| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
North Central College (NCC) is a private liberal arts college located in Naperville, Illinois, USA. Established in 1861, NCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for small class sizes, personalized learning, and strong career support.
Location: Naperville, Illinois (30 miles west of Chicago)
Type: Private Liberal Arts College
Founded: 1861
Student Population: Around 3,000+ students
Programs Offered: 70+ undergraduate majors & graduate programs
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1 (small class sizes for personalized learning)
Campus Size: 68 acres
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
North Central College offers 70+ majors in various fields, including:
Business & Economics – Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management
Health Sciences – Nursing, Exercise Science, Psychology
Engineering & Technology – Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science
Humanities & Social Sciences – Political Science, History, Sociology
Arts & Communication – Media Studies, Theater, Music, Journalism
Education – Elementary & Secondary Education
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Master’s in Leadership Studies
Master’s in Education
Master’s in Occupational Therapy
Master’s in Exercise Science
Undergraduate Tuition: ~$44,000 per year
Graduate Tuition: Varies by program (~$15,000 – $30,000 per year)
Room & Board: ~$13,000 per year
Scholarships Available: Yes (Merit & Need-Based)
Application Process:
Apply Online – Common Application or NCC website
Official High School/College Transcripts
GPA Requirement: 2.5+ (recommended)
Test Scores: SAT/ACT (Optional)
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Letters of Recommendation (If required by program)
Personal Statement or Essay
Offers F-1 student visa support
Provides international student scholarships
Offers on-campus housing & meal plans
Has a diverse student body from 40+ countries
Modern Classrooms & Labs – Smart technology & research spaces
Oesterle Library – Extensive academic resources & study spaces
Fine Arts & Theater – Opportunities in music, theater, and visual arts
Athletics & Fitness Center – State-of-the-art gym & recreation facilities
Green Spaces & Parks – Beautiful campus with outdoor seating areas
Internships & Job Placement Assistance
Strong Alumni Network (Connections with top employers in Chicago)
Industry Partnerships – Business, healthcare, and tech sectors
Career Services Center – Resume writing, job search help, interview coaching
Business & Economics
Accounting
Business Administration
Economics
Entrepreneurship
Finance
Human Resource Management
International Business
Management
Marketing
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)
Actuarial Science
Biochemistry
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Cybersecurity
Data Science
Engineering (Dual-Degree Program)
Mathematics
Neuroscience
Physics
Health & Exercise Sciences
Athletic Training
Exercise Science
Health Science
Nursing (in partnership with other universities)
Psychology
Humanities & Social Sciences
Communication Studies
English
History
International Studies
Political Science
Sociology & Anthropology
Spanish
Arts & Media
Art & Design
Digital Media Arts
Film & Screen Studies
Journalism
Music
Theater
Education
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Note: Many programs offer internships, study abroad opportunities, and research projects.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Science in Computer Science
Master of Leadership Studies
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Some graduate programs are available in online or hybrid formats.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-25 Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Business Administration |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Finance |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Marketing |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Entrepreneurship |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Cybersecurity |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Data Science |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Engineering (Dual Degree Program) |
4-5 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Mathematics |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Biochemistry |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Biology |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Physics |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Exercise Science |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Health Science |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Political Science |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Sociology & Anthropology |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
International Studies |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
English |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Communication Studies |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Journalism |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Digital Media Arts |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Art & Design |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Music |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Theater |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Secondary Education |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
|
Special Education |
4 Years |
$44,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-25 Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Science in Computer Science |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Science in Cybersecurity |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Science in Data Analytics |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Leadership Studies |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum & Instruction |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
2 Years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Science in Exercise Science |
1-2 Years |
$16,000 – $30,000 |
High-Quality Education – Over 70 undergraduate & graduate programs
Small Class Sizes – 14:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized learning
Scholarships for International Students – Merit-based financial aid available
Close to Chicago – 30 minutes from downtown, offering internship & job opportunities
Diverse & Inclusive Campus – Students from 40+ countries
STEM & Business Programs – Strong career outcomes and OPT (Optional Practical Training) support
International students can apply for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs:
Business (Accounting, Marketing, Finance, Management)
Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science
Engineering (Dual Degree Program)
Health Sciences (Exercise Science, Neuroscience, Psychology)
Arts & Media (Digital Media, Journalism, Theater, Music)
Social Sciences (Political Science, International Studies, Sociology)
Graduate (Master’s) Programs:
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Master’s in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics
Master’s in Leadership Studies
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Master of Science in Exercise Science
STEM programs qualify for a 24-month OPT extension for job opportunities in the U.S.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
High School Diploma (or Equivalent)
English Proficiency Test (any one of these):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
SAT/ACT (Optional but recommended for scholarships)
Financial Proof (Bank statement for visa purposes)
Copy of Passport
Graduate Admission Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree (Equivalent to a U.S. 4-year degree)
English Proficiency Test: TOEFL iBT (79+), IELTS (6.5+), Duolingo (105+)
GRE/GMAT (May be required for some programs)
Letters of Recommendation
Resume & Statement of Purpose
NCC offers 70+ undergraduate programs in Business, STEM, Arts, Education, and more.
Check program-specific requirements on the.
Apply via Common Application or NCC’s official website.
No application fee is required.
High School Transcripts (Translated into English if international)
GPA Requirement: 2.5+ (recommended)
SAT/ACT Scores: Optional but recommended for scholarships
English Proficiency Test (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Letter of Recommendation (Optional but recommended)
Personal Statement or Essay (Only for specific programs)
Decisions are typically given within 2-4 weeks after submission.
If accepted, pay an enrollment deposit (~$200) to secure your spot.
Apply for housing & scholarships (if applicable).
NCC offers Master’s degrees in Business, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Education, Leadership, and Occupational Therapy.
Apply through the NCC website.
Some programs may have an application fee (~$50).
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript (Equivalent to a U.S. 4-year degree)
Minimum GPA: 2.75+ (varies by program)
English Proficiency Test (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
GRE/GMAT (For Some Programs)
Letters of Recommendation (1-2 Required for Some Programs)
Resume & Statement of Purpose
Graduate admissions are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Pay the deposit to secure your seat.
Register for classes & student orientation.
Intake Term |
Undergraduate Deadline |
Graduate Deadline |
Semester Start |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
June 1 |
July 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring (January Start) |
November 1 |
December 1 |
Mid-January |
|
Summer (Limited Programs) |
March 1 |
April 1 |
May/June |
Rolling Admissions: NCC reviews applications continuously, so late applications may be considered.
High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED)
GPA Requirement: 2.5+ (on a 4.0 scale) recommended
SAT/ACT Scores: Optional but encouraged for scholarships
English Proficiency (For International Students) – One of the following:
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Letters of Recommendation (Optional, but recommended for scholarships)
Personal Statement or Essay (If required by program)
Some programs, such as Nursing or Occupational Therapy, may have additional requirements.
Bachelor’s Degree (Equivalent to a U.S. 4-year degree)
Minimum GPA: 2.75+ (varies by program)
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
GRE/GMAT: Only required for some programs
Letters of Recommendation (1-2 Required for Some Programs)
Resume & Statement of Purpose
Some programs (e.g., MBA, Computer Science, Occupational Therapy) may require work experience or prerequisite courses.
Ranking System |
North Central College Ranking |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked (NCC is a regional liberal arts college, not a research university) |
|
US News & World Report (Regional Colleges - Midwest) |
Top 15 |
|
US News & World Report (Best Value Schools - Midwest) |
Top 10 |
|
US News & World Report (Best Undergraduate Teaching - Midwest) |
Top 5 |
|
Niche (Best Colleges in Illinois) |
Top 20 |
|
The Princeton Review |
Listed as a "Best Midwestern College" |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
International Merit Scholarship |
Based on high school GPA (3.0+ preferred) |
$10,000 – $30,000 |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Exceptional academic achievement (GPA 3.75+) |
$26,000 – $30,000 |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
Strong academic performance (GPA 3.5 – 3.74) |
$24,000 – $28,000 |
|
Honor’s Scholarship |
High academic standing (GPA 3.0 – 3.49) |
$22,000 – $26,000 |
|
Talent Scholarships |
For students in music, theater, art, or athletics |
N/A |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship |
Transfer students who are PTK members |
Up to $2,000 |
|
Alumni Recognition Award |
Students with family members who graduated from NCC |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Merit Scholarship |
Based on undergraduate GPA (3.5+ preferred) |
Up to $5,000 |
|
Graduate Assistantship |
Work-study positions in teaching, research, or administration |
Partial tuition coverage |
|
Employer Partner Scholarships |
For students working at NCC partner companies |
N/A |
Note: Scholarships for graduate students are limited compared to undergraduate programs.
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Buildings |
Smart classrooms, research labs, and lecture halls |
|
Library (Oesterle Library) |
Study spaces, research materials, and digital resources |
|
Computer Labs |
High-speed internet, software access, and tech support |
|
Fine Arts Center |
Theater, music rooms, and art studios |
|
Recreation & Fitness Center |
Gym, indoor track, swimming pool, and sports courts |
|
Student Union & Dining |
Cafeteria, coffee shops, and common areas |
|
Career Development Center |
Resume workshops, job fairs, and career counseling |
|
Health & Wellness Center |
Medical services, counseling, and mental health support |
|
Athletics Facilities |
Stadium, tennis courts, and training facilities |
|
Campus Safety |
24/7 security, emergency response, and ID access |
Housing Option |
Room Type |
Cost Per Year (USD) (2024-25) |
|---|---|---|
|
Residence Halls (Dorm-Style) |
Double Room (Shared) |
$7,500 – $9,000 |
|
|
Single Room (Private) |
$9,500 – $11,000 |
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
2-4 Bedroom Apartments |
$10,000 – $12,500 |
|
Townhomes (Upperclassmen) |
Private Bedroom in Shared Unit |
$11,500 – $13,500 |
|
Off-Campus Apartments |
Varies (Depends on location) |
$600 – $1,500 per month |
Meal Plan (Required for On-Campus Housing): $4,500 – $6,000 per year
NCC has a tight-knit and welcoming community, with small class sizes that allow for personalized learning. Professors are highly accessible, and students often build strong relationships with faculty members.
With over 3,000+ students, the campus feels vibrant yet small enough for students to form meaningful connections. The college promotes diversity and inclusion, with students from 40+ countries.
There are over 75 student clubs and organizations covering academics, leadership, arts, social causes, and recreation. Some of the most popular include:
Student Government Association (SGA) – Leadership & decision-making
International Club – Connects students from different backgrounds
NCC Radio & Student Newspaper (The Chronicle) – Media & journalism opportunities
Business & Entrepreneurship Club – Networking & startup mentorship
STEM & Pre-Health Clubs – Research & career prep for science majors
Performing Arts Groups – Theater, choir, and dance programs
Volunteer & Service Organizations – Community outreach & social impact projects
Students can start their own clubs if they don’t find one that fits their interests!
The college hosts numerous events throughout the year, including:
Welcome Week – Helps new students adjust to college life
Homecoming & Cardinal Pride Events – Celebrating school spirit
Cultural Festivals & Diversity Celebrations – Showcasing different traditions
Career Fairs & Industry Networking Events – Connecting students with employers
Sports Competitions & Intramural Games – Basketball, soccer, volleyball, and more
Music Concerts, Theater Shows & Art Exhibitions – NCC has a thriving arts scene
NCC promotes an active lifestyle, offering top-tier sports & fitness facilities:
The Res/Rec Center – Gym, indoor track, and training areas
Naperville Riverwalk – Great for jogging & outdoor activities
Tennis Courts & Athletic Fields – Open to students for recreational sports
Intramural Sports & Club Teams – Soccer, basketball, ultimate frisbee, and more
Students can also participate in varsity athletics as part of the NCAA Division III teams, known as the North Central Cardinals. The school has strong sports programs, especially in football, track, and wrestling.
NCC offers a variety of on-campus dining options, including:
Kaufman Dining Hall – Main cafeteria with diverse meal options
The Cage & Moe’s Café – Grab-and-go snacks, coffee, and sandwiches
Nearby Restaurants & Cafes in Naperville – Plenty of options within walking distance
Meal plans are available, and students can also cook in shared kitchen spaces in residence halls.
Naperville is ranked as one of the best college towns in the U.S. and offers:
Safe & Student-Friendly Environment
Shops, Restaurants & Entertainment – Close to downtown Naperville
Easy Access to Chicago – Just 30 minutes by train, perfect for internships, networking, and city life
Students can explore museums, music festivals, Chicago’s sports teams, and career opportunities in one of the biggest cities in the U.S.
NCC prepares students for success with internships, research projects, and job placements. The Career Development Office helps students with:
Internship & Job Placement Assistance
Resume & Interview Coaching
Networking Events with Top Employers
Alumni Connections for Career Growth
Many students secure internships in Chicago in business, finance, tech, healthcare, and the arts. STEM students also benefit from Optional Practical Training (OPT) extensions after graduation.
95%+ Job Placement Rate – Within 6 months of graduation
Internship Opportunities – 90% of students complete internships before graduating
Strong Industry Connections – Partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and local businesses
STEM & Business Job Market Advantage – Many graduates work in finance, healthcare, IT, and engineering
Chicago Proximity – Access to major corporate headquarters and industries
NCC students get placed in a variety of fields, including:
Healthcare & Life Sciences
Northwestern Medicine
Advocate Health
Edward-Elmhurst Health
Technology & IT
Microsoft
IBM
Cisco
Business & Finance
JP Morgan Chase
Deloitte
KPMG
BMO Harris Bank
Marketing & Media
NBC Universal
Leo Burnett
Ogilvy
Engineering & Manufacturing
Boeing
Caterpillar
Tesla
NCC’s Career Development Office provides:
Internship & Job Search Assistance
Resume & Cover Letter Coaching
Mock Interviews & Career Fairs
Alumni Mentorship & Networking Events
Internships are strongly encouraged at NCC, with many students securing full-time jobs through internship experiences.
Hands-on Learning – Real-world projects & research opportunities
Industry Certifications – Available for business, IT, and healthcare fields
Close Connections with Chicago Employers – Easy access to a major job market
Global Learning & Study Abroad – International experience enhances resumes
North Central College has a high acceptance rate of approximately 54-60%, making it a moderately selective institution.
Moderate Selectivity – While NCC accepts more than half of applicants, students with strong academic records, extracurriculars, and leadership experience have a higher chance of admission.
Test-Optional Policy – SAT/ACT scores are optional but recommended for scholarships.
Holistic Review – NCC evaluates GPA, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular involvement.
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs:
High School GPA: Recommended 2.5+ (on a 4.0 scale)
SAT/ACT Scores: Optional but may strengthen application
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Personal Statement & Letters of Recommendation (Optional but recommended)
For Graduate (Master’s) Programs:
Bachelor’s Degree with a GPA of 2.75+
GRE/GMAT (For Some Programs)
English Proficiency (For International Students): Same as undergrad requirements
North Central College (NCC) is located in Naperville, Illinois, a vibrant city 30 miles west of downtown Chicago.
North Central College
30 N Brainard St, Naperville, IL 60540, USA
Safe & Student-Friendly City – Ranked among the best places to live in the U.S.
Proximity to Chicago – Just 30 minutes by train for internships, jobs, and entertainment
Easy Transportation – Naperville Metra Station connects to downtown Chicago
Vibrant Downtown Area – Shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions within walking distance
Outdoor Spaces – Naperville Riverwalk, parks, and recreation areas nearby
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – 25 miles from campus
Midway International Airport (MDW) – 30 miles from campus
Getting to NCC: Students can travel via train, bus, or car from Chicago and surrounding areas.
