#United States #Chicago #Northeastern Illinois University #First-Year Retention

Northeastern Illinois University Achieves Record First-Year Retention

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) has hit a significant milestone this fall, recording a first-year retention rate of 65%, its highest level since 2020. This figure is up from 60.2% just one year ago—an increase of 4.8 percentage points—highlighting the university's ongoing commitment to student success and support.

As NEIU serves a diverse student population, with the average student age being 26, many face unique challenges in balancing college alongside jobs, families, and other responsibilities. President Katrina E. Bell-Jordan emphasized the resilience and determination of NEIU's students, stating, "Helping more of them stay on track toward a degree with as little debt as possible is an important measure of our progress."

To enhance retention, NEIU has concentrated on improving advising services and implementing early intervention strategies, which are crucial in supporting students during their formative college years. Furthermore, the institution aims to reduce financial and administrative barriers while making student services more user-friendly. This commitment to streamlining the student experience includes the upcoming launch of a new One Stop Center, slated for later this year, which will further bolster student support services.

For fall 2026, NEIU welcomed 5,674 students, a slight 2% decrease from the previous fall. Despite this, students enrolled are nearly achieving NEIU’s credit-hour goals with a total of 55,345 credit hours. Notably, several demographic groups reported increased enrollment figures, including a 10% rise in African American/Black students and an 11% increase in Asian enrollment. Additionally, among first-year students, 42% identify as Latino/a/x, and 30% identify as African American/Black, reflecting the institution's dedication to diversity.

Transfer students continue to play a key role in NEIU’s growth strategy, especially those identifying as Latino/a/x, who make up 41% of new transfer students. In response to evolving workforce needs, NEIU is also expanding its academic repertoire. This fall, the university introduced a new Doctor of Education program in Leadership, Equity, and Inquiry, aimed at preparing future educators and administrators to drive change in urban schools and higher education settings.

In addition, a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence has been launched in the College of Business and Technology, focusing on providing practical training for students aiming to excel in AI and related fields in today's fast-paced job market. NEIU is further developing a Master of Science in Nursing program designed for individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. This innovative program will feature a mixed-reality simulation lab at its El Centro campus, addressing the regional nursing workforce shortage.

In the words of Dr. Bell-Jordan, "These programs reflect the direction NEIU is moving. We are responding to workforce demand while continuing to provide accessible, high-quality pathways to degrees that lead to meaningful careers."

In an environment that continuously evolves, NEIU is determined to enhance its retention strategies, strengthen pathways for transfer and adult students, and progressively expand graduate enrollment. Dr. Kiantra D. Loza, who joined NEIU in August, is at the forefront of new initiatives aimed at improving recruitment and making the student experience more satisfying.

Dr. Bell-Jordan succinctly stated the institution's mission, "Our goal is not simply to enroll students; it is to help them stay, graduate with low debt, and use their education to build the future they want."

Northeastern Illinois University, established in 1867, currently offers over 40 undergraduate and 50 graduate degree programs. With its main campus on the Northwest Side of Chicago, NEIU is recognized as a Minority-Serving Institution and is the longest-standing four-year public Hispanic-Serving Institution in the Midwest. Alongside its main campus, NEIU operates several locations within the Chicagoland area, including the Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies, El Centro, and the University Center of Lake County.

In summary, NEIU’s dedication to retaining students and adapting its academic programs ensures that it remains a vital education center, equipped to prepare its students for future careers while addressing urgent community and workforce needs.