Northwood University believes in creating an active learning environment that encourages students to explore new ideas, new perspectives, and new experiences.

Prospective employers of Northwood University graduates constantly stress the need to have employee candidates who demonstrate experiences, attitudes, and leadership abilities beyond those provided in the classroom. Employers also emphasize the importance of having these qualities reflected on the academic transcript. To enhance employability of Northwood University graduates, the EXCEL program was added to the curriculum.

Through EXCEL, students participate in valuable, documented activities that result in a Student Development Transcript which is issued whenever an Academic Transcript is issued.

EXCEL Information

• Ideally, students should participate in at least five activities a year in order to garnish a creditable Student Development Transcript. 
• Volunteering for various EXCEL activities and opportunities will provide the student with experience that cannot be learned in the classroom. 
• EXCEL enriches student lives and enhances future employment prospects.
• The Student Development Transcript has no bearing on specific degree requirements proposed by each curriculum, but the EXCEL program does provide opportunities to expand and document student's education well beyond classroom requirements. 

The activities available on campus are described on the following pages. Participation is documented on the Student Development Transcript. If an activity or opportunity does not appear in the activities list, students are encouraged to propose an idea to the director. Once approved and completed, the activity is recorded on the Student Development Transcript. Students may also receive EXCEL credit for participating in activities outside the EXCEL program. Submit an Activity Validation Form to the Director of Student Activities and Leadership Development. All decisions on the item or activity acceptability are final.

Contact Information
Northwood University
EXCEL Office: Church Family Administration Building 
4000 Whiting Drive
Midland, MI 48640
Phone: 989.837.4860
excel@northwood.edu