Online Learning Quality
Quality in online learning is extremely important. The online programs and courses at Northern Illinois University are accredited and of the same high quality and rigor as our face-to-face programs.
Higher Learning Commission Accreditation
NIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to offer fully online courses and degrees.
Quality Matters Standards for Online Courses
NIU has adopted the Quality Matters (QM) rubric to guide development and continuous improvement of our online courses.
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement
NIU was recognized as an institutional participant by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) in February, 2016. This allows NIU to enroll students from participating states in our online courses and programs.
Standards and Principles
All new and redeveloped courses are expected to meet essential standards and are strongly encouraged to meet exemplary standards. We support and partner with faculty to ensure standards are met.