[ROSEMONT, IL] – Northwestern College, the second oldest private, two-year college in Illinois, announced today that its Board of Directors recently voted against an increase in tuition for the 2012-2013 academic year.  Thus the costs per credit hour in the upcoming year will remain the same as those assessed during the 2011-2012 academic year.

Speaking on behalf of its Board of Directors, Northwestern College President Lawrence Schumacher explained that the Board was quite sensitive to the state of the economy and the fact that so many of its students continue to struggle to make ends meet, with little sign of relief in the near future.  While he confirmed the fact that costs for the college have increased this year, President Schumacher noted that an increase in tuition would be an extreme burden for their students, especially at a time when they’ve had to be extra patient awaiting the issuance of MAP grants from the State of Illinois these past two years.  

“Northwestern College is well aware that many of our students are struggling financially right now,” stated Schumacher.  “If we can ease some of their anxiety and hold the line on tuition, it just might ease a little bit of that burden and bring our students a few steps closer to completion of their education.”

Founded in 1902, Northwestern College is a family-owned higher education institution with over a century of history in the Chicagoland area.  It has grown from one campus in Chicago serving a handful of students in accounting and stenography, to three campuses (Bridgeview, Chicago-Jefferson Park and Naperville) serving 2,000 students and maintaining several dozen areas of study. 

About Northwestern College:

Northwestern College (NC) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, www.ncahlc.org. The college offers focused career-oriented associate degree and certificate programs with flexible schedules and a supportive faculty. Day, evening, weekend, and online classes are available with campuses in Chicago, Bridgeview, and Naperville. More information can be found at www.northwesterncollege.edu or by calling toll-free (888) 205-2283.