FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about MIT Professional Education

How do I find out which of MIT Professional Education programs suits my needs?

Begin exploring MIT Professional Education offerings on the Compare Programs page, then click to more detailed descriptions of programs that meet your needs.

May I get an MIT degree through MIT Professional Education?

No. The MIT Professional Education office does not offer degrees. Short Programs, Advanced Study Program, and Custom Programs all provide official MIT certificates. Additionally, students in the Advanced Study Program earn MIT credit that may be applied toward a degree at a later date.

Do the programs require an admissions process?

The Advanced Study Program, which enrolls students in regular MIT classes, has an admissions process to insure that students can contribute to and benefit from MIT-level courses. Short Programs admits students on a space-available basis. Students in Custom Programs are employees of sponsoring companies.

How much does studying at MIT cost?

Advanced Study Program students pay tuition and fees related to the number of courses they take. Short Programs students pay tuition, which varies depending on length of program. Fees for Custom Programs are negotiated with each company depending on course length.

Is financial aid available?

No. Students must secure their own financing for all MIT Professional Education programs. In many cases, companies pay their employees’ costs or provide tuition reimbursement.

Do I have to spend time on campus to participate?

Students admitted to regular MIT courses through the Advanced Study Program must meet MIT requirements including class attendance. Participants in Short Programs must attend campus sessions. Custom Programs are usually held either on campus or a company’s site.

Does MIT Professional Education offer access to courses in all MIT’s departments?

Advanced Study Program fellows may enroll in courses in all MIT departments. However, some MIT courses are restricted to majors. Advanced Study Program students may not take more than 50 percent of their coursework at the Sloan School of Management. Some Sloan courses, however, are restricted to Sloan's degree students.

How long has MIT offered professional education?

MIT began offering summer study in 1898. In 1949, MIT established a Summer Session Office to expand special summer offerings to meet industry needs. The School for Advanced Study opened in 1956 to encourage postdoctoral study and intellectual interchange. Learn more about MIT’s professional education history.