals of the world. More than 50 colleges and universities call Boston home, and this large student population—about 300,000, including an international student population of about 20,000—contributes significantly to the overall population of the city and to the dynamic feel of the downtown area.

Boston City Facts

• City: Boston
• State: Massachusetts
• Population: 6.4 million metro area
• Elevation: 10 feet
• Average Winter Temperature: 37 F / 2 C
• Average Summer Temperature: 80 F / 27 C
• Time Zone: Eastern USA
• Airport: Boston Logan International (BOS)
• Public Transit: Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (also known as the “T”)
• Professional Sports: NBA Basketball Boston Celtics, NHL Hockey Boston Bruins, NFL Football New England Patriots, and MLB Baseball Boston Red Sox
• Major Industries: Education, Biotechnology, Finance, and Technology.
• Top Employers: Universities and Colleges, Fidelity Investments, State Street Financial, Akamai Technology, and Boston Scientific

 

Housing

Student Housing

As a Northeastern University Pathways student, you’ll have the following options to chose from for housing:

Off Campus Student Residence Halls in Boston:

INTERNATIONAL GUEST HOUSE: Live with other students in the fashionable Back Bay area. Fully furnished shared room / semi-private bath. Breakfast and dinner daily. Steps to the subway. 15-20 minutes to campus.

SBS GUEST HOUSE: Live within walking distance of Northeastern University. Close to the Prudential Center & Copley Place. Shared bedrooms / shared bath. No meals included but refrigerator and microwave available.

ESL TOWNHOUSE: Fully furnished apartment. Single or twin room. No meals included but fully equipped kitchen available. Wifi internet access. 10-minute walk to campus.

BEACON HILL LODGING: Live near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Private furnished room / shared bath. No meals included but a mini refrigerator and microwave are available. Near subways. 25 minutes to campus.

Live with a local Host Family in Boston:

HOMESTAY: Live with a local host. Practice your English and experience American culture. Fully furnished private room / shared bath. Study space and internet access. Breakfast and dinner daily. Near public transportation. 30–60 minutes to campus.

FAQ

What is Pathways?

Pathways at Northeastern University is your opportunity to experience life at a top American university while preparing for your U.S. bachelor’s or master’s degree. Take challenging and exciting courses, get involved in extracurricular activities like arts and sports, and meet new people from around the world while studying at a world-class university. And you’ll be in Boston, one of the best university locations in the world! The 4, 8, or 12 month Pathways Program offers specialized areas of academic study along with intensive English language training and university study skills preparation. You can concentrate your studies in one of three areas:

• Business and Social Sciences
• Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
• Physical and Life Sciences

Start the program in January, May, or September, and study with top professors who will prepare you for entry into the bachelor’s or master’s degree program of your choice.

 General FAQs

1. Accommodation and Housing
2. Admissions
3. Academics and Curriculum
4. Co-op Program (Study and Work)
5. Visa
6. Student Life
7. Food
8. Money

1. Accommodation and Housing

What are my options on where to live?

During your GP program you can live in an apartment off-campus alone, with friends or roommates, or you can live in a Guest House in or near Boston. Details about the many housing options will be provided when you receive notification that you have been accepted to your chosen program in your Offer Letter. Of course, if you have family or friends in the area you can choose to live with them.

Once you matriculate to your full time undergraduate program at Northeastern University we strongly suggest you apply for on campus housing for your 1st year.

Will I have to share a room?

That will depend on where you choose to live and your budget. If you prefer an apartment you’ll have the choice of living alone or having a roommate. If you prefer to live with a U.S. family in a “home-stay,” you’ll probably have your own room. What about living in a dormitory on campus? During the Pathways Program, very few, if any, on-campus dormitory rooms will be available.

Where can I find Internet access?

Most of the Northeastern campus has free, high speed Internet access. In addition, many of the apartments and homes where you can live already have Internet access.

2. Admissions

Should I apply directly or use your representative in my country? It’s best to apply with the assistance of one of our representatives in your country as they can guide you through the admissions process, including getting your U.S. visa. However, you can send your completed application with all support documents in one envelope to the address listed on the back of the application.

From which countries does Northeastern accept students?

Northeastern currently has students from more than 120 countries. Our goal is to have a highly diversified student body.

3. Academics and Curriculum

What is the average class size? Classes are small, usually between 10 and 20 students. In addition, every professor offers office hours when you can meet one-on-one.

4. Co-op Program (Study and Work)

What is Co-op?

Northeastern’s Cooperative Education Program (“Co-op”) was created almost 100 years ago and was one of the first of its kind in the United States. When you enter the second year of the Bachelor’s Degree Program you become eligible to participate in Co-op. In a cooperative learning program, the work you do for school is combined with practical learning opportunities outside the classroom. Depending on your specialization and authorization, you can complete up to three 6-month Co-op periods during your bachelor’s degree. You’ll get paid while you learn, pay no tuition during Co-op and have a head start on your career when you graduate. Co-op is available to all Northeastern University undergraduate students. Learn more about Co-op.

Will I earn money while I’m working?

Yes, for many Co-op opportunities you’ll get paid. How much you get paid will depend on the employer you work for during the Co-op program. Not only do you have the opportunity to get paid, you’ll also be saving money because during Co-op you don’t pay for tuition.

What kind and how many companies and institutions participate in Co-op?

Each year Northeastern places about 5,500 students with more than 2,000 employers. Many are names you know such as General Electric, Google, IBM, Massachusetts General Hospital, Merrill Lynch, Microsoft, Motorola, MTV, Reebok and Walt Disney.

Can I do Co-op outside the United States?

Yes. Co-op can be done anywhere in the world, including your own country. Currently, we have students doing Co-op in 21 countries in compliance with the terms of their U.S. non-immigrant visa classification.

What about U.S. visa restrictions on work?

We have an international Co-op specialist who will work with you to get the legal authorizations you need to work in the Untied States during Co-op. On-campus work is possible during the 2nd semester of Co-op.

5. Visa

I’ve heard it’s difficult to get a U.S. visa; is this true? After September 11, 2001, the number of foreigners studying in the U.S. declined a bit. Fortunately, this trend has been reversed. In the most recent academic year for which data is available (2005/2006), 565,000 foreign students attended U.S. colleges and universities, according to the Institute of International Education (IIE).

How do I apply for a U.S. visa?

All applicants to Pathways must also complete and send with the application the Declaration and Certification of Finances (DCF) and an original bank statement. The DCF enables Northeastern to generate an I-20 form, which the U.S. government requires in order to grant you an F-1 student visa. If you are already attending a college or university in the U.S. and have a valid F-1 or J-1 visa, you must also complete the Transfer-In form. A few days after you are accepted to Pathways you will receive a package of information from Northeastern. One document is the “I-20″, which confirms that you have been accepted to the Northeastern University Pathways Program. You must present the I-20, along with a few other pieces of information (e.g. your passport) to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In general, you should receive your “F-1″ student visa within six weeks, although processing times vary on a case by case basis. For additional information about the U.S. student visa process, please see: http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1268.html. Our representative in your country can assist you with this process.

How much time must I allow before I receive my visa?

’F-1’ student visas usually are processed within six weeks, but this can vary.

6. Student Life

What is the best part about being a student at Northeastern? Each student will have his or her own opinion, but in general, we find that the best part about being a student at Northeastern is that you’re constantly being exposed to new ideas and are learning a lot in a very friendly and fun environment. In addition, being a student in Boston is unlike any other place on earth because it really is a city that revolves around the many top universities in the area.

What is the biggest challenge about student life at Northeastern?

For some students the biggest challenge is balancing your academic load with all the fun attractions that Northeastern and Boston have to offer. For other students, it’s being far from home. Fortunately, our Pathways Student Advisor’s job is to help you manage these challenges.

What kind of support services do you provide?

First, when you begin the Pathways or Bachelor’s Degree Completion program you’ll be introduced to all of our Student Advisors, one of whom will become your primary point of contact on any questions you may have. The Student Advisor’s job is to be there when you need him or her to answer your questions. They can help you on questions as diverse as “How do I open a bank account?”, “My computer just died; how do I get it fixed?”, “Where and when can I talk with my professor?”, “I’m having visa problems, what do I do?” Also, as a Pathways or Bachelor’s Degree Completion program student you have complete access to the Northeastern International Student & Scholar Institute (ISSI), which is dedicated to serving the needs of all international students at Northeastern, not just Pathways students. Learn more about ISSI.

Are sports available?

If you’re athletic you’ll have many opportunities both to watch and play sports. The University has many collegiate teams (basketball, football, baseball, hockey, track, etc.). Also, there are informal intramural leagues you might be able to join for friendly competition with other students. And if you just want to get some exercise our sports facilities are unmatched and range form modern swimming pools and exercise rooms to numerous soccer fields, tennis, volleyball, squash and basketball courts and yoga studios. Learn more about your athletic options.

I’m a religious person. Will others respect me and will there be other students with the same faith as mine?

Regardless of your religion or faith, you’ll be able to practice it at Northeastern. The Spiritual Life Center offers programs for people of all faiths and hosts student organizations, such as the Hindu Student Council and the Islamic Society. Learn more more about spirituality and religion at Northeastern.

Do I need to open a U.S. bank account?

It’s not a requirement but we strongly recommend that you do. It will make managing money in the U.S. much easier. When you arrive at Northeastern, we can help you do this. Our International Student & Scholar Institute (ISSI) hosts banking workshops at the start of each orientation program, which will help you through the process.

How do I get money from my country to the U.S. and from the U.S to my country?

In general, the easiest way is to open a bank account in the U.S.. Some countries have restrictions on moving money into and out of the country. You should check with a local bank in your country and ask them their procedure for making electronic bank transfers to and from the United States.

Will my computer, iPod and other electronics work in the U.S.?

If you come from a country where 220/240 volts is used, most of your electrical appliances, such as computers and iPods will work in the U.S. Many of them already have the ability to work with the U.S. electrical current (110/120 volts) and do not require a transformer. However, we recommend that you first check with the manufacturer of the device before using it in the States. Depending on the appliance you might need a plug adapter to fit a U.S. electrical outlet. These are inexpensive and can be purchased in the U.S. or on the Internet.

Do I need a car?

No, in fact, we discourage you from having a car. Most students at Northeastern do not have cars because it is much easier, cheaper and faster to get from one place to another by walking or taking the bus or Boston’s subway, the “T”. If you decide to leave Boston for a few days you’ll find public transportation is very good. You may also be eligible to rent a car.

Do I need a mobile phone?

You don’t need a mobile phone but it is very convenient to have one. Depending on your current phone’s manufacturer you may be able to purchase an inexpensive SIM card that will enable your current phone to work in the U.S.. Please contact the manufacturer and your local phone service. However, as phone service is generally very inexpensive in the U.S. you might find that it is far more economical for you to purchase a mobile phone and phone service in the States.

What should I bring with me?

Before you leave your country we will send you a list of what we recommend you bring with you.

What will happen if I get sick?

As a Pathways student you have free use of University Health and Counseling Services (UHCS). Our physicians, nurses and counselors are committed to both your physical and mental health. If you’re sick they’ll do everything they can to bring you back to health. Also, as a Pathways or Bachelor’s Degree Completion program student you will be covered by the Northeastern University’s medical insurance.

7. Food

I have dietary or religious restrictions about what I can eat; what do I do? You have many, many choices. Whether you are a vegetarian, trying to lose (or gain) weight, observe Kosher, Halal or prefer one particular nation’s cuisine you will find what you want on or near campus. The choice is extensive.

Where can I buy food from my country?

Boston has many diverse cultural markets throughout the city. We can even help you find what you are looking for.

8. Money

Is it expensive to go to school in Boston? How expensive Boston is, in part, dependent on the country you’re coming from and how strong your currency is relative to the U.S. dollar. Please see estimated expenses for the Undergraduate and Postgraduate Pathways programs.

Do I need to bring or buy a computer?

Northeastern has many desktop computers available in various libraries and lounges around the campus. This is great for quickly checking your email or visiting an Internet site. However, for doing your homework and research it’s more convenient for you if you have your own computer. You’ll likely find a laptop computer more convenient than a desktop computer. If you bring a computer with you, be sure to check the computer’s instruction manual to see if it can work on the U.S.’s electrical current – many computers will. Of course, you can buy a computer when you’re in the U.S. and get a student discount when you purchase. Computer equipment can be far less expensive to purchase in the U.S. than in many foreign countries. Both PC’s and Macintosh computers are used at Northeastern.

What about costs for accommodation and eating?

The average cost for accommodation and food will depend upon the number of terms studied. The estimated costs are as follows: 1 Term – $6,000 (Room & Board); 2 Terms - $12,000; 3 Terms – $18,000. The final cost will vary depending upon where you choose to live and eat. We will provide you with several options including apartments and home-stays (i.e living with a U.S. family), and guesthouses. Further details about your options will be provided with your offer letter, which you will receive shortly after being accepted into the Pathways program.

What are University Fees?

All Northeastern students pay certain fees that cover major non-academic costs such as health insurance, use of the health center, athletic facilities and international student services. The cost of these fees will depend upon the number of terms studied. Student fees for the Undergraduate Pathways Program are as follows: 1 Term – $2,450; 2 Terms – $2,566; 3 Terms – $2,682. Student fees for the Postgraduate Pathways Program are as follows: 1 Term – $2,450; 2 Terms – $2,566. Students pay 50% of these fees four weeks prior to the start of each semester. University fees are payable to Northeastern University and must be paid by U.S. bank draft, credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or electronic transfer. Details on where, how and when to remit payment will be in your Offer Letter, which you will receive shortly after being accepted into the Pathways program.

Can I work and earn money while I’m attending Pathways?

Yes. Global Pathways students can begin working on-campus after completion of the first semester, or after matriculation. If you are in lawful status and are a full-time student, the International Student & Scholar Institute (ISSI) will authorize your eligibility to work on campus. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the school year, and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks. You can view on-campus job postings on NU’s Student Employment System via your myNEU Account.