At NIU, learning comes to life. You're more than a student. We'll give you opportunities to take your education beyond the classroom to wherever your passions lie. Learn how we’ll prepare you to enter the workforce with more than a degree.
Be an Explorer
Join one of your professors on research projects in our state-of-the-art labs or in the field, and gain experience that makes you workplace-ready. You can get started your first year, and some programs even pay you for your work.
Go Green
You care about the environment. What if you could design and build an award-winning vehicle that goes almost 2,000 miles on one gallon of gas? The students on our Supermileage team are doing just that, gaining professional contacts and skills along the way.
Be a Change-maker
Want to make a difference? We’re committed to social justice, equity and inclusion. You’re sure to find your community here, and with a variety of volunteer opportunities to choose from, you can make a big impact on the campus community and your future.
Go Far
Learn far from campus with our study abroad programs. They're a great way to build cultural competence, leadership and communication skills that can open doors to new opportunities and make you stand out as a job candidate.
Get Noticed, Get Hired
The real-world experiences and skills you gain will stand out to employers and graduate schools. Meet some of the successful alumni who have taken advantage of our engaged learning opportunities:
Anthony Williams II,
Employed at Translation, a company based in New York City.
Former director of Student Life for the NIU Student Association.
Rachel Jacob,
Attorney, U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps.
Former Student Association president.
Ashley Grazutis,
Middle school Spanish teacher, St. Charles, Illinois.
Former Research Rookie and student organization president.
Anthony Roberts,
Health systems engineer, MITRE.
Participant in Research Rookies and Summer Research Opportunities Program.