Northwestern University
Evanston, Illinois
About Northwestern University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1851, Northwestern University is a university serving students in Evanston, Illinois. With a tradition of academic excellence, Northwestern University prepares graduates for success in Social Sciences, Communications, Engineering, and more.
A Diverse Community in Evanston
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 6:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Northwestern University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $1,243, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-blind policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Northwestern University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Northwestern University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 95% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 83% |
| First-year retention rate | 97% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $83,487 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $89,363 |
| Median debt at graduation | $15,000 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Northwestern University
| Total enrollment | 23,431 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 9,060 |
| Graduate students | 14,371 |
| International students | 12% |
| First-generation students | 15% |
What you can study at Northwestern University
139 programs, most of them in these fields:
Visual and Performing Arts (21)
Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, Dance, General, and more
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (14)
African Studies, African-American/Black Studies, American/United States Studies/Civilization, and more
Engineering (13)
Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, General, Computer Engineering, General, and more
Foreign Languages (11)
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General, East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General, East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other, and more
Social Sciences (10)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geography, and more
Biological and Biomedical Sciences (7)
Biochemistry, Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering, Biology/Biological Sciences, General, and more
Communication Journalism (7)
Communication and Media Studies, Other, Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other, Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia, and more
Education (7)
Education, General, Education/Teaching of Individuals with Specific Learning Disabilities, Learning Sciences, and more
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