Fast App

Performance-Based Admissions for graduate education at Northeastern University.

Graduate admissions on your terms

The Fast App is an innovative performance-based admissions (PBA) process at Northeastern University. Instead of filling out lengthy applications and gathering materials, you can start graduate-level coursework without waiting for an admissions decision. By earning a grade of B or better in two designated courses, you automatically secure your place in the full degree or certificate program.

Even if you don’t have the traditional prerequisites—such as an undergraduate degree in a specific field—the Fast App allows you to demonstrate your readiness through your performance in these courses.

Skip the Traditional Application: No need for essays, recommendations, or standardized test scores.
Prove Your Skills: Bypass traditional prerequisites by demonstrating your abilities through coursework.
Credentialize Your Experience: Use your existing professional or academic background to fast-track your way into graduate studies.

"The Fast App performance-based admissions (PBA) process let me jump right in and start my degree. I did not have to waste time on application materials. I could use that time instead to start my classes right away and apply that knowledge to my work."

Subhasish Bhaumik, PBA student

How it works

First, select your Fast App eligible program.

  1. Submit your Fast App
  2. Enroll in 2 PBA pathway courses from the program
  3. Earn a B or better in both courses and submit your undergraduate transcript by the time you complete both courses
  4. Join the full degree/certificate program next term
Diagram of fast app steps. Fill out app, enroll in 2 courses, get a B or better, submit transcript, start program

Explore Fast App programs

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Fast App eligible programs

 

Degrees

Man, typing and programmer on laptop in office workplace for data, analysis or statistics. IT, computer and male coder, engineer or person programming, coding and software development for information.
Information Systems
Leverage technology solutions for complex business challenges while bridging technical and business needs.

Careers: IT Director, Systems Architect, Chief Information Officer

  • Fast App eligible
  • $750/ credit
  • 32 credits
  • 18+ months
A professional business woman
Online MBA
Drive organizational success through data-driven decision-making and strategic planning.

Careers: Senior Business Manager, Corporate Strategy Director, Chief Executive Officer

  • Fast App eligible
  • $900/ credit
  • 50 credits
  • 24+ months
Programmers looking at desktop monitor and discussing solutions
Business Analytics
Drive business decisions through quantitative analysis and data-driven insights.

Careers: Business Intelligence Analyst, Analytics Consultant, Marketing Analytics Manager

  • Fast App eligible
  • $750/ credit
  • 32 credits
  • 18+ months
Northeastern University
Data Analytics Engineering
Master statistical analysis, visualization, and predictive modeling.

Careers: Data Scientist, Analytics Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Big Data Architect

  • Fast App eligible
  • $750/ credit
  • 32 credits
  • 18+ months
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Health Data Analytics
Bridge the gap between healthcare operations and data-driven decision making in the medical field.

Careers: Healthcare Data Analyst, Clinical Intelligence Manager, Healthcare Operations Director

  • Fast App eligible
  • $750/ credit
  • 32 credits
  • 18+ months
Woman Working in Healthcare Management
Management (Healthcare)
Drive innovation and leadership in healthcare by mastering digital transformation and administration strategies.

Careers: Healthcare Administrator, Policy Analyst in Healthcare, Clinical Practice Manager, Digital Health Strategist

  • $800/ credit
  • 32 credits
  • 12+ months
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Engineering Management
Transition into leadership roles while maintaining your technical edge.

Careers: Technical Director, Quality Systems Manager, Systems Engineering Manager

  • Fast App eligible
  • $750/ credit
  • 32 credits
  • 18+ months

Graduate Certificates

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AI Applications
Harness the power of AI and machine learning for real-world applications.

Skills: AI-driven decision-making, data analytics and visualization, AI ethics and responsible AI use

  • Fast App eligible
  • $328/ credit
  • 16 credits
  • 4+ months
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Applied Psychology
Gain core competencies for promoting mental health and well-being for all individuals.

Skills: Behavioral analysis and assessment, psychological research methods, workplace psychology.

  • Fast App eligible
  • $438/ credit
  • 12 credits
  • 4+ months
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Business Administration
Develop foundational business skills for leadership and management success.

Skills: Strategic decision-making, financial analysis and budgeting, leadership and team dynamics.

  • Fast App eligible
  • $438/ credit
  • 12 credits
  • 4+ months
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Business Administration (Healthcare)

Make an immediate impact in your current healthcare role or to pursue new opportunities.

Stacks into: Online MS in Management

  • Fast App eligible
  • $438/ credit
  • 12 credits
  • 4+ months
Northeastern University
Data Analytics
Master statistical analysis, visualization, and predictive modeling.

Skills: Statistical analysis and interpretation, data visualization techniques, predictive modeling and machine learning basics.

  • Fast App eligible
  • $328/ credit
  • 16 credits
  • 4+ months
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Organizational Communication
Enhance communication strategies to improve collaboration and leadership in workplaces.

Skills: Strategic communication planning, leadership and crisis communication, digital and cross-cultural communication.

  • Fast App eligible
  • $438/ credit
  • 12 credits
  • 4+ months
Smiling young businessman working online with digital tablet while standing by window.
Project Management
Learn frameworks and tools to lead successful projects across industries.

Skills: Risk management and mitigation, budgeting and financial planning, stakeholder communication and leadership.

  • Fast App eligible
  • $438/ credit
  • 12 credits
  • 4+ months