Chartered in 1895, Northern Illinois University first opened its doors in 1899 as the Northern Illinois State Normal School solely to prepare college-educated teachers.

We have grown into a world-class university that attracts students from around the globe while still primarily serving Illinois.

Yet two traditions established Sept. 12, 1899, remain paramount today. We are deeply committed to preparing teachers and providing an excellent and affordable higher education to Illinois families, some of whom have never sent a child to college before.