Computer Science Degree

The computer science degree program at Northern Illinois University enables students to get instruction with a general focus on computers from a scientific perspective, including problems, solutions, design of computer systems, and user interfaces. Students who graduate from the computer science degree program will have gained knowledge in courses such as the principles of computational science, and computing theory, computer hardware design, computer development and programming, and applications to a variety of end-use situations. Get more details below including other Illinois colleges that offer computer science degrees.

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Northern Illinois University

Also known as Northern Seminary

410 Warrenville Road, Suite 300, Lisle, IL

Northern Illinois University (NIU) is a public research university located on a 765-acre campus in DeKalb, Illinois, 65 miles west of Chicago. NIU is comprised of seven degree-granting colleges and 39 academic departments, offering 63 undergraduate programs and 78 graduate programs. Graduate programs include masters, doctoral and professional degrees.

NIU also offers themed learning communities (TLC) that offer interdisciplinary study programs. The university has recently launched two new interdisciplinary bachelor degree programs that are focused on making positive change in the world. The new Environmental Studies major provides broad-based knowledge in current and crucial environmental issues such water conservation, the development of alternative energies, climate change and environmental policy. Graduates of the program will have career options in research, small business, industry, all levels of government, and non-profits. The new Community Leadership and Civic Engagement major will provide leadership and advocacy training for work within non-government organizations, or non-profits.

In addition to its main campus in DeKalb, NIU operates education centers in other locations in the region such as Hoffman Estates, Naperville and Rockford, Illinois.

NIU is ranks among the top 50 universities in the nation for the flexible education, support and financial assistance it provides veterans, receiving top marks as a "military friendly" school from G.I. Jobs Magazine.  NIU programs in social mobility for low-income students and public service are very highly ranked.

NIU also receives high marks as a research university, and offers excellent research opportunities to both undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduates at NIU can participate in university research through programs such as "Research Rookies," "USOAR," and "URAP."

Flexible scheduling options and weekend classes are offered on campus and at all learning centers, as well as online.

History

Northern Illinois University was chartered in 1895 and opened for enrollment in 1899. It opened as the "Northern Illinois State Normal School" as a teacher training institution. In 1955, it became "Northern Illinois State College" with a broader curriculum and mission and, in 1957, became "Northern Illinois University."

Though its curriculum developed and expanded to offer comprehensive academic programs, through its history Northern Illinois University has remained committed to its original mission: to prepare excellent teachers and to provide affordable higher education to Illinois families.

Academics

The academic calendar for Northern Illinois University follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer semesters.

Colleges and Schools

• College of Business
• College of Education
• College of Engineering and Engineering Technology
• College of Health and Human Sciences
• College of Law
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• College of Visual and Performing Arts

Student Life

Students enrolled at NIU have the opportunity to participate in more than 200 student clubs and organizations on campus, as well as local chapters of 36 fraternities and sororities.  The range of interests represented by the various student clubs includes leadership, government, academics, music, intramural sports, volunteer work, and more.

NIU student services offered on campus include athletic centers, a pharmacy, healthcare clinic, childcare center, career advising, writing center, tutoring, and diversity resource center, among others.

Traditions

The NIU school colors are cardinal and black, and the school mascot is the Husky. The NIU athletics teams are known as the "Huskies."

Athletics

The NIU "Huskies" athletic teams compete in 17 intercollegiate sports, including:

Men's Sports:

• Baseball
• Basketball
• Football
• Golf
• Soccer
• Tennis
• Wrestling 

Women's Sports:

• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Golf
• Gymnastics
• Soccer
• Softball
• Tennis
• Track & Field
• Volleyball

Satellite Campuses

In addition to its main campus in DeKalb, Illinois, NIU offers many courses at its three regional learning centers in Hoffman Estates, Naperville and Rockford. NIU also offers courses through partnerships with local community colleges in Elgin, Rock Valley and Waubonsee.

Community Life

NIU faculty and students are very involved in community service through many NIU programs, including NIU Cares Day, Spring Break Service Trips, Community After-School Programs, and Mentor Projects.

The local community of DeKalb is a city surrounded by suburbs and rural farms, with miles of cornfields. Local and traditional attractions include the DeKalb Corn Fest in August and the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival in October. Many new retailers and restaurants have opened in the area, offering a variety of shopping and dining. The region is also known as the "modern healthcare corridor."

Students Enrolled in the Computer Science Program

Get more details below regarding enrollment, academics, and school demographics. Northern Seminary has offered the following academic levels for students:

• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree

Students by Academic Level (2019)

Students by Gender (2019)

Students by Race (2019)

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

Career Options for Graduates

Computer and Information Systems Managers

Description

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, computer and information systems managers employment is expected to grow at a rate of 15.4% from 2014 to 2024

Salary & Wages

• Chicago-Naperville-Arlington Heights, IL Metropolitan Division
  • Total Employment: 10
  • Average Hourly Rate: $63.74
  • Average Annual Salary: $132570
• Gary, IN Metropolitan Division
  • Total Employment: 190
  • Average Hourly Rate: $49.69
  • Average Annual Salary: $103350
• Lake County-Kenosha County, IL-WI Metropolitan Division
  • Average Hourly Rate: $66.30
  • Average Annual Salary: $137900

Computer and Information Research Scientists

Description

Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.

Information Security Analysts

Description

Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.

Computer Programmers

Description

Create, modify, and test the code, forms, and script that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software developers or other individuals. May assist software developers by analyzing user needs and designing software solutions. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.

Source: Job descriptions, estimated salary and wages, and projected job growth are taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).