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Prepare Yourself to Lead in the Automotive Industry. Gain Real-World Experience.

Northwood University is a leader in automotive education; we have a reputation for success, with many graduates landing jobs before they finish their degree.

Did you know that Northwood University is one of the top automotive universities in the nation? We offer our students numerous opportunities to attend and run projects in this industry, and many of our students land internships with top automotive companies like Reynolds & Reynolds, CDK Global, Ford, and Cox Automotive.

Lectures given by faculty and guest speakers from the automotive industry provide real-world insight into the field. Optionally, you can fast-track your career by opting to complete your bachelor’s degree in three years while spending your final year earning a master’s.

Northwood by the numbers

Fast Facts

Why should you join the growing automotive industry?

*Based on an internal 2023-2024 postgraduate survey. All data is based on the number of responses received.

A picture of the inside of a ferrari engine.

Employers of Automotive Marketing and Management Alumni

Students in the Automotive Marketing and Management field are well-known for getting jobs before graduating. Our graduates hold high positions in automotive companies all over the world. Here are just a few places you’ll find our graduates:

Volks Wagon Logo
Mercedes Benz logo
General Motors logo
Red "HONDA" text above the slogan "The Power of Dreams" on a white background, showcasing excellence in automotive marketing.
  • Alliant National Title Insurance Company, Inc.
  • Al Serra Automotive Group
  • Amarr Garage Doors
  • American Honda Motor Company, Inc.
  • Asbury Automotive Group
  • Automotive Finance Corporation
  • Automotive Strategic Alliances
  • Blodgett Inc.
  • Braman Motor Cars
  • Chrysler, LLC
  • Innerworkings, Inc.
  • ISA REPS
  • J. D. Power
  • Kelley Blue Book
  • Burt Watson Chevrolet / Buick / GMC
  • Kia Motors
  • LaFontaine Automotive Group
  • Lexus, a Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.
  • Mercedes Benz of Miami
  • Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
  • Peugeot Autohaus Engel, Germany
  • Consumer Insights, Inc., Philippines
  • Dworkin Chevrolet
  • Ed Bozarth Nevada #1 Chevrolet
  • Fifth Avenue Auto Haus Volkswagen, Ltd., Canada
  • Ford Motor Company, Canada
  • Ford Motor Company, U.S.A.
  • Ganley Akron, Inc.
  • General Motors
  • Gold Coast Maserati / Bentley / Rolls Royce / Bugatti / Lamborghini
  • Highland Ford, Canada
  • RLMB Auto Sales Inc.
  • Sheridan Nissan
  • South Centre Fine Cars
  • The Breakers Palm Beach
  • Three Rivers Chrysler Jeep Dodge
  • Toll Global Forwarding
  • Tom’s Ford
  • U.S. Marine Corps
  • Volkswagen Credit Inc.
  • Wagner Ford
  • Westgate Chevrolet
  • Wickstrom Auto Group

United in Pursuit of Industry Excellence

We use all tools provided to us to help further our advancement in the industry. Here we are a family, with one goal in mind. We share our talents, connections and ideas inside and outside the classroom.

Brian is a Class of 2020 Automotive Marketing and Management Major.

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Top view of a silver sports car with a transparent engine cover, showcasing intricate engine components and interior details—a striking image perfect for automotive marketing. The car is elegantly parked on a patterned floor.

Northwood Scholarships

Northwood University offers numerous merit-based and interest-based scholarships every year.

Take advantage of the opportunity to be a part of $19M+ in aid awarded annually.

Close-up of the rear section of an orange sports car, showcasing angular vents and part of a red taillight—an exceptional design that stands out in automotive marketing.

NIADA Scholarships

The National Independent Automotive Dealers Association offers annual scholarships to those seeking to complete their degree in automotive.

Each regional winner will be awarded $2500. Winners will be recognized at NIADA’s Annual Convention and Expo in June 2025, and scholarship funds will be paid to the designated college in Fall 2025. 

Close-up of a sleek black sports car front on a red carpet, expertly crafted for automotive marketing, featuring a carbon fiber body, shiny black wheel, and distinctive grille detail.

Automotive Hall of Fame Scholarships

The Automotive Hall of Fame offers scholarships to incoming freshmen and upper-level undergraduate students. All of the scholarships are based on financial needs and with the usual minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.

The application must be postmarked on or before June 30 of the current year to be eligible.

Application Checklist

As America’s Automotive University, Northwood attracts ambitious thinkers, emerging leaders, and students who are ready to excel in a competitive, global economy.

Our programs are built for high-achieving learners who want more than a degree; they want an education shaped by real-world business insight, industry partnerships, and a culture of high performance.

General Requirements
  • Current high school transcripts
  • High school diploma or GED required upon entry
Dual Enrollment Option 

Northwood also offers the opportunity for motivated 9th-12th grade students to earn college credits early through our discounted, flexible online dual enrollment program.

  • 3.0 minimum GPA
  • Current high school transcripts
General Requirements
  • High school transcripts
  • High school diploma or GED required upon entry
  • College or university transcripts
English-language Requirements
  • IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson PTE, ACT/SAT scores (English Proficiency requirement may be waived if the language of instruction is English)
General Requirements
  • Passport ID page (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the entry date to Northwood University)
  • Current secondary school transcripts
  • Secondary school completion certificate or diploma
  • College or university transcripts (if you have completed any university credits)

Automotive Professionals

Meet Your Faculty

A bald man with a graying beard, wearing a light gray suit, white shirt, and pink striped tie, poses against a dark background with the confidence of someone experienced in automotive marketing and management.

Elgie Bright

Associate Professor and Department Chair, Automotive Marketing/Management

Email: 
Phone: (810) 845-7675
Office Location: NADA Faculty Offices

A man with glasses wearing a white shirt and a black blazer poses against a blue background.

Dr. David Oventhal

Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy

Email: 
Phone: (989) 506-9920
Office Location: NADA / R. Gary Stauffer Building

A man with glasses, a bald head, and a goatee, wearing a checkered shirt and a dark blazer, standing against a gray background.

Steven Gorham

Assistant Professor, Automotive Marketing and Management/Accounting

Email: 
Phone: (989) 859-6691
Office Location: NADA Faculty Offices

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FAQs

The primary difference between an online bachelor’s degree and an on campus bachelor’s degree is how courses are delivered, not what you learn. Online students complete coursework through Northwood’s digital learning platform, while on campus students attend classes in person. Both formats follow the same academic standards and are taught by qualified Northwood faculty.

Yes. The curriculum is the same for both online and on campus versions of the program. Courses share the same learning outcomes, academic rigor, and degree requirements, ensuring all students receive a consistent education regardless of format.

Completion time depends on factors such as transfer credits, course load, and whether a student studies full-time or part-time. In many cases, online students have greater scheduling flexibility, which can allow them to complete the program at a similar pace or faster than on-campus students.

In some cases, students may be able to transition between online and on campus courses, depending on program structure and availability. Students should consult with an academic advisor to discuss flexibility options and ensure degree requirements are met.

Students applying from U.S. high schools must submit current high school transcripts and must earn a high school diploma or GED prior to enrollment. Northwood also offers a dual enrollment option for motivated students in grades 9-12 who meet eligibility criteria, including a minimum 3.0 GPA. Transfer and international applicants must submit the appropriate academic records for evaluation.

No. The application process is largely the same for online and on campus students, and the same admissions standards apply to both learning formats. Admissions counselors are available to help applicants choose the option that best aligns with their academic and professional goals.

Northwood University programs do not require standardized test scores such as the GRE or GMAT. However, applicants may choose to submit standardized test scores to be considered for merit-based scholarships. Requirements and scholarship eligibility vary by program, so applicants should review program-specific guidelines or speak with an admissions counselor.

International students may apply to on campus programs, subject to visa and immigration requirements. Eligibility for online programs may vary based on location and regulatory considerations. International applicants are encouraged to contact admissions for guidance specific to their circumstances.

Tuition rates may differ between online and on campus programs. Online programs may offer predictable per-credit tuition, while on campus programs may include additional campus-based costs. Current tuition information is available through our net price calculator.

Northwood offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and employer tuition assistance. Eligibility depends on program type, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.

Some programs may have additional fees related to technology, course materials, or campus services. Any applicable fees are disclosed during the admissions process so students can plan accordingly.

Both online and on campus students have access to academic advising, tutoring, library services, technical support, and career services. Northwood is committed to supporting students throughout their academic journey, regardless of learning format.

Online students connect with faculty and peers through virtual classrooms, discussion boards, email, video conferencing, and collaborative assignments. These tools are designed to foster engagement and interaction similar to an in-person experience.

Yes. Many campus events, career fairs, and networking opportunities are available to online students either virtually or in person, depending on the event. Alumni and employer networking opportunities are available to all students.

Online students typically need a reliable internet connection and a computer. Some programs may require specific software, which will be communicated prior to the course start.

Online courses may be fully asynchronous, synchronous (live), or a combination, depending on the program. This structure allows flexibility while maintaining meaningful interaction and academic accountability.

Online students have full access to digital library resources, research databases, academic support services, and virtual labs when applicable. These resources are designed to mirror on-campus academic access.

Yes. All Northwood students receive access to career coaching, job placement support, employer connections, and the alumni network, regardless of whether they study online or on campus.

No, employers value accredited degrees and relevant skills. Northwood’s online degrees meet the same academic standards as on campus programs, and employers typically focus on the institution, curriculum, and graduate competencies rather than delivery format.

Career opportunities vary by program but may include roles in business, management, marketing, finance, operations, and leadership.

Start dates vary depending on modality. Online programs often offer multiple start dates throughout the year, while on-campus programs may follow traditional academic calendars.

Many programs offer both full-time and part-time enrollment options, allowing students to balance academics with work or personal commitments.

Online and select on campus programs are designed with working professionals in mind, offering flexible scheduling, practical coursework, and career-focused learning.

Some programs offer accelerated options that allow students to complete their degree in a shorter timeframe. Availability depends on the program and student eligibility.

Yes. Northwood University is an accredited institution, and its programs meet established academic and quality standards.

Yes. The degree earned is the same credential, regardless of whether courses are completed online or on campus.

No. Diplomas and transcripts do not indicate the delivery format of the program.

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