Non-Degree Program
Non-Degree Study in Tax Law
Flexible Access to Northwestern’s Tax Curriculum
Northwestern Pritzker School of Law offers Non-Degree Study for qualified professionals who wish to take selected tax law courses without enrolling in a degree program. This option provides access to the same rigorous academic environment as degree-seeking students while offering flexibility for those with specific educational or professional goals.Non-Degree Study is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their expertise in tax law, explore advanced topics, or experience Northwestern’s academic environment before applying to an LLM program.
Who Should Consider Non-Degree Study?
Non-Degree Study is designed for professionals who want focused academic engagement without committing to a full degree program.This option may be a strong fit for:
- Attorneys seeking to expand their tax law knowledge
- CPAs and accounting professionals
- Government and regulatory professionals
- Tax practitioners in private practice or industry
- Individuals considering future LLM study
Students in Non-Degree Study often bring significant professional experience and use coursework to enhance their current practice or explore new areas of tax law.
Why Choose Non-Degree Study?
Non-Degree Study provides access to Northwestern’s Tax Program in a flexible format, allowing students to engage with advanced legal coursework without the structure of a full degree.Key benefits include:
- Access to select graduate-level tax law courses
- Exposure to Northwestern’s distinguished faculty
- Flexible enrollment without degree requirements
- Opportunity to explore specialized or advanced tax topics
- A pathway toward potential future LLM study
Academic Experience
Non-Degree students participate in the same classroom environment as LLM students, engaging with rigorous coursework and complex legal issues in taxation.
Courses emphasize:
- Core principles of tax law
- Advanced and specialized tax topics
- Analytical reasoning and statutory interpretation
- Practical application of tax concepts
The classroom experience is enriched by interaction with both degree-seeking students and experienced professionals from a wide range of backgrounds.
Program Structure
Non-Degree Study is flexible and course-based. Students may enroll in selected courses subject to eligibility and space availability.
This structure allows participants to tailor their academic experience based on:
- Professional interests
- Schedule and availability
- Specific areas of tax law they wish to study
Non-Degree Study does not result in the awarding of an LLM degree.
Benefits of Non-Degree Study
Participants choose Non-Degree Study for a variety of reasons, including:
- Strengthening professional expertise in tax law
- Exploring graduate-level study before applying to an LLM program
- Gaining exposure to Northwestern’s academic environment
- Studying specific tax topics relevant to their career
It is a flexible option for individuals who value advanced legal education without committing to a full program of study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Non-Degree Study lead to an LLM degree?
No. Non-Degree Study allows students to take courses without enrolling in or completing a degree program.
Who is eligible for Non-Degree Study?
Eligibility is generally limited to professionals with relevant academic or professional backgrounds. Specific requirements may vary by course.
Can Non-Degree students take any tax course?
Enrollment is subject to course availability, prerequisites, and approval.
Can Non-Degree Study be used to prepare for an LLM program?
Yes. Many students use Non-Degree Study to explore coursework before applying to a degree program.
Will I study alongside LLM students?
Yes. Non-Degree students typically attend the same classes as degree-seeking students.
Next Steps
If you are interested in exploring advanced tax law study without enrolling in a degree program, we encourage you to review available course offerings and contact the Tax Program for guidance on enrollment.