Northwestern earns national recognition as College of Distinction

Northwestern College has been named one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction in acknowledgment of its continued dedication to high-impact educational practices.

Northwestern’s first-year seminars, service-learning programs, Spring Service Partnerships, intensive writing courses, interdisciplinary programs, collaborative assignments and projects, undergraduate research, capstone projects, study abroad programs, internships and Honors Program are among the factors that led to the Colleges of Distinction recognition.

“We are honored to name Northwestern College as a 2017–18 College of Distinction for its continued commitment to student success,” says Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction. “Colleges of Distinction applauds Northwestern for pushing the envelope with its up-to-date curriculum, enriching the college experience with high-impact educational practices, and providing every student with an education that stretches far beyond what’s typically required from an academic major.”

The annual process of selecting the nation’s Colleges of Distinction requires that institutions adhere to the organization’s four distinctions—engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes. This process also includes a review of each institution’s freshman experience, as well as its general education program, strategic plan, alumni success, satisfaction measures and more.

“Colleges of Distinction is much more than an annual ranking of colleges and universities. Our goal is to select the best schools that are 100 percent focused on the student experience and producing the most well-rounded graduates that are prepared for a global society and economy,” says Schritter. “The College of Distinction recognition is proof that the institutions we select are fully invested in their students’ success, beginning on day one, and continuing through the rest of their lives.”

Northwestern College is one of only two Iowa institutions to be named Christian Colleges of Distinction and one of nine selected as Iowa Colleges of Distinction.

Since 2000, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook have recognized and honored schools throughout the U.S. for excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The website, www.CollegesofDistinction.com, and guidebook provide dynamic college profiles; customized tools; and resources for students, parents and high school counselors.