General Information
LOCATION
Purdue University is the Indiana link in a nationwide chain of land grant colleges and universities. In addition to the main campus in West Lafayette, Purdue University has established regional campuses for the purpose of extending educational opportunities to major population areas of Indiana. Purdue University North Central, at the junction of the Indiana Toll Road and U.S. 421 near Westville, serves communities in the north central part of the state.
PURDUE UNIVERSITY NORTH CENTRAL HISTORY
Following World War II, Purdue University offered courses in facilities loaned to the University by the Michigan City and LaPorte schools. In 1948 the Barker Welfare Foundation made the John Barker mansion in Michigan City available to the University and classes were held there beginning in the spring of 1949. Through the 1950s, enrollment at the Barker Memorial Center continued to grow, as did the population of the north central region of the state. In May 1962, Purdue University, through the Ross-Ade Foundation, purchased 160 acres south of Michigan City near Westville at a location that could best serve the residents of LaPorte and Porter counties. The new permanent campus opened in the fall of 1967. Since then, the campus has undergone many changes, indicative of the rapid growth and educational demands of the area. Additional land purchases increased the total acreage to 268.
The campus features three main buildings. Schwarz Hall, built in 1967, contains most administrative offices, as well as the office of Enrollment Services and the Biology/Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics and Social Sciences academic departments. The Library-Student-Faculty Building, completed in 1975, houses the library, cafeteria and bookstore, the Dean of Students office, Office of Continuing Education and various student services offices. The Technology Building, completed in 1995, houses Information Services, Learning Center, Engineering Technology, Education, Business, Nursing, Communication, English and Modern Languages academic departments, as well as other administrative services.
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education designated Purdue University North Central as a general purpose institution in October 1986, and is accredited as a baccalaureate granting institution by Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.
Purdue University North Central is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, 30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400, Chicago, Ill. 60602-2504; 800-621-7440, www.ncacihe.org. Accreditation attests to the quality of the faculty and staff, excellence of courses and curricula, and adequacy of facilities. Individual academic programs also are accredited by the following:
• Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs, 7007 College Blvd., Suite 420, Overland Park, Kan, 66211; 913-339-9356; www.acbsp.org.
• National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC), 61 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10006; 212-363-5555, ext. 153; www.nlnac.org.
• National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Educators (NCATE), 2010 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036-1023; 202-466-7496; www.ncate.org.
• Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, Md. 21202; 410-347-7700; www.abet.org (for Building Construction Management Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Engineering Technology and Mechanical Engineering Technology).
MISSION
Purdue University North Central is dedicated to providing access to exceptional educational opportunities and is committed to providing, assessing, and enhancing three elements fundamental to a great land grant university: Learning, Discovery and Engagement.
VISION
In the next five years, Purdue North Central envisions:
• Expanding to a Bachelor’s degree granting institution with selected Master’s degree programs and with the retention or development of Associate degree programs that meet the needs of the community.
• Improving the campus environment to include additional modern buildings, instructional technology, and sufficient property to support future expansion.
• Providing a lifetime learning environment for campus constituents.
• Developing collaborative partnerships with other educational institutions and within the communities served.
CULTURE AND CORE VALUES
Purdue University North Central brings to its service region the national and international reputation of Purdue University with the environment of a small, student-centered, public, liberal arts college.
A high quality education, an exemplary learning environment, a caring atmosphere, and a safe, secure, and convenient campus are all hallmarks of this institution.
UNDERGRADUATE GENERAL EDUCATION POLICY
General education is the component of the undergraduate curriculum devoted to those areas of knowledge, methods of inquiry, and ideas that the Purdue University North Central academic community believes are fundamental and common to all well-educated individuals. General education provides knowledge and understanding of the world, which serves as the basis for continued learning.
As a result of the general education curricular component at Purdue University North Central, a student shall have acquired appropriate skill, knowledge and competencies to:
• Communicate clearly and cogently in written, oral, interpersonal, and collaborative forms;
• Demonstrate problem-solving and critical thinking abilities through the application of quantitative and analytical reasoning;
• Choose appropriate modes of inquiry to solve diverse problems;
• Discern the patterns and processes of the natural world;
• Critique the value of technologies and their applications;
• Evaluate the interaction of the universal and the particular in historical, political, and cultural experiences;
• Apply ethical values in making aesthetic and instrumental judgments.
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Purdue University North Central offers academic work at a number of different levels:
• Master’s degree curricula in:
Elementary Education
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Also selected graduate courses in a limited number of subject-matter fields.
• Bachelor’s degree curricula in:
Behavioral Sciences
Biology
Business
Communication
Computer & Information Technology
Elementary Education
Engineering Technology
English
Liberal Studies
Mechanical Technology
Nursing
Organizational Leadership and Supervision
• Associate degree curricula in:
Architectural Technology
Building Construction Management Technology
Business
Civil Engineering Technology
Computer & Information Technology
Electrical Engineering Technology
Industrial Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Nursing
Organizational Leadership and Supervision
Science
• Certificate curricula in:
Business
Business/Professional Communication
Computer & Information Technology
Human Resources
Manufacturing Quality Control
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Office Productivity
Organizational Leadership & Supervision
Quality Control
Supervision (online)
• Courses are offered at various locations within LaPorte and Porter counties. Most sites offer a selection of basic liberal arts courses as well as introductory computer, business and supervision courses.
• The Portage site also offers courses allowing a student to complete an associate degree or certificate in business or organizational leadership and supervision.
Academic Organization
The mission of Purdue University North Central is to bring the
internationally recognized quality of a Purdue education to the citizens of
Northern Indiana. Founded on excellence in Learning, Discovery and Engagement,
the University provides a learning environment designed to promote individual
student growth through opportunities to acquire the knowledge and skills
necessary for graduates to assume a variety of leadership roles and occupations
in society. Students participate in Discovery activities through a vigorous
program of research opportunities where they work with faculty, other students
and community groups to develop the skills necessary to advance their careers.
Through Engagement, students have opportunities to work in their chosen
professions through internships, service learning, class projects and other
activities undertaken jointly with business, professional and community
organizations.
To accomplish its mission of providing quality education in all of
its varied facets, Purdue University North Central is organized into four
Colleges as follows.
College of Business
The world of business changes almost daily in this age of rapid progress in technology, communication, innovation and invention. Increasing diversity in the workplace and globalization of the economy add new dimensions requiring up-to-date skills and knowledge to meet the challenges of tomorrow. In the College of Business at Purdue University North Central, our goal is to provide students with quality state-of-the-art education that will prepare them to assume leadership roles in our increasingly competitive and dynamic economy.
The College of Business offers a unique MBA program designed to
accommodate the needs of working adults, a Bachelor of Science degree in
Business (with specialization in Accounting, Economics, Management or
Marketing), a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Leadership and
Supervision (including a specialization in Human Resource Management), and an
Associate degree in Business.
College of Engineering & Technology
Engineering Technology is the profession in which a knowledge of
mathematics and natural sciences gained by higher education, experience, and
practice is devoted primarily to the implementation and extension of existing
technology for the benefit of humanity. Engineering technology education
focuses primarily on the applied aspects of sciences and engineering aimed at
preparing graduates for practice in that portion of the technological spectrum
closest to product improvement, industrial processes, and engineering
operational functions.
The College includes the Department of Engineering Technology and
the Department of Computer & Information Technology.
College of Liberal Arts
A liberal arts education helps you to think critically and
creatively about problems that we all face as members of various academic and
social communities. By enrolling in the education, humanities, and social
sciences courses offered by the College of Liberal Arts, you will also acquire
the knowledge and intellectual versatility that is highly prized by employers.
Should you choose to continue your education after receiving your bachelor's
degree, however, the variegated nature of the liberal arts provides you with a
strong basis for entry into a wide range of graduate study.
Since the liberal arts constitute the traditional foundation of a
university education, it is no surprise that the College of Liberal Arts is the
largest college on the PNC campus. The College of Liberal Arts courses are
taught by faculty members from diverse backgrounds, underscoring the College's
intellectual and ethical commitment to diversity.
We encourage you to become an active participant in the College of Liberal Arts and, most importantly, to use your liberal arts education to improve the world.
The College of Liberal Arts
includes four departments: education, communication, English and modern
languages, and social sciences. Five bachelor's degrees are offered: Bachelor
of Arts in English, Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral
Sciences, Bachelor of Liberal Studies, and Bachelor of Arts in Elementary
Education. The College also offers a Master of Science degree in Elementary
Education administered by the West Lafayette campus.
College of Science
Science is more exciting today than ever before due to the swiftness with which new insights are obtained and applied to human problems, such as population growth, disease, pollution, and energy shortages. The College of Science provides you the opportunity to pursue a career in science by interacting with first-rate scientists who also are gifted teachers.
The College of Science also provides an education for students whose goal is not a scientific career but who wish to gain a general education with emphasis on scientific aspects of society.
The College of Science at Purdue University North Central (PNC)
consists of three instructional departments: the Department of Biology and
Chemistry; the Department of Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics; and the
Department of Nursing. These departments offer undergraduate programs that will
prepare you for a variety of careers and advanced graduate and professional
study after graduation.
PURDUE NORTH CENTRAL — Porter County
Purdue University North Central has a campus comprised of an Undergraduate and Graduate Center, both located at 600 Vale Park Road in Valparaiso, Indiana. The centers offer courses for those wishing to start their bachelor’s degree and students who wish to complete their degrees — particularly in Liberal Studies; Organizational Leadership and Supervision; and Business. Training and professional enhancement in a number of areas is offered, as is non-credit continuing education. A Master’s of Business Administration degree is offered at the Graduate Center on Saturdays.
Ease of scheduling and convenience make the centers ideal for those living and working in the area.
The facilities have a total of 17,500 square feet. They include 11 classrooms, a computer lab, student study/break-out rooms, student lounges, and conference rooms. Teleconferences can also be scheduled in a tiered room.
NON-CREDIT CONTINUING EDUCATION
As part of its educational mission, Purdue University North Central offers non-credit continuing education courses in these general areas:
Training for Business, Industry and School Corporations
Conferences and short courses for professional development are offered, as well as contract training programs customized to meet an individual client’s needs.
Real Estate Licensing
Licensed by the State of Indiana, the office offers nine-week preparatory courses for both salespersons and brokers.
Education 24/7
A decidedly favorable mode of learning offering instructor facilitated online courses that are informative, fun, convenient, and highly interactive. A wide variety of course offerings range from certification programs like paralegal or graphic design certificates, preparation courses for major computer industry certification exams, including the A+, Net+, and MCSE, to developing business skills and professional development expertise, digital photography, and creative writing courses. Take classes anywhere, anytime.
CEU/CRU Course Offerings
CEU/CRUs fulfill many licensing requirements. Courses are short-term, workshop style classes that are very focused and allow the learner to walk away with a new set of skills ready to use in their field of work.
Personal Development
A broad schedule of courses is offered throughout the year, including, but not limited to courses that enhance computer skills, teach a new language, or develop artistic talents.
Youth Programming
Children can go to college too. A variety of exciting programs that challenge even the most inquisitive child makes these courses a delightful experience for children of all learning abilities.
PURDUE NORTH CENTRAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
“Connecting the Purdue Family Forever” is the mission of the Alumni Association. Purdue graduates come from campuses in West Lafayette, Indianapolis, Calumet and—of course—Purdue North Central! PNC graduates are part of the over 368,000 living Purdue alumni worldwide. Membership in the Alumni Association is open to Purdue graduates, current or former Purdue students, and any community members who wish to support the university.
Purdue alumni continue to bring honor to our great university with their many accomplishments and professional work. We are here to provide programs and services to keep you engaged with the university and with each other. The Alumni Association serves as a worldwide network that supports, enriches, cultivates, and celebrates the Purdue Experience and helps make that experience last a lifetime.
The Purdue North Central Alumni Association (PNCAA) is affiliated with and operates under the constitution and by-laws of the Purdue Alumni Association (PAA). Our graduates are automatically enrolled in the Alumni Association. These first-year gift memberships are paid for by each campus location.
We are dedicated to reconnecting our alumni, partnering with the community and forming lasting relationships with students prior to graduation. That is why Purdue Alumni Student Experience (PASE), a student alumni membership club, is now available at PNC and Purdue West Lafayette.
By keeping us up to date, we are
easily able to keep you connected with the latest news and events. Please take
a moment to update your information. It is simple85just call the PNC Alumni
Association at (219) 785-5307 or visit our website at
http://www.pnc.edu/alumni/ to update your information online and view our many
services, events and benefits.
Membership has its privileges. Our paid members receive invitations to members-only events, as well as special discounts on products and services both locally and throughout the United States. Your membership fee helps support many PNC Alumni Association activities, including: Scholarship Programs for PNC students, Welcome Back Cookouts, Family Safety Events for the Community, the PNC Commencement Receptions, the Golf Outing, booths to promote PNC throughout the year, and much, much more.
Just to name a few local benefits our members receive: Discounts at Glad Rags, Hirsh Ford Lincoln-Mercury, LaPorte Regional Health System’s Wellness Resource Center, Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, PNC Continuing Education, Sherwin-Williams, Simmer Coffee House, Team Auto Outlet, Team Honda, Team Hyundai, and many more are offering substantial discounts to our members.
Members also receive PNC’s Dialogue magazine twice a year, Purdue’s Alumnus magazine six times a year, and numerous other opportunities to stay connected. These benefits will continue to grow in the months and years to come.
It’s never too late to show your Purdue Pride by joining the PNC Alumni Association! Please contact Karen Braddy, PNC’s Director of Alumni Relations, at (219) 785-5307 to learn more about membership and the exciting benefits we are offering members.