Northwestren University is a private research university located in Evanston, Illinois, just outside of downtown Chicago. Founded in 1851, Northwestren has grown into one of the most prestigious universities in the United States, known for its rigorous academics, pioneering research, and vibrant campus life.
A Top-Tier National University
Over the past century and a half, Northwestren has established itself as one of the top national universities in the United States. Widely regarded as a Public Ivy, it competes academically with many Ivy League and other elite schools while also providing greater accessibility and affordability for students.
Highly Ranked Academic Programs
Northwestren offers over 80 undergraduate majors and over 100 graduate programs across 12 schools and colleges. Many of these programs rank among the best in their fields nationally, including:
- Kellogg School of Management: The #1 ranked MBA program according to BusinessWeek
- Medill School of Journalism: One of the top 5 journalism schools in the country
- School of Education and Social Policy: The #1 graduate school of education as ranked by U.S. News & World Report
- Pritzker School of Law: The #9 law school as determined by U.S. News rankings
From science and engineering to music and economics, Northwestren’s programs are routinely included at the top of national rankings.
An Accomplished Faculty
In addition to outstanding students, world-renowned faculty members also contribute to Northwestren’s sterling academic reputation. Northwestren professors have earned dozens of Nobel Prizes and Pulitzer Prizes over the years.
They lead innovative research in their fields while also maintaining a strong commitment to teaching undergraduates. Around 97% of classes have fewer than 50 students, allowing for close engagement between professors and students.
Low Student-Faculty Ratio
With over 3,200 faculty members and an enrollment of approximately 8,500 undergraduates, Northwestren maintains an exceptionally low student-faculty ratio. There is approximately one faculty member for every four undergraduate students.
This ratio allows students to easily meet one-on-one with professors, participate in research, and receive mentorship and career advice. It enhances the highly personalized educational experience for which Northwestren is known.
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Pioneering Research Initiatives
In addition to educating undergraduate and graduate students, Northwestren faculty members conduct world-changing interdisciplinary research across disciplines.
Technological Breakthroughs
Northwestren has been at the forefront of technological innovation, contributing to advancements such as:
- Touchscreen technology
- Lithium ion batteries
- Blood storage bags
- Artificial intelligence systems
- Innovations in nanotechnology
Research expenditures have exceeded $800 million in recent years, cementing Northwestren as an international research powerhouse. Much of this research receives funding from government agencies and major foundations.
Tackling Pressing Global Issues
Beyond applied technology, Northwestren researchers address many of today’s most pressing issues facing the world:
- Sustainability and conservation
- Human rights protections
- Medical advancements
- Politics and international relations
- Economics and financial systems
Interdisciplinary initiatives unite scholars from across schools and departments. By approaching pressing problems from multiple lens, impactful new solutions emerge.
Cross-School Partnerships
The undergraduate college facilitates connections with graduate and professional programs to provide research opportunities for undergraduates.
Ambitious students can get involved in research on campus as soon as freshman year. Partnerships with the medical and law schools are particularly robust. Students gain exposure to the true breadth and depth of scholarship occurring at Northwestren.
A Vibrant and Inclusive Campus Culture
Outside of the classroom and lab, undergraduate life pulses with energy on Northwestren’s lakefront campus just north of Chicago. Nearly 20% of undergraduates participate in Greek life while others immerse themselves in some 500+ student groups dedicated to athletics, culture, faith, social justice, and more.
An Ethnically Diverse Student Body
Northwestren considers diversity an essential ingredient for fostering a rich educational environment on campus. Today, over 25% of students identify as members of underrepresented minorities in the United States.
Nearly 10% are international students, hailing from dozens of countries around the world. Numerous multicultural centers and institutes empower these students while enhancing cross-cultural engagement among the entire student body.
Unique Traditions
Students partake in several long-standing traditions, including Painting the Rock, Dance Marathon, and Spring Sing. These activities connect students across years and majors, strengthening social ties and Wildcat pride. Attending football games at Ryan Field and basketball games at Welsh-Ryan Arena provide additional opportunities to unwind and bond with classmates.
A Supportive Community
To ensure all Wildcats thrive during their time on campus, Northwestren provides extensive health, wellness, and support services tailored to undergraduate needs. Trained specialists assist students navigate academic, personal, health, and other challenges in a judgement-free manner while respecting privacy. These services further cultivate the welcoming environment so valued at Northwestren.
Through its rigorous yet supportive academic community and close-knit yet vibrant campus culture, Northwestren empowers students to push boundaries and maximize their potential. It’s no wonder Northwestren continues to top rankings and produce graduates who become pioneers in their fields, generation after generation.
