Liberal Arts & Humanities at Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
28
Optimistic
27
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings
$29,426/yr (-21% vs median)
AI Risk
Low (0% exposed)
Job Market
Medium (13,500 openings/yr)
ROI
10.5x earnings multiple
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Liberal Arts & Humanities graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $534K | $534K | $510K |
| Earnings Multiple | 10.5x | 10.5x | 10.0x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 45% | 45% | 45% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 28 | 27 | 35 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$50,800
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
10.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,679
72% growth from Year 1
About Northern Illinois University
With 70% of applicants admitted, Northern Illinois University prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 11,277 in Dekalb, IL. Pell Grant recipients make up 46% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.
See all programs and financial aid at Northern Illinois University →Top Career Paths
Postsecondary teachers, all other
$78,490/yr
Compare & Explore
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Explore the Trade Alternative
Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Northern Illinois University's Liberal Arts & Humanities program score?
This program scores 27/100 — on the lower end for Liberal Arts & Humanities. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Why are Liberal Arts & Humanities earnings lower at Northern Illinois University?
Lower starting pay at Northern Illinois University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →