Strategic roadmap

NAU’s strategic roadmap outlines bold goals focused on access, student success, community impact, and inclusive excellence for all.

Our vision

NAU aims to be the nation’s preeminent engine of opportunity, vehicle of economic mobility, and driver of social impact in Arizona and beyond.

Our strategic vision is guided by seven key priorities that shape our work and define NAU’s impact:

  • Academic excellence
  • Student success
  • Commitment to Indigenous Peoples
  • Impactful scholarship
  • Mission-driven faculty and staff
  • Community engagement
  • Sustainable stewardship of resources

Building toward 2030

Increase access, support student achievement, and deepen our impact across Arizona. These goals are driven by our strategic priorities and vision for inclusive, high-value education. NAU will pursue the following university-wide goals to elevate our excellence by 2030.

Goal #1: Advanced educational attainment and career preparedness

NAU expands access to higher education, promotes student success, and prepares all students for post-graduation achievements.

Indicators of success:

  • Over 12,500 first generation and lower-income students enrolled at NAU
  • Over 85% of students continue their studies at or graduate from NAU
  • More than 50,000 people earn an NAU credential

Goal #2: Enhance economic mobility and community impact

NAU fosters economic mobility for graduates and contributes positively to communities across Arizona and beyond.

Indicators of success:

  • A majority of graduates are employed in Arizona three years after graduation.
  • Over 8,600 graduated in Health and Behavioral healthcare fields to address Arizona’s workforce needs.
  • A sustained, strong reputation for strategic research and public service addressing key challenges in Arizona and beyond.