# Admissions  FAQs

###  Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to attend? Do I have to buy books?

NIU does not charge tuition. Textbooks are provided by the university at the start of each quarter.  You will be required to return the books at the end of each quarter.

If I have an interim TS/SCI, am I eligible to apply?

Prospective and current students must hold an **active** TS/SCI clearance and indoctrinated with your agency. An interim clearance is not permitted. Your clearance must be held by the Federal Government or the U.S. Armed Forces. Please obtain/maintain an active TS/SCI and be indoctrinated to the current accesses **before** applying to NIU. You may contact the NIU Security Office at NIU_Security@odni.gov with questions about the University’s security requirements. NIU is not permitted to hold TS/SCI for students. They must be briefed by their agency.

Can I earn IC civilian joint duty credit for attending NIU?

If you attend NIU as an in-residence or non-residence student and earn a graduate or undergraduate degree you are eligible receive IC civilian joint duty credit through your home agency.

Does NIU offer online classes?

No. The university offers blended learning through secure video telephone conference (VTC) capabilities at select locations.

Does NIU consider transfer credit?

Graduate students may **transfer a maximum of six quarter hours into the MSSI or MSTI program** towards the elective requirement. Courses must have been taken within five years prior to enrolling in the NIU and have an earned grade of B or higher. Approval of transfer hours resides with the Dean of the appropriate program.

I obtained my degree outside of the United States of America can I submit those transcripts to NIU?

Yes. Foreign transcripts must be submitted with an official transcript evaluation from an approved foreign credential evaluation service.

How long are the MSSI, MSTI and BSI programs?

The degree programs are offered in one and two year formats. 

For the MSTI program, do applicants need to have a background in science to be considered?

No. Prospective students with a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related background are highly desired; however, possession of a degree from a STEM field of study is not required.

Is there a non-thesis option?

No. All MSSI/MSTI students must complete a thesis as part of their degree requirement.

Is there a service commitment to attend the NIU’s in-residence degree program?

Please consult the nominating authority or training office for your service/agency.

Do I need an agency/organization nomination to apply to the part-time program?

Nominations are not required for individuals applying for part-time study. 

I am a drilling reservist. May I use the weekends that I am attending class at NIU in place of drill?

Please consult your service to find out if this is possible.

I am a reservist. Is it possible for me to attend the in-residence degree program?

Yes, but you will need to obtain a nomination from your assignment manager to attend the in-residence degree program.

If I enroll in a certificate program and later apply to the MSSI or MSTI, will my certificate course credits transfer to the MSSI or MSTI program?

Up to two certificate courses can be applied to the MSSI program as electives. Only one certificate course may apply for students pursuing the MSTI program.

What time are the certificate classes held?

Times can vary depending upon the quarter of enrollment. **Most certificate courses take place in the evening between 6:00 p.m. and 10:40 p.m.**