
1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455, USA


Western Illinois University was established in 1899, originally founded as a teacher training school to address the growing need for qualified educators in the region. Over time, the institution expanded beyond its initial mission to become a comprehensive university offering a wide array of academic programs. The university's development reflects its commitment to adapting to educational demands and providing diverse opportunities to its students. Throughout its history, Western Illinois University has maintained a focus on practical education paired with community engagement, which has helped it grow into a respected public institution. Its evolution from a small normal school to a university demonstrates a sustained effort to meet both local and broader educational needs, making it a notable choice for prospective students seeking a well-rounded academic environment.
Western Illinois University offers a diverse array of academic programs structured through multiple colleges and schools, catering to a wide range of academic interests and career goals. Prospective students can explore opportunities within the College of Arts and Sciences, which encompasses departments such as Biology, Chemistry, Communication, English, History, Mathematics, and Psychology, among others. This college aims to provide a strong foundation in both liberal arts and sciences.
The College of Business and Technology serves students interested in fields like Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Science, and Technology Management. It seeks to combine practical skills with theoretical knowledge to prepare students for dynamic roles in the business and technology sectors.
For those drawn to education, the College of Education and Human Services offers programs in Elementary and Secondary Education, Special Education, and Health Sciences. These programs focus on producing qualified educators and professionals dedicated to community health and development.
The College of Fine Arts and Communication is another key academic division, hosting departments like Art, Music, Theatre, and Communication, which foster creativity and communication skills essential for careers in the arts and media industries.
Additionally, Western Illinois University features the School of Graduate Studies, which coordinates advanced degree programs across disciplines, supporting students pursuing master's and doctoral studies.
Western Illinois University is situated in the city of Macomb, Illinois, located in the Midwest region of the United States. The campus address is 1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455. The university is accessible via the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport for those traveling by air. The local area code for telephone contact is 298-1414. Macomb offers a small-city environment that can provide prospective students with a focused academic atmosphere within a Midwest community setting.
Western Illinois University strives to prepare students for meaningful careers and responsible citizenship by fostering an inclusive learning environment that emphasizes personalized education and community engagement. The university's mission centers on developing critical thinking, communication skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning through diverse academic programs and experiential opportunities.
Dedicated to cultivating a supportive campus culture, the institution values collaboration, diversity, and sustainability. Its vision envisions becoming a leading regional university recognized for high-quality undergraduate and graduate education, accessible resources, and impactful research that contributes to societal advancement.
Prospective students can expect a focus on both academic excellence and real-world application, with the university encouraging development in leadership abilities and ethical decision-making to equip graduates for success in various professional fields.
Name of the institution
Western Illinois UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PublicSetting type
Town: RemoteInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
5,000 - 9,999School type
UniversityMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1899
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Certificate of less than 1 year
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
$42,063Agriculture, General
$40,735Biology, General
$29,129Business Administration, Management and Operations
$46,347Chemistry
$35,020Communication and Media Studies
$36,104Computer and Information Sciences, General
$56,058Construction Management
$51,827Criminal Justice and Corrections
$38,130Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
$17,096Engineering Technology, General
$55,220English Language and Literature, General
$31,055Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General
$28,747Finance and Financial Management Services
$44,348Fine and Studio Arts
$24,234Fire Protection
$35,038Graphic Communications
$32,608Health and Medical Administrative Services
$37,077Health and Physical Education/Fitness
$30,447History
$30,908Human Resources Management and Services
$39,583Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
$36,956Marketing
$35,243Mathematics
$41,248Music
$35,994Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
$30,838Political Science and Government
$35,206Psychology, General
$28,046Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
$25,062Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$60,966Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
$34,623Social Work
$32,654Sociology
$29,839Special Education and Teaching
$37,193Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
$34,318Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
$39,660Visual and Performing Arts, Other
$14,453