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Northern Illinois University Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Northern Illinois University's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Northern Illinois University and build a strong application.

School location: DeKalb, IL

This school is also known as: NIU

Admissions Rate: 70.7%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Northern Illinois University is 70.7% . For every 100 applicants, 71 are admitted.

This means the school is lightly selective . The school will have their expected requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores. If you meet their requirements, you're almost certain to get an offer of admission. But if you don't meet Northern Illinois University's requirements, you'll be one of the unlucky few people who gets rejected.

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Northern Illinois University GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.4

The average GPA at Northern Illinois University is 3.4 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.4, Northern Illinois University requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes. This will help boost your weighted GPA and show your ability to take college classes.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.4, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Northern Illinois University hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Northern Illinois University will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Northern Illinois University SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1110

The average SAT score composite at Northern Illinois University is a 1110 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Northern Illinois University Competitive for SAT test scores.

Northern Illinois University SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1010, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1180. In other words, a 1010 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1180 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Northern Illinois University has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Sitting."

This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider the SAT score from your single highest test date (the sum of math, reading, and writing).

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and Northern Illinois University only considers your highest score on a single test date, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit your strongest score. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT score is currently below a 1010, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You don't have much to lose, and you can potentially raise your score and significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Northern Illinois University ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Northern Illinois University likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 22

The average ACT score at Northern Illinois University is 22. This score makes Northern Illinois University Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 19, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 25.

Even though Northern Illinois University likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 19 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 19 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Northern Illinois University, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 19.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Northern Illinois University considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is lightly selective, you have a great shot at getting in, as long as you don't fall well below average . Aim for a 1010 SAT or a 19 ACT or higher, and you'll almost certainly get an offer of admission. As long as you meet the rest of the application requirements below, you'll be a shoo-in.

But if you score below our recommended target score, you may be one of the very few unlucky people to get rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Northern Illinois University here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee No fee required for domestic applicants
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes High school class rank required for freshmen

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Not used if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 1
• Social Studies 2

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes August 1 Rolling

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 1425 De Kalb, IL 60115-2854
• Phone: (815) 753-1000 x1000
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Northern Illinois University, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Northern Illinois University.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Northern Illinois University. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Northern Illinois University, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Northern Illinois University, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Northern Illinois University is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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We look at potential, not test scores.

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Northern Illinois University

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Your undergraduate experience will shape your career and many other aspects of your life. So why choose NIU? Located 65 miles west of Chicago, Northern Illinois University is a student-centered, nationally recognized public research university. We believe a life-changing education should be within reach of everyone, and we strive to deliver a university experience tailored to your interests and driven by your dreams. Whether you’re a freshman who wants to explore your passions or a career-focused transfer student, we’ll help you develop your talents and blaze your own unique path to success.

Academic programs.

• Art & Design
• Communication
• Engineering
• Finance/Accounting
• Government/Political Science
• Health Science
• Liberal Arts
• Performing Arts
• Social Science
• Visual Arts

Student experience

• Co-op/Internship Opportunities
• Disability Services
• Distance/online learning
• Intramural/Club Sports
• LGBTQIA Services
• Military/Veteran Services
• On-Campus Housing
• ROTC Program
• Study Abroad
• Undergraduate Research
• Veteran Fee Waiver

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

• Summer Term – May 15
• Fall Term – August 1
• Spring Term – December 1

Additional Information

Northern Illinois University is a nationally recognized public research university. In our diverse community with more than 300 student organizations and NCAA Division I athletic programs, going to class is just part of the student experience. See what else is in store for you during your life as a Huskie. Join us for a virtual admissions overview session , or check out one of our virtual tours. You can also schedule a personalized appointment to chat live with an admissions counselor and learn more about NIU, the admissions process, and much more! Now is a great time to  connect with us !

We have the resources you'd expect from a nationally recognized public research university, and you'll feel at home in our dynamic campus. We'll give you personalized guidance as you earn a degree that’ll take you anywhere. Your Future. Our Focus. Mayra Lagunas, AVP & Director of Admissions, Office of Undergraduate Admissions/2022

Admissions office

350 Normal Rd. , Williston Hall DeKalb , IL 60115-2828 , United States of America

Phone number

815-753-0446

For first-year students

Admissions website.

www.niu.edu/admissions/path/first-year/index.shtml

Financial aid website

www.niu.edu/financial-aid/

Undocumented or DACA students

www.niu.edu/undocumented/admissions/index.shtml

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Northern Illinois University Admissions

Northern Illinois University has an acceptance rate of 71%. The application deadline at Northern Illinois University is Aug. 1.

Admissions officials at Northern Illinois University consider a student's GPA an important academic factor. An applicant's high school class rank, when available, is considered important and letters of recommendation are considered by admissions officials at Northern Illinois University. To see additional academic factors along with other school data, learn more about College Compass .

Northern Illinois University Admissions Stats

Will you get into northern illinois university , college admissions calculator.

Data provided by U.S. News College Compass Users.

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Northern Illinois University Admissions Requirements

Admission interview

Recommended

Required Standardized Tests

Neither SAT nor ACT

SAT/ACT Scores Must Be Received By

UNLOCK WITH COMPASS

Northern Illinois University Applications

Application Deadline

Early Decision Deadline

Common Application Accepted

Deadline for housing deposit

Entering Class Stats

Selectivity

Acceptance rate

Early Decision Acceptance Rate

SATs on 1600 scale

Transfer Students

Accepting applications

Fall, Spring, Summer

Minimum credits to apply

Minimum required college GPA

Guaranteed admission agreement URL

International Students

Separate Application Form Required

Conditional admission offered

Early decision or early action options available

Neither early decision nor early action

TOEFL (paper)

TOEFL (internet-based)

Michigan Test

Advance deposit required

TOEFL accepted instead of SAT or ACT

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Northern Illinois University Admissions

What is the acceptance rate for niu, will you get in, will you get into niu.

Test Scores and High School GPA for Northern Illinois University See Other Colleges

Admissions Statistics

Admissions deadlines, admissions requirements.

• High School GPA Required
• High School Rank Required
• High School Transcript Required
• College Prep Courses Required
• SAT/ACT Neither required nor recommended
• Recommendations Neither required nor recommended

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• What Northern Illinois University looks for in applicants
• Northern Illinois University Requirements - General Application
• How to Differentiate Your Application & Get In
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Northern Illinois University: 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs

This is the go-to guide for getting into Northern Illinois University. We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to Northern Illinois University, but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown Northern Illinois University statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out Northern Illinois University on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here . If you're interesting in transferring to Northern Illinois University, the read our transfer guide. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at Northern Illinois University

This free college chances tool calculates your acceptance chances at any other U.S. college

Please note all chances are estimates based on test score and GPA averages.

What GPA Do You Need To Get Into Northern Illinois University?

Northern Illinois University’s average GPA is 3.3. Northern Illinois University does require GPA. This average GPA means Northern Illinois University is very selective. Often times, schools in this range are trying to increase their selectivity and “prestige”. We can’t read the minds of Northern Illinois University application readers, but they likely want to increase the average GPA from 3.3 to 3.47 this year - to play it safe, we recommend striving for the 3.47 GPA.

*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. Northern Illinois University may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on Northern Illinois University’s campus. These Northern Illinois University admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.

What Is Northern Illinois University’s Acceptance Rate?

Last year Northern Illinois University’s acceptance rate was 50.349999999999994. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.

As you can see, Northern Illinois University is getting more and more difficult to get into. If this trend continue it’s likely that Northern Illinois University will be even more competitive by the time you apply.

Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into Northern Illinois University - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.

Will You Get Into Northern Illinois University?

Does northern illinois university require test scores.

Northern Illinois University requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how Northern Illinois University’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.

Northern Illinois University’s average SAT score is 1010 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether Northern Illinois University is getting more or less competitive.

Northern Illinois University’s average SAT score is 1010. To be a competitive applicant for Northern Illinois University your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 900, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Northern Illinois University a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1120.

Northern Illinois University’s average ACT score is 65. To be a competitive applicant for Northern Illinois University your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 55, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Northern Illinois University a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 75.

Northern Illinois University Requirements

Now you know where you need to be for getting into Northern Illinois University from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.

How to get into Northern Illinois University

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into Northern Illinois University. Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at Northern Illinois University, but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.

Main Academic Excellence that is in line with Northern Illinois University admission standards.

• Score at least a 1010 on the SAT or 65 on the ACT.
• Maintain a GPA of at least a 3.3.

Join Extracurriculars that Align with Northern Illinois University’s Values.

• Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If Northern Illinois University values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
• Volunteer in your hometown. Dekalb has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. Northern Illinois University wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Dekalb area in general.
• Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. Northern Illinois University needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.

Prepare Your Application

• Write a stellar essay that shows Northern Illinois University something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
• Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your Northern Illinois University app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
• Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that Northern Illinois University’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.

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Northern Illinois University | NIU

Cost & scholarships.

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Your chances

Acceptance rate, acceptance rate breakdown, applicant breakdown, average net cost after aid.

Published costs and averages can be misleading: they don’t fully account for your family’s finances (for financial aid) or your academic profile (for scholarships).

Want to see your personalized net cost after financial aid and scholarships?

Applications

How to apply, enrolled breakdown by gender, race & ethnicity diversity, special academic offering, study abroad, credit for ap exams, offers graduate degree, academic and career counseling, similar schools.

• Counseling and Higher Education
• Academic Programs
• M.S.Ed. in Counseling

• M.S.Ed in Counseling

Some of us are just natural helpers. If you're ready to channel your compassion for others into a career, our M.S.Ed. in counseling can prepare you to empower diverse individuals, couples, families and groups to accomplish their mental health, wellness, educational and professional goals. Our program equips you with a variety of skills and strategies that will make a difference in schools, hospitals, communities and the private sector. Areas of study include clinical mental health counseling or school counseling. Graduate certificates are available in trauma-informed counseling. We are approved by the State Department of Public Instruction to endorse school counselors for professional educator licensing in Illinois. We are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

Real-world Learning

• Our program requires a supervised practicum (100 clock hours) and internship (600 clock hours). You are responsible for finding and securing an internship site placement.
• Our Community Counseling Training Center is used to provide comprehensive training for counselors and counseling supervisors through the delivery of outstanding, culturally responsive counseling services to NIU students, faculty, staff and community members.

Admission Requirements

Program admissions is for the fall semester only. You must apply for our program through the NIU Graduate School, and if invited, attend the Pre-Admissions Workshop. For admission to graduate school, you'll need to identify your intended degree specialization and submit your application with two letters of recommendation, completion of the M.S.Ed. applicant essay, transcripts and résumé. A test of English proficiency will also be requested if you are an international applicant. The deadline for fall is Jan. 8.

Apply Today

Applicant Essay Instructions

As you have carefully considered your interests, determination, and capacities to pursue admissions consideration, respond to the following essay prompts using the writing guidelines.

Essay Prompts

• Please share your career goals regarding why you want to become a professional counselor; including your personal experiences, interests, community engagement, and abilities that lead you to apply for a graduate program in counseling.
• The current definition of counseling as developed and endorsed by the American Counseling Association: "Counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals." How do you see your strengths and professional goals aligning with this definition of counseling? What are your areas of potential growth for attaining these goals?
• What are your values (e.g., cultural, political, familial, social, professional, etc.) and how do you relate to and work with individuals and groups who have different values than your own?
• What factors have led to your consideration of professional counseling as opposed to other helping professions (e.g., psychology, social work, etc.)?
• Is there anything else that you would like for us to know which might be of help in the admission decision process?

Writing Guidelines

• Provide critically reflective responses to the prompts as a single document, narrative essay format, without page breaks.
• For each writing prompt, provide 1 to 2-page responses per prompt.
• Text should be double-spaced, Times New Roman or Calibri, 12-point font with 1-inch page margins.
• Running header should appear on each page with your name and page numbers.
• Career Goals
• Strengths and Growth Edges
• Navigating Values
• Emerging Counselor Identity
• Save and submit your essay response as a PDF file format document.
• Title the document with your name and “MSEd app essay.”

Program Mission and Objectives

Mission statement.

The Counseling Faculty are committed to preparing multiculturally competent counseling professionals for school, community, and higher education settings who can facilitate positive change in the development and interactions of diverse individuals throughout their lifespans. The Faculty are also committed to the generation and application of knowledge about counseling and related issues and techniques.

Master’s Program Objectives

Objective one – common core courses: Students will demonstrate mastery of a common core of knowledge and skills in counseling. this common core involves coursework in such areas as (a) human growth and development, (b) social and cultural foundations, (c) groups, (d) career and lifestyle development, (e) research and program evaluation, (f) professional orientation and (g) appraisal. Objective two - experiential courses: Students will be able to demonstrate effective use of counseling skills for a selected setting. Specific courses that address this objective are: Supervised Experiences (9 credit hours required)* Objective three - specialization courses: Students will demonstrate mastery of knowledge and skills in a selected area of professional preparation (12 hours in clinical mental health counseling or school counseling coursework and electives).

Learning Outcomes

We take pride in helping you move in a timely manner through our program regardless of full- or part-time status. During your program of study, you will:

• Demonstrate knowledge of common core areas in counseling, which include ethics, diagnosis of mental health, career, theories, group work, assessment, crisis intervention, substance abuse, counseling skills and strategies, and multiculturalism.
• Demonstrate effective counseling competencies.
• Demonstrate general dispositions toward self-reflection and being non-judgmental, and openness to supervision.
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills in Clinical Mental Health or School Counseling.
• Demonstrate knowledge of multicultural counseling skills and social justice issues.

All M.S.Ed. Counseling students learn the core knowledge complete coursework for professional counseling licensure eligibility in the state of Illinois.

Innovative Experiences

We promote best practices in the preparation of educators, advocates and leaders. Our alumni are committed to what graduate preparation should encompass: understanding the past, advancing the present, and modeling for the future. In Clinical Mental Health Counseling, you'll learn to assist clients in resolving psychological disorders and/or developmental issues through crisis intervention, remediation and/or primary prevention interventions.

In School Counseling, you'll become eligible to sit for the Professional Educator License with an Endorsement in School Counseling that allows working in the areas of social/emotional development, academic success and career readiness as a K-12 school counselor in Illinois.

Coursework Highlights

Both the Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling degree specialization programs are 60 credit hour CACREP accredited programs under the 2016 standards. Program courses are offered on a standard curriculum course rotation.

• COUN 500 Professional Identity and Ethics in Counseling
• COUN 501 Diagnosis of Mental Health Issues in Counseling
• COUN 510 Counseling Interventions Across the Lifespan
• COUN 511 Career Counseling
• COUN 513 Postsecondary and College Counseling for School Counselors
• COUN 521 Counseling with Children
• COUN 523 School Counseling: Programs, Issues and Practices
• COUN 524 Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Programs, Issues and Practices
• COUN 525 Counseling Skills and Strategies
• COUN 530 Counseling Theories and Practices
• COUN 532 Evidence Informed Practices in Professional Counseling and Counselor Education
• COUN 540 Group Counseling
• COUN 550 Practicum in Counseling
• COUN 565 Multicultural Counseling
• COUN 567 Substance Abuse Issues in Counseling
• COUN 570 Consultation and Management in Developmental School Counseling Programs
• COUN 586 Internship in Counseling
• COUN 593 Crisis Intervention
• COUN 784X Theoretical Foundations of Family Therapy
• ETR 520 Introduction to Research Methods in Education

The Illinois State Board of Education requires additional preparation for school counselor candidates in classroom-based intervention. Program faculty will advise you on integrating this content with core counseling coursework.

Standard Curriculum Course Rotation

Program community highlights.

On an annual basis, 70-100 eligible applicants apply for admissions to the master's level counseling degree programs. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program averages 50 to 60 degree program enrolled students. The School Counseling program averages 40-50 degree program enrolled students.

Counseling faculty work to recruit and admit diverse student populations. Note : NIU collects race/sex demographic information based on students' legal classifications. However, in alliance with NIU's stated commitment to diversity and inclusion , we recognize that our students, faculty and staff may identify beyond the demographics listed.

Self-reported counseling student race and sex last year included:

The NIU Counselor Educator team includes seven full-time faculty and two instructors of counseling. Professors of counseling represent not only diversity of multicultural intersectionality, but also diversity of counseling approaches and research interests.

Counselor education program faculty review various program and student outcome data points each year to determine the continuation of our changes in program delivery design. This annual review report (DOCX) includes:

• Summary of the program evaluation results
• Subsequent program modifications
• Any other substantial program changes

NIU Working for You

Our program is designed to meet the needs of a diverse body of degree-seeking students. We offer the majority of our classes on late afternoons and evenings to serve the working population of our students. Most classes are offered at our main campus in DeKalb, but some classes may be offered at our satellite sites in Rockford and Naperville. We take pride in helping you move swiftly through this program. Faculty and staff are available to assist with coursework, internships, practicums and assistantships. We believe a collaborative student-faculty relationship enhances your experience in our master's degree program.

Student Outcomes

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program graduated 13 students last year with a 92% completion rate. And 100% of our clinical mental health students passed their licensure examination and 100% found job placement after graduation.

The School Counseling program graduated four students last year with a 100% completion rate. Approximately 98% of our school counseling students passed their licensure examination and 100% found job placement after graduation.

• M.S.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs
• Ed.D. in Higher Education
• Ed.D. Community College Leadership
• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Counseling Minor

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Honors Program Application - Current Students/Transfer Students

Incoming Transfer Student If you don't meet the 3.30 GPA requirement but believe you can maintain it in the future, we encourage you to apply. We'll consider your application as a whole.

Current NIU Student If you don't meet the 3.30 GPA requirement but believe you can maintain it in the future, we encourage you to apply. We'll consider your application as a whole.

Submit an essay (limit 500 words) describing both how you think you will benefit from and contribute to the NIU University Honors Program community.

Awards and Honors

Indicate special activities in which you have participated and honors/awards which you have received at the local, regional, state, and national level (e.g., regional art show, state science fair, national academic bowl, etc.)

Extracurricular Activities

Please provide information about your involvement with extracurricular activities. You will be asked to provide details based on the following categories:

• Leadership and involvement
• Community service
• Work experience and other major responsibilities

The Progressive Learning in Undergraduate Studies (PLUS) General Education Program at Northern Illinois University provides foundational skills and breadth of knowledge through study in a broad variety of disciplines. Together with course work in the major and co-curricular experiences, general education provides students with opportunities to develop competencies in NIU’s baccalaureate student learning outcomes. The baccalaureate experience at Northern Illinois University challenges students to think critically, create, and communicate by participating in a progressive, engaged learning environment. Major area studies, general education, and co-curricular experiences prepare students to become productive members of a culturally and globally diverse society, and lifelong learners ready to meet the challenges of a dynamic career. See: “The Baccalaureate Experience” for a listing of the baccalaureate outcomes.

The PLUS General Education Program consists of two types of course work.

First, Foundational Studies courses develop the competencies necessary to succeed academically and personally. They emphasize students’ abilities to: (1) think critically and creatively; (2) reason quantitatively and qualitatively; (3) communicate clearly and effectively; and (4) work collaboratively across disciplines.

Second, Knowledge Domain courses continue to develop foundational competencies, as well as assure exposure to a broad array of ideas, disciplines, and ways of obtaining and interpreting information. The three knowledge domains are Creativity and Critical Analysis, Society and Culture, and Nature and Technology. Knowledge Domain courses emphasize students’ abilities to: (1) connect human life to the natural world; (2) understand and respect diverse cultures; (3) integrate knowledge of global interconnections; and (4) synthesize knowledge and skills.

Knowledge Domain requirements may optionally be fulfilled by a set of PLUS Pathways courses. A Pathway is a body of coursework drawn from all three Knowledge Domains that examines a theme from different disciplinary perspectives. The Pathways take the disciplinary breadth inherent in the Knowledge Domain component of general education, and comprise courses that address a set of common questions. The purpose of a Pathway is to provide coherence and relevance to general education, and allow students to choose a general education experience that aligns with their interests and goals. Pathways will further enhance content integration and will give students and instructors greater opportunities to develop the skill of collaborating effectively across disciplines.

Foundational Studies

Through Foundational Studies , students will begin to develop the fundamental skills of written communication, oral communication, and numeracy, all of which are required for academic, professional, and personal success. Students will learn to: (1) write skillfully with a thorough awareness of context, audience, and purpose; (2) communicate effectively through speaking, presenting, and debating, with an awareness of the specific practices in different disciplines; (3) perform basic numerical computations, display facility with using formal and quantitative reasoning analysis and problem solving, and interpret mathematical models and statistical information; and (4) work collaboratively with peers from different backgrounds.

The Foundational Studies general education requirements consist of two courses in Writing Composition, one course in Oral Communication, and one course in Quantitative Literacy. Foundational Studies courses do not count toward general education Knowledge Domain requirements.

All students must satisfy the Foundational Studies requirements in Writing Composition, Oral Communication, and Quantitative Literacy for 0-15 semester hours of general education credit.

The requirements in the Foundational Studies can be met by completing the designated course, by transfer credit, by passing a competency examination, or, for some Foundation Studies, through credit by examination. (See “Credit by Examination.”) Although passing a competency examination fulfills the requirement for the Foundational Studies, it does not result in the awarding of NIU course credit (i.e., it reduces the required number of general education hours but does not reduce the number of hours required for a degree.) Students with strong academic credentials are encouraged to attempt the competency examinations. Information on competency examinations is available from the Office of Testing Services.

The specific ways to satisfy the Foundational Studies requirements are listed below.

Foundational Studies Writing Requirements (0-6)

• Obtaining a grade of C or better in ENGL 103 or an equivalent course, or
• Obtaining equivalent transfer credit, or
• Passing the Writing Composition Foundational Studies Competency Examination, or
• Obtaining credit for ENGL 103 through examination by credit (Advanced Placement).
• Obtaining a grade of C or better in ENGL 203, ENGL 204, or an equivalent course, or
• Obtaining equivalent transfer credit.

Foundational Studies Oral Communication Requirements (0-3)

This requirement can be satisfied by:

• Passing COMS 100, or an equivalent course, or
• Passing the Oral Communication Foundational Studies Competency Examination.

Foundational Studies Quantitative Literacy Requirement (0-6)

• passing MATH 101 or equivalent course, (including Illinois Articulation Initiative Foundational Studies Quantitative Literacy courses that do not have a direct NIU course equivalent), or
• obtaining a C or better in MATH 155, MATH 201, MATH 206, MATH 210, MATH 211, or MATH 229, or an equivalent course, or
• obtaining credit for one of the mathematics courses listed above, except MATH 101, through credit by examination (Advanced Placement), or
• a grade of C or better in MATH 104 and MATH 105; or MATH 110, or
• an ACT mathematics score of at least 24, or
• an SAT mathematics score of at least 560, or
• an A- or B-level placement on the mathematics placement examination
• obtaining equivalent transfer credit, or
• passing the Mathematics Competency Examination.

Foundational Studies Course Descriptions

• COMS 100 - Fundamentals of Oral Communication Credits: 3
• ENGL 103 - Rhetoric and Composition I Credits: 3
• ENGL 203 - Rhetoric and Composition II, Researched Writing in the Domains Credits: 3
• ENGL 204 - Rhetoric and Composition, Accelerated Researched Writing in the Domains Credits: 3
• ISYE 335 - Probability and Statistics for Engineers Credits: 3 *
• MATH 101 - Core Competency in Mathematics Credits: 3
• MATH 104 - Supplemental Review for College Algebra Credits: 1 *
• MATH 105 - College Algebra with Review Credits: 3 *
• MATH 110 - College Algebra Credits: 3 *
• MATH 155 - Trigonometry and Elementary Functions Credits: 3
• MATH 201 - Foundations of Elementary School Mathematics Credits: 3
• MATH 206 - Introductory Discrete Mathematics Credits: 3
• MATH 210 - Finite Mathematics Credits: 3
• MATH 211 - Calculus for Business and Social Science Credits: 4
• MATH 229 - Calculus I Credits: 4
• STAT 100 - Basic Statistics Credits: 3 *
• STAT 300 - Introduction to Probability and Statistics Credits: 3 *

* This course will not meet the Foundational Studies Quantitative Literacy Requirement without additional course requirements being met. Please see the Foundational Studies Quantitative Literacy Requirement section for details on the other courses needed to satisfy the requirement when taking this course.

Knowledge Domain Requirements and Course Descriptions

There is a required minimum of 21 semester hours in the three General Education Knowledge Domains . The three General Education Knowledge Domains are areas of human endeavor (Creativity and Critical Analysis; Nature and Technology; Society and Culture) and will: (1) help students attain a sound liberal education and acquire sufficient general knowledge and intellectual versatility to become productive and resourceful members of society,  (2) explore human thought and relations in order to understand and respect cultural heritage, (3) provide an understanding of the scientific method and the application of scientific facts and principles pertaining to the natural and technological worlds, and (4) examine the role of knowledge in promoting human welfare.

The required minimum of 21 semester hours in Knowledge Domain studies cannot include more than two courses in any one department. (A course with an affiliated laboratory course shall be counted as a single course.)

The 21 general education semester hours required in the three Knowledge Domains can be earned by: (1) successful completion of designated courses; (2) general education credit articulation;  (3) transfer articulation; or (4) credit by examination.

Foundational Studies courses do not count toward general education Knowledge Domain requirements. Any single course cannot count towards fulfilling more than one Knowledge Domain requirement.

Creativity and Critical Analysis (a minimum of 6 semester hours)

Courses in Creativity and Critical Analysis will challenge students to develop the skills involved in critical reflection and creative expression.  Students will:  (1) become acquainted with methods for analyzing primary sources and critically evaluating the ideas, events, traditions, and belief systems that have shaped human experience and expression; (2) explore fundamental modes of aesthetic and creative expression; and (3) understand and evaluate the diversity of humanity’s most notable cultural achievements from artistic, historical, linguistic, literary, and philosophical perspectives.

Nature and Technology (a minimum of 6 semester hours)

Courses in Nature and Technology will develop students’ understanding of the role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and their relevance to societal issues. This domain encompasses human activities through which we observe, measure, model, and interpret the natural world and physical universe. Courses will explore the process of scientific discovery and how the resulting knowledge is applied to understand technological and societal change. Students will: (1) be able to articulate society’s connections to, and responsibility towards, the natural world; and (2) learn to apply the scientific method, including assessing empirical data, investigating the predictions of existing theories, and developing experimentally testable hypotheses.

Society and Culture (a minimum of 6 semester hours)

Courses in Society and Culture will develop understanding of the methods of inquiry used to study humanity, from individual behavior to how people organize and govern nations, societies, and cultures.  Students will:  (1) learn the role, principles, and methods of social and behavioral science in understanding individual and collective behavior in society; (2) hone the reasoning skills required to understand theories of human behavior and social phenomena; and (3) develop the ability to understand and evaluate the communication of results in the social and behavioral sciences.

Elective from any Knowledge Domain (1 course, a minimum of 3 semester hours)

Knowledge domain course descriptions.

Creativity and Critical Analysis Course Descriptions

• ANTH 102 - Temples and Tombs: Rise of Civilization Credits: 3
• ANTH 210 - Exploring Archaeology Credits: 3
• ARTH 282 - Introduction to World Art Credits: 3
• ARTH 292 - Art and Design since 1900 Credits: 3
• ARTH 294 - Introduction to Arts of Asia Credits: 3
• ARTH 340 - Studies in Modern Art Credits: 3

ARTH 340 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 350 - Studies in Contemporary Art Credits: 3

ARTH 350 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 362 - History of Visual Communication Credits: 3
• COMS 203 - Interpersonal Communication Skills Credits: 3
• COMS 220 - Rhetoric and Public Issues Credits: 3
• COMS 230 - Rhetoric and the Media Credits: 3
• COMS 310 - Advocacy and Critical Thinking Credits: 3
• COMS 356 - Critical Interpretation of Film/Television Credits: 3
• COMS 480 - Communication and Conflict Management Credits: 3
• ENGL 110 - Literature and Popular Culture Credits: 3
• ENGL 115 - British Identities, British Literature Credits: 3
• ENGL 116 - American Identities, American Literature Credits: 3
• ENGL 117 - Literature of Social Justice Credits: 3
• ENGL 310 - Ideas and Ideals in World Literature Credits: 3

ENGL 310 is also a writing infused course.

• ENGL 315 - Readings in Shakespeare Credits: 3

ENGL 315 is also a writing infused course.

• ENGL 340 - The Bible as Literature Credits: 3
• ENGL 350 - Writing across the Curriculum Credits: 3

ENGL 350 is also a writing infused course.

• ENGL 361 - Literature of Health Care Credits: 3
• EPFE 321 - History of American Education Credits: 3

EPFE 321 is also a writing infused course.

EPFE 321 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• EPFE 400 - Foundations of Education Credits: 3

EPFE 400 is also a writing infused course.

• EPFE 410 - Philosophy of Education Credits: 3

EPFE 410 is also a writing infused course.

• EPS 300 - Educational Psychology Credits: 3
• EPS 430 - Becoming an Adult in the 21st Century: Seeking Meaning Credits: 3

EPS 430 is also a writing infused course.

• ETT 231 - Digital Visual Literacy for Learning Credits: 3
• FLCL 271 - Classical Mythology Credits: 3
• FLFR 371 - Masterpieces of French Literature in Translation Credits: 3

FLFR 371 is also a writing infused course.

• FLIT 272 - The Italian Renaissance Credits: 3
• FLRU 361 - Russian Culture and Literature Credits: 3
• FSMD 262 - Design Trends in Western Costume Credits: 3
• HIST 110 - History of the Western World I: Problems in the Human Past Credits: 3

HIST 110 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 112 - History of the Western World II: Problems in the Human Past Credits: 3

HIST 112 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 140 - Asia to 1500 Credits: 3

HIST 140 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 141 - Asia Since 1500 Credits: 3

HIST 141 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 170 - World History I: Problems in the Human Past Credits: 3

HIST 170 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 171 - World History II: Problems in the Human Past Credits: 3
• HIST 260 - American History to 1865 Credits: 3

HIST 260 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 261 - American History since 1865 Credits: 3

HIST 261 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 352 - Popular Culture in Japan Credits: 3
• HIST 369 - Women in United States History Credits: 3

HIST 369 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 383 - Latin America through Film Credits: 3

HIST 383 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HON 300 - Honors Seminar with General Education Domains Credits: 3

HON 300 Topic A is a Creativity and Critical Analysis Course.

• HON 400 - Honors Seminar: General Education Domains & Writing Infused Credits: 3

HON 400 Topic A is a Creativity and Critical Analysis Course. HON 400 Topic A is also a writing infused course.

• HON 410 - Honors Seminar: General Education Domains & Human Diversity Credits: 3

HON 410 Topic A is a Creativity and Critical Analysis Course.

HON 410 Topic A also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• MDST 225 - Medieval Society and Culture Credits: 3
• JOUR 350 - Environment, Health, and the Media Credits: 3
• KNPE 393 - Social Aspects of Sport Credits: 3

KNPE 393 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• LATS 100 - Introduction to Latin American Studies Credits: 3

LATS 100 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• LATS 101 - Introduction to Latino Studies Credits: 3

LATS 101 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• LESM 152 - Perspectives in U.S. Sport Credits: 3

LESM 152 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• LTRE 191 - Learning to Learn: Developing Contextualized College Reading and Study Strategies for the Humanities Credits: 3
• LTRE 192 - Learning to Learn: Developing Contextualized College Reading and Study Strategies for the Natural Sciences Credits: 3
• LTRE 193 - Learning to Learn: Developing Contextualized College Reading and Study Strategies for the Social Sciences Credits: 3
• LTRE 194 - Learning to Learn: Developing Contextualized College Reading and Study Strategies for General Studies Credits: 3
• MEE 382 - Design Thinking Credits: 3
• MGMT 227 - Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Sustainability Credits: 3
• MGMT 311 - Social Entrepreneurship Credits: 3
• MGMT 327 - Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship Credits: 3
• MUHL 220 - Introduction to Western Musical Traditions Credits: 3
• MUHL 221 - Introduction to Jazz Music Credits: 3
• MUHL 222 - World Music and Culture Credits: 3
• MUHL 223 - History of Rock Credits: 3
• PHIL 101 - Introduction to Philosophy Credits: 3
• PHIL 103 - Contemporary Issues in Ethics Credits: 3
• PHIL 105 - Logic and Critical Reasoning Credits: 3
• PHIL 251 - Philosophy of Race Credits: 3

PHIL 251 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• POLS 150 - Democracy in America Credits: 3
• POLS 251 - Introduction to Political Philosophy Credits: 3
• SESE 320 - Disability in Film Credits: 3

SESE 320 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• TH-D 222 - Dance and the Fine Arts Credits: 3
• TH-D 474 - Dance Philosophy and Aesthetics Credits: 3

TH-D 474 is also a writing infused course.

• THEA 203 - Introduction to Theatre Credits: 3
• THEA 370 - History of Theatre and Drama I Credits: 3

THEA 370 is also a writing infused course.

• THEA 379 - Perspectives on Creativity Credits: 3
• UBUS 110 - Business in Action Credits: 3
• WGSS 202 - Women and Cultural Expression Credits: 3

WGSS 202 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

Nature and Technology Course Descriptions

• ANTH 103 - The Great Apes Credits: 3
• ANTH 240 - Becoming Human: Discovering Human Origins Credits: 3
• ANTH 261X - Language, Mind, and Thought Credits: 3
• ARTH 331 - Art, Nature and Technology 1400 to 1800 Credits: 3

ARTH 331 is also a writing infused course.

• BIOS 103 - General Biology Credits: 3
• BIOS 105 - General Biology Laboratory Credits: 1
• BIOS 106 - Environmental Biology Credits: 3
• BIOS 109 - Human Biology Credits: 3
• CHEM 100 - Chemistry in Everyday Life Credits: 3
• CHEM 110 - Chemistry Credits: 3
• CHEM 111 - Chemistry Laboratory Credits: 1
• CHEM 210 - General Chemistry I Credits: 3
• CHEM 211 - General Chemistry II Credits: 3
• CHEM 212 - General Chemistry Laboratory I Credits: 1
• CHEM 213 - General Chemistry Laboratory II Credits: 1
• CSCI 205 - Introduction to Computing Credits: 3
• ELE 100 - Elements of Electronics Credits: 3
• ENGL 261X - Language, Mind, and Thought Credits: 3
• ENVS 210 - Introduction to Sustainable Food Systems Credits: 3
• ETR 450 - Data Analysis for Design and Evaluation Credits: 3
• ETT 234 - Learning with Technology Credits: 3
• GEOG 101 - Introduction to Environmental Geography Credits: 3
• GEOG 105 - Weather, Climate, and You Credits: 3
• GEOG 253 - Environment and Society Credits: 3
• GEOG 303 - Water Resources and the Environment Credits: 3
• GEOL 101 - Geology of the National Parks Credits: 3
• GEOL 103 - Planetary and Space Science Credits: 3
• GEOL 104 - Introduction to Ocean Science Credits: 3
• GEOL 105 - Geologic Resources and the Environment Credits: 3
• GEOL 120 - Planet Earth Credits: 3
• GEOL 121 - Planet Earth Laboratory Credits: 1
• GEOL 303 - Diamonds, Gems, and Other Precious Stones Credits: 3
• GEOL 304 - Diamonds, Gems, and Other Precious Stones Laboratory Credits: 1
• HIST 323 - History of Science Credits: 3
• HIST 377 - American Environmental History Credits: 3

HIST 377 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

HON 300 Topic B is a Nature and Technology Course.

HON 400 Topic B is a Nature and Technology Course. HON 400 Topic B is also a Writing Infused Course.

HON 410 Topic B is a Nature and Technology Course. HON 410 Topic B is also a Human Diversity Course.

• ILAS 261 - Language, Mind, and Thought Credits: 3
• ISYE 100 - Fundamentals of Manufacturing Systems Credits: 3
• ISYE 250 - Introduction to Lean Systems Engineering Credits: 2
• ISYE 420 - Introduction to Energy Management Systems Credits: 3
• KNPE 100 - Scientific Basis of Human Activity Credits: 3
• MEE 101 - Energy and the Environment Credits: 3
• NUTR 201 - Human Nutrition Credits: 3
• OMIS 259 - Introduction to Business Information Systems Credits: 3
• PHIL 205 - Symbolic Logic Credits: 3
• PHYS 150 - Physics Credits: 3
• PHYS 151 - Physics Laboratory Credits: 1
• PHYS 162 - Elementary Astronomy Credits: 3
• PHYS 180 - Acoustics, Music, and Hearing Credits: 3
• PHYS 181 - Acoustics Laboratory Credits: 1
• PHYS 210 - General Physics I Credits: 4
• PHYS 211 - General Physics II Credits: 4
• PHYS 253 - Fundamentals of Physics I: Mechanics Credits: 4
• PHYS 273 - Fundamentals of Physics II: Electromagnetism Credits: 4
• PSYC 345 - Cognitive Psychology Credits: 3
• PSYC 481 - Drugs and Behavior Credits: 3
• STAT 200 - Elementary Statistics Credits: 4
• TECH 231 - Introduction to Workplace Health and Safety Credits: 3
• TECH 245 - Pollution Prevention and Sustainable Production Credits: 3
• TECH 294 - Technology and Cultural Relevance Credits: 3

Society and Culture Course Descriptions

• ANTH 104 - Anthropology of Pop Culture: Making the Familiar Strange Credits: 3
• ANTH 105 - Archaeology Myths and Mysteries Credits: 3
• ANTH 120 - Anthropology and Human Diversity Credits: 3
• ANTH 220 - Being Human: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology Credits: 3
• ANTH 230 - Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology Credits: 3
• ANTH 250 - Dismantling Global Racism Credits: 3
• ANTH 302 - Asian American Cultures Credits: 3

ANTH 302 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• ANTH 465 - Medical Anthropology Credits: 3
• ART 465 - Introduction to Museum Studies Credits: 3
• ARTE 109 - Strategic Visual Thinking Credits: 3
• ARTH 310 - Studies in Ancient and Middle-Eastern Art Credits: 3

ARTH 310 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 320 - Studies in Medieval Art Credits: 3

ARTH 320 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 330 - Studies in Early Modern European Art Credits: 3

ARTH 330 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 360 - Studies in Design Credits: 3

ARTH 360 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 361 - History of Sustainable Design Credits: 3

ARTH 361 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 370 - Studies in Asian Art Credits: 3

ARTH 370 is also a writing infused course.

• ARTH 380 - Studies in African, Oceanian, Native American, Pre-Columbian Art, and Latin-American Art Credits: 3

ARTH 380 is also a writing infused course.

• BIOS 324X - Women in Science Credits: 3

BIOS 324X fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• BKST 200 - Racism in American Culture and Society Credits: 3

BKST 200 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• BKST 211 - Educating for Cultural Sensitivity Credits: 3

BKST 211 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• BKST 219 - Introduction to African Studies Credits: 3
• BKST 250X - Dismantling Global Racism Credits: 3
• BKST 300 - Foundations of Black Studies Credits: 3
• BKST 440 - Black Liberation Movements Credits: 3
• COMD 220 - Introduction to Communicative Disorders Credits: 3
• COMS 240 - Rhetoric of Interpersonal Communication Credits: 3
• COMS 362 - Intercultural Communication Credits: 3

COMS 362 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• COMS 403 - Freedom of Speech and Communication Ethics Credits: 3
• COMS 410 - Communication and Gender Credits: 3

COMS 410 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• ECON 160 - Contemporary Economic Issues Credits: 3
• ECON 186 - Introduction to Environmental Economics Credits: 3
• ECON 260 - Principles of Microeconomics Credits: 3
• ECON 261 - Principles of Macroeconomics Credits: 3
• ENGL 318 - Exploring Human Language Credits: 3

ENGL 318 is a writing infused course.

• ENVS 186X - Introduction to Environmental Economics Credits: 3
• ENVS 303 - Environment in the Social Sciences and Humanities Credits: 3
• EPFE 201 - Education as an Agent for Change Credits: 3

EPFE 201 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• EPFE 355 - Sociology of Schooling Credits: 3

EPFE 355 is also a writing infused course.

EPFE 355 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• EPFE 440 - Education for Social Justice Credits: 3

EPFE 440 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• EPS 307 - Development of the Adolescent Credits: 3
• ETR 451 - Community-based and Participatory Action Research Credits: 3
• ETT 211 - Technology in a Diverse Society Credits: 3

ETT 211 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• ETT 329 - Learning in the Digital Age Credits: 3
• FINA 315 - Personal Investing and Finance Credits: 3
• FLBU 482 - Censorship, Propaganda, and Media Bias in Southeast Asia and Beyond Credits: 3

FLBU 482 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• GEOG 202 - World Regional Geography Credits: 3

GEOG 202 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• GEOG 204 - Geography of Economic Activities Credits: 3
• GEOG 256 - Maps and Mapping Credits: 3
• GEOG 324X - Women in Science Credits: 3

GEOG 324X fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HDFS 207 - The Consumer Credits: 3
• HDFS 230 - Child Development Credits: 3
• HDFS 280 - Human Development, the Family, and Society Credits: 3
• HIST 343 - History of Southeast Asia Since ca. 1800 Credits: 3

HIST 343 is also a writing infused course.

• HIST 349 - African History Since 1600 Credits: 3

HIST 349 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 355 - History of Black American Music Credits: 3

HIST 355 is also a writing infused course.

• HIST 361 - History of Health and Medicine in the United States Credits: 3

HIST 361 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 364 - African-American History to 1865 Credits: 3

HIST 364 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 365 - African-American History Since 1865 Credits: 3

HIST 365 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 381 - Colonial Latin America Credits: 3

HIST 381 is also a writing infused course.

HIST 381 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 382 - Modern Latin America Credits: 3

HIST 382 is also a writing infused course.

HIST 382 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• HIST 386 - History of Human Rights Credits: 3

HIST 386 is also a writing infused course.

• HIST 388 - The Cuban Revolution and Its Legacy Credits: 3

HIST 388 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

HON 300 Topic C is a Society and Culture Course.

HON 400 Topic C is a Society and Culture Course. HON 400 Topic C is also a Writing Infused Course.

HON 410 Topic C is a Society and Culture Course. HON 410 Topic C is also a Human Diversity Course.

• IVPA 201 - Creating Art for Others Credits: 3
• KNPE 111 - Sport: Culture and Society Credits: 3

KNPE 111 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• KNPE 305 - Psychological and Sociological Aspects of Exercise and Physical Activity Credits: 3

KNPE 305 is also a writing infused course.

• KNPE 310 - Psychological Aspects of Sport and Exercise Credits: 3
• LESM 365 - Communication Strategies in Sport Credits: 3

LESM 365 is also a writing infused course.

• MGMT 417 - Leading and Managing Change Credits: 3
• MUHL 431 - Music of Southeast Asia Credits: 3
• NNGO 100 - Community Leadership and Civic Engagement Credits: 3
• NUTR 406 - Global Food and Nutrition Issues Credits: 3

NUTR 406 is also a writing infused course.

• PHHE 206 - Contemporary Health Concepts Credits: 3
• PHHE 295 - Introduction to Public Health Credits: 3

PHHE 295 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• PHHE 315 - Introduction to Health Promotion Credits: 3
• PHIL 336 - Biomedical Ethics Credits: 3
• POLS 100 - American Government and Politics Credits: 3
• POLS 210 - Introduction to Law and Courts Credits: 3
• POLS 220 - Introduction to Public Policy Credits: 3
• POLS 260 - Introduction to Comparative Politics Credits: 3
• POLS 285 - Introduction to International Relations Credits: 3
• PSPA 220X - Introduction to Public Policy Credits: 3
• PSYC 102 - Introduction to Psychology Credits: 3
• PSYC 225 - Lifespan Development: Childhood Through Adulthood Credits: 3
• PSYC 245 - Thinking Credits: 3
• REHB 200 - Disability in Society Credits: 3

REHB 200 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• REHB 300 - Psychiatric Disability in Society Credits: 3
• SCL 100 - Foundation of Social Change Leadership Credits: 3
• SCL 200 - Application of Social Change Leadership Credits: 3
• SEAS 225 - Southeast Asia: Crossroads of the World Credits: 3
• SEEC 201 - Play Development and Early Childhood Education Services Credits: 3
• SEVI 205 - The Blindness Experience Credits: 3

SEVI 205 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• SOCI 170 - Introduction to Sociology Credits: 3
• SOCI 250 - Contemporary Social Institutions Credits: 3
• SOCI 260 - Introduction to Social Psychology Credits: 3
• SOCI 270 - Social Problems Credits: 3
• SOCI 354 - Families and Social Change Credits: 3
• WGSS 101 - Introduction to Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies Credits: 3

WGSS 101 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• WGSS 201 - Global Gender Issues Credits: 3
• WGSS 324 - Women in Science Credits: 3

WGSS 324 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• WGSS 350 - Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies Credits: 3

WGSS 350 is also a writing infused course.

WGSS 350 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

Knowledge Domain requirements may optionally be fulfilled by a set of PLUS Pathways courses. A Pathway is a body of course work drawn from all three Knowledge Domains that examines a theme from different disciplinary perspectives.  Courses in a Pathway coalesce around a set of large questions that are central to the Pathway theme. Each course addresses one or more of these questions. Foundational Studies courses cannot participate in the Pathways. Transfer courses cannot participate in the Pathways. Courses listed in the Pathways taken prior to Fall 2016 cannot count towards a Pathway Focus.

Students have the option to organize their required general education courses into a Pathway Focus, as long as the Knowledge Domain distributional requirements are fulfilled. To earn a Pathway Focus, students must successfully complete three courses from a single Pathway, one course from each Knowledge Domain. Students are still responsible to take additional Knowledge Domain courses to complete their general education requirements.

Creativity, Innovation, and Change

Creativity and innovation are essential for individuals, societies, economies, and organizations to change, prosper, and grow. This Pathway addresses the inception of creative ideas in individuals as well as how innovation and change is experienced and represented by individuals, groups, families, organizations, and/or societies. In the Pathway courses, students will engage with the topics of creativity, innovation, and change in a variety of disciplines across the university–both in terms of the phenomena and their outcomes. Students will examine different types of creativity and innovation at work in groups, organizations, and the minds of individual thinkers. Finally, they’ll develop a better understanding of how change and innovation is enhanced and how it can be inhibited.

Select one of the following Creativity and Critical Analysis courses:

HIST 369 fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

Select one of the following Nature and Technology courses:

Select one of the following society and culture courses:.

HIST 355 is a writing infused course.

Global Connections

The Global Connections Pathway begins with the premise that the world is interconnected and that understanding its peoples, ideas, resources and systems is of vital importance. Students in the Pathway explore the ways in which the world’s cultures interact, and the practices and discourses that have and continue to animate those encounters. The environment itself, its climate and resources are also a valuable part of the Pathway, framing the stage on which humans engage with each other and the natural world. A rich body of work on globalization and its antecedents provides overarching questions across the knowledge domains and help Pathway participants think critically and comparatively about the movement of people, capital, and culture around the world and its impact.

HIST 140 fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

HIST 141 fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

LATS 100 fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

• EPFE 430 - Comparative and International Education Credits: 3

HIST 349 fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

HIST 382 fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

HIST 388 fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

Health and Wellness

Promoting health and wellness allows individuals to improve their lives as well the health of their families and the broader communities within a social context. The Health and Wellness Pathway affords students the opportunity to integrate a broad range of knowledge and skills to promote effective life changes and enhance their well-being, while providing a multidisciplinary base for those who seek careers related to health and wellness. Courses chosen for this Pathway constitute a holistic approach to health and wellness (e.g., physical, environmental, emotional, social, and intellectual). Moreover, this Pathway recognizes that achieving optimal health and wellness is a lifelong and continual process, and that a thorough understanding of the factors that define and determine wellness and improve health is necessary to comprehend the mutual relationship between the mind and the body, take personal and social responsibility for self-improvement, create opportunities for well-being, optimize quality of life, and foster new approaches to address a perpetually changing environment.

The specific processes and circumstances related to learning vary with cultural, historical, sociological and individual factors, making the area of learning a richly diverse and interdisciplinary field with many methodological perspectives, emphases and applications. The study of learning offers applications to personal, societal and professional areas of life. Students learn about the way in which learning is influenced by context, how to improve it, and how to assess its effectiveness. The study of learning also pertains to informed citizenship, which requires development of the ability to use information to think about an issue critically, from multiple perspectives and with an understanding of diverse methodological approaches. Students in the Learning Pathway will become aware of a framework of understanding that not only encompasses their own disciplines, but begins to include other methodologies into their schema of understanding. This will help students to not only become more flexible in their approaches to problem solving but more accepting of other ideas and conventions of thought. This Pathway intentionally draws from several diverse disciplines to attempt to challenge students’ comfort and their methodologies, examining common issues and ideas that appear in several fields, allowing them to see the problem as a multifaceted way as opposed to a two-dimensional object.

•       OR   ANTH 261X - Language, Mind, and Thought Credits: 3
•       OR   ENGL 261X - Language, Mind, and Thought Credits: 3

Origins and Influences

The Origins and Influences Pathway considers a timeless question: how has the past shaped the present? By studying this question students will expand their understanding of who we are–as individuals, as members of societies, and as participants in the human condition. This Pathway considers the broader context of human society and culture, the relationship of people to nature and technology, and the broad array of human endeavors in creativity and critical thought. It takes the long view of the human past reaching back to the origins of the planet and the development of humans as a species. At the same time, it looks forward to such contemporary matters as race, gender, and sexuality in modern society. Courses in the Origins and Influences Pathway explore the ways in which humans have constructed their economic, social, and political orders, and they give vital attention to the central place of literature, music, and the performing arts in the human experience. Across a wide variety of courses and programs, students will gain diverse perspectives on the multiple ways in which the past has shaped our world.

Social Justice and Diversity

The prosperity of a diverse society demands that its citizens be able to contribute to public discourse and policymaking in an educated and thoughtful manner. The Social Justice and Diversity Pathway is designed to do the following: provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to be prepared for active and responsible engagement in social decision-making; to unite people of different social identities; to create and sustain social and political processes; and to support a just and equitable society. This Pathway recognizes that public issue decisions need to be tied to facts, a fully developed personal sense of social justice, individuals’ understanding of their identities and their connection to the larger social context. This Pathway also guides students toward an understanding of the political and economic mechanisms that guide the policy process. The courses chosen for this Pathway address one or more of these elements and were chosen to provide students with a knowledge base that will prepare them for a lifetime of informed engagement in a diverse society. This Pathway provides the opportunity for students to develop the skills, values, and personal understanding to become leaders in our globalized society.

HIST 260 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

HIST 365 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement

•       OR   BIOS 324X - Women in Science Credits: 3

      BIOS 324X also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

•       OR   GEOG 324X - Women in Science Credits: 3

      GEOG 324X also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

Sustainability

Many have defined sustainability as economic development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Others stress the value of social justice with intergenerational equity and respect for the planet and all of its occupants. The Sustainability Pathway investigates both fiscal and environmental sustainability through economic and societal activities. People, technology, and natural processes will be critical elements in achieving more sustainable societies with environmental justice, with both costs and benefits being collective. Sustainability studies are relevant to a wide array of disciplines because sustainable behaviors must flow from knowledgeable, participatory citizens with an intergenerational awareness of the connections, and interdependencies among equitable societies, vital economies, human innovation, and goods and services. This Pathway is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop sustainable choices over the course of their lives and professional careers.

HIST 261 also fulfills the Human Diversity Requirement.

ARTH 361 is a writing infused course.

• Division of Academic Affairs
• General Education
• Knowledge Domains

You need to take courses in each of the three following Knowledge Domains in order to meet general education requirements:

• Creativity and Critical Analysis .
• Nature and Technology .
• Society and Culture .

By studying in these areas, you’ll establish a broad educational foundation. Your cultural, societal and scientific knowledge will be enhanced, and you’ll be better prepared to be a responsible citizen. 

You can meet the requirements by completing courses, with transfer credit or by passing exams.

Learn more about   Knowledge Domain requirements .

Required Syllabus Statement

For courses that have been approved for general education, include a statement identifying which of the three General Education Knowledge Domains (Creativity and Critical Analysis, Nature and Technology and Society and Culture) the course will help fulfill. The following statement was developed and approved by NIU’s General Education Committee March 24, 2022 and Baccalaureate Council Nov. 10, 2022.

“As part of the general education requirements, this course fulfills three credit hours in the Knowledge Domain of (_______) towards the minimum of 21 hours across the three domains. For more information on General Education Requirements, please see your advisor or review the ‘General Education Requirements’ for the appropriate  undergraduate catalog .”

• General Education Review
• General Education Committee
• Student Learning Outcomes
• Foundational Studies
• Forms and Resources
• Community-engaged Courses
• Student Academic Support Services
• Undergraduate Student Awards
• UNIV Courses