Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public research university located in Flagstaff, Arizona. Founded in 1899, NAU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across a variety of fields including education, engineering, business, health, and the arts.
NAU is known for its strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The university has been recognized as a “Tree Campus USA” for its efforts to promote healthy trees and engage the community in tree care, and it was the first university in Arizona to sign the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment.
The university is also home to the Center for Science Teaching and Learning, which provides professional development for K-12 science teachers and promotes science education in the community. NAU is a member of the Big Sky Conference and competes in 15 NCAA Division I sports. The university’s athletic programs have a strong tradition of success, including multiple conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
Here are 34 interesting facts about Northern Arizona University to give more information about this public research university.
- Northern Arizona University was founded in 1899 as the Northern Arizona Normal School.
- The university’s main campus is located in Flagstaff, Arizona, at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level.
- NAU is the third-largest university in Arizona, with a total enrollment of over 30,000 students.
- The university offers over 150 degree programs across a variety of fields.
- NAU is home to the W.A. Franke College of Business, which is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the country.
- The university’s College of Education is known for its strong programs in teacher education and educational leadership.
- NAU’s College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences offers degree programs in areas such as civil engineering, computer science, and environmental science.
- The university’s College of Health and Human Services offers programs in nursing, social work, and public health.
- NAU’s College of Arts and Letters offers degree programs in areas such as anthropology, history, and music.
- The university’s Honors College provides an enriched academic experience for high-achieving students.
- NAU has a diverse student population, with students from all 50 states and over 70 countries.
- The university’s mascot is Louie the Lumberjack.
- NAU has a strong commitment to sustainability and has been recognized as a top performer in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education’s Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS).
- The university has over 400 student organizations, including academic clubs, service groups, and sports teams.
- NAU is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution and offers a range of programs and services to support Hispanic and Latino students.
- The university’s Cline Library is home to over 2 million volumes of books and other materials.
- NAU has a partnership with the Navajo Nation that provides opportunities for Navajo students to pursue higher education.
- The university’s Campus Recreation Center offers a variety of fitness and recreational opportunities for students, including a climbing wall and an indoor track.
- NAU is home to the NAU Art Museum, which features exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art from around the world.
- The university’s School of Music is home to the Shrine of the Ages Choir, which has performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Vatican.
- NAU is a member of the Western Athletic Conference and competes in NCAA Division I sports.
- The university’s football team, the Lumberjacks, has won multiple conference championships.
- NAU has a strong tradition of outdoor education and offers programs such as the Outdoor Adventures program, which provides opportunities for students to explore the natural beauty of northern Arizona.
- The university’s International Pavilion provides a space for students from around the world to come together and share their cultures.
- NAU’s Forestry program is one of the oldest and most respected in the country.
- The university’s Center for Ecosystem Science and Society conducts research on environmental issues such as climate change and forest management.
- NAU has a strong commitment to Native American education and offers programs such as the Native American Cultural Center and the Native American Student Services program.
- The university’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers degree programs in areas such as anthropology, sociology, and psychology.
- NAU’s College of Health Professions offers programs in areas such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training.
- The university’s School of Hotel and Restaurant Management is one of the top programs of its kind in the country.
- NAU’s Center for International Education offers a range of study abroad programs for students.
- The university offers a variety of online degree programs, including programs in nursing, education, and business.
- NAU has a partnership with the nearby Lowell Observatory, which allows students and faculty to engage in research and educational programs related to astronomy and space science.
- The university has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and offers a range of programs and services to support underrepresented students.
Northern Arizona University offers a unique and enriching academic experience for students looking to pursue higher education in the Southwest. With its stunning natural surroundings, commitment to sustainability, and strong partnerships with industry leaders, NAU is a great choice for students interested in fields such as environmental science, forestry, and engineering. The university’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion also makes it a welcoming and supportive community for students from all backgrounds. Whether you’re interested in undergraduate research, community service, or simply exploring the beauty of the surrounding landscape, Northern Arizona University has something to offer for every student.