Overview
Founded in 1869 as a teacher training institution, Southern Illinois University Carbondale has grown into the flagship campus of the SIU system and a major public research university. It earned R1/R2 research classification and is particularly recognized for its aviation technologies program, School of Law, College of Agricultural Sciences, and Graduate School of Cinema and Photography. The university has produced notable figures in journalism, business, and public service, and maintains a strong reputation for accessible, hands-on education.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Carbondale, Illinois |
| Founded | 1869 |
| Total students | 10,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 77% |
| Graduation rate | 50% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $13,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $13,000 |
| Room & board | $11,500 |
| Average financial aid | $12,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 930-1150 |
| ACT range | 17-23 |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Aviation Management and Flight
- Law
- Cinema and Photography
- Agricultural Sciences
- Engineering
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.