North Central College logo

North Central College

Naperville, IL

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Lux Veritas (Latin)("Light of Truth")

1861
Founded
2,360
Total Students
$44K
Tuition (In-State)
$44K
Tuition (Out-State)
$23K
Avg Net Price
58%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
6-year
82%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About North Central College

North Central College: A legacy of academic excellence rooted in history, poised for the future.

Step back in time to North Central College, an institution rich with over 160 years of history, yet vibrantly focused on shaping the future leaders and thinkers of tomorrow. Founded in 1861 as Plainfield College, this esteemed institution has evolved through name changes and a pivotal move to Naperville in 1870, always maintaining its commitment to educational excellence. Today, it stands as a testament to enduring academic values and progressive learning.

North Central College is particularly distinguished by its deep dedication to the liberal arts, amplified by the significant acquisition of Shimer College in 2017. This bold move led to the creation of the Shimer Great Books School, an academic jewel that invites students into a world of rigorous, discussion-based inquiry into foundational texts. Here, critical thinking and a profound understanding of the human condition are not just taught, but actively cultivated through an immersive and challenging curriculum designed for the intellectually curious.

For prospective students and families, North Central offers more than just a degree; it promises a transformative educational journey. Graduates emerge not only with specialized knowledge but with the broad intellectual toolkit and ethical foundation symbolized by the college's motto, "Lux Veritas" — Light and Truth. Students are encouraged to explore, question, and innovate within a supportive community that values both tradition and forward momentum.

The blend of its historic legacy, its dynamic academic programs, and its focus on holistic student development makes North Central College an exceptional choice. It's a place where enduring traditions meet contemporary challenges, preparing students to make meaningful contributions in an ever-changing world.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1861, boasting over 160 years of academic tradition.
  • Home to the prestigious Shimer Great Books School, fostering rigorous intellectual inquiry through foundational texts.
  • Motto: "Lux Veritas" (Light, Truth) – guiding principles for discovery and understanding.
  • A historic institution with deep roots, having moved to its current Naperville location in 1870.
  • Continually evolving, as seen by the 2017 acquisition of Shimer College, enhancing its liberal arts core.

Timeline

1861
Founded as Plainfield College in Plainfield, Illinois.
1861
First classes held on November 11.
1864
Name changed to North-Western College on February 15.
1870
College moved to its current location in Naperville.
1926
Name changed to North Central College.
2017
Acquired Shimer College, instituting the Shimer Great Books School.
🏛️
165 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within North Central College

🏫

Shimer Great Books School of North Central College

An institution dedicated to rigorous, discussion-based study of foundational texts across the humanities and sciences, established in 2017 following the acquisition of Shimer College.

Find Scholarships at North Central College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search