Northern Arizona University

Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Flagstaff, Arizona, Northern Arizona University stands as a dynamic public research institution, earning its esteemed classification among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity." With a commitment to discovery and learning, NAU is recognized for its significant contributions to research, ranking No. 192 nationally by the National Science Foundation in fiscal year 2023. Beyond its research prowess, NAU is celebrated for a diverse range of academic programs and a vibrant student life, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

NAU's story began on September 11, 1899, as the Northern Arizona Normal School, initially dedicated to training teachers for the rapidly expanding public school system. Over the decades, it steadily evolved, adapting to national changes like the Great Depression where it demonstrated remarkable resilience, growing its enrollment and becoming a vital economic contributor to Flagstaff. This era also marked a commitment to diversity, with the first Hopi individual earning a degree in 1939, underscoring its long-standing inclusive ethos.

Academically, NAU is organized into seven colleges, offering approximately 130 undergraduate and graduate programs alongside various academic certificates. Its reach extends beyond the Flagstaff campus, with online offerings and over 20 statewide locations, including the Phoenix Biomedical Core research campus. A major participant in astronomical discovery, NAU's faculty has led observations for NASA's DART mission, co-discovered celestial bodies like Eris and Sedna, and actively participates in the search for Planet Nine, often collaborating with the nearby Lowell Observatory. The university prides itself on fostering talent, evidenced by its alumni who include Truman, Goldwater, and Udall Scholars.

For prospective students, NAU offers a rich and engaging experience. With over 28,000 students enrolled in Fall 2023, the Flagstaff campus provides a bustling environment. The Northern Arizona Lumberjacks compete vigorously in NCAA Division I as part of the Big Sky Conference, boasting national championships in cross country running. The university's high-altitude athletic facilities, situated at 6,950 feet above sea level, are so renowned that they attract Olympic and professional athletes from around the world for specialized training, offering students a unique connection to elite sports.