School Details
The University of Northwestern – St. Paul is committed to providing Christ-centered higher education with a biblical worldview. Its origins date back to 1902 when it began as Northwestern Bible and Missionary Training School, starting with just seven students. Today, the university offers a wide range of on-campus programs, as well as online degree programs tailored to busy, working adults.
This accelerated format of UNW Online allows students to complete their Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees by taking one course at a time in a flexible online structure. It’s designed to accommodate the needs of adult learners, enabling them to balance their work and studies effectively.
Intellectual and spiritual growth are central to the UNW mission. The university aims to equip students to serve effectively in their professions and provide God-honoring leadership in various spheres, including homes, churches, communities, and the world. With a strong emphasis on Christian values, UNW provides a supportive learning environment for personal and professional development.
Accreditation & Licensing
University of Northwestern St. Paul is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
Take the first step towards a college degree with the online Associate of Arts in General Studies from the University of Northwestern St. Paul. You'll earn credits and take courses typically required in the first two years of a bachelor's degree program, covering the areas of:
- Communication
- History
- Art
- Literature
- Mathematics
- Science
- Bible
Business
Prepare for a leadership career with the Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree online. Become an effective decision-maker while completing courses built on a foundation of Christian values and ethics. Courses, taught by Christian professors with real-world experience, cover such topics as:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Human Resources
- Marketing
- Economics
Coursework features case studies that highlight real-world application of business principles.
A concentration in Healthcare Management is available.
Advance your business career without committing to an MBA with the Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics. Of course, this online business analytics degree is also fully transferable toward the completion of an MBA if you choose to continue your studies.
The curriculum provides cutting-edge skills and a solid moral compass with courses that cover business, ethics, and leadership. Learn to analyze information and solve problems while gaining experience in cloud computing and virtual servers. Train in the latest technologies, including:
- Tableau
- SAS
- R
- JMP
- Hadoop
- Python
The online Graduate Certificate in Leadership will help students develop essential leadership skills as they gain an introduction to graduate-level education. The curriculum teaches Christ-centered leadership principles that apply to work in business or ministry. Credits will fully transfer toward the Masters of Organizational Leadership.
The University of Northwestern St. Paul offers an online MBA for students seeking a program that will help them advance in business while using a biblical framework. This program prepares students for leadership positions in the global business community by enhancing their unique gifts and abilities with practical business skills so they can achieve greater levels of responsibility within organizations. Courses grow your faith and understanding as you learn from Christian professors who are experts in their field and have real-world business experience. Students will develop critical thinking, management, and communication skills, learn to manage teams, and take courses including:
- Managerial Leadership
- Business Leadership Ethics
- Strategic Management
- Data Analysis and Decision Making
- Marketing for Managers
Strategic networking is built into every course, helping students build professional relationships. The flexible program can be completed online or in a blended format taught both online and on-campus and can be completed in as little as 24 months through accelerated coursework that still incorporates Christ-centered values and ethics and a biblical perspective.
Prepare for a leadership position in business with the MBA with a concentration in Data Analytics. This online business analytics degree helps students advance in business while completing coursework that uses a biblical framework. Courses grow your faith and understanding as you learn from Christian professors who are experts in their field and have real-world business experience. Students completing the online master’s degree in business analytics complete courses that cover:
- Business Statistics & Analytics
- Data Mining for Business Analytics
- Forecasting Economic Principles & Applications
- Trends in Data Analytics
This program prepares students for leadership positions in the global business community by enhancing their unique gifts and abilities with practical business skills. Develop critical thinking, management, and communication skills and learn to manage teams.
Strategic networking is built into every course, helping students build professional relationships. The flexible program can be completed online or in a blended format taught both online and on-campus and can be completed in as little as 24 months through accelerated coursework that still incorporates Christ-centered values and ethics and a biblical perspective.
Prepare for a leadership position in business with the MBA with a concentration in Finance. This online finance degree helps students advance in business while completing coursework that use a biblical framework. Courses grow your faith and understanding as you learn from Christian professors who are experts in their field and have real-world business experience. Students completing the online finance master’s degree complete courses that cover:
- Forecasting Economic Principles & Applications
- Investments & Corporate Finance
- Legal Aspects of Business
- Managerial Accounting
This program prepares students for leadership positions in the global business community by enhancing their unique gifts and abilities with practical business skills. Develop critical thinking, management, and communication skills and learn to manage teams.
Strategic networking is built into every course, helping students build professional relationships. The flexible program can be completed online or in a blended format taught both online and on-campus and can be completed in as little as 24 months through accelerated coursework that still incorporates Christ-centered values and ethics and a biblical perspective.
Prepare for a leadership position in business with the MBA with a concentration in Management. This online business management degree helps students advance in business while completing coursework that use a biblical framework. Courses grow your faith and understanding as you learn from Christian professors who are experts in their field and have real-world business experience. Students completing the online master’s in business management complete courses that cover:
- Human Resource Leadership
- Leading Organizational Change
- Legal Aspects of Business
- Strategic Technology
This program prepares students for leadership positions in the global business community by enhancing their unique gifts and abilities with practical business skills. Develop critical thinking, management, and communication skills and learn to manage teams.
Strategic networking is built into every course, helping students build professional relationships. The flexible program can be completed online or in a blended format taught both online and on-campus and can be completed in as little as 24 months through accelerated coursework that still incorporates Christ-centered values and ethics and a biblical perspective.
The online Master’s in Organizational Leadership degree is ideal for people seeking to cultivate leadership ability, teaching students about themselves and others, along with skills to integrate faith into leadership and management. Courses combine theory, technology, and practical application so students gain marketable skills as they explore leadership in businesses, churches, nonprofit organizations, and government. This degree helps students advance in their careers and provides an effective path for personal and professional development, as well as spiritual and intellectual growth.
Benefit from:
- Average completion of two years
- Online and blended learning options
- Biblically-based foundations with a Christian worldview
- Professional networking opportunities
Healthcare
Prepare for an influential management position within healthcare with the MBA with a concentration in Healthcare Management. This online healthcare administration degree helps students advance in the healthcare industry, in senior care, and in business while completing coursework using a biblical framework. Courses grow your faith and understanding as you learn from Christian professors who are experts in their field and have real-world business experience. Students completing this online business administration degree complete courses that cover:
- Healthcare Financial Systems
- Healthcare Policy & Management
- Law & Ethics in Healthcare
- Leadership in Healthcare
This program prepares students for careers in the healthcare field by providing them with sought-after hard skills that are unique to this industry. Plus, you will develop critical thinking, management, and communication skills and learn to manage teams.
Strategic networking is built into every course, helping students build professional relationships. The flexible program can be completed online or in a blended format taught both online and on-campus and can be completed in as little as 24 months through accelerated coursework that still incorporates Christ-centered values and ethics and a biblical perspective.
Psychology & Human Services
The bachelor’s in Health Psychology program examines how psychological, behavioral, cultural, and social factors influence health and illness. Graduates will be prepared to work in the healthcare industry or for further graduate study.
Students will learn techniques for working with people on the autism spectrum or with developmental disabilities, as well as behavioral management techniques. Skills gained in this program can help enhance performance and satisfaction of employees in businesses and organizations, help children develop skills in educational settings, and improve the lives of adults with disabilities. Graduates will be equipped with effective communication skills to be able to counsel patients and discover techniques to improve behavioral health diagnoses.
Some of the topics studied in this online bachelor’s in Psychology degree program include:
- Foundations of health psychology
- Principles of counseling
- Stress and pain management
- Abnormal psychology
- Health promotion through the lifespan
Individuals interested in leadership positions in human service or planning to continue with further graduate study can consider the online master’s in Human Services from the University of Northwestern St. Paul. The program combines faith with work in private or public social service to help people with a variety of needs.
The curriculum emphasizes using research and a Christian worldview to understand people and the issues they face. Students will develop critical thinking skills and learn how to communicate effectively. An optional concentration is available in Family Studies.
Courses within this major program include:
- Theories of human development
- Worldview, leadership, and human services
- Parent education
- Multicultural and diversity issues in human services
- Marriage and family dynamics
Religion & Philosophy
You can expand your biblical knowledge with the Associate of Arts & Bible from the University of Northwestern St. Paul. The online biblical studies degree explores such areas as:
- Historical theology
- Interpreting scripture
- Christian thinking and living
- Survey of the Old Testament
Through the online biblical studies associate degree program, you develop your faith and knowledge of the Bible. Your online studies include general liberal arts courses and desired electives.
The online Bachelor of Arts in Biblical & Theological Studies provides a comprehensive foundation in biblical studies, theological inquiry, and spiritual formation. Aspiring scholars and religious leaders have unprecedented access to a rich and dynamic exploration of scripture, theology, and faith traditions. This online program seeks to illuminate the meanings, contexts, and interpretations of sacred scriptures, as well as to engage in critical reflection on theological concepts and ethical principles.
Topics include:
- Old Testament
- New Testament
- Theology
Career opportunities for graduates include jobs in Bible translation, research, writing, missions, Christian education, communication, camp ministry, pastoral ministry, and more. Students engage in dynamic theological inquiry, spiritual formation, and personal growth, preparing them to meet the challenges and opportunities of ministry, scholarship, and service with wisdom, faith, and compassion. As they embark on this journey of faith and learning, they become stewards of sacred texts and witnesses to the transformative power of God’s Word.
The online Bachelor of Science in Ministry/Christian Studies marks a significant shift in theological education, offering students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of faith while honing practical skills for effective ministry in the digital age. This online program empowers students to engage with scripture, theology, and ministry practice in dynamic and transformative ways. The online bachelor’s degree in Ministry/Christian Studies offers a range of benefits that enhance the learning experience and empower students to pursue their academic and vocational goals with flexibility and convenience.
Courses include:
- Ministry Foundations
- Relationships
- Ministry in a Globalized World
Career opportunities for graduates include jobs in camp administration, curriculum writing, life skills coaching, pastoral care, missionary work, aid relief work, campus ministry, and more. Students engage in dynamic theological inquiry, practical ministry training, and personal formation, preparing them to meet the challenges and opportunities of ministry. As they embark on this journey of faith and scholarship, they become agents of transformation, embodying the love, grace, and hope of the gospel.
The study of the Bible remains a timeless pursuit, offering insights into the complexities of human existence, faith, and morality. The online Certificate in Bible program provides students with a transformative journey into the heart of scripture, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual insights necessary to engage with sacred texts in meaningful and enriching ways. This online program offers a comprehensive exploration of the Bible’s teachings, themes, and relevance to contemporary life.
Courses include, but are not limited to:
- Historical Theology
- Interpreting Scripture
- Christian Thinking and Living
This online certificate is ideal for anyone who is passionate about studying the Bible, understanding theological concepts, and wish to become grounded in Scripture. Students engage in dynamic biblical study, spiritual formation, and personal growth, preparing them to apply biblical wisdom to their lives and communities with wisdom, faith, and compassion. As they embark on this journey of faith and learning, they become stewards of sacred texts and witnesses to the transformative power of God’s Word.
Students seeking to engage in Christian ministry are presented with a unique opportunity to pursue their passion and calling through the online Graduate Certificate in Christian Studies. This online program is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of theology, biblical studies, pastoral care, and ministry skills. Through this graduate certificate, students are prepared to serve their communities with confidence.
Classes include, but are not limited to:
- Bible In Its World
- Spiritual Formation for Leadership
- Biblical Hermeneutics
Students have access to many online academic resources. The online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry offers an accessible pathway for students called to ministry to receive theological education and training. This online program empowers students to engage with confidence in the mission of the Church, both locally and globally.
The online Graduate Certificate in Ministry Leadership equips students with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual formation necessary to navigate the complexities of modern ministry effectively. Future ministry leaders now have opportunities to pursue their calling, engage in transformative learning experiences, and serve their communities with compassion. This online graduate certificate program leverages innovative technologies and pedagogical approaches to create dynamic and engaging learning environments.
Career opportunities for graduates include:
- Christian Education Director
- Pastoral Counselor
- Church Planter
Classes are taught by dedicated and experienced faculty. Students embark on a journey of growth, guided by the principles of faith, service, and justice. As they navigate the complexities of modern ministry, they become catalysts for hope and positive change.
The online Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership equips students with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual formation necessary to navigate the complexities of modern ministry effectively. Future ministry leaders now have opportunities to pursue their calling, engage in transformative learning experiences, and serve their communities with compassion. This online master’s degree program leverages innovative technologies and pedagogical approaches to create dynamic and engaging learning environments.
Courses include:
- Effective Communication and Leadership
- Leading and Organizing Ministry
- Ministering Culturally and Globally
Classes are taught by dedicated and experienced faculty. Students embark on a journey of growth, guided by the principles of faith, service, and justice. As students navigate the complexities of modern ministry, they become catalysts for hope and positive change.
The online Master of Arts in Theological Studies is a program of academic excellence, flexibility, and enrichment. This online master’s degree program provides students with a comprehensive foundation in theological scholarship, encouraging them to explore the diversity of religious traditions while cultivating critical thinking skills. This online program breaks down barriers to education, enabling students from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations to pursue their academic aspirations without the need for relocation or disruption to their professional and personal lives.
Concentrations are in:
- Biblical Studies
- Cultural Engagement
- Ministry Leadership
Classes are taught by experienced and dedicated faculty. There are many online academic resources available to students for research. Whether aspiring to pursue further academic research or engage in pastoral ministry, the online Master of Arts in Theological Studies degree serves as a catalyst for personal and professional transformation.
The online Master of Divinity provides students with a comprehensive theological education while leveraging the advantages of online learning. The curriculum encompasses theological studies, biblical interpretation, church history, pastoral care, practical ministry training, and more. Classes equip students with a solid understanding of theological frameworks and the skills necessary for effective ministry.
Concentrations are available in:
Biblical Studies
- Clinical Pastoral Education
- Organizational Leadership
- Practical Theology
The online Master of Divinity embodies the values of theological inquiry, spiritual formation, and pastoral care. This online program equips individuals to navigate complex challenges and cultivate compassionate communities. Future spiritual leaders embark on a journey of deepening faith, understanding, intellectual engagement, and practical ministry, empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of their communities.