Indiana University Northwest
Indiana University Northwest General Information
Overview
Indiana University Northwest (IU Northwest) is a public regional campus of the Indiana University system established in 1963 and located in Gary, Indiana. It serves the northwest Indiana region and provides students with access to a full-scale university experience in an urban setting close to the Chicago metropolitan area. The institution offers over 70 undergraduate degree programs and numerous certificates and graduate offerings. With a campus of approximately 43 acres, IU Northwest provides in-person, online and hybrid course formats designed to accommodate a diverse range of learners—including first-generation students, professionals balancing work and study, and community residents seeking advancement.
The university emphasizes real-world experience through internships, research, experiential learning and strong community engagement. The student population reflects the surrounding region’s diversity, and the institution holds designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution. At IU Northwest, students are supported by personalized advising, academic support services, and a rich extracurricular environment. The university’s mission centers on accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives and supports regional economic and cultural development, offering a compelling value and community-focused environment.
Contact Informations
Address: 3400 Broadway, Gary, Indiana 46408 USA
Phone Number: (219) 980-6991 (main campus line)
Email Address: For general admissions inquiries, prospective students may contact the Office of Admissions at IU Northwest (specific publicized address varies by request).
School Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1963 Vikipedi+1 |
| Institutional Type | Public university, regional campus of Indiana University |
| Location | Gary, Indiana, USA Vikipedi |
| Campus Size | Approximately 43 acres northwest.iu.edu |
| Student Body Size | ~3,000-3,500 degree-seeking students northwest.iu.edu+1 |
| Designation | Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) northwest.iu.edu |
| Mascot / Nickname | RedHawks Vikipedi |
Indiana University Northwest Rankings
| Ranking Category | Rank / Position |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~76.7% (2023 data) Data USA+1 |
| Graduation Rate (within 150%) | ~38% (as reported) bigfuture.collegeboard.org+1 |
| Global/World University Ranking | Not widely ranked globally; Times Higher Education lists 801-1000+ for regional impact category Times Higher Education (THE) |
Indiana University Northwest Academics
Indiana University Northwest Faculties / Departments
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business and Economics
- College of Health and Human Services
- School of Education
- School of the Arts
- School of Public & Environmental Affairs Vikipedi
Indiana University Northwest Courses and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Master of Science in Health Sciences
- Certificate Programs in Data Analytics, Sustainability, Criminal Justice
- Associate Degree programs in Liberal Arts and Sciences Midwest Student Exchange Program
Online Learning
Indiana University Northwest offers a mix of in-person, hybrid and fully online courses and degree programs to accommodate working students and those requiring scheduling flexibility. The institution supports remote learners through digital platforms, virtual advising, and online student services, making it possible for many students to complete coursework from off-campus locations while still accessing full university resources. northwest.iu.edu+1
Average Test Scores
| Test | Range / Data |
|---|---|
| SAT | 920-1170 (when considered) Niche |
| ACT | 21-27 (when submitted) Niche |
| GRE | Not broadly applicable for undergraduate admissions |
Retention and Graduation Rates
For first-time full-time undergraduates, IU Northwest reports a retention rate of approximately 69% Data USA and a graduation (completion) rate within 150% of normal time of around 38%. These figures reflect the challenges and opportunities of serving a diverse student population that includes adult learners, part-time students and first-generation college students. The university continues to prioritize student support services, experiential learning and career readiness to improve these outcomes.
Indiana University Northwest Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission at IU Northwest is moderately selective, with consideration given to high school GPA, academic readiness, transcripts, and when submitted, standardized test scores. For first-time applicants, the SAT range is roughly 920-1170 and the ACT 21-27 for students who submit scores. However, test-optional policies may apply, and part-time and non-traditional student pathways are available. Niche
Indiana University Northwest Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~76.7% (2023) Data USA+1 |
Indiana University Northwest Application Requirements
Applicants must complete the official application, submit high school transcripts or GED equivalent, and often provide a resume or personal statement if applying to specific programs (e.g., nursing or business). International students must furnish proof of English language proficiency. Transfer students submit prior college transcripts for evaluation. Admissions counselors guide applicants through financial aid, advising and course planning, emphasizing accessibility and student success rather than highly selective entrance criteria.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the online application form
- Provide official high school transcript or GED certificate
- Submit standardized test scores (if required) or choose test-optional pathway
- Attend an admissions or advising session, often held virtually or on-campus
- Register for orientation, meet with advisor and schedule first semester courses
Indiana University Northwest Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fall semester registration | Typically begins early (e.g., preceding spring) |
| Spring semester registration | Usually from late-fall onward |
| Rolling admissions | Many programs accept applications until class fills |
Essay Prompt
Certain programs—especially in competitive schools such as Nursing, Business or Education—may invite applicants to submit a short essay or personal statement outlining their career goals, reasons for choosing IU Northwest, and how they intend to contribute to the campus community.
Indiana University Northwest Scholarships
IU Northwest offers an array of scholarships, including merit-based, need-based, alumni awards and departmental grants. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA, maintain academic standing and consult with the Office of Financial Aid for full eligibility. Specialized scholarships exist for first-generation students, underrepresented minorities, veterans and transfer students.
Indiana University Northwest Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Cost Category | Estimate (Undergraduate) |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | ~$7,492 per year (2023 median) Data USA |
| Average Net Price After Aid | ~$5,553 per year for students receiving aid Data USA |
Indiana University Northwest Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student body at IU Northwest is diverse both demographically and academically. According to data, roughly 44.7% of students identify as White, 28% as Hispanic or Latino, 19.1% as Black or African American, 2.8% as Asian and 4% as two or more races. Data USA In 2023, around 74% of degrees awarded went to women and 26% to men. Data USA The campus serves both traditional-age students and adult learners, with a substantial portion of students working while attending school. northwest.iu.edu
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 83% of undergraduates receive grant aid, indicating a high proportion of students with financial need. Data USA Disability support services are available to ensure that students with differing learning needs have access to accommodations, tutoring and accessible technologies. IU Northwest’s dedicated student support framework addresses academic, financial, and personal challenges to support completion and success.
Student Body
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~3,045 students (2023) Data USA |
| Full-Time Enrollment | ~66.1% of students Data USA |
University Diversity
Diversity is a core characteristic of Indiana University Northwest. The campus population encompasses students from multiple racial and ethnic backgrounds, a range of ages (including traditional and adult learners), and varying socioeconomic circumstances. As a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, IU Northwest actively supports inclusion, equity and broad access. Student life reflects this diversity through cultural clubs, community engagement initiatives, and academic programs oriented toward serving a multicultural region. From its urban setting in Gary to its proximity to Chicago, the campus draws learners with diverse experiences, ambitions and perspectives. This pluralistic environment enhances peer learning and prepares graduates for culturally competent leadership in increasingly diverse workplaces and communities.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Indiana University Northwest enter a wide range of fields including nursing, business, criminal justice, education and technology. Although precise median earnings vary by major and geography, data show that students benefit from the region’s employment opportunities—particularly in healthcare and business sectors. Due to the IJ Northwest’s commitment to career-relevant education and internships, many alumni achieve meaningful earnings relatively soon after graduation. The affordability of tuition combined with regional job demand positions IU Northwest graduates for return on investment and upward mobility in career pathways.
Indiana University Northwest Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Indiana University Northwest employs more than 170 full-time faculty and over 200 part-time instructors, with a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 14:1. northwest.iu.edu Faculty members support students through classroom instruction, research, experiential learning, and community partnership. Support staff include academic advisors, career services professionals, tutoring centers, and disability resources—all integral to student success.
Faculty Profiles
A significant portion of faculty hold the highest degree in their field, and many are recognized scholars and practitioners who engage in mentoring, research and community-based projects. Their expertise spans arts and sciences, business, health professions, education and more. This strong academic foundation ensures that students receive rigorous instruction that is both relevant and grounded in professional practice.
Indiana University Northwest Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Located on a 43-acre campus in Gary, Indiana, IU Northwest offers a vibrant student life experience with over 60 student clubs and organizations, athletic teams competing as the RedHawks (NAIA), art galleries, a theatre and student engagement events. northwest.iu.edu The campus is primarily commuter-based, but housing options are available nearby and many students engage in the strong community and extracurricular offerings. The institution’s atmosphere blends academic rigor with regional culture, making it more than just a commuter school.
Transportation
The campus is easily accessible via major highways (I-80/94 corridor) and local public transit, and offers student parking for commuter visitors. Its proximity to Chicago enables access to metropolitan opportunities while remaining embedded in the local community. Courses during evenings and weekends enhance flexibility for students with work or family obligations, supporting diverse student schedules and reducing transportation barriers.