Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, Illinois
About Northern Illinois University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1895, Northern Illinois University is a university serving students in DeKalb, Illinois. With a tradition of academic excellence, Northern Illinois University prepares graduates for success in Business, Health Professions, Education, and more.
A Diverse Community in DeKalb
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Northern Illinois University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $9,047, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Northern Illinois University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Northern Illinois University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 49% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 29% |
| First-year retention rate | 70% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $51,305 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $57,808 |
| Median debt at graduation | $22,162 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Northern Illinois University
| Total enrollment | 15,415 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 11,349 |
| Graduate students | 4,066 |
| International students | 2% |
| First-generation students | 38% |
What you can study at Northern Illinois University
78 programs, most of them in these fields:
Agriculture (8)
Agronomy and Crop Science, Animal Sciences, General, Animal Sciences, Other, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (7)
Accounting, Business Administration and Management, General, Finance, General, and more
Health Professions (7)
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist, Communication Sciences and Disorders, General, Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling, and more
Education (6)
Art Teacher Education, Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Elementary Education and Teaching, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (6)
Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General, and more
Social Sciences (5)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geography, and more
Natural Resources and Conservation (4)
Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Landscaping and Groundskeeping, and more
Physical Sciences (4)
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General, Chemistry, General, Geology/Earth Science, General, and more
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