The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest college in the university. It is comprised of 15 departments that offer specialization in 24 different majors. Both traditional and career-oriented majors are offered in the fine arts, humanities, natural sciences, and the social sciences. The college also provides the basic educational requirements for all Northeastern Illinois University students.

It is the goal of the college to help students develop their individual view of the world by acquiring scientific, social, and cultural awareness, as well as a broad knowledge of a number of disciplines.