Overview
Founded in 1895 as a normal school to train teachers, Northern Illinois University has evolved into a comprehensive public research institution offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. Located in DeKalb, Illinois, NIU gained Carnegie classification as a research university and is particularly recognized for its College of Law, meteorology program, and strong ties to regional business and industry. The university has built a reputation for providing quality, affordable education with significant opportunities for hands-on learning and research.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | DeKalb, Illinois |
| Founded | 1895 |
| Total students | 16,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 16:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 68% |
| Graduation rate | 55% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $13,500 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $18,000 |
| Room & board | $12,000 |
| Average financial aid | $11,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 930-1150 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Meteorology
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Engineering
- Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.