Located in a region that includes the north and western Chicago suburbs and the city of Rockford, Northern Illinois University has become a major resource for this emerging metropolitan area. Once primarily rural and agricultural, the university's service region is increasingly complex and cosmopolitan, experiencing rapid population and economic growth. The university's undergraduate students are primarily traditional college-aged. While many students select a residential baccalaureate experience, others transfer to Northern from community colleges, and an increasing number commute for their entire academic program while maintaining employment and family obligations. At the graduate level, a substantial number of the university's students are working adults who enroll on a part-time basis. In addition to pursuing statewide goals and priorities, Northern Illinois University:
Last Updated: 02/19/2004