Northwood University
Acceptance rate
64.5%
2025
Peer median 68.0%
Tuition per year
$34,400
$47,500 with room and board
Peer median $13,920
Undergraduates
2,045
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
51.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 62.6%
Peer median 15.4%
“Peers” are all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Northwood University, located in Midland, Michigan, is known for its strong emphasis on business education and entrepreneurial spirit. Established in 1959, the university has carved a niche for itself in providing students with a practical and hands-on approach to learning. Its mission is encapsulated in the motto "To Develop the Future Leaders of a Global Society." This commitment to leadership development is reflected in its diverse range of programs, particularly in business administration, management, and marketing, which prepare students for successful careers in various fields. The university also offers a unique focus on free enterprise and personal initiative, encouraging students to think critically and innovate.
The campus is characterized by a vibrant student life that fosters a sense of community and collaboration. Northwood University hosts various student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities, which enrich the overall educational experience. The university's commitment to student success is evident in its modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, collaborative workspaces, and a well-equipped library. Moreover, Northwood University places a strong emphasis on internships and job placement, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. This focus on practical experience has contributed to impressive employment rates among its graduates, making it a desirable choice for students aiming to make a mark in the business world.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Northwood University
Northwood University, a private institution, has shown significant trends in various metrics over the years. One of the most striking aspects is the consistent increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduates rose from $22,130 to an anticipated $33,000. This represents a staggering increase of nearly 49% over a decade, reflecting broader trends in higher education where tuition often outpaces inflation and wage growth, raising concerns about affordability for prospective students and their families.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of undergraduates, dropping from 3,027 in 2013 to just 1,940 in 2023. This decrease might raise alarms about the university's attractiveness, possibly linked to the rising costs and competitive landscape of higher education. Concurrently, the number of graduate students has remained relatively stable, indicating a potential shift in focus or demand for graduate-level education.
Retention rates, however, have shown a positive trajectory, climbing from around 77% in 2013 to over 81% in 2023. This suggests that once students enroll, they are increasingly satisfied with their experience at Northwood University, which is crucial for maintaining enrollment levels and institutional reputation.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has shown a concerning trend, decreasing from 12:1 in 2013 to 8:1 in 2023. While a lower ratio may suggest a more personalized educational experience, it raises questions about resource allocation and faculty workload. Balancing these factors will be critical for Northwood University as it navigates future challenges in the higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Grand Rapids, about 80 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- NU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kent MacDonald (President)
- Phone
- 8006229000
- Address
- 4000 Whiting Dr, Midland, MI 48640-2398
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 68.0% · all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 80.1%, women 77.2%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Northwood University
The admission data from Northwood University over the years reveals a notable trend in the university's acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Between 2009 and 2023, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male acceptance peaking at 80.06% in 2020 and female acceptance reaching 86.78% in 2022. This indicates that the university has become increasingly accessible to a diverse applicant pool, particularly for female students, who have benefited from higher acceptance rates in recent years.
However, the total enrollment numbers have varied significantly, with the highest enrollment of 445 students in 2009, decreasing to a low of 247 in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts, changes in university policies, or increased competition among institutions. The number of denied applicants has also seen substantial changes, with a peak denial of 671 students in 2016, which may suggest a more selective admission process during that period.
Despite the challenges in maintaining high enrollment numbers, the university's ability to adapt its admission strategies highlights its commitment to fostering a diverse educational environment. The data shows that the institution has made efforts to accommodate more students, particularly in recent years, which is crucial for sustaining its academic community and reputation. Overall, these trends reflect broader patterns in higher education, where institutions are continuously navigating the complexities of enrollment and diversity in admissions.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Northwood University
The data from Northwood University over the years presents an intriguing picture of the admission landscape, particularly regarding standardized test scores. From 2007 to 2023, the range of SAT and ACT scores submitted by applicants has shown a noticeable fluctuation, with some years exhibiting a wider spread between the 25th and 75th percentiles, indicating a diverse applicant pool.
In the earlier years, such as 2007 and 2008, the SAT reading and math scores had a more conservative range compared to later years. However, by 2018, we see a significant increase in the number of SAT submissions, with 79% of applicants submitting scores, reflecting a growing interest in the university. This trend continued, peaking in 2020 with 87% of applicants providing SAT scores.
Interestingly, the average scores for the 25th percentile have shown a gradual improvement over the years, particularly from 2014 onwards, suggesting that accepted students are increasingly achieving higher scores. For instance, by 2023, the SAT reading score range had improved, indicating a competitive applicant pool.
This positive trend aligns with the broader context of rising standards in higher education, where universities are increasingly emphasizing academic excellence. As institutions adapt to changing educational landscapes, the emphasis on standardized testing remains a focal point, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities that prospective students face. The data suggests that Northwood University is attracting students who are increasingly well-prepared for the rigors of college coursework, a trend that bodes well for the institution’s future.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
1,851 applicants in 2025, 64.5% admitted
1,194 admitted 657 not admitted Yield 28.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's102 (8% international)
- Business Statistics · Master's74 (82% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's24 (0% international)
- Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Finance, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Doctoral3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Northwood University
The graduation data from Northwood University for 2023 reveals interesting trends in various fields of study. Notably, the business-related programs exhibit a strong performance, with Accounting leading the pack with 64 graduates, closely followed by Marketing with 50 graduates. This trend underscores the persistent demand for business education, particularly as the job market continues to evolve in a post-pandemic world, emphasizing skills in finance and management.
International students also made their presence felt, particularly in the field of Marketing, where one international student graduated at the bachelor level. This highlights Northwood University’s appeal as an institution for global learners, emphasizing diversity in its academic community. The presence of international graduates, albeit limited, suggests a growing interest in U.S. education among global students, especially in fields that promise lucrative career opportunities.
Interestingly, the data shows that many programs, particularly in the STEM fields, have fewer graduates. For instance, the Computer and Information Sciences program recorded no graduates at the bachelor's level. This gap could indicate a need for enhanced recruitment and retention strategies in these areas to attract more students, especially given the increasing demand for tech professionals in the workforce.
Overall, while business programs dominate, there is a clear opportunity for Northwood University to bolster its offerings in STEM and health-related fields. The university's ability to adapt to changing educational demands will be crucial for its continued success and relevance in the competitive landscape of higher education.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $55,439-$81,982 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $55,439-$81,982 | ||||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $55,439-$81,982 | ||||
| Accounting. | $51,148 | ||||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | ||||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | ||||
| Franchising and Franchise Operations. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | $63,065-$84,734 | ||||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||||
| Management Science. | $75,316 | ||||
| Business Statistics. | $75,316 | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $51,626 | ||||
| Insurance. | - | ||||
| Fashion Merchandising. | $74,429 | ||||
| Vehicle and Vehicle Parts and Accessories Marketing Operations. | $74,429 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | - | ||||
| Information Science/Studies. | $73,460 | ||||
| Computer Science. | - | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $45,480 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism. | - |
Students
2,409 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 63:37 · Freshman retention 78.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,281
- First-year undergraduates 318
- Graduate students 364
- Transfers and others 446
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,045)
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Northwood University in 2023
The student demographic data from Northwood University in 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding gender and ethnic diversity among its undergraduate and graduate populations. The total number of freshmen stands at 247, with a male majority comprising approximately 64.8% of this group. This trend continues among returning undergraduates, where males account for about 63.0% of the 1,378 students. It is noteworthy that transfer students show a slightly lower male representation at 55.6%, indicating a more balanced gender distribution.
The graduate student population, consisting of 306 individuals, reflects a similar pattern with 55.2% male representation. The overall gender ratios suggest that male students dominate the undergraduate categories, while the graduate level shows a shift towards a more equitable balance between genders.
Examining the ethnic breakdown within these categories provides further insight. For instance, among freshmen, the White population is the largest ethnic group, comprising 73.7% of the student body. This trend of a predominantly White demographic is also observed among returning students, where they make up 68.3%. However, there is an encouraging representation of other ethnicities, particularly the Asian and Hispanic groups, which could indicate a growing diversification trend in enrollment.
Overall, while Northwood University continues to exhibit a significant male predominance in its student body, the increasing diversity among ethnic groups is a positive sign. This aligns with broader educational trends emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and representation in higher education institutions across the United States.
Age Distribution Among Students at Northwood University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Northwood University in 2023 reveals some intriguing insights into the demographic makeup of the campus. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the younger age brackets, particularly among those aged 18-21, which is common in many universities as they attract a large number of traditional-age students immediately following high school. Specifically, students aged 18-19 constitute 27.7% of the total male population and 31.5% of the total female population, indicating a balanced interest in undergraduate programs across genders at this age.
As students progress to the 20-21 age group, the figures show an increase in enrollment, with a total of 516 male students and 174 female students, highlighting the university's appeal to those who are continuing their education after their first year. The presence of graduate students aged 22-24 also signifies that Northwood University serves as a hub for further education, with 43 graduate males and 31 graduate females in this age range.
Interestingly, there is a noticeable drop in enrollment among older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, which reflects a broader trend in higher education where younger, traditional students dominate the demographic landscape. The data also shows that there are only a few students over the age of 65, indicating that the university primarily caters to a younger audience.
This age distribution not only highlights the university's role in facilitating young adults' transition into higher education but also reflects broader societal trends in education, where younger populations are increasingly pursuing degrees while older students may face different life circumstances that affect their enrollment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.
49 in 2025 · 3.4% in 2016
54 in 2025 · 3.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Northwood University
The data on international student enrollment at Northwood University reveals a significant decline over the years, particularly in the last decade. In 2004, the proportion of international students in undergraduate programs was nearly 5%, which has steadily decreased to around 2% by 2023. This trend reflects a broader national pattern where many universities in the United States have seen fluctuations in international enrollment due to various factors such as changes in immigration policies, global events, and competition from other countries offering higher education.
The graduate programs also exhibit a downward trend, with the percentage of international students dropping from over 20% in the mid-2000s to just 2.61% in 2023. This decline can be attributed to several challenges faced by potential international students, including visa restrictions and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely disrupted travel and educational plans worldwide.
The decline in international student numbers at Northwood University may have implications for the institution's diversity and global engagement. International students contribute significantly to campus culture and provide domestic students with a broader perspective on global issues. As universities adapt to this changing landscape, it will be essential for Northwood University to explore strategies to attract and retain international students, ensuring a vibrant and diverse academic environment for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$47,500
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,400
- Room and board
- $13,100
- Graduate tuition
- $37,980
Peer median tuition + room and board $27,000 · all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.
Tuition rose 42% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 37%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$71.9M
Expenses$57.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Midwest Athletic Conference
Great Midwest Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 137 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 65 | 40 |
| Soccer | 39 | 35 |
| Lacrosse | 37 | 22 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Softball | - | 42 |
| Basketball | 18 | 17 |
| Golf | 20 | 8 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 99 | 69 |
| Football | 127 | - |
| Soccer | 43 | 34 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Softball | - | 47 |
| Basketball | 15 | 18 |
| Lacrosse | 21 | 10 |
| Golf | 16 | 7 |
| Tennis | 9 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 127 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 50 | 39 |
| Soccer | 41 | 32 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Softball | - | 42 |
| Basketball | 14 | 16 |
| Golf | 15 | 8 |
| Tennis | 12 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Central Michigan UniversityMount Pleasant · 25.1 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing · 62.8 mi
U.S. News #69
-
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor · 97.2 mi
U.S. News #25
-
University of Detroit MercyDetroit · 101.7 mi
U.S. News #186
-
Wayne State UniversityDetroit · 106.9 mi
U.S. News #186
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 114.2 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 115.0 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 118.5 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
University of ToledoToledo · 140.1 mi
U.S. News #299
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Northwood University:
-
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21st in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Michigan State University - With a rank of 60, this large public university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing research and community engagement.
-
Notre Dame University - This prestigious institution is ranked 20th and is recognized for its strong academics and commitment to faith-based education.
-
Hillsdale College - A liberal arts college ranked 39th, Hillsdale is known for its classical education and emphasis on the principles of liberty and virtue.
-
Kalamazoo College - This liberal arts college, ranked 70th, is celebrated for its unique study abroad programs and commitment to experiential learning.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 0.0 · all 40 private business and management schools in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Northwood University
The crime data from Northwood University over the years paints a complex picture of campus safety and student behavior. Notably, the average rate of incidents per 1,000 students fluctuates significantly, indicating varying levels of crime and disciplinary actions across the years.
In 2016, the data shows a peak average rate of 8.57, which is concerning and highlights a potential crisis in campus safety that year. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness of crimes, changes in university policies, or even external societal influences. Following this peak, there was a notable decrease, particularly in 2019 and 2022, where the rates dropped to 3.02 and 3.39 respectively, suggesting improvements in campus safety measures or a more responsible student body.
The types of incidents recorded also offer insights into the challenges faced by the university. Arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol consumption appear to be critical issues. As society grapples with the broader implications of substance abuse, universities, including Northwood, must continue to adapt their approaches to education and prevention.
Moreover, the presence of domestic violence and other personal crimes on campus is alarming and underscores the need for supportive resources for students. The slight increase again in 2023 raises questions about whether recent societal changes, such as those stemming from the pandemic, might be influencing student behavior.
Overall, while the data suggests a decline in certain incidents, ongoing efforts are essential to ensure a safe educational environment. Prioritizing mental health resources and community-building initiatives could play a significant role in further reducing crime rates on campus. For more detailed information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Northwood University include Ana Brnabić (Acting President of Serbia and parliament speaker), Lisa McClain (U.S. representative for Michigan's 9th district) and Candice Miller (Former U.S. Representative from Michigan).
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Ana Brnabić 1975–
Acting President of Serbia and parliament speaker
-
Lisa McClain 1966–
U.S. representative for Michigan's 9th district
-
Candice Miller 1954–
Former U.S. Representative from Michigan
-
Carole Gist 1969–
Miss USA 1990, first African American winner
-
Rich DeVos 1955–
Businessman, author and former politician
-
Ra'Shad James 1990–
Professional basketball player
-
Rina Harun 1973–
Malaysian politician and former women's affairs minister
-
Bill Cole 1956–
Businessman, former West Virginia Senate President
-
Samuel Jones 1978–
Basketball coach, former Cavaliers assistant coach
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Julie Calley 1975–
Former Michigan House member
-
Ronald Lee Buch 1965–
Judge of the United States Tax Court
-
Angela Witwer
Michigan state representative
Business
-
Manuel Ayau 1925–2010
Founder of Universidad Francisco Marroquín
Sports
-
Charleston Hughes 1983–
Former CFL defensive end, two-time Grey Cup winner
-
Blake Koch 1985–
Stock car racing driver
-
Deborah Renshaw 1975–
Former NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.