The Student Population Of Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public research university based in Flagstaff, Arizona. Founded in 1899, it is one of three universities governed by the Arizona Board of Regents. NAU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as academic certificates. As of fall 2023, the university had a total enrollment of 28,194 students, with 23,134 undergraduate students and 5,060 graduate students. The gender distribution among the students is 36.5% male and 63.5% female, with a significant percentage identifying as first-generation college students. NAU's diverse student body and commitment to access and attainment have contributed to its reputation as a leading educational institution.

Northern Arizona University's undergraduate enrollment

Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public research university based in Flagstaff, Arizona. Founded in 1899, it is one of three universities governed by the Arizona Board of Regents and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

As of Fall 2023, NAU had a total of 28,194 enrolled students, with 21,550 at the Flagstaff campus. Of these, 23,134 were undergraduate students, comprising 36.5% male and 63.5% female students. The gender distribution for all students is not provided.

The university is divided into seven academic colleges offering about 130 undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as various academic certificates. NAU's undergraduate enrollment showcases the institution's commitment to diversity and accessibility. The university serves a significant proportion of first-generation college students, with 42% of new freshmen and transfer students, and 40% of all undergraduates identifying as first-generation.

In addition, NAU has the highest percentage of new Hispanic students (29%), new Native American students (4.2%), and new Pell-eligible students (41%) in its history. The university's focus on accessibility is further demonstrated by its participation in the Western Undergraduate Exchange Program, which offers reduced tuition rates for students from Western US states.

The large undergraduate population at NAU reflects the university's broad appeal and dedication to providing educational opportunities for a diverse range of students.

Total graduate enrollment

Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public research university in Flagstaff, Arizona. NAU offers a wide range of graduate programs for students to choose from. As of Fall 2023, the total graduate enrollment at the university stood at 5,060 students, constituting a significant part of the overall student population.

The university is divided into several academic colleges, including the College of Arts and Letters, the College of Education, the Steve Sanghi College of Engineering, and the College of Health and Human Services, among others. Each college offers a variety of graduate programs, contributing to the diverse academic landscape of the university.

One of the notable aspects of NAU's graduate programs is their focus on applied and interdisciplinary fields. For instance, the College of Arts and Letters houses the Kitt School of Music, the Clara M. Lovett Art Museum, and the Northern Arizona Writing Project, offering graduate students a blend of academic and creative pursuits.

The College of Education, another cornerstone of NAU academics, provides graduate programs in early childhood, elementary, secondary, and higher education. This college also houses unique initiatives, such as the Diné Dual Language Teachers Professional Development Project, which equips teachers with the skills to teach in Diné (Navajo) language instruction programs.

Moving to the STEM fields, the Steve Sanghi College of Engineering offers an extensive range of graduate programs, including applied physics, civil and environmental engineering, construction management, and mechanical engineering. With 13 master's and 5 doctoral programs, the college provides ample opportunities for graduate students to specialize in their areas of interest.

The College of Health and Human Services is another prominent choice for graduate students, offering master's and doctoral programs that prepare students for careers in health professions. This college has departments such as Communication Sciences and Disorders, Occupational Therapy, and Physician Assistant Studies, catering to students who aim to serve the healthcare needs of the community.

NAU's graduate programs are not limited to traditional academic disciplines. The W. A. Franke College of Business, for example, offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with a focus on entrepreneurship and a range of business certification programs. This college is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including the LEED-Gold certified Franke building, which provides a conducive environment for graduate studies.

In addition to its on-campus offerings, NAU also excels in online education, with NAU Online providing over 140 fully online options for graduate degrees, certificates, and minors. This flexibility allows students to pursue their graduate studies while balancing work or other commitments.

The university's commitment to graduate education is evident in the support provided by the Graduate College. It offers more than 80 master's degrees, about 20 doctoral degrees, and 40 graduate certificates, both in-person and online. NAU ensures that graduate students receive hands-on mentoring and have access to numerous research, scholarship, and creative activities to enhance their academic experience.

Student housing

Northern Arizona University (NAU) offers a range of housing options for its students. The university accommodates its diverse student body by providing various living arrangements, including apartments for single and married students, special housing for disabled and international students, and other housing options.

On-Campus Housing

NAU provides on-campus housing for its students, with approximately 10,200 students living in campus housing in the Fall of 2024. The university prioritises residential engagement, recognising its positive impact on the student experience and academic success. The convenience of on-campus housing allows students easy access to classes, academic resources, student life activities, and campus employment opportunities.

The Flagstaff campus, nestled among the pines, offers a unique and enriching living experience. The campus features 26 residential buildings, including first-year residence halls and upper-division housing options.

First-Year Halls

First-year students at NAU can choose from a variety of residence halls, including Allen Hall, Campbell Hall, Cowden Hall, Honors College, McConnell Hall, Morton Hall, Reilly Hall, Sechrist Hall, Taylor Hall, Tinsley Hall, and Wilson Hall. These halls provide a supportive and engaging environment for new students to transition into university life.

Upper-Division Housing

For sophomores, juniors, and seniors, NAU offers a range of suite-style and apartment housing options on campus. These include Calderón, Campus Heights, Gabaldon, Gillenwater, McDonald, McKay Village, Mountain View, Pine Ridge Village, Raymond, Roseberry, and South Village. These housing options provide a more independent living experience while still offering the convenience and community of on-campus life.

Partner Housing

In addition to its own on-campus housing, NAU also has a partnership with American Campus Communities, which offers priority leasing to rising juniors and seniors currently living on campus. These partner halls, located on the NAU campus, include The Suites, Hilltop Townhomes, and Skyview.

Off-Campus Housing

While NAU provides a comprehensive range of on-campus housing options, a significant portion of its students, approximately 56%, choose to live off campus. These students may opt for private rentals or other housing arrangements in the surrounding community.

Special Housing

NAU is committed to accommodating the diverse needs of its student body. They provide special housing options for students with disabilities, ensuring equal access to the university experience. Additionally, the university offers special housing for international students, fostering a global community on campus.

Housing for Specific Demographics

NAU also provides apartments for married students and other specific housing options. These tailored accommodations contribute to the university's inclusive and diverse environment, ensuring that students from various backgrounds can find a sense of belonging and support during their time at NAU.

In conclusion, Northern Arizona University offers a comprehensive range of housing options to suit the diverse needs and preferences of its student body. With a mix of on-campus, off-campus, and special housing arrangements, NAU ensures that its students have access to safe, convenient, and engaging living environments that enhance their overall university experience.

Student demographics

Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public research university based in Flagstaff, Arizona. NAU is one of three universities governed by the Arizona Board of Regents. As of Fall 2023, NAU had a total of 28,194 enrolled students, with 21,550 at the Flagstaff campus and the rest studying online or at other campuses across the state. The gender distribution of the student body is 36.5% male and 63.5% female. The student population is diverse, with students coming from all 15 Arizona counties, 111 federally recognised Native American tribes, and an international student population.

In Fall 2024, NAU celebrated its 125th anniversary and welcomed its most diverse entering class in history. The class included the highest percentage of new Hispanic students (29%), the highest percentage of new Native American students (4.2%), and the highest percentage of new Pell-eligible students (41%) in the university's history. The university also serves first-generation college students, with 42% of new freshmen and transfer students, and 40% of all undergraduates identifying as first-generation.

The student body is made up of a mix of degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students, with a total undergraduate enrollment of 23,134 and a total graduate enrollment of 5,060 in Fall 2023. The university offers a range of housing options, with 44% of students living in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing, and 56% living off-campus.

The university is divided into eight colleges, with a ninth, the College of Medicine, in development. The colleges offer a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, as well as academic certificates. The top undergraduate programs by enrollment include Psychological Sciences, Criminology and Criminal Justice, and Elementary Education.

Student retention and graduation rates

Northern Arizona University (NAU) has a strong focus on student retention and graduation rates, with various initiatives in place to support students throughout their academic journey. NAU has made significant improvements in these areas in recent years, with the highest six-year graduation rates since the federal government mandated reporting on graduation data in the 1990s.

The university prioritises student success and offers a range of resources to enhance the student experience and propel academic achievement. NAU's efforts have resulted in impressive retention and graduation statistics. Overall, more than three out of four students are retained after their first year, and more than three out of five students earn their degree from NAU within six years. This means that over 75% of first-year students continue their studies at NAU, and more than 60% of students obtain their degrees from the university within a six-year period.

Additionally, NAU's data indicates that more than four out of five students complete their degrees, either from NAU or another institution, within six years. This showcases the university's commitment to providing a supportive and academically enriching environment that fosters student success.

To achieve these impressive retention and graduation rates, NAU offers a comprehensive range of support services and resources. The university prioritises student immersion and success, with approximately 10,200 students living in on-campus housing. This provides students with convenient access to classes, academic resources, student life activities, and a strong sense of community.

NAU also offers a diverse range of academic programs, ensuring students can find their ideal course of study. The university is divided into several academic colleges, offering about 130 undergraduate and graduate programs, along with various academic certificates. This breadth of options allows students to explore their interests and discover their ideal academic path.

The university's commitment to student success is further evidenced by its Access2Excellence (A2E) initiative, which provides tuition-free undergraduate education for Arizona residents with households earning $65,000 or below. This initiative ensures that financial barriers do not hinder students from pursuing their academic goals and contributes to NAU's impressive retention and graduation rates.

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