Northern Illinois University vs University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
2
Northern Illinois University
5
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Key Metrics Compared
Official Data| Metric | Northern Illinois University | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 71% | 44% |
| Graduation Rate | 51% | 85% |
| Avg Earnings (5yr) | $46,113 | $64,802 |
| Median Debt | $22,162 | $19,500 |
| Tuition (In-State) | $12,700 | $16,004 |
| Retention Rate | 70% | 94% |
| Financial Aid | 49% | 29% |
Comparison Analysis
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates earn significantly more than Northern Illinois University graduates. UIUC alumni earn $64,802, while NIU alumni earn $46,113. UIUC has a higher graduation rate at 84.8% compared to NIU's 51.3%. UIUC is more selective, with an acceptance rate of 43.7%, while NIU's acceptance rate is 70.5%.
UIUC has higher tuition costs at $16,004 compared to NIU's $12,700. Considering both earnings and tuition, UIUC provides a greater return on investment due to the higher earnings potential despite the higher tuition.
For prospective students, the primary decision factors are likely career goals and academic preparedness. Students prioritizing higher earning potential and a higher graduation rate may favor UIUC. Students who prioritize a higher chance of acceptance and lower tuition costs may favor NIU.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data
Shared Programs
| Shared Major | Northern Illinois University Earnings | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $52,724 | $118,799 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $85,140 | $118,799 |
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods | $51,128 | $72,105 |
| Accounting and Related Services | $63,743 | $74,731 |
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods | $0 | $72,105 |
| Economics | $45,386 | $58,921 |
| Economics | $0 | $58,921 |
| Economics | $0 | $58,921 |
| Communication and Media Studies | $38,490 | $37,808 |
| Accounting and Related Services | $71,477 | $74,731 |