This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, closing this banner, or clicking "I Agree", you agree to the use of cookies.
Read our cookies policy and privacy statement for more information.
ACT
19/24
Estimated Cost
$28,848
Financial Aid
$20,957
Students
10,000 - 19,999
About Northern Illinois University
Northern Illinois University (NIU) is a public research university in DeKalb, Illinois, United States, with satellite centers in Chicago, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, Rockford, and Oregon. It was founded as Northern Illinois State Normal School on May 22, 1895, by Illinois Governor John P. Altgeld as part of an expansion of the state's system for producing college-educated teachers. Lisa Freeman was named the university's acting president in July 2017, the first female to hold that position.
Northern Illinois University Rankings
Prepler rankings are based on rigorous and in-depth analysis of key statistics from the U.S. Department of Education.
2024 Best Colleges in America
#272 of 6828
2024 Best Colleges in Illinois
#10 of 274
2024 Best Public Colleges in Illinois
#5 of 66
Most Popular Majors
Out of 24 majors categories at Northern Illinois University, the 5 most popular are listed below.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rate of college is a strong indicator of success of the college’s students in attaining their educational goals. Prepler defines graduation rate as the percentage of first-time, full-time students who graduated from Northern Illinois University within four or six years.
Notable Alumni
Related Colleges
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Edwardsville, ILUniversity of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI •Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MIMichigan State University
East Lansing, MI •Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MIIllinois State University
Normal, IL