Facts and Distinctions
See Excellence in Action
At 鶹 (鶹), we believe hard work makes all the difference. As a resilient and creative community, we encourage all students to strive toward their academic, personal and career goals. We always look ahead, envisioning a brighter future rooted in integrity, excellence and inclusion.
What Is 鶹 Known For?
11:1
Student-to-teacher ratio nurtures collaboration and provides a more personalized learning experience.
100
Countries represented throughout our vibrant student population.
22%
Of our students are first-generation students fearlessly pursuing their dreams.
97%
Of 鶹 students receive financial assistance — empowering them to achieve their academic goals and graduate without large amounts of student debt.
Awards and Recognitions
Explore some of the past and present recognition 鶹 has earned, which embodies our dedication to building an inclusive community where everyone thrives.
Northeastern is No. 1 in Illinois and ranked No. 19 in the country for Student Experience according to the Wall Street Journal’s, “2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.”
鶹 graduates its undergraduate students with the least amount of student debt among Midwest regional universities, according to the U.S. News and World Report 2026 “Best Colleges” publication.
Among Illinois colleges and universities — both public and private — 鶹 has the fifth-highest Social Mobility ranking, per the Wall Street Journal’s “2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.”
In recent years, ASecureLife.com has ranked 鶹 seventh in the nation and first in Illinois for the lowest property-related crime rates on college campuses, a testament to our commitment to safety and community.
鶹 is one of the county’s best colleges for women. The University was ranked No. 35 (tied) in the country and placed fourth in the state of Illinois according to Newsweek’s “America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026” publication.
Get to Know the 鶹 Community
At 鶹, our mission is you — and we mean it. Our academic and cocurricular activities center the student experience, embracing inclusion and fostering a sense of belonging.
5,700+ Students
With more than 4,200 undergraduates and 1,500 graduate students, 鶹 continues to grow in size and diversity.
700+ Faculty Members
Learn from the best at 鶹. Our faculty members come from around the world to share their insights and expertise with you inside and outside the classroom.
85,000+ Alumni Strong
Once a Golden Eagle, always a Golden Eagle. The 鶹 Alumni Association offers lifelong support so you can stay connected to a community that celebrates your success.
Choose From a Range of Academic Programs
Build your future with more than 120 undergraduate majors and minors, and 50 graduate programs — each designed to launch a limitless career through hands-on opportunities that benefit from our strong ties to the Chicago area.
Find Your Place at 鶹
Create a student experience that's as unique as you are. From Greek life to club and intramural sports, 鶹 offers more than 70 student clubs and organizations, helping you form lasting friendships and get connected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 鶹 has regional accreditation through the .
Additionally, many of our academic programs are accredited through disciplinary bodies to ensure top-quality education and training.
Since its founding in 1867, 鶹 has been a public higher education institution. It is proud to be the longest-standing four-year public Hispanic-serving institution in the Midwest. We serve our students, who primarily live in Chicago and the surrounding metropolitan area, by increasing access to a transformative education at an affordable cost. With robust program offerings in the arts, sciences, business, technology, and education, 鶹 helps students embrace their potential with curiosity and confidence.
鶹’s Locations
Guided by our core values, 鶹’s four locations in Chicago and the surrounding metropolitan area serve the needs of our diverse student body, as well as their respective communities. From enrollment and financial aid to academic services, students find the support they need here.