Northeastern Illinois University: A Diverse Urban University

4.1 (200)

A diverse Chicago university with a rich history, offering accessible education and a vibrant campus life in the heart of North Park.

Home
Illinois
Northeastern Illinois
Northeastern Illinois University

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) is a public university located in Chicago's North Park neighborhood, known for its diverse student body and commitment to providing accessible education. Founded in 1867 as a teacher training institution, NEIU has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide range of programs in the liberal arts, education, and business.

A brief summary to Northeastern Illinois University

5500 N St Louis Ave, Chicago, North Park, Illinois, 60625, US
Click to display
Click to display

Local tips

Explore the diverse cultural events on campus, including concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances.
Take advantage of the campus recreation facilities, such as the PE Complex, for basketball, volleyball, and other activities.
Visit the Ronald Williams Library, which offers computer labs, audio labs, and a café.
Check out the Student Union for dining options, relaxation rooms, and student organization events.
Attend a performance or tour the exhibits at the Salme Harju Steinberg Fine Arts Center.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Old Treaty Elm

The Old Treaty Elm: A Living Testament to History

The Race House

Discover the Charm of The Race House: A Historical Landmark in Chicago

Illinois Centennial Monument

Illinois Centennial Monument: A Tribute to History and Community

Getting There

Public Transport

Northeastern Illinois University is accessible via public transportation. From downtown Chicago, take the Brown Line 'L' train to the Kimball station. Transfer to the #82 or #92 bus heading north on Kimball Avenue. Get off the bus at Bryn Mawr Avenue and walk two blocks west to reach the main campus. A single ride on the 'L' is $2.50, and a bus transfer is free with your Ventra card. Alternatively, a single bus ride is $2.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Ogilvie Transportation Center, a taxi or ride-share to Northeastern Illinois University will cost approximately $30-$40 and take about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. There are designated pick-up and drop-off locations near the main entrance of the university.
Driving

If driving, the university is located at 5500 N St Louis Ave, Chicago, IL 60625. From the north or south, take I-94 (Edens Expressway) to the Peterson Avenue exit. Head east on Peterson Avenue to St. Louis Avenue, then turn north. Limited parking is available on campus. Daily parking permits cost $5 and can be purchased through the Passport Parking app. There are also EV charging stations in the NEIU Access Rd Garage. Hourly parking rates in the garage vary, but expect to pay around $2-$3 per hour.
Biking

For those arriving by bike, Divvy bike-sharing stations are located near the corner of North St. Louis Avenue and West Balmoral Avenue. Bike racks are also available on campus. A Divvy day pass costs $16.50, allowing for unlimited 30-minute rides.

Discover more about Northeastern Illinois University

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU), situated in Chicago's North Park neighborhood, holds a rich history rooted in teacher education. Originally established in 1867 as a teacher training school, it has grown into a diverse and comprehensive urban university. NEIU's mission is to provide accessible and affordable education to students from all backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on serving the needs of the Chicago metropolitan area. The university's main campus is a hub of activity, featuring a mix of academic buildings, the Ronald Williams Library, and the Student Union, which is the center of campus life. The Salme Harju Steinberg Fine Arts Center is home to the Communication, Media & Theatre, and Music & Dance departments, offering a wide array of cultural events open to the public. NEIU also has multiple locations throughout Chicago, including El Centro, which focuses on serving the Latino community, and the Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies, dedicated to urban community studies. NEIU is known for its diverse student population, representing over 40 ethnic groups. The university is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. NEIU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can connect with others from different backgrounds. Campus life includes a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities, as well as recreational opportunities.