North Central College logo

North Central College

Naperville, IL

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Lux Veritas (Latin)("Light of Truth")

1861
Founded
2,360
Total Students
$44K
Tuition (In-State)
$44K
Tuition (Out-State)
$23K
Avg Net Price
58%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
6-year
82%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About North Central College

North Central College: A historic journey from 1861, now embracing the legacy of Shimer Great Books.

North Central College boasts a rich and dynamic history, tracing its roots back to 1861 as Plainfield College. This institution has undergone significant transformations, including a pivotal move to Naperville in 1870 and a final name change in 1926 to North Central College. This journey underscores its enduring commitment to evolving with educational needs while maintaining a strong foundation.

A landmark moment in its recent history occurred in June 2017 with the acquisition of Shimer College. This strategic integration led to the establishment of the Shimer Great Books School of North Central College, significantly enriching its academic portfolio. This addition emphasizes a unique educational pathway focused on classical texts and rigorous intellectual inquiry, fostering a deep and analytical approach to learning.

Guided by its Latin motto, "Lux Veritas" (Light, Truth), North Central College embodies a spirit of inquiry and discovery. For prospective students and families, it offers an environment steeped in tradition yet forward-looking, where a vibrant academic community pursues knowledge and personal growth. The college's long-standing presence and its commitment to diverse educational offerings, exemplified by the Great Books program, promise a distinctive and valuable college experience.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1861, boasting over 160 years of educational heritage.
  • Originally founded as Plainfield College in Plainfield, Illinois.
  • Relocated to its current Naperville campus in 1870.
  • Officially became North Central College in 1926.
  • Acquired Shimer College in 2017, integrating its renowned Great Books curriculum.
  • Home to the Shimer Great Books School of North Central College.
  • Guided by the inspiring Latin motto, "Lux Veritas" (Light, Truth).

Timeline

1861
Founded as "Plainfield College" in Plainfield, Illinois.
1861
First classes held on November 11.
1864
Board of Trustees changed name to "North-Western College".
1870
College moved to Naperville, Illinois.
1926
Name changed to "North Central College".
2017
Acquired Shimer College.
2017
Instituted the Shimer Great Books School of North Central College.
🏛️
165 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within North Central College

🏫

Shimer Great Books School of North Central College

Instituted in 2017 following the acquisition of Shimer College, offering a distinctive great books curriculum.

Find Scholarships at North Central College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search