Overview

The History programme at Northern Illinois University provides a comprehensive exploration of the past to help students understand the complexities of the modern world. By engaging with this curriculum, students develop the essential critical thinking and communication skills required to succeed in a variety of professional sectors.

The curriculum is designed to be highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies through a wide range of electives. This adaptability ensures that learners can focus on specific eras or regions that align with their personal interests and career goals. The department also encourages students to pursue double majors or minors to broaden their academic profile.

Students benefit from a structured academic environment that emphasises both broad historical knowledge and deep thematic analysis.

Why History at Northern Illinois University?

Northern Illinois University offers a distinctive learning environment through its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The department provides unique pathways such as educator licensure and an accelerated law degree option. This partnership with the College of Law allows students to complete both their undergraduate degree and a J.D. in six years instead of seven.

High-achieving students can apply for the departmental honours programme, which requires maintaining a strong GPA and completing a senior thesis. This track provides an enriched academic experience and additional research opportunities. The institution also hosts the Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society, fostering a community of excellence among history scholars.

The university provides extensive resources, including specialised libraries and research facilities, to support undergraduate scholarship. Students are encouraged to participate in the History, Culture and Politics Discussion Group to engage with peers and faculty. These initiatives ensure that graduates are well-rounded and prepared for the competitive global job market.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 10742 per semester
National fee: USD 5371 per semester
Local fee: USD 5371 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

History
Senior Thesis

Careers with History

Graduates from this programme are equipped with versatile skills in research, organisation, and argumentation that are highly valued by employers. Many alumni pursue successful careers in teaching, journalism, and finance. The analytical nature of the degree also provides an excellent foundation for roles in public history and heritage management.

The programme is particularly well-suited for those intending to enter the legal profession, as the training mirrors the rigorous demands of law school. Students often find employment in government agencies, non-profit organisations, and corporate archives. The ability to present complex information clearly allows graduates to excel in diverse communication-based industries.

Programme Structure

Courses

World History I

American History since 1865

The Early Islamic World

History of Chicago

History of Genocide

History of the Western World I

History of the Western World II

World History I

World History II

History of Illinois

African American History Since 1865

American Environmental History

Russian Revolution

Civil War Era

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

DeKalb, United States

Disciplines

History View 1569 other Bachelors in History in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

High school diploma: You must have graduated by the time you start at NIU in order to be admitted
Grades: You must have passing grades equivalent to a U.S. C+ average on all transcripts and/or exam scores

A completed NIU application

Official transcripts from all high schools attended

ACT/SAT score

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

21484 USD / year

≈ 21484 USD / year
Out-of-State

10742 USD / year

≈ 10742 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10742 USD / year

≈ 10742 USD / year

Additional Details

Local: $5,115.34 per semester National and International: $10,230.68 per semester

Living costs

DeKalb

United States

1100 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for History.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

DeKalb

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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