NNU is committed to providing its undergraduate students with an acquaintance with the major fields of knowledge through a study in the liberal arts, an effective foundation in and a working grasp of one field in a selected major, and a balanced development of the wholly-educated person within the context of Christian commitment. Based on its philosophy of education and the university outcomes, NNU has grouped the academic objectives into three categories.

Acquisition of the following skills and knowledge bases helps to equip NNU students for demonstrating the four institutional outcomes:

I. Abilities of the Liberally Educated

Students will develop abilities that enable them to function well at the university and after graduation. Students will be able to:

1. Think logically, analytically, creatively, and independently.
2. Read, write, speak, and listen effectively.
3. Understand and use quantitative operations in problem solving.
4. Understand and use contemporary technology.
5. Practice good patterns of physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well being.
6. Understand and appreciate a Christian liberal arts education.

II. Contextual Disciplines of the Liberally Educated

Students will develop a world view informed by Christian perspectives that provides the context for further studies in the liberal arts. Such a viewpoint requires that students gain:

1. An understanding of the advancement of civilization.
2. An understanding of the human condition.
3. An understanding of the content and message of the Bible.
4. An understanding of the major doctrines of the Christian faith from a Wesleyan perspective.
5. A philosophy of life that integrates one’s Christian faith with one’s understanding of the world.

III. Explorations of the Liberally Educated

Students will explore the world of knowledge as described by the many disciplines of the university. Such explorations will lead to:

1. An understanding of the natural world.
2. An understanding of human expression through the arts.
3. An understanding of human expression through literature.
4. An understanding of one’s individual identity as part of the complex of all human activity and relationship.