Illinois State University

What are the graduation rates for students at Illinois State University?

Illinois State University shows a graduation rate of 66%, which positions it within the top 35% of institutions nationally. This overall figure reflects a solid performance, with a notable distinction between genders. Women graduate at a higher rate of 71%, placing them in the top 30%, while men graduate at a slightly lower rate of 59%, ranking in the top 40%. These differences highlight a gender gap in completion rates, which may be important for prospective students to consider.

When examining graduation timelines, about 51% of students complete their degrees within four years, an average rate that ranks in the top 40%. Extending the timeline to six years, the graduation rate rises to 66%, consistent with the overall graduation percentage and also categorized as average, holding a top 35% national standing. These figures suggest that while just over half of the students finish on the traditional four-year track, many more do complete their studies given additional time.

Retention rates offer further insight into student persistence, with Illinois State University maintaining an 81% retention rate. This rate is considered average and is within the top 35% of U. S. institutions, indicating that most students who begin their studies continue beyond their first year, which often correlates with eventual graduation success.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Illinois State University?

Graduates of Illinois State University exhibit a broad spectrum of starting salaries across various fields, reflecting the diverse academic programs offered. Those who pursued degrees in computer-related disciplines tend to report higher earnings, with Computer Science majors earning an average of $68,002 and Computer and Information Sciences graduates earning around $57,294. Engineering Technology also provides substantial economic returns, with a typical salary of $60,390. Similarly, Construction Management graduates average $65,576 annually, indicating strong demand in technical and management-oriented fields.

Business-related degrees yield solid income prospects as well. Accounting and Related Services graduates earn approximately $54,480, while those specializing in Finance and Financial Management Services make about $52,313. Graduates in Management Information Systems and Services and International Business report earnings of $52,516 and $50,855, respectively. Marketing and Insurance fields are also competitive, with salaries near the mid-$40,000 to mid-$50,000 range.

Physical sciences and mathematics offer moderate earning potential. Mathematics majors earn around $49,334, closely followed by Geography and Cartography at $52,886. Chemistry graduates earn about $44,522, and Physics majors earn approximately $38,331, showing that even within scientific fields, compensation varies significantly.

In health-related areas, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing stand out with an average salary of $63,829, and Public Health graduates earn roughly $51,383 annually. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions follow with earnings around $37,173, indicating that healthcare-related professions at Illinois State University can be financially rewarding.

On the other hand, degrees connected to communication and media provide more modest earnings. Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication graduates make about $38,618, Communication and Media Studies degree holders around $37,645, and Journalism graduates report average earnings of $31,908. Similarly, arts and humanities tend to offer lower starting salaries; for example, Drama/Theatre Arts graduates average $23,472, Music majors earn roughly $27,765, and English Language and Literature graduates earn around $30,881.

Education fields present varied outcomes. Those with degrees in Special Education and Teaching earn approximately $43,480, while Teacher Education and Professional Development in specific levels and methods yields about $39,193. Additionally, Teacher Education focused on specific subject areas averages $36,294, reflecting moderate financial returns in this sector.

Other notable fields include Graphic Communications with an average salary of $47,259, Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians at $51,075, and Economics graduates earning around $44,992. Social sciences such as Sociology and Political Science and Government offer earnings near $34,527 and $33,733, respectively.

In summary, Illinois State University graduates in technical, business, and health disciplines generally have access to higher starting earnings, while those in education, communication, and arts fields tend to start with more modest incomes. These variations underscore the importance of aligning degree choice with career and financial goals.