Northwest Nazarene University

NNU’s academic vibe is high-touch and hands-on, with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio and 63.8% of classes under 20 students. Majors typically require 36-60 credits, spanning traditional liberal arts to pre-professional programs like nursing. The university emphasizes mentorship—Facebook posts from NNU highlight faculty who 'know your name and invest in your future.' While no graduate salary data is stellar, the median alumni earnings sit at $43,773 early-career, climbing to $56,213 after five years per Niche.

This is a residential campus (58% live on-site) where community is 'woven into daily life,' per NNU’s own marketing. The vibe is active but not party-heavy: Niche reports just 4% of students describe 'tons of raging parties,' with most social life revolving around campus events, worship nights, and 30+ student clubs. The quad—with its porch swings and grassy gathering space—serves as a hub. Sports (NCAA Division II) and service projects round out the offerings, creating what the university calls a 'packed' calendar.

NNU’s six-year graduation rate is 63% (per U.S. News), slightly above the national average for private colleges. Earnings data is mixed: the College Scorecard cites a $60,040 median salary, while Niche pegs it at $43,773 early-career. The Pell Grant recipient graduation rate (5.5% of the outcomes score) suggests modest success supporting lower-income students. Notably, female students graduate at higher rates (63%) than males (57%), per Research.com.

NNU’s sticker price is steep ($29,580 average annual cost per College Scorecard), but 100% of first-years receive grants/scholarships, bringing the average net price to $27,291 (BigFuture). The university’s Net Price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator promises personalized estimates, noting aid can drop costs to $32,000 after assistance. While not a bargain, this places NNU in line with similar private religious colleges—and graduates report lower-than-average debt burdens.

NNU’s small-scale, high-engagement model shines for students seeking faith integration without academic compromise. The 14:1 faculty ratio and emphasis on mentorship (evidenced by relentless marketing about 'professors who know you') create a distinctly personal alternative to Idaho’s larger state schools. While not a research powerhouse, its 60%+ graduation rate and strong earnings for a regional college suggest it delivers on promises—especially for those drawn to its tight-knit, service-oriented community.