Welcome to the University Honors Program!

Tradition
For more than four decades, the University Honors Program has enjoyed a proud history of success at Northern Illinois University. Its alumni, who span NIU’s six undergraduate colleges and number in the thousands, are engaged in a broad array of exciting professions across the United States and around the world. They remember fondly the Honors Program’s rich and continuing traditions, from the freshmen retreat at NIU’s scenic Lorado Taft Field Campus to the “Honors House” living-learning community to the Honors Day ceremony for graduating seniors.

Excellence
Through enriched academic experiences and co-curricular opportunities, the University Honors Program serves undergraduates who are committed to pursuing excellence in their studies and lives, and wish to enhance their college education. The program strives to create the feel of a small liberal arts college at the center of a major research university. In this sense, students receive the best of both worlds. They are privy to the academic programs, large professorial faculties, and research centers and laboratories associated with an institution that awards doctoral and other graduate degrees. At the same time, students can take advantage of the Honors Program’s more personalized educational environment with its small, interactive courses, special advising, programming beyond the classroom, and many benefits.

Community
Drawing on a rich variety of special events, programs and activities, the University Honors Program seeks to promote and sustain academic and social fellowship among its community of 1,000-plus academically motivated students. From professional development workshops to fun field trips and social events to community service and leadership opportunities the University Honors Program has something for everyone. The Honors Program is also committed to providing a warm, supportive environment for its diverse student body. For many undergraduates, the Honors Program has been and continues to be a source of inspirational teachers and mentors, lifelong friendships, and dedicated staff members who are committed to student success and happiness. 

My colleagues and I invite prospective students and their families to explore what the University Honors Program has to offer. For our current students, we encourage you to let us know how we can assist you and serve you better to ensure you receive the most from your NIU education. To our alumni and friends, we value our continuing relationship with you. Please stay connected with us.

Thank you for taking the time to visit the University Honors Program at NIU.

Cordially,
Christopher M. Jones
Associate Vice Provost for University Honors