Northwest began as Tate County Agricultural High School in 1915.

Depression era students were allowed to pay for room and board with produce, and World War II male students studied at an accelerated pace to join the war effort.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools gave accreditation to Northwest in 1953.

[5] The college serves an eleven county district and gradually expanded its offerings.

[3] The DeSoto Center campus is situated on a 47-acre (19 ha) site in Southaven, Mississippi.

DeSoto County is also the home of the Olive Branch, Mississippi career-technical campus, established in 1985.

[6] Northwest offers classes to prepare students for further academic achievement or for career advancement.

Leisure activities include pep rallies, cookouts, a workout center, swimming, dancing, and free movies and concerts.