Overview
Founded in 1975, NIU College of Law was established to expand access to legal education in Illinois, particularly for students from the northern and central regions of the state. It is fully accredited by the American Bar Association and has built a reputation for strong bar passage rates, small class sizes, and a curriculum emphasizing practical skills training. The school is best known for its affordability relative to peer institutions and its close ties to the local legal community in DeKalb and the greater Chicago area.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | DeKalb, Illinois |
| Founded | 1975 |
| Total students | 300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 55% |
| Graduation rate | 85% |
| Average starting salary | $62,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $23,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $28,000 |
| Room & board | $12,000 |
| Average financial aid | $15,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.30 |
| Regular deadline | April 1 |
Top Programs
- Trial Advocacy
- Health Law
- Business Law
- Public Interest Law
- Criminal Law
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.