About Northern Arizona University
NAU began as a teachers’ college, and our commitment to building a better tomorrow through education remains our highest priority. Our students, mentored by renowned faculty, are at the center of all we do.
In the classroom and online, through interactive experiences, and with the NAU community cheering them on, our students discover and hone their ambitions.
Past, present, and future
NAU's history
Founded in 1899 as a teacher training school, Northern Arizona University has grown into a nationally recognized research institution, shaped by resilience, defined by inclusivity, and driven by a long-standing commitment to opportunity and excellence.
NAU today
Grounded in the values that shaped its beginning, we are a forward-looking institution driving innovation, sustainability, and opportunity, expanding our impact in Arizona and beyond.
NAU's future
Looking ahead, we are focused on advancing student success, fostering innovation, and strengthening community partnerships to shape the future of higher education and be a driver of social impact in Arizona.
Land acknowledgement
Northern Arizona University sits at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, on homelands sacred to Native Americans throughout the region. We honor their past, present, and future generations, who have lived here for millennia and will forever call this place home.
