Purdue University Northwest
Acceptance rate
72.4%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$15,504
In-state $8,357
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
8,201
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
25.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 44.4%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Purdue University Northwest (PNW) is a prominent public university located in the northwestern region of Indiana, USA. Established in 2016 through the merger of Purdue University Calumet and Purdue University North Central, PNW has quickly developed a reputation for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including engineering, business, health sciences, and liberal arts. With a strong focus on hands-on learning and research opportunities, PNW prepares its students for successful careers and lifelong learning. The university's motto, “Education, Experience, Engagement,” reflects its holistic approach to education, emphasizing not only academic knowledge but also practical skills and community involvement.
PNW boasts a vibrant campus culture characterized by a strong sense of community and support. The university's facilities are modern and well-equipped, providing students with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational spaces. PNW offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs, fostering a well-rounded student experience. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in its initiatives to create an inviting environment for students from various backgrounds. Additionally, PNW maintains strong ties with local industries, enhancing job placement opportunities for graduates. The university's strategic location near Chicago also provides students access to a wide range of internship and employment opportunities, making it an attractive option for those seeking to advance their careers.
Tuition Costs and Student Dynamics at Purdue University Northwest
The tuition trends at Purdue University Northwest reveal significant increases over recent years, which may impact student enrollment and overall accessibility. In-state undergraduate tuition rose from $7,116 in 2018 to $8,048 in 2024, representing a notable increase of about 13.1%. Meanwhile, out-of-state tuition saw an even steeper rise from $16,078 to $14,933, indicating a shift in the financial burden placed on non-resident students. Such increases could deter prospective students, particularly those from outside Indiana, who may consider other universities with more competitive pricing.
Moreover, the student population has shown a declining trend in both undergraduate and graduate enrollments. From 2018 to 2023, undergraduate enrollment dropped from 11,134 to 8,176, a decrease of approximately 26.5%. This decline is concerning, as it can affect the university's funding and resources. Simultaneously, the graduate student body also experienced a reduction from 937 to 735, indicating a broader trend of diminishing interest in advanced studies at the institution.
Additionally, the graduation rates reflect a positive trend, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from about 7.7% in 2018 to 21.5% in 2023. This increase suggests that the university may be improving its support systems and academic environment, potentially making it a more attractive option despite rising costs. However, the retention rate shows fluctuations, peaking in 2021 at about 70.6% but dipping to 60.1% in 2022, before slightly recovering to 63.9% in 2023. Such variations may indicate challenges in student satisfaction and ongoing engagement within the university.
Overall, while Purdue University Northwest is making strides in graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and declining enrollment figures present significant challenges that need to be addressed to maintain its competitive standing in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Chicago, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- Purdue Northwest, PNW
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kenneth Holford (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 2199892400
- Address
- 2200 169th Street, Hammond, IN 46323
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 32.9%, women 25.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Purdue University Northwest Admission Trends
The admission data for Purdue University Northwest reveals notable trends over the years. In 2018, the university experienced a relatively balanced admission rate for both males and females, with about 38% and 32% respectively. However, the following years showed a gradual decline in admission rates for both genders, reaching a low of approximately 33% for males and 25% for females in 2020. This decline may reflect the university's increasing selectivity or possibly an influx of applications as the institution gains recognition.
The year 2022 marked a significant change, with admission rates soaring to around 77% for males and 76% for females. This dramatic increase may have been influenced by external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional college admissions processes and led to altered enrollment strategies. The subsequent year, 2023, continued this trend with rates around 71% for males and 75% for females, indicating that the university may have adopted a more flexible approach to admissions in response to the challenges faced in previous years.
The overall enrollment figures also reflect fluctuations, peaking in 2023 with 1,292 new students, suggesting that the university is recovering from the pandemic-induced challenges and is successfully attracting a larger student body. The number of denied applications consistently rose until 2022, which might indicate a competitive application environment, but the sharp increase in enrollment suggests that Purdue University Northwest is effectively balancing its admission strategies.
This data highlights the dynamic nature of college admissions, influenced by both institutional policies and broader societal factors. As the university navigates these changes, monitoring future trends will be essential to understand its evolving academic landscape.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 72% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Purdue University Northwest Admission Scores and Submission Rates
The admission data from Purdue University Northwest reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, there is a marked increase in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores, reaching a peak of 81% in 2020. However, this figure has fluctuated in subsequent years, dropping to 50% in 2023. This decline may reflect broader trends in college admissions, where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading students to reconsider the necessity of standardized test submissions.
When examining the SAT and ACT score ranges for admitted students, we observe that the interquartile ranges have been relatively stable, with SAT scores ranging between approximately 490 to 600 in recent years. This consistency suggests that while the number of submissions varies, the quality of admitted students, as indicated by their test scores, remains fairly steady. The ACT scores also reveal comparable patterns, with only slight variations in the composite scores over the years.
This data highlights a broader conversation regarding the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions. As institutions increasingly prioritize holistic review processes that consider factors beyond test scores, such as extracurricular involvement and personal essays, the importance of these traditional metrics may continue to diminish. Purdue University Northwest's data reflects this shifting landscape, prompting prospective students and educational institutions to reassess their strategies in the college admission process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
8,617 applicants in 2025, 72.4% admitted
6,235 admitted 2,382 not admitted Yield 18.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's88 (0% international)
- Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's73 (75% international)
- Computer Science · Master's70 (94% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's35 (23% international)
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering · Master's33 (73% international)
- Education, General · Master's15 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduates from Purdue University Northwest in 2023
In 2023, Purdue University Northwest showcased a diverse range of programs, particularly in the fields of health and education. Notably, the Registered Nursing program produced a significant number of graduates, with 336 students earning bachelor's degrees. This highlights the ongoing demand for skilled nursing professionals in the healthcare sector, a trend that has been amplified by the global health crisis.
The absence of international students in the nursing program is noteworthy, suggesting a potential opportunity for the university to broaden its appeal to international applicants, particularly as the healthcare industry becomes increasingly globalized. In contrast, the Master of Business Administration program attracted 42 domestic graduates and 10 international students, reflecting a growing interest in business education amid a complex economic landscape.
Moreover, the fields of psychology and education also contributed to the graduation figures, with 53 and 58 bachelor's degrees awarded, respectively. This indicates a sustained interest in these areas, likely driven by the ongoing societal focus on mental health and educational reform. However, the lack of master's and doctoral graduates in these fields suggests that there may be barriers to advanced studies, possibly due to financial constraints or limited availability of programs.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of addressing the needs and preferences of both domestic and international students, particularly in high-demand fields. As universities adapt to evolving market demands and global challenges, the enhancement of program offerings and recruitment strategies will be essential for future growth and diversity in graduate 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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $38,146 | |||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | |||
| Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $84,230-$106,158 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $84,230-$106,158 | |||
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $84,230-$106,158 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $41,300-$68,437 | |||
| Accounting. | $53,213 | |||
| Finance, General. | $61,827 | |||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | $49,943 | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | $50,929 | |||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $43,278 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | $75,216 | |||
| Computer Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $81,990 | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $72,942 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | $54,641 | |||
| Computer Science. | $67,051 | |||
| Computer Graphics. | $25,701 | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | $75,401 | |||
| Electromechanical/Electromechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |||
| Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | $65,963 | |||
| Construction Engineering Technology/Technician. | $73,721 | |||
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $54,679 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,045 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,761 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,955 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $30,597 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $35,043 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | $37,796 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $33,477 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | |||
| Behavioral Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $27,089 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
9,051 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 65.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,085
- First-year undergraduates 1,118
- Graduate students 850
- Transfers and others 2,998
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (8,201)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Purdue University Northwest in 2023
In 2023, Purdue University Northwest showcases a diverse student body across different classifications. The university has a total of 8,911 students enrolled, with undergraduate new students comprising the largest group at 1,292 individuals. Interestingly, this group exhibits a near-equal gender distribution, with 50.9% being male and 49.1% female. This trend is representative of a larger shift towards gender parity in higher education institutions.
Examining the upperclassmen, the numbers reveal a higher female representation among undergraduate juniors (56% female) and seniors (59.3% female). This trend may reflect the increasing number of women pursuing and completing undergraduate degrees, which aligns with national data indicating that women have outpaced men in college enrollment in recent years.
The graduate student demographics also show a significant female presence, with 59.3% of graduate students being women. The overall trend towards female dominance in academia may be indicative of broader societal changes, where women are increasingly breaking barriers in various fields of study.
The data on racial and ethnic backgrounds within these classifications, although limited, suggests a varied student population. However, the specifics on minority representation and international students are not provided in detail, which presents an opportunity for more comprehensive analysis in the future.
Overall, Purdue University Northwest's 2023 data reflects not only a commitment to diversity and inclusion but also aligns with national trends in higher education, particularly regarding gender representation. As we move forward, monitoring these demographics will be crucial for understanding the evolving educational landscape.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Purdue University Northwest
The age composition of students at Purdue University Northwest reveals interesting patterns in enrollment among various age groups. The data shows that the majority of undergraduate students are concentrated in the younger age brackets, particularly those under 18 and between 18-19 years old, which aligns with national trends as most students transition directly from high school to college. Notably, there are 769 male and 1169 female students under 18, and 1059 male and 1026 female students between 18-19, indicating a healthy female representation among these younger demographics.
As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers begin to shift. The age group of 20-21 years shows a nearly equal number of male and female undergraduate students, while the proportion of graduate students starts to rise among older cohorts, particularly those aged 22-24. This suggests that many students may be opting for graduate education as they mature and refine their career goals.
Interestingly, there is a notable drop in enrollment among students aged 25 and older. This could reflect broader societal trends, where individuals in this age range might prioritize work experience or family commitments over further education. The relatively low numbers in the 30-34 age group and beyond support this notion, with only 95 male students and 167 female students in the 30-34 age bracket.
Overall, Purdue University Northwest’s student demographics reflect both the challenges and opportunities in attracting a diverse age range of students. The increasing representation of older students in graduate programs may indicate a growing recognition of the importance of lifelong learning in today's rapidly changing job market.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
251 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2018
334 in 2025 · 22.9% in 2018
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Purdue University Northwest
The data on international student enrollment at Purdue University Northwest reveals a notable decline in the number of undergraduate international students from 2018 to 2022, with a slight recovery in 2023. In 2018, there were 477 international undergraduates, accounting for approximately 4.28% of the total undergraduate population. This percentage has seen a significant decrease over the subsequent years, dropping to a mere 1.49% in 2022. This decline could reflect broader trends in international student mobility, possibly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in immigration policies, which have made it more challenging for students to study abroad.
Conversely, the graduate program has shown a different trajectory. The percentage of international students in graduate programs has remained relatively stable, with a significant uptick to 26.67% in 2023, compared to 22.95% in 2018. This suggests that Purdue University Northwest continues to attract international graduate students despite the challenges faced in the undergraduate sector. The stability and slight increase in graduate enrollment may indicate that international students still view Purdue as a viable option for advanced studies, likely due to its academic reputation and the potential for research opportunities.
Overall, the contrasting trends between undergraduate and graduate international enrollment at Purdue University Northwest highlight the complexities of the current educational landscape. Factors such as economic conditions, geopolitical tensions, and institutional responses to global events will continue to shape the future of international education in the United States.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$24,411
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $15,504
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,357
- Room and board
- $8,907
- Graduate tuition
- $11,960
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -4% from 2018 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$151M
Expenses$148M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 56 | 31 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 57 | 29 |
| Soccer | 36 | 29 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Cross Country | 20 | 14 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Golf | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 45 | 32 |
| Soccer | 43 | 27 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 42 | 24 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Cross Country | 18 | 12 |
| Basketball | 14 | 12 |
| Golf | 15 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 47 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 45 | 30 |
| Soccer | 35 | 25 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Golf | 16 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 12 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of ChicagoChicago · 15.5 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Illinois Institute of TechnologyChicago · 18.8 mi
U.S. News #121
-
DePaul UniversityChicago · 21.7 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago · 21.8 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 30.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 33.9 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 37.8 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Aurora UniversityAurora · 46.6 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 49.4 mi
Liberal Arts #62
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Purdue University Northwest:
-
University of Chicago - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Chicago is a prestigious research university known for its rigorous academics and influential faculty.
-
Northwestern University - With a ranking of 9th, Northwestern University is renowned for its strong programs in journalism, business, law, and the arts, offering a vibrant campus life.
-
University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th, Notre Dame is famous for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on undergraduate education, particularly in liberal arts and sciences.
-
Illinois Institute of Technology - Ranked 98th, this institution focuses on engineering, architecture, and technology, providing a strong technical education.
-
DePaul University - With a ranking of 151, DePaul is known for its diverse programs and commitment to community service, making it a great choice for students seeking an urban university experience.
These universities offer a variety of programs and unique experiences, making them significant options for students in the region.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Purdue University Northwest
The crime statistics for Purdue University Northwest from 2013 to 2023 indicate a notable trend: zero recorded incidents across various categories of offenses. This consistent absence of crime may reflect positively on the university's campus safety measures and the overall environment. The data suggests that students are not facing serious threats, which is essential for fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
In recent years, universities across the United States have been under scrutiny regarding campus safety, especially in light of increasing concerns over gun violence and substance abuse. The lack of recorded incidents at Purdue University Northwest could be attributed to effective safety protocols, community awareness, and possibly lower crime rates in the surrounding areas.
Moreover, having a crime rate of zero could also be a point of attraction for prospective students and their families, reinforcing the perception of Purdue University Northwest as a safe institution. However, it is crucial for the university to maintain vigilance and continue promoting safety programs, as well as being transparent and proactive in addressing any potential issues that may arise in the future.
While the absence of crime is commendable, it is vital for the institution to remain aware of national trends in campus safety and to adapt to ensure that this positive statistic continues. For further understanding of crime rates and their calculation, you can refer to this resource.
Recent News at Purdue University Northwest
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Purdue trustees approved a $10 million renovation of the Roberts Impact Lab in Hammond, creating an approximately 13,000-square-foot innovation hub connected to the Quantum Corridor.
Source: purdue.edu -
Purdue University Northwest celebrated International Education Week from November 17 to 21, 2025, featuring study away information sessions, a scholarship fundraiser, and cultural events.
Source: pnw.edu -
Purdue University Northwest announced it will host College Goal Sunday on November 9 to help college-bound students and families complete the FAFSA and apply for financial aid.
Source: pnw.edu -
Dr. Adam Rengstorf was appointed as Associate Dean of the College of Engineering and Sciences at Purdue University Northwest, effective September 1, 2025.
Source: pnw.edu -
Purdue University Northwest's College of Technology hosted the 2025 Midwest Regional Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, bringing together over 130 college students from 10 institutions to face real-world cybersecurity challenges.
Source: pnw.edu -
In November 2024, Purdue University Northwest hosted a series of events, including a workshop and a hoop dancer performance, celebrating Native American Heritage Month and recognizing North American indigenous histories and traditions.
Source: pnw.edu -
Purdue University Northwest announced plans to develop a quantum commercialization center at the Roberts Impact Lab in Hammond, partnering with Quantum Corridor Inc. and the city of Hammond.
Source: purdue.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.