College Catalogs are not riveting reading, but they are the most important publication of any college or university. It is a contract between the college and the student. The Catalog explains the college's policies, programs, and courses.

The policies in the catalog which are in effect when a student first enrolls are the policies which will apply  throughout the student's education at Northwest (provided the student remains a full-time student). In other words, if graduation requirements change while a student is at Northwest, the graduation requirements in effect when the student enrolled are still in effect.

This is generally the case at all colleges and universities, and it is an important point to keep in mind. Because of this, students should always keep a copy of the catalog which was in force the year they entered.

The index is the best way to find information in a Catalog.  Keep in mind that the All Degree Worksheet at the back of the catalog is an extremely valuable tool for keeping track of which requirements have been met.