North Central University - A Downtown Institution Since 1930

Article by Becky Fillinger, Photos provided

North Central University is located at 910 Elliot Avenue

Did you know that Minneapolis has a university situated in the Elliot Park neighborhood? North Central University (NCU) was founded in 1930 and has a current enrollment of 1500 students. We talked to Jordan Robertson, Executive Director of Operations, about the university’s history, programs and ways that the community may engage with the institution.

Jordan RobertsonQ:  What’s the history of North Central University? What majors and programs does NCU offer?

A:  We’re so pleased to tell you about North Central University! NCU is a coeducational, undergraduate, primarily residential college owned and operated by 11 Assemblies of God districts of the upper Midwest. We were founded in 1930 under the name North Central Bible Institute, the school originally enrolled 26 students, and classes were held in the Minneapolis Gospel Tabernacle (now Christ Church International). Enrollment steadily increased from 1933 to 1936, and it was clear that the school needed to expand. In 1936, North Central moved to its current location at 910 Elliot Avenue in downtown Minneapolis to provide housing, office, and classroom space for 500 students.

In 1955, to meet the growing demand for more educational opportunities, North Central added four-year degree programs. The school’s name was changed to North Central Bible College in 1957 to reflect the new bachelor’s degree offerings. In 1964, North Central was accredited by the American Association of Bible Colleges. Recognizing its commitment to the needs of its constituents, North Central continued expanding its offerings and was accredited in 1986 by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

At the spring 1998 meeting of the Board of Regents, the college’s name was changed to North Central University. Enrollment has more than tripled from 401 students in 1975 to a present enrollment of approximately 1,500 in the residence and distance education programs. North Central has produced more than 24,000 alumni, and of its graduates, 75 percent are presently in ministry positions throughout the United States and around the world.

We offer more than 60 college academic programs including majors and minors taught by biblically-grounded faculty.

Q:  Are there unique or specialized programs that NCU is known for?

A:  NCU’s College of Business and Technology is the largest and most effectively market-faced department at the university, working with Minnesota based companies such as General Mills and Cargill on consumer-based marketing strategies, general business administration techniques, accounting and finance practices, and the like. Our graduates are highly sought after through our robust internship programming where North Central students make great impact while still in their vein of study at the university.

Q:  Does NCU encourage community involvement?

A:  Absolutely. The university, being located in and dedicated to an urban environment, is an incubator for community work through social and behavioral sciences, ministry opportunities, and humanitarian leadership practices. Our students operate a large and active student organization structure through which specific concentrations can be focused on via consistent work in and around Minneapolis. One such student organization is Elliot Park United, a group of students who commit to service projects, food security, housing security, and neighborhood care. The majority of their work ties in well with our City of Minneapolis neighborhood organization, Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc.

Q:  What would you like our downtown readership to know about your university?

A:  North Central University is an active, dedicated partner for good in the east downtown Minneapolis area. Our goal is first to raise up and train new leaders for the world of today and tomorrow, but a close second is to impact the world around the university positively through our business practices and mission as Christians. Being in Elliot Park since 1936, the university has seen many changes, but it remains steadfastly dedicated to working with its local neighbors and business leaders to make East Town a place your readers want to live, work, and thrive in.

Q:  Do you ever have days when the community is encouraged to visit North Central?

A:  NCU often works with Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc. and East Town Business Partnership for meetings and functions throughout the year. The university also presents a number of fine arts programs during the academic year such as Songs of the Season, a celebration of the Christmas story, and a spring theatrical production. Information on upcoming events can be found at https://www.northcentral.edu/events/. The public is also encouraged to attend games for one of 15 varsity sports, including a burgeoning eSports program, at the university. Many of our local neighbors attend volleyball and basketball games. Information on upcoming athletic events can be found at https://ncurams.com/. You can find out what is happening at NCU or on the horizon through our blog we call “Table Salt” at https://www.northcentral.edu/blog/.

NCU volleyball