Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) is a private, Christian liberal arts institution located in Nampa, Idaho, United States. Founded in 1913, the university has a long history of blending academic excellence with spiritual formation and community engagement. Committed to fostering personal growth and preparing students for meaningful careers and lives of service, NNU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in both traditional and online formats.
Overview
Situated on a scenic campus of around 90 acres in the Boise Valley, NNU serves students from across the U.S. and around the world. The university is known for its supportive community, emphasis on mentorship, and integration of faith and learning. As a comprehensive Christian university, NNU provides programs that span from associate degrees to doctoral studies with an emphasis on leadership, service, and real-world application.
Academic Programs
Northwest Nazarene University offers a broad spectrum of academic programs.
Undergraduate Majors:
- Business
- Education
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Sciences
- Humanities
Graduate and Professional Programs:
- Business (Master’s, Certificate)
- Counseling (Master’s, Certificate)
- Education (Master’s, Certificate)
- Theology (Master’s, Certificate, Doctoral)
- Nursing (Master’s, Certificate)
- Social Work (Master’s, Certificate, Doctoral)
Campus Life at Northwest Nazarene University
- Residential Life: Life at NNU extends beyond the classroom with a vibrant residential experience. Students live in modern residence halls that encourage community engagement and personal growth.
- Clubs and Organizations: Students can join over 40 clubs and organizations, providing opportunities to explore interests, develop leadership skills, and connect with peers.
- Spiritual Activities: Spiritual growth is a key part of campus life, with regular chapel services, faith-based events, and opportunities for community service.
- Athletics and Recreation: NNU offers a variety of athletic programs and recreational facilities, including state-of-the-art athletic centers for both competitive and casual sports.
- Service Opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in community service, volunteering locally and regionally to make a positive impact.
- Location and Community: The university is located in Nampa, Idaho, providing a blend of small-town charm and easy access to Boise’s cultural amenities and outdoor activities.
Tuition and Fees (2025-2026)
Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
For the 2025-2026 academic year, the approximate costs for full-time undergraduate students are:
- Undergraduate tuition: ~$41,190 per year (based on a block rate of $20,595 per semester for 12–18 credits)
- Student fees: Included in the semester tuition totals, covering activities, technology, and services.
Graduate Tuition
Graduate tuition varies by program and delivery format, but NNU charges on a per-credit basis.
- Standard graduate tuition is approximately $881 per credit for post-baccalaureate graduate students.
Financial Aid
Northwest Nazarene University offers robust financial aid services to help students manage the cost of attendance. Aid is available through federal and institutional programs, including grants, loans, work-study options, and need-based assistance. Students typically begin the process by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Graduate students are also eligible for federal student loans and other program-specific support.
Scholarships
Scholarships at NNU are available to both incoming and continuing students and are designed to reward academic merit, talent, and other achievements. Some examples include:
- Merit scholarships based on high school GPA and standardized test scores.
- Special scholarships such as honors college awards, visit scholarships, and church matching scholarships.
- Field-specific awards, including music, ministry, and other talent-based scholarships.
- State and regional awards like Idaho Opportunity or Launch Scholarships for residents.
Scholarships do not need to be repaid and can significantly reduce educational costs.
Why Choose Northwest Nazarene University
There are several reasons students may choose NNU:
- Holistic education that blends liberal arts with professional preparation and spiritual development.
- Personalized mentoring and small class sizes, fostering close faculty-student interaction.
- Diverse academic offerings that support multiple career pathways.
- A supportive community with opportunities for leadership, service, and extracurricular engagement.
Conclusion
Northwest Nazarene University offers a distinctive educational experience grounded in Christian values, academic excellence, and community involvement. With comprehensive programs, financial support options, and a dynamic campus life, NNU equips students to grow intellectually, spiritually, and professionally. Whether beginning undergraduate studies or advancing through graduate education, students at NNU are supported as they prepare for meaningful careers and lives of purpose.