Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 65.5%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 63.5%
- Retention Rate
- 73.1%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $54,914
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $20,891
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 9:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 65.7%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $221/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $77,715 | $29,436 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $69,338 | $22,767 |
| Education, General. | Master | $55,964 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $53,775 | $20,833 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $44,971 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $44,170 | $22,000 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $41,789 | $41,000 |
| International/Global Studies. | Master | $41,565 | $29,751 |
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | Bachelor | $39,369 | |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $39,049 | |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $31,853 | $25,000 |
| Music. | Bachelor | $29,685 | $19,500 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $29,141 | $21,514 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $21,508 |
Outcomes Overview
Northwest University graduates enter the workforce with manageable debt loads relative to their earning potential. The median debt of $20,891 translates to monthly payments of $221, representing roughly 5% of graduates' typical monthly income based on median earnings of $54,914 after ten years. This debt-to-income ratio sits well below the recommended 10% threshold for student loans. The 94.5% employment rate reflects strong career preparation, particularly in education and nursing where NU has established regional recognition. Many graduates find positions in Seattle's growing healthcare and education sectors. The combination of below-average debt, solid earnings growth, and high employment rates creates a strong return on investment for students willing to embrace the university's Christian mission.