Purdue University
The institution
Emerging from the celebrated Purdue University system, Purdue University Northwest (PNW) was founded in 2016, through the unification of Purdue University Calumet and Purdue University North Central. Situated in Northwest Indiana, with campuses in Hammond and Westville, it’s strategically located near the bustling metropolis of Chicago. Ranked consistently among the top regional universities in the US, PNW is a testament to Purdue’s longstanding legacy of academic excellence.
With over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs, the institution places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, ensuring students are not just academically proficient but also industry-ready. Offering an intimate learning environment, PNW prides itself on fostering close-knit interactions between students and faculty. This personalized approach is evident with its commendable student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for vibrant discussions and unparalleled mentorship.
A noteworthy feature of PNW is its commitment to diversity and internationalization. With students from all corners of the globe, it becomes an ideal choice for those seeking a global perspective in their academic journey. For African students looking to immerse themselves in a rigorous academic curriculum combined with practical insights, Purdue University Northwest emerges as a beacon of opportunity in the vast educational landscape. Dive into a realm of discovery, innovation, and holistic growth at PNW.
Majors
Purdue Northwest (PNW) offers a vibrant array of majors catering to a variety of interests and career aspirations. Through its diverse colleges and schools, students have the opportunity to delve into a wide range of fields and gain the skills needed for today’s competitive job market.
Undergraduate Level:
Engineering and Engineering Technologies:
With majors like Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Engineering, PNW provides a solid foundation for students keen on innovating and problem-solving in the engineering realm1.
Engineering Technologies also form a significant part of PNW’s offerings, with degrees that prepare students for practical, hands-on roles in various engineering sectors2.
Health Professions:
A notable area of study, the health profession majors like Nursing, Radiologic Sciences, and Medical Laboratory Science, aim at preparing students for rewarding careers in healthcare2.
Business, Management, and Marketing:
PNW’s business majors are robust, offering degrees in areas like Business Analytics, Finance, Marketing, and Human Resource Management, preparing students for leadership roles in the business world2.
Computer & Information Sciences:
Majors such as Computer Science and Information Systems provide the groundwork for students interested in the ever-evolving tech industry2.
Biological & Biomedical Sciences:
Students with a passion for life sciences can pursue degrees in Biology and Biomedical Sciences, exploring the mysteries of living organisms and their environments2.
Education:
For those aspiring to shape the next generation, education majors at PNW offer a path to becoming qualified educators2.
Communication & Journalism:
Majors in this field prepare students for careers in media, public relations, and journalism, among others2.
Graduate Level:
Engineering:
Advanced studies in engineering are available, allowing for specialization in various engineering disciplines3.
Business and Management:
With the MBA program and other master’s degrees in business-related fields, graduates can further hone their managerial and strategic planning skills4.
Nursing:
Graduate programs in Nursing offer avenues for advanced practice and specialized healthcare service delivery5.
Education:
Graduate education majors have the opportunity to deepen their understanding and expertise in educational practices and leadership6.
Purdue Northwest’s commitment to practical learning, coupled with a broad spectrum of majors, creates a conducive environment for academic growth and career preparation. With state-of-the-art facilities and a faculty dedicated to student success, PNW stands as a viable choice for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience.
Scholarships
Purdue NorthWest prides itself on fostering educational access through a robust scholarship programme, aimed particularly at nurturing the academic aspirations of international students from the African continent. In a commitment to recognising scholarly excellence, Purdue NorthWest offers various scholarships to both incoming freshmen and transfer students, with potential awards up to $15,000 annually. These scholarships are merit-based and are automatically considered upon application, dependent upon previous academic achievement.
For graduate-level students, although direct scholarships may not be available due to already competitive tuition rates, Purdue NorthWest extends a number of graduate assistantship roles. These roles are not only financially rewarding, with potential tuition fee waivers, but also provide a stipend, marrying financial support with practical, hands-on experience in the student’s field of study.
The pursuit of such scholarships and assistantships is competitive, reflecting the university’s high academic standards. Interested students are advised to showcase their academic records and prepare to meet the criteria detailed by Purdue NorthWest.
To navigate the complexities of applying for these opportunities, Seed Educational Consulting is on hand to assist. With expert advice and guidance tailored to the unique needs of African students seeking study abroad opportunities, Seed Educational Consulting ensures that your academic journey is complemented by viable financial support options at Purdue NorthWest.
Location
Purdue NorthWest is nestled in a lively college town with approximately 40,000 residents, offering the perfect blend of academic focus and community vitality.
Proximity to the Third Largest U.S. City:
Situated just 55km from the dynamic city of Chicago, you have access to endless opportunities. Chicago is renowned for its iconic architecture, historic skyscrapers, world-class museums, and a thriving jazz and blues music scene. It’s the ideal place to explore and enjoy your free time.
Convenient Travel Options:
While a limited commuter train service connects Purdue NorthWest to Chicago, students often choose the flexibility of car rides or taxis for weekend adventures in the city.
Safe and Peaceful Environment:
Purdue NorthWest offers a safe and serene atmosphere, providing the perfect setting for focused learning. The town’s strategic location is exceptional, with a 40-minute drive to the international airport, 40 minutes to Chicago, and just 10 minutes from local restaurants, shopping centers, and grocery stores.
Student-Friendly Transport:
Getting around is effortless with our free student shuttle bus, serving local shopping areas from Thursday through Sunday. Additionally, a city bus is available for a small fee, offering routes that connect students to nearby suburbs. Two nearby train options for travel to and from Chicago are at your disposal. Most students appreciate the convenience and affordability of car-sharing apps like Uber for moving around the area
Campus Life
At Purdue NorthWest, our commitment to fostering an enriching campus life is unwavering. We believe in providing our students with a holistic educational experience that goes beyond the classroom.
World-Class Facilities:
Despite our compact size, we are proud to offer a wealth of outstanding facilities for students and the wider community to enjoy.
The crown jewel of our campus is the Recreation and Fitness Center, where you’ll find a fully equipped fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, an aerobics studio, and courts for basketball, badminton, and volleyball. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or just enjoy staying active, our facilities are designed to help you thrive.
For sports enthusiasts, we offer an Intramural Sports Program, creating an environment for spirited competitions within the university. Major team sports like Football/Soccer, Basketball, and Volleyball are just a few of the exciting options available.
Purdue NorthWest boasts sports teams known as The Flyers. These teams compete at an NCAA Division 2 Level, extending to sports like Track & Field and Tennis. We take pride in the numerous former students who have gone on to become professional athletes, including Olympians and professional football players.
Diverse Student Organizations:
Diversity and inclusivity are at the core of our campus life. We offer over a hundred student organizations, ensuring that everyone can find their place.
Our student organizations cover a wide spectrum of interests, including sports, performing arts, different religions, inter-faith groups, and we actively support the Black Student Association, promoting diversity and fostering a sense of belonging.
For those interested in media and broadcasting, students run our campus radio and television stations, providing real-world experience and room for creativity.
Outdoor Adventures and Recreation:
We understand that balance is essential. Purdue NorthWest’s campus offers a variety of opportunities to embrace the great outdoors and stay active.
Our outdoor offerings include sports fields, 8 kilometers of on-campus woodland trails, perfect for running and mountain biking, 6 tennis courts, and a disc golf course, a unique and exciting alternative to traditional golf.
If you prefer leisurely outdoor activities, we offer over 250 student organizations and 400 intramural teams, guaranteeing there’s something for everyone. Whether you are interested in the Amateur Radio Club, Disc Golf Club, Anime, or Wrestling, you will find a group that aligns with your passions.
International Student Association:
We strongly encourage all students to become active members of our International Student Association. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow international students, share cultural experiences, and create lasting memories.
Housing
At Purdue University Northwest, we understand the importance of having a comfortable and convenient place to stay while pursuing your education. Discover the various housing options we offer:
On-Campus Residences:
We take pride in our 12 different residence halls, providing housing for approximately 1,200 students in total. When you choose to live on campus, you gain access to an array of amenities aimed at making your stay enjoyable and productive.
Modern Amenities: Students living on campus have access to free WiFi internet, shared kitchen spaces for personal cooking, cable television, and washing machines.
Convenient Transportation: We offer a Campus Shuttle service to nearby shops at no additional cost, ensuring that you have easy access to your daily essentials.
Freshmen Accommodations: Our residence halls for Freshmen students feature double occupancy rooms with communal bathrooms along the corridor. Each Freshmen Hall of Residence boasts a spacious communal lounge area with recreational facilities, including a pool table, tennis table, TV, and vending machines.
Options for Upperclassmen and Graduate Students: Upperclassmen and graduate students have access to various halls of residence, offering a mix of single or double rooms. Most of these residence halls also offer communal bathrooms along the corridor, though we have three halls that offer apartment-style configurations. To explore the details of the different on-campus residences available, please [click here](insert link).
Meal Plans:
All students living on campus are required to choose one of our three meal plans, ensuring that you have access to well-balanced and delicious meals. If you decide to live off-campus, you still have the option to select a meal plan or purchase individual meals from any of our five campus eateries. For more information about our meal plans and the dining options on campus, please [click here](insert link).
Off-Campus Living:
For those who prefer living off-campus, we provide resources and support to help you find private apartments or shared housing that suits your preferences.
Independent Living:
If you seek a more independent style of living, consider our modern residential apartments. These apartments are conveniently located just a short distance from the main campus building, offering single and twin rooms. Some en-suite rooms are available, equipped with essential amenities such as fridge-freezers, washing machines, and other appliances to make your student life comfortable.
Start Your Academic Journey:
We recognize that your housing choice is a crucial part of your academic experience. Whether you opt for on-campus housing, off-campus living, or a homestay program, we are here to support you every step of the way.
What comes next?
After successfully earning your degree at Purdue University Northwest, you become eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT). This program offers you the chance to work off-campus in a field relevant to your studies for up to 12 months. If you’ve pursued a STEM major, this period can extend to a remarkable 36 months. The best part? You not only gain valuable work experience but also receive compensation for your efforts.
The Freedom to Choose OPT:
It’s essential to know that you have the freedom to choose OPT, whether it’s after completing your Bachelor’s or Master’s program. This flexibility ensures that your education aligns with your unique career aspirations.
Transitioning to Further Studies:
For many Purdue University Northwest graduates, this stage marks the next step towards obtaining their Bachelor’s degree. Typically, you’ll complete your Freshman and Sophomore years (Years 1 and 2 of the Bachelor’s program) at Purdue University Northwest before transferring to a 4-year university for your Junior and Senior years (Years 3 and 4).
Opportunity for an Additional Year of OPT:
If you’re eager to start your career right after Purdue University Northwest, you also have the option to apply for an additional year of OPT. This extra year allows you to continue building work experience and financial stability. Importantly, choosing OPT after Purdue University Northwest keeps you eligible for another year of OPT after successfully completing your Bachelor’s degree.
Seed loves Duquesne University because...
Exceptional Academics: Purdue Northwest is renowned for its exceptional Engineering and Nursing programs. With a strong emphasis on practical training, students are well-prepared to excel in these high-demand fields.
Generous Scholarships: Purdue Northwest offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, making quality education more accessible and affordable.
Strategic Location: Situated in Northwest Indiana, Purdue Northwest offers a serene learning environment, while being just an hour away from the bustling city of Chicago.
Quick Navigation
Key information:
Location:
Westville, Indiana, USA
Type of Institution:
4-year University
Suitable for:
- High school leavers
- Transfer students
- Graduate students
- Working professionals seeking further education
Majors:
70+ undergraduate programmes (including Biomedical Engineering, Communication, Electrical Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Nursing, and Organisational Leadership) and, 20+ postgraduate programmes (including Business Administration (MBA), Mechanical Engineering, Nursing, and Technology)
Annual tuition (in USD):
- Undergraduate: $10,000 – $29,999
- Postgraduate: $9,743 – $15,473
Estimated annual expenses (USD):
- Undergraduate: $25,000 – $40,000
- Postgraduate: $20,000 – $35,000
Number of students:
Approximately 9,400
Campus housing?
Yes
Nearest airports:
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Need more info?
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Institutions for USA Transfer students – those who want to complete their Bachelor degree in the Unites States:
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Institutions for Graduate studies – those looking to apply for a Master’s or MBA in the USA: