Overview
Founded in 1899 as Western Illinois State Normal School, Western Illinois University began as a teacher-training institution and has since grown into a comprehensive public university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees across a wide range of disciplines. Over the decades it expanded its mission beyond teacher education to include agriculture, business, engineering technology, and law enforcement and justice administration, becoming a respected regional institution in the Midwest. WIU is particularly recognized for its Law Enforcement and Justice Administration program, School of Agriculture, and its long-standing commitment to affordable, accessible higher education for first-generation and rural students.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Macomb, Illinois |
| Founded | 1899 |
| Total students | 6,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 78% |
| Graduation rate | 48% |
| Average starting salary | $45,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $12,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $12,000 |
| Room & board | $11,000 |
| Average financial aid | $10,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 900-1110 |
| ACT range | 17-23 |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Law Enforcement and Justice Administration
- Agriculture
- Business
- Engineering Technology
- Nursing
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.