Quick answers to the questions families ask us most.
Northwest offers a wide range of student organizations — academic, cultural, creative, social, leadership-based, and more. Getting involved helps students build confidence, develop new skills, and feel connected to campus.
There’s always something to do at Northwest. Students can attend lectures, arts events, athletic games, cultural celebrations, concerts, and student-led activities that enrich their college experience.
Absolutely. Intramurals are hugely popular at Northwest — with options ranging from flag football to volleyball to pickleball. It’s a fun way to meet people, stay active, and relieve stress.
Yes. Students can connect with several religious and spiritual organizations on campus. They can browse the student organization directory and filter by “Religious/Spiritual” to find a community that fits their beliefs and interests.
You can also view list of Religion Services from the Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce.
First-year students live in one of our residence halls, each staffed with trained Resident Assistants and designed to build community. Rooms are furnished, Wi-Fi is included, and students have easy access to dining, study spaces and campus events.
Northwest offers flexible meal plan choices that fit a variety of student needs. Dining locations across campus include traditional dining halls, grab-and-go options, coffee shops, and retail dining. Students can manage their meal swipes and flex spending throughout the semester.
Student safety is a top priority. Northwest provides 24/7 University Police, campus alert notifications, Safe Ride programs, and well-lit pathways across campus. Wellness Services and residence hall staff also play an active role in student support.
Wellness Services provides medical care, counseling, health education, and wellness programs. Students pay a Wellness Fee that covers office visits and counseling, while insurance may cover additional services. Mental health support is available both in person and virtually.
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Spring Semester |
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Fall Move-in Day Advantage (orientation) First day of classes |
Spring Move-in Day Winter Welcome (orientation) First day of classes |
Northwest provides resources, events and opportunities for students to develop skills and build networks with employers, faculty, staff and alumni, benefiting students in their lifelong career journey.
Encourage your student to participate in Career Services events and take advantage of resources to ensure they are career ready, day one. Examples of services:
Parents can sign up for newsletters, follow Northwest on social media, and attend signature events like Move-In Day, Family Weekend, Homecoming, and Commencement. You’re part of the Bearcat community, too — and we love having families involved.
Yes! Many departments hire students, offering flexible schedules and hands-on experience. On-campus jobs help students build responsibility, gain professional skills, and earn money while staying close to their academic resources.
Students can grant parents access to their account to view billing, financial aid, and make payments. Bills are issued electronically, and payment plans are available. If your student has questions, they can contact Student Account Services directly — or authorize you to do so on their behalf.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects student records. This means the university cannot share grades or other academic information with parents without the student’s written permission. Students can easily authorize parental access if they choose.
Northwest offers academic advising, tutoring, Supplemental Instruction, a Writing Center, academic success workshops, and access to Career Services. Students are encouraged to reach out early and use these resources often.
At five weeks, midterm and eleven weeks, students receive an advisory grade to know how they are progressing academically. These grades are not recorded permanently. We advise students to connect with their instructor and advisor to obtain academic support through the available resources on campus.
