Millikin University

What is the history of Millikin University?

Millikin University is a private university in Decatur, Illinois, founded through the philanthropy of local businessman James Millikin. The university traces its founding to 1901 and opened to students in 1903.

Millikin's original educational purpose combined liberal learning with preparation for practical work. That emphasis remains visible in its mix of arts and sciences, business, education, nursing, and performing arts programs. Its development from a small local institution into a university with undergraduate and graduate offerings helps explain why students can pursue both broad academic study and professionally oriented degrees on the same campus.

What are the faculties and departments at Millikin University?

Millikin organizes its academic programs across the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Fine Arts, College of Professional Studies, and Tabor School of Business. It offers bachelor's degrees and selected graduate programs; applicants should use the current academic catalog to confirm which degrees and concentrations are accepting students.

The academic range includes biology, psychology, communication, computer science, accounting, and marketing. The College of Fine Arts encompasses areas such as music, theatre and dance, and art and design. Professional programs include education, nursing, and other health-related fields. This breadth matters when comparing majors: admission to the university does not necessarily satisfy the separate audition, portfolio, clinical, or progression requirements that a particular program may impose.

Millikin describes hands-on learning as a central part of its curriculum, including performances, projects, and other applied work. The form that takes - and whether an internship is required - depends on the major rather than a university-wide internship requirement.

What is the location of Millikin University?

Millikin's main campus is in Decatur, a central Illinois city. Its location gives students a relatively compact campus setting within an established community, rather than the scale or transit options of a major metropolitan area.

Students considering off-campus work, clinical placements, or commuting should check travel times to the specific sites involved. Decatur Airport serves the city, but its flight options may be limited; students traveling farther should compare regional airport connections. First-year students are permitted to register or park a car on campus, subject to current parking rules and charges.

What is the mission and vision of Millikin University?

Millikin states that its educational mission is to prepare students for professional success and engaged citizenship through what it calls "Performance Learning." In the university's usage, that means applying knowledge in real settings, such as performances, collaborative projects, research, and professional practice.

The mission is an institutional statement of purpose, not evidence that every student receives the same experience or outcome. Prospective students can test how it applies to a specific major by examining its required courses, projects, placements, and opportunities to work with faculty. Millikin has historical Presbyterian ties; applicants interested in the role of religion in current campus life should distinguish that history from requirements in their intended program.