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Public, 4-year

Purdue University Northwest

Hammond, Indiana · www.pnw.edu

中文

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
Hammond, Indiana
Also known as
Purdue Northwest, PNW
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Kenneth Holford (Chancellor)
Phone
2199892400
City
Hammond, Indiana
Address
2200 169th Street, Hammond, IN 46323

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
70.7%
Women
74.4%

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

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

SAT total890–1140Peer median 1080
ACT composite16–24
SAT Reading
450–570
600700800
SAT Math
440–570
600700800
ACT composite
16–24
253036

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)

Bachelor's1,09619 international (1.7%)
Master's370169 international (45.7%)
Doctoral30 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other
201
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
128
Accounting
57
Elementary Education and Teaching
52
Psychology, General
47
Business Administration and Management, General
47
Finance, General
39
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
39
Mechanical Engineering
33
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
31

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

Health professionshas 454 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
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
Businesshas 255 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
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
Engineeringhas 142 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Civil Engineering, General.$75,216
Computer Engineering, General.-
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.$81,990
Mechanical Engineering.$72,942
Computer and information sciencehas 139 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Information Technology.$54,641
Computer Science.$67,051
Computer Graphics.$25,701
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Engineering technologieshas 137 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
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.-
Educationhas 67 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.$54,679
Elementary Education and Teaching.$47,045
Psychology has 47 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$37,761
Biologyhas 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$41,955
Communication has 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$30,597
Homeland security has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Police Science.-
History has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.$35,043
Social sciencehas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$37,796
Physical scienceshas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Physical Sciences, General.-
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
English has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.$33,477
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Behavioral Sciences.-
Public administrationhas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.-
Liberal arts has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$27,089
Mathmatics and statistics has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Foreign languages has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.-
Human science has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Human Development and Family Studies, General.-
Philosophy has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy.-

Students

9,051 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 65.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (8,201)

White
4,126 · 50.3%
Hispanic
2,176 · 26.5%
Black
808 · 9.9%
Asian
292 · 3.6%
Unknown
267 · 3.3%
Two or more races
265 · 3.2%
International
251 · 3.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
29.4%
18–19
23.9%
20–21
22.0%
22–24
12.6%
25 and over
12.0%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.2%
22–24
36.6%
25–29
24.2%
30–34
10.9%
35 and over
24.8%

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.

Undergraduates3.1%

251 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2018

0% 5% 10% 2018: 4.3%2019: 3.4%2020: 3.0%2021: 1.6%2022: 1.5%2023: 1.8%2024: 2.6%2025: 3.1%
2018Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students39.3%

334 in 2025 · 22.9% in 2018

0% 22.5% 45% 2018: 22.9%2019: 23.9%2020: 22.7%2021: 18.4%2022: 19.1%2023: 26.7%2024: 36.6%2025: 39.3%
2018Peer median 3.1%2025

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
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

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

Government grants and contracts
$78.8M52.0%
Tuition and fees
$52.7M34.8%
Investment return
$9.0M5.9%
Sales and services of educational activities
$6.0M4.0%
Gifts and private grants
$3.7M2.4%
Other
$1.2M0.8%

Expenses$148M

Instruction
$60.3M40.8%
Institutional support
$27.4M18.5%
Student services
$25.2M17.0%
Academic support
$13.2M8.9%
Public service
$8.2M5.6%
Scholarships
$6.5M4.4%
Research
$5.0M3.4%
Other
$2.0M1.4%

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.

All faculty
$88,540peers $80,690
Professor
$111,728peers $98,841
Associate professor
$90,298peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$85,676peers $74,446
Instructor
$58,818peers $58,934
Lecturer
$60,611peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)5631
Track and Field (Indoor)5729
Soccer3629
Baseball45-
Cross Country2014
Basketball1515
Golf139
Volleyball-20
Softball-19
Tennis98
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Indoor)4532
Soccer4327
Track and Field (Outdoor)4224
Baseball48-
Cross Country1812
Basketball1412
Golf158
Volleyball-20
Softball-19
Tennis109
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Indoor)4733
Track and Field (Outdoor)4530
Soccer3525
Baseball43-
Basketball1613
Golf169
Cross Country1411
Softball-21
Tennis128
Volleyball-19

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Purdue University Northwest:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Illinois Institute of Technology - Ranked 98th, this institution focuses on engineering, architecture, and technology, providing a strong technical education.

  5. 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.

1Updates in the past 12 months
Dec 2025Latest update
CampusMost common topic
  1. Campus facilities

    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
  2. Campus Life

    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
  3. Tuition & aid

    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
  4. Leadership

    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
  5. Campus Life

    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
  6. Campus Life

    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

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.