College of Business Dean's Welcome

Our approach speaks for itself. The result of our experiential learning philosophy shows in the continued success of our Huskie network. This web of support is made up of many talented and engaged faculty, our 60,000 accomplished and passionate alumni, corporate partners, executives and friends who come together to keep our promise to you and future generations of students.

Our college's continuous accreditation by AACSB International for business and accounting, and our national rankings as an esteemed business school since 1987, exemplify our dedication to excellence. In fact, our college was named one of the 100 top undergraduate business schools in the United States and the second best in Illinois in the prestigious Poets&Quants for Undergrads 2025 Rankings. Furthermore, our students know they are part of something extraordinary. We work to build a foundation of ethical business practices in our students - something you can rely on for your entire career. As principled and adaptive global citizens, you will learn how to advance in your institutions through knowledge creation, innovation, partner collaboration, personalized experiences and active learning with integrity.

A strong history of collaboration with more than 100 corporate partners helps ensure that our curriculum is at the forefront of practice. At NIU, you develop skills that will differentiate you in a global business environment. You learn directly from executives who regularly speak in our classes and network with alumni and students during special events. Mentors make the difference. And in our program, you have the opportunity to make strategic and rewarding connections with individuals who know the path to success.

Top-notch resources also make a huge impact on your success. Our business building – Barsema Hall – provides the opportunity to learn in comfortable, state-of-the-art spaces. Our college-wide programs and spaces - including our De La Vega INNOVATION Lab, our Business Passport, our Experiential Learning Center, our Global Business program and our Building Ethical Leaders using an Integrated Ethics Framework (BELIEF) program - prepare you for the professional workforce of the future.

Becoming a part of our College of Business is a significant first step in fortifying your future in business. But it is more than that. Earning your degree from our college means you are forever a part of a legacy bigger than yourself, and that countless others believe in your dreams as much as you do. I am thrilled to see your potential realized and to be a part of your career journey.

We believe in your dreams as much as you do, and we cannot wait for you to become a part of our Huskie pack.

Joan Phillips-Hernandez, Ph.D.
Dean, NIU College of Business