Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Quick Facts
“Quaecumque sunt vera”("Whatsoever things are true" (Philippians 4:8 AV) "The Word full of grace and truth" (John 1:14))
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Northwestern University
Northwestern University: A research powerhouse known for academic rigor & Big Ten pride.
Nestled in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University stands as a premier private research institution with a rich history, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and groundbreaking research. Established in 1851, it holds the distinction of being Illinois's oldest chartered university. While initially affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church, Northwestern quickly embraced a non-sectarian admissions policy, fostering an inclusive environment that has contributed to its enduring legacy.
Northwestern boasts a comprehensive academic portfolio, encompassing eleven undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools across vital fields such as management, law, journalism, engineering, and medicine. This broad academic reach, coupled with an annual research funding exceeding $1 billion, underscores its dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge. The university's historical trajectory saw it evolve into a modern research university by integrating its professional schools with the undergraduate college, giving equal weight to both teaching and research.
Prospective students and families will find an engaging and vibrant community at Northwestern. As a founding member of the Big Ten Conference since 1896, the university fields 19 intercollegiate athletic teams, the Northwestern Wildcats, creating a lively campus spirit. Beyond sports, Northwestern's impact is evident in its impressive network of affiliates, including 37 Nobel Prize laureates, 47 Pulitzer Prize winners, and numerous other distinguished individuals who have shaped various fields. The university's substantial endowment, reported at $15.6 billion as of 2024, further fuels its mission to provide an exceptional educational experience and foster innovation.
From its pivotal role in the Northwest Territory's development to its recent initiatives like awarding bachelor's degrees to incarcerated individuals and navigating complex dialogues, Northwestern University remains at the forefront of higher education, continually adapting and leading with its motto, "Whatsoever things are true."
Key Highlights
- ✦Oldest chartered university in Illinois, established January 28, 1851.
- ✦Founding member of the prestigious Big Ten Conference since 1896.
- ✦Boasts an endowment of $15.6 billion (2024) and over $1 billion in research funding.
- ✦Educates 22,801 students across diverse undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
- ✦Associated with 37 Nobel Prize laureates, 47 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 2 Fields Medalists.
- ✦Pioneered the first Program of African Studies at an American academic institution in 1948.
- ✦First top-ranked U.S. university to award bachelor's degrees to a graduating class of prisoners (2023).
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
6 notable schools within Northwestern University
Kellogg School of Management
A prominent school of management, established in the 1920s.
Feinberg School of Medicine
A key professional school in the field of medicine.
School of Law
One of the university's integrated professional schools with a long history.
School of Journalism
A significant professional school known for its programs in journalism.
Engineering School
A vital professional school focusing on engineering disciplines.
School of Dentistry
Historically one of the affiliated professional schools in Chicago.
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