Seine Bolks, the first pastor of First Reformed Church, started a Christian classical academy to prepare students for college and ultimately the ministry.

Zwemer Hall, the first permanent building, was erected in 1894 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

[16][17] Academic offerings have expanded to include online and graduate degree programs, and more than $50 million has been invested in new construction and other campus improvements since 2013.

[19] NWC offers more than 135 programs of study, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission,[20] and awards Bachelor of Arts (B.A.

[35] Through NWC's partnerships with other institutions and organizations—including the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU)[36]—Northwestern students can take advantage of more than 20 additional off-campus study programs[37] in countries that include Costa Rica, England, France, Italy, Jordan, Spain and Uganda, as well as U.S. programs based in Los Angeles, Nashville, Baltimore and Michigan.

[44] Northwestern's DeWitt Family Science Center,[45] built in 2019 for $24.5 million, anchors the west edge of campus.

Lining either side of the campus green are Van Peursem Hall, where the majority of classes are held; the DeWitt Learning Commons, the college's library; and the DeWitt Music Hall, with rehearsal and practice rooms for NWC's band, vocal and orchestra students.

The Vogel Welcome Center, located just inside Northwestern's main entrance, is a first stop for visitors, including prospective students and their parents.

De Valois Stadium seats 3,100 for Northwestern football games, home track meets, and marching band competitions.

[54] The Bultman Center contains coaches' offices, athletic training facilities, classrooms and locker rooms, as well as a 2,200-seat gymnasium.

Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, tennis, track & field (indoor and outdoor teams), and wrestling.

Women's sports include basketball, cross country, dance, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track & field (indoor and outdoor teams), and volleyball.

[58] In 2001, both the men's and women's basketball teams won the national title, the first time an NAIA school accomplished the feat and only the second instance in collegiate history.