Pursuit Fall 2023

INSIDE: BEYOND THE BOOKS // THE VALUE OF A COLLEGE EDUCATION // YOUR ROADMAP TO NU

What Do You Value? What Do You Value?

Pleased To Meet You!

You may be wondering, “Just who is Northwest University, anyway?”

We’re so glad you asked.

A (VERY SHORT) INTRODUCTION

Northwest University (NU) began in 1934 as a Bible college and has grown over the years to offer undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees at our Kirkland campus or 100% online.

Our traditional undergraduate experience includes over 70 majors and programs—as well as internships and a Career Readiness program—to equip you for success.

Our graduates have gone on to become leaders in business, education, entrepreneurship, health care, psychology, music production, entertainment, ministry, and more.

THE NU DIFFERENCE

What makes NU different from other schools? Our unique combination of academic excellence and an unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ. At NU, you’ll experience a rigorous scholarly environment where faculty, staff, and your classmates are all in pursuit of Jesus (hence the name of this magazine). He goes before us and is first in all we do. Our campus ethos is summed up in four words: Jesus First. Jesus Always.

EXPLORE MORE

We invite you to explore these pages to learn more. Our hope is that you’ll discover a university where you can pursue a career and Christ. Grow in intellect and faith. Where friends and jobs and nature abound. Where you’ll create an unshakeable foundation upon which you can build the rest of your life. And it all begins with Jesus.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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4 6 8 10 13 20 22 26

HOW DO YOU DEFINE VALUE?

BEYOND THE BOOKS

FROM BEING MENTORED TO MAKING WAVES IN UX DESIGN

THE VALUE OF A COLLEGE EDUCATION

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR TOP PRIORITY

YOUR ROADMAP TO NU

THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND KIRKLAND

NU QUICK FACTS

How do you define value? How do you define value?

When experts say that a college education is a good value, what exactly do they mean? For many, the definition is one dimensional—it begins and ends with tuition costs.

At Northwest University, we offer one of the lowest tuition rates in the Pacific Northwest. But to us, value is about much more than cost alone.

In a world where college campuses are rife with confusion and conflict, what is the value of a university where Jesus is still first? Where you can learn in an academically rigorous environment that encourages you to be your full, authentic, Jesus-following self?

What value do you place on caring instructors who inspire your academic and spiritual growth? Professors who don’t merely teach you, but pray with you?

How important is it to build lifelong friendships with a loving learning community as you pursue classes, Christ, and careers together?

What might it mean to your career to attend a university located near companies that have changed the world? What career network and job opportunities could you build during your four years here?

What is the value of living in an area blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, recreation, and (yes) coffee houses?

As you think about your academic future, remember this: Value is more than what you pay for something. It’s what you receive in return.

Beyond the Books:

An Immersive Learning Experience in Germany

Karen Isbell, Communications major, Class of 2023

At NU, we believe that some of the best learning happens outside of the classroom. That’s why we encourage our juniors and seniors from most majors to go on cross-cultural immersion trips in the summer. A few days after she graduated, Karen Isbell spent 10 days in Germany with a group of her classmates and professors from the College of Arts and Sciences. Here’s what she loved about her time abroad.

The theme of our trip was “The University” since Germany is home to several of the world’s oldest universities. I traveled with 20 other NU students and three professors to the cities of Heidelberg, Worms, Bonn, Cologne, and Frankfurt. We spent our days visiting different universities, eating the most authentic German food we could find, and seeing historical city sights like the stunning Cologne Cathedral.

Visiting these beautiful cities that are so full of history and culture showed me that as much as someone can study a place through pictures, articles, and books, nothing compares to actually going there and physically immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and lifestyles of that place. I was so inspired by the people I met, and hearing their stories made me want to continue exploring new parts of the world in the years to come.

I also found this experience to be a unique way to prepare for my career. Understanding cultures other than your own is a valuable skill to have in the workplace since it’s likely that you’ll be working with people from all different backgrounds and perspectives. I look forward to telling my future employers during interviews about my trip and how the lessons I learned there will help me be a more valuable contributor at my next job.

Mentored From Being Mentored to Making Waves in UX Design

You’ve probably seen it in a movie or on some TV show: a worried college student chasing after her busy professor in a crowded hallway in an attempt to discuss an assignment or grade. Even if the student successfully manages to talk with her professor, it’s clear that both individuals leave the interaction feeling overwhelmed and possibly even more stressed out.

While this type of experience might occur at other colleges (albeit a little less dramatically in real life), at NU, it’s not one you’ll have to worry about. We do things differently. Our faculty are experts in their fields, and yes, they’re busy. But they’re also approachable. They specifically choose to teach at NU because they want to mentor students like you. Here, you won’t just be a nameless face in an endless sea of students. You’ll be known. Prayed for. Invested in. Our faculty are committed to making sure you get the most holistic education possible so you can make waves in your future career.

Recent graduate Michelle Beckley shares how the personalized community and mentoring she received at NU made all the difference in setting her up for a successful career in UX design.

During my time at NU, I not only gained knowledge but also built profound connections with my peers. The unwavering support and encouragement from the Christian community, faculty, and students fostered a nurturing environment for personal and professional growth. The faculty—especially my mentors Ted and Jenni Cyrek—played a pivotal role in my journey at Northwest. Their constant support and mentorship led me to a remarkable internship at the software company Reccurency, which ultimately paved the way for numerous open doors and opportunities to enter the field of UX design. Thanks to the foundation laid by Northwest University and the guidance of my mentors, I am now well-prepared and equipped to make my mark in the dynamic field of UX design.

Michelle Beckley

User Experience Design, Class of 2023

“We focus on solving real-world design problems in the tech industry. We put into practice the methods and techniques used by professionals every day. In the classroom, we strive to model what we do as designers to help students understand what is expected and how they can make an impact. And most importantly, how they can build relationships with others while serving God.”

Ted Cyrek, User Experience design professor at the Creatio Center for Technology, Media, and Design

the value of a College edUcation: the Data speaks.

the value of a College edUcation: the Data speaks.

It’s one thing to hear a university proclaim the value of a college education. But when you look at the hard data, it confirms what researchers, students, and parents have known for years: A college education pays off considerably over time.

And it has benefits you may not always think about. We’ve compiled the data below to help you see the kind of lifelong returns that come from investing in a college education.

How much more does a person with a college degree earn annually than those with no degree? How does 76% more sound?

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021

Over a lifetime, that can add up to a difference of $1.2 million. Yes. MILLION.

$1.2 Million Difference

Source: Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, 2021

You may not be thinking about retirement today, but someday you will. With a larger retirement fund, you’ll be glad you invested in your degree.

Median value of family holdings of retirement accounts by educational attainment, nominal 2019 dollars.

Source: Tax Policy Center, 2021

In addition to the increased earnings of a bachelor’s degree, there are also benefits to the communities you live in. Here are just a few examples.

College Degree

$119,000 Some College $41,000 High School Diploma $40,000

twice

Over twice as many people with a college education volunteered in their communities, compared to high school graduates (32% vs 14%).

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023

College graduates invest in their communities.

College graduates invest in their communities. Over a lifetime, bachelor’s degree holders contribute:

• $278,000 more to their local economy.

• $44,000 more in state and local taxes.

• 777% more in annual charitable giving.

Source: College Possible, 2018

College Degrees

Those with College Degrees are much less likely to move down from upper income tiers to lower income tiers. But those in lower income tiers are more likely to move to an upper income tier with a college degree.

Pew Research Center, 2021

eternal value: spiritUal liFe at nu

At NU, we believe the greatest investment you can make isn’t just in your academic experience or future career: it’s in your relationship with Jesus. After all, that has eternal value. Unlike other universities and colleges, we are fully committed to helping you grow in your faith.

Our Campus Ministries department specializes in creating dynamic and meaningful events and discipleship opportunities—from chapel services to life groups to mission trips—where you’ll get to connect with other like-minded students, staff and faculty mentors, and other Christian leaders who will help you develop a Jesus-first outlook on life. Pastor Jamie Shores, who is one of our campus pastors, shares how her team creates faith-building campus experiences so that during your time at NU, your faith can flourish.

Campus Ministries works to create a community of spiritual vitality that fosters the spiritual formation of each student. Instead of seeing students walk away from faith, we want to see students fully embrace their faith and be firmly rooted in Jesus.

In every chapel gathering, Monday night worship service, life group, and other faith opportunities, students learn and experience what it means to love, trust, and follow Jesus.

The life of a Jesus follower is summed up in loving Jesus, abiding in His presence, hearing His voice, and deepening one’s relationship with Him. We trust what Jesus says about who God is, who we are, what it means to be human, and how the world works. We respond to the call of Jesus to follow Him, taking on the lifestyle, rhythms, habits, disciplines, and practices of Jesus. As a campus pastor at NU, I get to be a part of forming and equipping our students in building a firm foundation so that no matter what may come, they will choose to embrace God.

Years from now when I run into any alumni of NU, my prayer is that they will tell me that they still love, trust, and follow Jesus because of the deep spiritual formation they engaged in at NU.

Micah Lorenz, , Campus pastor Jamie Shores, , Campus pastor

Jamie Shores, Campus pastor

ccess I s O u r To p P r i o r i t y.

As you think about life in college, you may feel nervous. These four years are a significant time in a person’s life, so it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit uncertain both during the college search process and even after you’ve made your decision. If this is you, know that you’re not alone. At NU, we offer programs and resources that will support all aspects of your success—right from the moment you arrive on campus. In fact, it’s our top priority.

Our Student Development team focuses on creating a sense of belonging within an authentic community, especially in spaces outside of the classroom. Welcoming you to the NU community starts on move-in day, carries on into your first six weeks, and continues all throughout the school year.

Our new student orientation, which we call Welcome Weekend, is packed with fun—from intentional group

conversations to get you mingling with other new students to fun adventures around campus and in our neighborhood. But perhaps more importantly, we offer a multitude of options for you to gather resources and advice from staff, faculty, and current students.

Starting on the first day of classes, we launch into the First Six Weeks, which includes thoughtful programming intended to help you find your people, make friends, and play an active part in belonging on campus. There are events happening every Friday and Saturday throughout the first six weeks of the semester that range from movie nights to athletic game tailgates to multicultural events.

There is something for everyone here at Northwest, and we’re giving you every opportunity to get out there and enjoy it.

CAN I AFFORD A PRIVATE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY?

As you can see from the graph, NU’s total cost is significantly lower than other private universities in the area. But our accreditation and academic standards are high. It’s why we were recently selected as a College of Distinction and have been rated as an exceptional value.

NU Tuition and Room and Board*

Tuition: $35,535

Room and Board: $10,647

Student Fees: $500

Total: $46,682

*Prices are from the 2023–2024 school year.

HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST ME?

While we can’t give an exact number before an application has been submitted, our net price calculator helps students and families plan for the future by generating estimates of actual costs.

DON’T BE MISLED BY A LARGER SCHOLARSHIP.

For private schools, typically you’ll see one of two options when it comes to tuition: Either 1) a college with a lower overall starting cost but minimal scholarships, or 2) a college with a higher sticker price but strong scholarships. At NU, we mix the best of both worlds. We start with a lower “sticker price” than many

$

46,682

Starting Costs

*Includes tuition, room and board, and student fees.

We start with the lowest cost for a private Christian university in the region.

schools in our region, and we add an extensive amount of generous scholarships. This leaves our average cost for students at a fiercely competitive price with any school in the area. This is just one of the reasons that U.S. News & World Report listed us as one of their Top 20 Best Value Schools.

26,182 $

Actual Costs

*Includes tuition, room and board, and student fees. Final costs may vary.

With NU’s average financial aid award of $20,500, your final costs are drastically reduced. And your financial aid package may be even higher.

OUR STUDENTS COME FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE.

Household Income Distribution for 2023–2024 Students Receiving Financial Aid

You may assume that students who attend a private Christian university come from high-income homes. Here again is a surprise. A quick look at this graph shows that our students come from every economic background.

Our 56-acre campus is located in Kirkland, Washington, which has been voted by Money magazine as the Fifth Best Place to Live in the U.S. It makes sense why: Kirkland and the Greater Seattle Area are not only home to some of the best activities and amenities but is also ground zero for some of the most influential companies in the world. Studying at NU means you’re positioning yourself for a future of bright possibilities—one that may even land you in your dream job.

To see all that Kirkland and NU have to offer, schedule a visit. We’d love to show you around.

Sign up at northwestu.edu/visit.

DESTINATION: DREAM JOB DESTINATION: DREAM JOB

Health Care Programs at NU

• BA or BS in Exercise Science.

• BS in Biology, Pre-Med, Pre-Vet, Pre-Health, and Pre-Dental Track.

• BS or MS in Nursing.

• MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

• MS in Physician Assistant Studies.

• Doctor of Physical Therapy.

• PsyD in Counseling Psychology.

Find out more about each of these degrees at northwestu.edu/programs.

High Demand.

Higher Rewards. Health Care Degrees Designed To Help You Live Out Your Faith.

Did you know that health care jobs are currently on the rise? The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that over the next decade, the health care industry will grow at a rate of 13 percent— which is much faster than the projections for many other fields.

People have a lot of opinions these days about the value of college and whether a degree can actually help you get a job. As far as a health care career goes, the future looks bright.

At NU, we offer several programs that can help you land a fulfilling job in health care, and we’re regularly adding new programs—like our Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies—to help meet the needs of today’s changing job market. With one of our degrees, you’ll gain the tools you need to thrive in the workplace. And perhaps more importantly, you’ll learn in a Jesus-first environment how to bring your faith directly into your work. The industry not only needs health care workers—it needs health care workers who can serve with Jesus’ grace and compassion.

STUDENT STORY

I am hugely indebted to Northwest University and every faculty member that paved the road for my journey in becoming a physician. Before coming to NU as a transfer student, I served in the U.S. Army as a combat medic. This experience sparked my desire to learn medicine. I attended Washington State University for medical school and started internal medicine residency at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle. NU’s pre-medicine track prepared me well for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Moreover, my professors supported me academically and spiritually throughout my two years at NU.

I believe we live in a world where faith in Christ often contradicts social norms, especially in medicine. But during my time at NU, I found that the two go hand in hand. I experienced wonderful spiritual growth at NU, and my biblical studies courses served as an important foundation that now guides me to practice medicine with empathy and compassion for my patients. I encourage those interested in becoming physicians to enroll at NU for their undergraduate education to build a strong foundation for becoming physicians in Christ.

Jae Young Choi

Biology, Pre-Med Track, Class of 2019

ROADMAP

ROADMAP

The college admissions process has several steps, so we understand if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by it. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step roadmap for you. And if you still have questions? Our caring admissions counselors are ready and excited to help you navigate your way. Just contact us at admissions@northwestu.edu.

ENDLESS FESTIVITIES, FOOD, AND FUN: THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND KIRKLAND

We might be a little biased, but we think there are few places in the world as stunning and cultured as the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, skiing, or boating; taking in the sights and sounds of a concert or major sports game; or eating and drinking your way through the best restaurants and coffee shops, there’s always something to do here. In Kirkland, you can experience some of the best waterfront parks, cafes, and shopping. Or hop on public transportation and easily head over to Seattle for a more urban adventure.

Here are some of our top picks of things to do near campus:

• Five Stones Coffee.

• Dick’s Drive-In.

• Lake Washington T-Docks.

• Kraken Community Iceplex.

• Rattlesnake Ridge.

• Saint Edward State Park.

• Seattle Concerts.

• Snoqualmie Falls.

• Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field.

• Pike Place Market.

• Seattle Monorail.

• Woodland Park Zoo.

• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).

• DERU Market.

• Bellevue Botanical Garden.

• Teriyaki Madness.

For more suggestions on things to do near campus, follow us on Instagram:

@northwestu

YOUR GUIDE TO NU NU NU NU NU NU NU

MEET YOUR ADMISSIONS COUNSELORS!

THEY WILL HELP YOU THROUGH EACH STEP OF THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS.

JORINE JOHNSON

jorine.johnson@northwestu.edu

TERRITORY: Serving all students in South King County.

HOMETOWN: Beaverton, Oregon

ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS

COUNSELOR : “What scholarships can I apply for?”

DAVID SICKLES

david.sickles@northwestu.edu

TERRITORY: Serving all students in Snohomish County, Olympic Peninsula, Idaho, Alaska, and the Mountain and Central time zones.

HOMETOWN: Lake Stevens, Washington

ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR: “Will I be able to participate in internships as a transfer student?”

OSCAR ORNELAS oscar.ornelas@northwestu.edu

TERRITORY: Serving all students in Seattle, Pierce County, Eastern Washington, and Hawaii.

HOMETOWN: Kennewick, Washington

ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS

COUNSELOR: “How does the transfer process work? Will NU accept all of my credits, or is there a way to see which credits will transfer?”

LAUREN BLAIR

lauren.blair@northwestu.edu

TERRITORY: Serving all students in the Eastside of King County, Southwest Washington, Oregon, and all states from the Eastern time zone.

HOMETOWN: Edmonds, Washington

ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS

COUNSELOR: “How can college prepare me for my career?”

WHY APPLY NOW?

Applying early has several advantages. First, you’ll have initial access to our best scholarships, receiving invites to our exclusive scholarship events. What’s more, you’ll be first on our VIP list for all upcoming events. But applying to NU has long-term benefits that few other universities can match. Our Jesus-first community is a place where your faith will grow. You’ll be mentored by learned professors who love Jesus and teach from real-world experience. You’ll build new friendships that will last a lifetime. You’ll be in the same neighborhood with companies that have changed the world (and are hiring). You’ll experience internships and create career networks that can set you up for success. At NU, you’ll become even more than you ever thought possible in a supportive learning community you only hoped existed. It’s all here. And it all starts with your application.

Apply today through the Common App or at northwestu.edu/apply

HOW TO APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

Apply online at northwestu.edu/apply.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

☐ Application.

☐ Optional short answer statement.

☐ Official high school transcript.

OLIVIA RAGLAND

olivia.ragland@northwestu.edu

TERRITORY: Serving all students in Northwest Washington, California, U.S. citizens abroad, nursing transfers, and Master of Science in Nursing.

HOMETOWN: Snohomish, Washington

ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS

COUNSELOR: “What internships and travel abroad opportunities does NU have?”

☐ Official SAT or ACT scores. (SAT Code: 4541 ACT Code: 4466) SAT and ACT scores are optional. They are not required for admission.

☐ Transcripts from all colleges attended.

IMPORTANT DATES

☐ November 15–Early Action.

☐ January 15–Early Action II.

☐ February 15–Priority Financial Aid.

☐ May 1–Priority Confirmation.

NU QUICK FACTS NU QUICK FACTS

95% STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS

94% GRADUATES WHO FOUND JOBS WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF GRADUATION

93% GRADUATES WHO SAY THEY WERE PREPARED FOR THEIR CAREER

70+ MAJORS AND PROGRAMS

662 KIRKLAND CAMPUS UNDERGRADUATE ENROLLMENT*

2,229 TOTAL ENROLLMENT ACROSS TWO CAMPUSES AND ONLINE*

10:1 STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO

60% KIRKLAND CAMPUS RESIDENTIAL STUDENTS

11 VARSITY SPORTS

50+ PARKS AND OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL AREAS NEAR CAMPUS

30+ COFFEE SHOPS NEARBY

10 MILES AWAY FROM DOWNTOWN SEATTLE

100% ACADEMIC PROGRAMS WITH INTEGRATED INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

*2022-2023

MAJORS AND PROGRAMS

BUSINESS DEGREES

Accounting

Business Administration

Finance*

Information Technology*

Management

Marketing

• Digital Marketing

• General Marketing

• Professional Sales*

COMMUNICATION, ENGLISH, AND HUMANITIES DEGREES

Communication Studies

• Digital Media

• Interpersonal Communication

• Strategic Communications

Dramatic Studies*

English

• Creative Writing*

• Literature*

• TESOL*

• Writing*

History and Politics

• American Studies

• History

• Pre-Law Studies

Interdisciplinary Studies

Philosophy*

EDUCATION DEGREES

Educational Studies

• Community Planning

• Elementary Education

• Instructional Design

• International Education

Elementary Education*

Secondary Education*

MINISTRY DEGREES

Biblical Languages*

Biblical Literature

Biblical Studies

Church and Ministry Leadership

Communication and Preaching*

General Ministries

Global Development*

Intercultural Studies

• Domestic

• International

Media Ministry*

Pastoral Care*

Pastoral Ministries

University Ministry*

Worship and Music Studies

Youth, Children, and Family Ministries

MUSIC DEGREES

Music

Music Industry Business

Music Performance

Music Production

• Producer

• Recording Arts Technology

Music Technology

PSYCHOLOGY DEGREES

Psychology

• Counseling Studies

• Cultural Psychology

• General Psychology

• Marriage and Family Studies

• Organizational Psychology

• Research

• School Psychology Sociology*

SCIENCE AND HEALTH DEGREES

Biology

• Animal Biology

• General Science

• Pre-Health

• Pre-Medicine

Chemistry*

Environmental Science

• Environmental Education

• Environmental Policy

• Natural Science

Exercise Science BA

Exercise Science BS

Health Science AA

Nursing

TECHNOLOGY, MEDIA, AND DESIGN DEGREES

Art*

Audio Production

Audio Production Technology*

Computer Science BA

Computer Science BS

Graphic Design*

Music Production

Music Technology

User Experience Design

Video Game Design

Video Game Development

• Game Programming

• Game UX

Video Production

• Animation and Motion Video

• Live and Live-Action Video

• Virtual Production

*Minor

We offer over 70 academic programs, each one designed to uniquely prepare you for your chosen field. For a complete list of majors, minors, and concentrations, visit northwestu.edu/programs .