Northeastern Illinois University

Northeastern Illinois University maintains a published cost of attendance of $27,208 annually, including $12,383 in in-state tuition, $10,742 for room and board, and $2,400 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $13,550 representing savings of $13,658 from the sticker price.

This net price falls slightly below the peer median of $14,093, making Northeastern Illinois University competitively affordable within its category. The university's pricing structure reflects its public mission and commitment to serving economically diverse student populations.

Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $22,726, though financial aid can substantially reduce actual costs depending on family income and aid eligibility. The university's location in Chicago provides access to internship and employment opportunities that can help offset educational expenses while providing valuable work experience.

Financial aid savings average over 50% of the published cost, indicating robust need-based aid programs that make the institution accessible to lower and middle-income families seeking quality higher education.

Northeastern Illinois University graduates demonstrate consistent earnings growth over time. Median earnings rise from $43,801 six years after enrollment to $47,923 at eight years and $52,234 at ten years, representing 19.3% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes reflect a ten-year cohort of 3,170 graduates, providing high confidence in reported figures. The institution excels at generating earnings beyond expectations, with graduates earning $19,849 more than predicted based on student demographics, ranking at the 94.2nd percentile nationally.

Low-income graduates earn $39,300, demonstrating the university's effectiveness in serving economically disadvantaged populations. Earnings span from $32,480 at the 25th percentile to $75,431 at the 75th percentile, reflecting a 2.3:1 ratio that indicates diverse career outcomes across programs.

Approximately 20.1% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, showing balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

Northeastern Illinois University admits 70.4% of applicants, meaning approximately 7 in 10 applicants receive offers of admission. This places the institution in the Moderately Selective category, making it significantly more accessible than highly selective universities while maintaining academic standards.

The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates that Northeastern Illinois University is somewhat more selective than typical four-year institutions serving similar student populations. The 14.2 percentage point difference suggests the university maintains higher admission standards while remaining accessible to diverse applicants.

This selectivity level creates reasonable admission prospects for students with solid academic preparation. For prospective students, this means building a college list should include institutions across the selectivity spectrum, with Northeastern Illinois University representing a realistic option for most academically prepared applicants.

Students should focus on demonstrating academic readiness and alignment with the university's mission of serving first-generation and diverse student populations. The accessible admission rate combined with strong post-graduation outcomes makes this institution particularly attractive for students seeking value in higher education.

Northeastern Illinois University offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for analysis. Computer Science ranks #120 nationally and #9 in Illinois, producing 121 graduates with median earnings of $78,244 and a value score of 35.0.

Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching ranks #42 nationally and #2 in Illinois, graduating 47 students with median earnings of $50,486 and an exceptional value score of 81.2. Business/Commerce General ranks #16 nationally and #1 in Illinois, with 31 graduates earning $67,572 and a strong value score of 76.9.

Biology General ranks #129 nationally and #6 in Illinois, graduating 87 students with median earnings of $52,784. Forensic Social Work ranks #56 nationally and #3 in Illinois, serving 132 graduates with earnings of $44,094.

General Studies represents the largest program by enrollment with 158 graduates, reflecting the university's commitment to flexible academic pathways.