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Public, 4-year

Northeastern Illinois University

Chicago, Illinois · www.neiu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

74.6%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$22,726

In-state $12,383

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

4,226

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

3.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 18.7%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) is a public university located in Chicago, Illinois, known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Established in 1867, NEIU has a rich history and has evolved into a vibrant institution that serves a diverse student body, with over 70% of its students identifying as people of color. The university prides itself on its mission to provide accessible education and foster a supportive learning environment, which is reflected in its motto, "Educating for a Just Society." This commitment to social justice and equity is woven into the fabric of the campus culture, encouraging students to engage with their communities and become active participants in societal change.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including education, business, arts, and sciences. NEIU is particularly noted for its strong teacher education program, which has earned recognition for producing highly qualified educators who are prepared to address the needs of diverse student populations. With state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational amenities, NEIU provides students with an engaging campus experience. The university also emphasizes student life, offering numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations, which help cultivate a sense of community and belonging among students. NEIU’s strategic location in Chicago allows students to take advantage of the city’s rich cultural scene and numerous internship opportunities, enhancing their educational experience and preparing them for successful careers. Overall, Northeastern Illinois University stands out as an institution dedicated to excellence, diversity, and community engagement.

Analysis of Tuition Fees, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates

The data from Northeastern Illinois University reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Notably, both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition fees have seen a steady increase. For instance, in-state tuition rose from $7,963 in 2014 to $12,383 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 55%. Meanwhile, out-of-state tuition increased from $14,354 to $22,726, a staggering increase of about 58%. This trend of rising tuition costs is reflective of a broader national issue, where the increasing financial burden on students is prompting discussions about the affordability of higher education.

Simultaneously, student enrollment has been declining, dropping from 8,950 undergraduate students in 2014 to just 4,207 in 2023. This decline of over 53% raises concerns about accessibility and the university's ability to attract and retain students amidst rising costs. The declining enrollment figures may also correlate with the increasing financial burden on potential students, leading to a decrease in applications.

Graduation rates also tell an important story. The percentage of students graduating on time has remained relatively low, with only 4.6% of students graduating within 100% of the expected time in 2023, while about 23.2% graduated within 150% of the expected time. These figures indicate that many students may be struggling to complete their degrees in a timely manner, possibly due to financial challenges or other obstacles exacerbated by rising tuition costs.

Overall, the interplay between increasing tuition fees, declining student enrollment, and stagnant graduation rates highlights critical issues that need to be addressed to ensure the sustainability and accessibility of higher education at Northeastern Illinois University. The university may need to explore strategies to mitigate rising costs, improve student support services, and enhance recruitment efforts to reverse these troubling trends.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Chicago, about 10 mi
Nearest international airport
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), about 10 mi
Chicago, Illinois
Also known as
NEIU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Katrina Bell-Jordan, PhD (President)
Phone
7735834050
City
Chicago, Illinois
Address
5500 N Saint Louis Ave, Chicago, IL 60625-4699

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
68.6%
Women
78.8%

In 2020: men 55.1%, women 60.9%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at Northeastern Illinois University

The admission data from Northeastern Illinois University over the years reveals significant trends that reflect broader patterns in higher education. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for male and female students have shown fluctuations, with an overall downward trend in the acceptance rates, particularly evident by 2019 when the male acceptance rate dropped to approximately 48%. This decline suggests increasing selectivity, which could be attributed to various factors such as a growing applicant pool or changes in institutional priorities.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers have also varied, peaking in 2010 with over 1,000 new students, but diminishing over the years, particularly after 2014. The number of denied applications has generally increased, highlighting the competitive nature of admissions in recent years. This could be a consequence of the university's efforts to enhance its academic profile and overall ranking, which has fluctuated over time but appears to be a priority.
Moreover, the data indicates a notable difference between male and female acceptance rates, with female candidates consistently facing slightly higher rates of admission denial. This gender discrepancy in admissions raises questions about equity in the recruitment process and might warrant further investigation.
Overall, the trends in admission rates and enrollment numbers at Northeastern Illinois University reflect the ongoing challenges and dynamics within the higher education landscape, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt to changing demographics and student needs while striving for inclusivity.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Computer Science#276▲18 Business School#301▼14
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty1 programs—
Business School3 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Northeastern Illinois University

The admissions data from Northeastern Illinois University over the years reveals a significant shift in testing trends and submission rates. From 2007 to 2012, the proportion of students submitting ACT scores remained consistently high, with over 90% of admitted students submitting their scores. This suggests a strong reliance on the ACT for admissions during this period, indicating its perceived importance among prospective students.

However, starting from 2013, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students submitting SAT scores, with only 1% of admitted students providing their SAT scores from 2013 to 2016. This stark decrease may reflect a broader trend in higher education, where standardized tests such as the SAT face increasing scrutiny and diminishing relevance in the college admissions process. Many institutions, including some state universities, have moved towards test-optional policies, prioritizing holistic review processes that consider a wider range of student achievements and experiences.

The data for 2019 and beyond shows a slight resurgence in SAT score submissions, although it remains relatively low compared to ACT submissions. This could indicate a potential shift in student preferences or institutional policies as colleges reevaluate the role of standardized tests in admissions. The reported ranges for SAT and ACT scores also highlight the variability in student performance, with significant gaps between the 25th and 75th percentiles, suggesting a diverse applicant pool.

Overall, these trends underline the evolving landscape of college admissions, where testing requirements are becoming less rigid and more reflective of individual student capabilities and backgrounds. As universities continue to adapt, it will be interesting to observe how these changes impact future admissions strategies and student diversity.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

8,955 applicants in 2025, 74.6% admitted

6,680 admitted 2,275 not admitted Yield 8.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's87211 international (1.3%)
Master's42631 international (7.3%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Computer Science
84
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
73
Psychology, General
64
Social Work
63
Communication and Media Studies, Other
41
Elementary Education and Teaching
40
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
39
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
37
Accounting
36
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
36

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's57 (2% international)
  • Social Work · Master's49 (2% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's40 (3% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's28 (0% international)
  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's22 (0% international)
  • Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's19 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Degree Completion Data at Northeastern Illinois University

The data from Northeastern Illinois University for 2023 reveals significant trends in degree completion across various disciplines. Notably, Psychology stands out with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded at 89. This reflects the increasing interest in mental health and psychological services, likely influenced by the growing recognition of mental health issues in society.

Furthermore, there is a notable absence of international students in the undergraduate programs, with only one international student graduating in the Liberal Arts and Sciences discipline. This suggests that the university may need to enhance its outreach and support for international students, especially given the global competition for attracting diverse student populations.

In the realm of master's degrees, Public Administration and Educational Leadership have emerged as strong programs, with 71 and 61 graduates, respectively. This trend indicates a robust demand for advanced qualifications in these fields, which may correlate with the increasing complexity of public sector challenges and the need for effective educational leadership.

Interestingly, disciplines such as Business Administration and Management also show a healthy number of graduates, but with a notable representation of international students in the master's program, indicating a global interest in business education at this level.

However, many fields, particularly those in the sciences and humanities, show low graduation rates, which raises questions about student engagement and support in those areas. The university may consider strategies to bolster these programs, ensuring they meet the needs and interests of current and prospective students. Overall, these insights highlight the dynamic landscape of higher education at Northeastern Illinois University and the need for continuous evaluation and adaptation of academic offerings.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Educationhas 298 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$84,256
Urban Education and Leadership.$84,256
Special Education and Teaching, General.$58,972-$65,370
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$64,959
Elementary Education and Teaching.$53,918-$63,576
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$53,918-$63,576
Secondary Education and Teaching.$53,918-$63,576
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$53,918-$63,576
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$58,759-$78,423
Reading Teacher Education.$58,759-$78,423
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.-
Businesshas 201 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.$49,749
Business Administration and Management, General.$53,950-$71,330
Accounting.$56,276-$72,878
Finance, General.$54,433
Human Resources Development.$54,829
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$48,423
Computer and information sciencehas 125 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Information Technology.-
Computer Science.$60,664-$121,596
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Public administrationhas 112 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.$43,221-$54,082
Liberal arts has 101 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$49,987
General Studies.$49,987
Psychology has 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$43,046
Health professionshas 62 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.$50,577
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.$50,577
Public Health, General.-
Community Health and Preventive Medicine.-
Visual and Performing artshas 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Graphic Design.-
Art/Art Studies, General.$35,388
Music, General.-
Social sciencehas 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.$48,637
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.$44,100
Sociology, General.$48,971
Social Sciences, Other.-
Communication has 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication and Media Studies, Other.$38,839
Biologyhas 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$45,030
Cultural has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Latin American Studies.-
Women's Studies.-
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other.-
English has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$35,857
Homeland security has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$47,641
Parks, recreation, leisure has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Physical scienceshas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.$53,039
Physics, General.-
History has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.$39,137
Foreign languages has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Linguistics.-
Spanish Language and Literature.$50,068
Mathmatics and statistics has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.$47,440
Natural resources has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Environmental Science.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Gerontology.-
International/Globalization Studies.-
Philosophy has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy.-

Students

5,734 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 52.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,226)

Hispanic
2,164 · 51.2%
White
675 · 16.0%
Black
505 · 11.9%
Asian
344 · 8.1%
Unknown
339 · 8.0%
International
91 · 2.2%
Two or more races
91 · 2.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
4.2%
18–19
18.4%
20–21
17.4%
22–24
22.9%
25 and over
37.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.7%
22–24
11.8%
25–29
26.8%
30–34
18.9%
35 and over
41.7%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Northeastern Illinois University Students in 2023

The student demographics at Northeastern Illinois University in 2023 reveal interesting trends in gender ratio and ethnic diversity among different classifications of students. The data indicates that undergraduate freshmen comprise a significant portion of the student body with 516 students, where females represent 56.4% and males 43.6%. This trend reflects a growing interest among women in higher education, which is consistent with national statistics showing an increase in female enrollment in universities.

In contrast, the undergraduate juniors represent a much larger group with 2,958 students, exhibiting a female majority of 59.8%. This sustained female presence suggests that the university's programs may be particularly appealing to women, or perhaps that there are systemic factors encouraging female students to pursue their degrees.

The graduate student population stands at 1,549, with a striking gender disparity; only 31.6% are male, while 68.4% are female. This significant underrepresentation of male graduate students may point to broader trends in graduate education, where women are increasingly outpacing men in enrollment.

Examining the ethnic composition, the data for various subgroups shows a predominance of White students in all categories, although the specifics are not fully disclosed for the undergraduate juniors and graduate students. This trend highlights a critical area for universities to address in terms of equity and representation, as racial diversity remains a pivotal goal within educational institutions.

Overall, these insights suggest a shift in gender demographics and emphasize the need for ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion within the student population at Northeastern Illinois University.

Age Distribution Among Students at Northeastern Illinois University

The age composition of students at Northeastern Illinois University reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the campus. The data indicates a significant presence of traditional-age students, particularly in the 18-24 year range, accounting for nearly 54% of the undergraduate population. Specifically, the 18-19 age group is notably large, with 299 male and 385 female undergraduates, suggesting that the university attracts a substantial number of recent high school graduates.

As students progress into their mid-twenties, the numbers reflect a trend of increasing enrollment in graduate programs, particularly among females, where the number of graduate females (294) surpasses that of their male counterparts (134) in the 25-29 age group. This trend may mirror broader societal shifts toward higher educational attainment among women, as reported in various studies highlighting women's increasing presence in higher education.

Moreover, the data illustrates a decline in student numbers as age increases, especially among those over 30. This aligns with national trends showing that older students often face more challenges in balancing education with work and family responsibilities. The representation of students aged 40 and above, while smaller, reflects the university's role in providing educational opportunities to a diverse age group, which is crucial for lifelong learning.

Overall, the demographic statistics underscore the importance of creating an inclusive educational environment that accommodates the diverse needs of its student body, fostering a community that supports both traditional and non-traditional students.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates2.2%

91 in 2025 · 4.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.7%2017: 5.5%2018: 3.0%2019: 2.7%2020: 2.1%2021: 1.4%2022: 1.8%2023: 1.7%2024: 2.1%2025: 2.2%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students7.8%

117 in 2025 · 9.8% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 9.8%2017: 6.7%2018: 4.9%2019: 4.5%2020: 4.4%2021: 3.5%2022: 3.0%2023: 4.6%2024: 6.2%2025: 7.8%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Northeastern Illinois University

The data on international student enrollment at Northeastern Illinois University reveals significant fluctuations over nearly two decades, reflecting broader trends in higher education and global events. Starting in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was relatively low, at 3.01%, but this figure saw notable increases over the years, peaking at 5.48% in 2017. However, this upward trajectory was not sustained; by 2023, the proportion had dropped to 1.74%.

The decline in international undergraduate enrollment can be attributed to several factors, including changes in U.S. immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted education worldwide. The pandemic particularly affected student mobility, leading to a significant decrease in enrollment numbers.

For graduate students, the trends are somewhat similar but show a different pattern. The percentage of international graduate students reached a high of 9.80% in 2016, which indicates a stronger appeal for graduate programs. However, it also experienced fluctuations, ending at 4.65% in 2023, reflecting the challenges faced by international students in a changing global landscape.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of addressing the needs and concerns of international students to foster a more welcoming environment. As universities navigate these challenges, they must implement strategies to attract and retain international talent, which is crucial for enhancing the diversity and global perspective on campus.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$33,116

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$22,726
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$12,383
Room and board
$10,390
Graduate tuition
$18,217
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 44% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 58%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$156M

Government grants and contracts
$86.6M55.5%
Tuition and fees
$28.5M18.3%
Investment return
$4.6M3.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.4M0.9%
Gifts and private grants
$646K0.4%
Other
$34.2M21.9%

Expenses$143M

Instruction
$72.9M51.1%
Institutional support
$19.1M13.4%
Student services
$10.8M7.6%
Academic support
$9.9M7.0%
Scholarships
$7.8M5.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.4M3.8%
Public service
$4.3M3.0%
Research
$1.9M1.3%
Other
$10.5M7.3%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$83,479peers $80,690
Professor
$105,973peers $98,841
Associate professor
$91,010peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$91,398peers $74,446
Instructor
$56,167peers $58,934

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Northeastern Illinois University:

  1. Northwestern University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Northwestern is a prestigious research university located in Evanston, Illinois. It is known for its strong programs in journalism, law, and business.

  2. University of Chicago - With a ranking of 12, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and has produced numerous Nobel laureates. It is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago.

  3. University of Illinois Chicago - Ranked 82nd in the 2024 US News rankings, UIC is a major public research university with a strong emphasis on health sciences, engineering, and urban planning.

  4. Loyola University Chicago - This university is ranked 142nd and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing social justice and community service.

  5. DePaul University - With a ranking of 151, DePaul is known for its diverse student body and strong programs in business, law, and the arts.

  6. University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th, Notre Dame is a prestigious Catholic university located in Notre Dame, Indiana, known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
13
Stalking
11
Rape
5
Burglary
5
Drug referrals
5
Dating violence
4

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Northeastern Illinois University

The crime statistics at Northeastern Illinois University reveal significant fluctuations over the years from 2013 to 2023. The data show a peak in crime rates in 2020, with an alarming average of 3.69 incidents per 1000 students. This spike could reflect broader societal issues such as increased tensions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a rise in various crimes nationwide.

Interestingly, the years following 2020 demonstrate a substantial decline, with rates dropping to 0.53 in 2022 and then slightly increasing to 1.63 in 2023. This trend suggests that the university may have implemented effective measures to enhance campus safety and reduce criminal activities. The implementation of programs aimed at violence prevention, drug education, and community policing could be contributing factors to this decline.

Moreover, specific categories such as domestic violence and drug-related arrests have been highlighted in the data, which is consistent with national trends that underline the need for universities to address these issues proactively. Overall, while there have been periods of concern, the recent drop in crime rates indicates a potential positive shift in campus safety. Continuous efforts to maintain this trend are essential for ensuring the wellbeing of students and fostering a secure educational environment.

For further information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Northeastern Illinois University include Tim McIlrath (Lead singer of punk rock band Rise Against), Michael Angelo Batio (Heavy metal guitarist) and Ana Castillo (Chicana novelist, poet and essayist).

See all 24 notable alumni of Northeastern Illinois University →

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.