Northern Illinois University Illinois

Research 2 public university in suburban Illinois with accessible admissions and $10,232 annual tuition.

College statistics

Address:
1425 W. Lincoln Hwy.
Dekalb, IL
60115
Sector Group:
Public 4-Year or Above
Official Website:
www.niu.edu/
Setting:
Suburb
Research Activity Tier:
Research 2: High Spending and Doctorate Production
Economic Mobility Index:
Higher Access, Medium Earnings
Primary Undergraduate Major:
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services

Northern Illinois University in Dekalb is a public research institution classified at the Research 2 tier, meaning it combines undergraduate education with significant doctoral programs and research activity. Situated in a suburban setting about 65 miles west of Chicago, NIU enrolls approximately 15,500 students and maintains a primary focus on business, management, marketing, and related fields.

Annual tuition is $10,232 for both in-state and out-of-state students, with a total cost of attendance of $22,674 when room and board are included. The university admits about 70% of applicants, making it accessible to a broad range of students. The Economic Mobility Index rates NIU as offering higher access with medium earnings outcomes, suggesting it serves students seeking affordable pathways to degree completion and career entry.

The university's 6-year graduation rate and student support services can be explored on its official website at www.niu.edu/. NIU works best for students seeking a research-active environment at a public university price point, particularly those interested in business and related disciplines. Prospective students should ask about merit aid availability and specific support programs in their intended major.