Northern Illinois University (NIU)

At NIU, we blend academic excellence with Midwestern authenticity. Our vibrant campus community thrives on the rich diversity of perspectives, experiences and ideas that each member brings, creating an environment where innovation flourishes and ever n environment where innovation flourishes and everyone can excel. We've grown from our founding as a teachers college into a premier research institution, balancing academic excellence with personal attention to every student's unique journey. Our campus pulses with possibilities — from research labs where students from all backgrounds work alongside faculty to performance spaces showcasing diverse artistic voices, from the roar of Division I athletics to intimate learning communities where every perspective enriches the discussion. What makes NIU special is how we bring it all together: rigorous academics, hands-on research opportunities and an unwavering commitment to student success, all delivered with genuine Huskie hospitality in an environment where everyone belongs. Every Huskie journey is unique. From first-generation students discovering new possibilities to researchers making breakthrough discoveries, from student leaders shaping campus life to graduates changing their industries — these are the voices that make NIU extraordinary. Through their stories, see how NIU students find their passion, pursue their dreams and prepare for success. Each path is different, but they all share one thing: the power of the NIU experience. In DeKalb and Sycamore, you'll find the perfect college town atmosphere. Just an hour from Chicago, you get the best of both worlds: a welcoming community that puts students first and easy access to big-city opportunities. You'll be able to: Walk to local coffee shops, restaurants and stores offering student discounts. Join thousands at iconic events like the Pumpkin Festival and Corn Fest. Find everything you need along Route 23, from familiar brands to unique local spots. Enjoy easy transportation between campus and both downtowns with your student ID. Experience a safe, welcoming community that loves hosting NIU students. Chartered in 1895, NIU opened in 1899 as Northern Illinois State Normal School, a teachers college that would evolve into today's comprehensive research university. Under the leadership of Dr. Lisa C. Freeman and the senior leadership team, and governed by our Board of Trustees, NIU continues to adapt and grow to meet the changing needs of our society. Our goal remains constant: to advance social mobility, help people grow and succeed, and bring about positive change in the world. To celebrate our 125th anniversary in 2020, we collected 125 key moments that showcase our journey from a small teachers college to a world-class research university. These stories, nominated by our campus community, paint an intimate portrait of NIU's growth and impact over more than a century. Northern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. NIU is included in the Research Universities – High Research Activity category of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and is a member of the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. The university and its colleges have institutional membership or other affiliations in or with the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, American Council on Education, Association of State Colleges and Universities, Council of Graduate Schools, and Universities Research Association. The university is also fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education to offer teacher education programs and offers several teacher certification programs that are approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. ...view more