Sean Kowal granted release by N. Illinois

Northern Illinois has given center Sean Kowal his release, ending a dispute over the player's decision to obtain a graduate degree at another school.

Kowal wants to pursue a master's degree in theology, a program Northern Illinois does not offer. The school initially denied him a release.

Athletics director Jeff Compher says the university had a change of heart Tuesday, when Kowal provided the school with more specific information about what he intends to pursue academically.

Kowal, who has one year of eligibility left, graduated this year. The NCAA must give Kowal a waiver for him to be eligible to play this season.

Kowal says he is "relieved" the process was over, adding he will choose a school from a list of five offering a theology program. He says none of the schools are in the Mid-American Conference.