PROGRAM IN GLOBAL HEALTH STUDIES

Non-GHS Electives

For the major and minor, students are required to take relevant courses offered through other departments and programs. These courses are posted with each quarter's schedule. The below document lists the approved non-GHS electives from previous academic years. These courses may not be offered every quarter; check with the specific department for further information. Electives can be taken in programs or departments outside of GHS at Northwestern, during study abroad (even if they have a GBL_HLTH course number), or at other US-based institutions.

Students wanting to take health-related electives at other US-based institutions, including the syllabi, pre-approved by a GHS DUS using this form prior to undertaking the program or course in order to ensure the best chance of their classes being counted towards their GHS degree. GHS reserves the right to refuse providing elective credit if courses are not pre-approved or proposed course work did not meet standards agreed upon in advance of undertaking the course(s).

All elective courses MUST be taken outside of GHS. They can be selected via the pre-approved list or submitted in advance via petition. 

Last updated July 2026

NOTES: 

• If there is a class you believe should be counted for an elective that is not on this list, please email your advisor with the syllabus. 
• Courses with an asterisk are topics courses and are only approved if the topic is listed. All other topics are considered on a case-by-case basis.