Students can study a full range of courses to prepare for university, college, apprenticeship and the workforce, along with Five Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) courses: Health & Wellness, Energy, Transportation, Manufacturing and Hospitality & Tourism.

[4] The school curriculum included unique courses such as cosmetology, horticulture and culinary classes.

The culinary class operates an in-school restaurant called The Screaming Avocado, which opened in 2004, where gourmet foods are prepared and served by students as a healthy, balanced alternative to the cafeteria food offered.

[5][6] Food Network Canada featured a 13-episode series in 2007 called Fink which followed the adventures of the Northwestern Culinary Club's trip to Italy.

[7] Northwestern was the host school for iCASE, the International Canadian Academy of Sports Excellence offering a combined academic and baseball training program.