About Mini Courses
The Norris Mini Course program offers a wide variety of non-credit, recreational, classes for adults four times a year, beginning in October, January, April, and July. Established in 1973, the program continues to offer over 30 recreational courses. Our classes offer intense individual attention while operating in a relaxed, informal environment. Registration is open to the Northwestern community and the public. We welcome students from Chicago, Skokie, Wilmette, Evanston, or anywhere in the Chicagoland area!
Most classes take place once a week in the evening, in an attempt to provide an escape from the daily academic or work routine. These classes are a fantastic way to unwind, make new friends, and learn something new, all at the same time. Most Mini Courses are held inside the Norris University Center, located on Northwestern University’s beautiful Evanston campus.
The Norris Mini Course program offers a wide variety of non-credit, recreational, classes for adults four times a year, beginning in October, January, April, and July. Established in 1973, the program continues to offer over 30 recreational courses.
Meet the Staff
Linda Luk | Assistant Director of Co-Curricular Learning and Recreation
Student Supervisors
Savannah Abdul
Amina Dayisi
Student Attendants
Helen Pacheco
Justin Rendon
Alexis Sullivan
Dorian Washington
June Woo
Applications for subsidies for Spring 2026 are open.
The Norris Mini Course subsidy program is designed to support individuals who want to enroll in a Mini Course but may be facing financial barriers. Anyone interested is welcome to apply. Please note that funds are limited and will be awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Subsidies range from $10 to $30, and no proof of income is required to apply. Because our funding is limited, we operate on an honor system to ensure that support goes to those who truly need it.
If approved, the subsidy will be applied to the regular registration fee for a course you have not yet registered for. Subsidies cannot be applied retroactively to courses for which you are already registered, and no partial refunds will be issued
Limitations
- Subsidies are only available for 4 - 8-week courses. One-day workshops and courses with 1 - 2 sessions do not qualify.
- Subsidies are not granted to students who have already registered for a course.
- Subsidies may not be used in combination with any other discount.
- Subsidy if approved, is good for 1 course per person per quarter.
- The deadline for subsidy for wheel throwing courses is 9 AM on Friday, February 28th. Applicants will be notified before registration starts on Monday, March 2nd.
Withdrawal and Cancellation
Fees and policies are still applicable on all subsidy assistance registrations.
How to Apply
Undergraduate, Graduate, and Professional Students – SES One Form
- The SES One Form is a two-step process.
- Complete the Basic Profile.
- Complete the Mini Courses Subsidy Fund application.
Faculty, staff, and community members – Click here for the online application
If you are granted a subsidy, you are responsible for registering for the course. Please email minicourses@u.northwestern.edu if you have any questions.