University also Earns Honors in Seven Categories
Northern Illinois University has been named a College of Distinction for the 2023-2024 academic year, marking its commitment to providing a high-quality undergraduate education that focuses on hands-on learning, strong student-teacher relationships, a vibrant campus life, and successful outcomes.
Colleges of Distinction’s selection process comprises a sequence of in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools, accepting only those that adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. As a College of Distinction, NIU has shown excellence in each of these areas, providing its students with a well-rounded, practical education that prepares them for successful careers and lives.
“We believe that engaged students are successful students,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction, which has been ranking colleges and universities for nearly 25 years. “And NIU’s dedication to experiential learning shows us that each of its students has the opportunity to play an active role in their education.”
To be named a College of Distinction, NIU demonstrated excellence in undergraduate education in such factors as student engagement, teaching excellence, outcomes-based learning, and community involvement. NIU was named to the overall list and earned addition recognition for Business, Education, Engineering, Nursing, Career Development, Equity & Inclusion and Affordability.
“As an institution, NIU has high standards for its faculty and staff to make certain we’re providing valuable research experiences, educational offerings and practical career preparation to our students,” says Laurie Elish-Piper, NIU Interim Executive Vice President and Provost. “We’re pleased to receive recognition such as this, which validates the comprehensive approach we take to serving our students.”
This evaluation process differs from those of popular college rankings publications, whose formulas grade institutions based on measures such as faculty salaries, endowment size, and peer opinion. The Colleges of Distinction website provides dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors.
”We don’t rank our schools,” said Schritter. “Every student has individual needs and flourishes in a specific environment. We prefer to focus on the innovative ways that colleges all around the country are providing an enriching undergraduate experience. We are deeply inspired by how NIU immerses students in their academic pursuits, fostering a welcoming community that provides unwavering support throughout their college years and beyond.”
View the full list of U.S. Colleges of Distinction.
