Northern Illinois University (NIU) is a public research university located in DeKalb, Illinois. Established in 1895 as Northern Illinois State Normal School, the university has grown into a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities.

Here's an overview of some key aspects of Northern Illinois University:

1. Campus: NIU's main campus spans 756 acres in DeKalb, featuring academic buildings, administrative facilities, residence halls, and recreational spaces. The university also operates satellite campuses in Hoffman Estates, Naperville, Rockford, and Oregon, Illinois.

2. Academics: NIU offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and minors, over 80 graduate programs, and numerous certificate programs across various disciplines. The university is organized into several colleges, including the College of Business, College of Education, College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, College of Health and Human Sciences, College of Law, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and College of Visual and Performing Arts. Popular programs at NIU include business, engineering, education, and nursing.

3. Research: As a research institution, NIU is committed to generating new knowledge and promoting innovation across various fields. The university is home to numerous research centers and institutes, such as the Center for Governmental Studies, the Center for the Study of Family Violence and Sexual Assault, and the Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability, and Energy.

4. Student Life: With a diverse student population of around 17,000, NIU offers a vibrant campus life. Students can participate in over 200 clubs and organizations, including student government, Greek life, cultural events, and community service opportunities. The university also provides support services such as academic advising, career counseling, and health and wellness resources.

5. Athletics: Northern Illinois University's athletic teams, known as the Huskies, compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Mid-American Conference (MAC). The university offers a variety of sports for both men and women, including basketball, soccer, softball, baseball, golf, cross country, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, and volleyball.

6. Notable Alumni: NIU has produced numerous notable alumni across various fields, including business, politics, arts, and sports. Some prominent alumni include former U.S. Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert, actress Joan Allen, former NFL player Michael Turner, and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Tony Horwitz.

7. Rankings: Northern Illinois University consistently ranks among the top national universities in the United States. The university is recognized for its strong academic programs, research efforts, and commitment to student success.

8. Accreditation: NIU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and specific programs within the university hold additional accreditations from organizations such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

9. Community Engagement: NIU is dedicated to fostering strong connections with the local community, offering numerous programs and services that promote community engagement, service-learning, and volunteerism. The university's outreach initiatives include the Center for Nonprofit and NGO Studies, the Center for P-20 Engagement, and the Office of Community College Relations.