University of Illinois Springfield

The University of Illinois Springfield offers moderate post-graduation earnings, with a median of $57,103 ten years after entry. While the ROI score is 17, consider your specific program of study and career goals to determine if it aligns with your expectations.

UIS is a medium-sized public university with a diverse student body. The campus offers a range of student activities and organizations, but the overall student experience may be less vibrant than at larger institutions.

Compared to other public universities in Illinois, UIS has a lower graduation rate but offers more accessible in-state tuition. Its post-graduation earnings are moderate, placing it in a competitive but not leading position.

Graduates from the University of Illinois Springfield see median earnings of $57,103 ten years after entry. Specific outcomes can vary significantly by major, so researching departmental data is recommended.

The out-of-state tuition at the University of Illinois Springfield is $22,017. While the Affordability Score is high (90), this is largely driven by in-state costs; out-of-state students should carefully evaluate the ROI given the higher tuition.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) has a relatively high admission rate of 85.9%, indicating that it is not highly selective. This means that most students who apply and meet the basic admission requirements are likely to be accepted. While specific GPA and test score cutoffs aren't rigidly defined, applicants generally benefit from having a solid academic record. For instance, admitted students typically have high school GPAs in the B range or higher. While standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are considered, UIS often emphasizes a holistic review process, looking at coursework, essays, and extracurricular activities. The high acceptance rate suggests that UIS is committed to accessibility, making it a viable option for a broad range of students seeking a quality education. To maximize your chances, ensure all application materials are submitted on time, highlight your academic achievements and any relevant experiences, and craft a compelling personal essay that showcases your personality and goals.

For in-state students, the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) offers a strong value proposition. With an in-state tuition of $12,252 and a median 10-year earning potential of $57,103, the return on investment (ROI) is quite favorable. The median debt load of $19,128 is also considerably lower than the national average, meaning graduates are less likely to be burdened by significant student loans. This combination suggests that graduates can expect to recoup their educational investment within a reasonable timeframe, likely 3-4 years post-graduation. The cost of living in Springfield is also a significant factor, being more affordable than larger cities, which further enhances the financial viability of a UIS degree. While out-of-state tuition is higher, the median earnings remain consistent, making it a less attractive financial option for non-residents unless specific program strengths or scholarships offset the cost. Overall, UIS is a financially sound choice, particularly for Illinois residents, offering a good balance of cost, debt, and future earnings.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) excels in programs that leverage its location and public university mission. Its College of Public Affairs and Administration is particularly strong, offering highly regarded majors such as Public Administration, Environmental Studies, and Legal Studies. These programs benefit directly from the proximity to the Illinois state government, providing ample internship and networking opportunities. The College of Education is another standout, preparing educators for roles in K-12 schools and higher education. For students interested in business, the Business Administration program offers concentrations that align with regional economic needs. In the sciences, Biology and Chemistry programs provide a solid foundation for graduate studies or entry-level roles in healthcare and research. While UIS offers a broad range of programs, students seeking careers in public service, education, and regional business will find the most direct career pathways and robust support.

Student life at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is characterized by its focus on academic engagement and a close-knit community, reflecting its status as a smaller public university. The campus offers a range of student organizations, from academic clubs and cultural groups to intramural sports and student government. While it may not have the sprawling social scene of a large Big Ten university, UIS provides opportunities for students to connect through events, campus activities, and shared academic pursuits. The Student Union serves as a central hub for dining, socializing, and student services. Residential life is available for students who wish to live on campus, fostering a sense of community. Given its location in the state capital, students often engage with the surrounding community through internships and volunteer work, particularly in government and non-profit sectors. The overall atmosphere is often described as friendly, supportive, and academically oriented, with opportunities for both on-campus involvement and exploration of Springfield's cultural and historical attractions.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is committed to making education accessible and offers a comprehensive financial aid program. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. This aid typically includes federal and state grants (like the Pell Grant and Illinois Monetary Award Program - MAP), institutional scholarships, and federal student loans. Merit-based scholarships are available for incoming freshmen and transfer students who demonstrate academic excellence. Need-based aid is also a crucial component, determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). UIS also offers specific scholarships tied to academic programs, diversity, or specific student populations. While exact percentages fluctuate annually, it's common for over 80% of undergraduate students to receive financial aid. The average institutional aid package can significantly reduce the net cost of attendance, especially for in-state students. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA early and explore the UIS Financial Aid website for detailed information on available scholarships and application processes.

Graduates from the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) can expect a median 10-year earning potential of approximately $57,103. This figure represents a national average and can vary significantly based on the student's chosen major, academic performance, internship experiences, and career path. For instance, graduates from the College of Public Affairs and Administration, particularly in Public Administration or Legal Studies, often find stable employment within state government or related non-profits, with starting salaries potentially ranging from $45,000 to $60,000, increasing with experience and advancement. Those in business fields might see similar starting salaries, with opportunities for growth in regional companies. Graduates in education typically enter the K-12 system with salaries dependent on district pay scales, often starting in the $40,000s. The median earnings suggest that UIS graduates are well-positioned to achieve financial stability and repay their relatively low student debt. Specific salary data by major is best obtained through the UIS Career Development Center, which tracks alumni employment outcomes.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) offers on-campus housing options designed to provide a comfortable and convenient living experience for students. The primary residential community is the Lincoln Residence Center, which houses both traditional dormitory-style rooms and suite-style accommodations. Traditional rooms are typically double occupancy with shared bathrooms on each floor, fostering a communal atmosphere. Suite-style options offer shared living spaces with private bedrooms. All residence halls are furnished and include basic amenities such as beds, desks, chairs, and closets. Common areas within the halls often include lounges for studying and socializing, laundry facilities, and kitchens or kitchenettes. UIS emphasizes a supportive residential environment with Resident Assistants (RAs) available to assist students and build community. The housing is generally considered safe and well-maintained, providing a convenient base for students to access campus resources, classes, and activities. Meal plans are also available for residents, offering dining options within the campus center.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) provides undergraduate research opportunities, particularly within its strong Colleges of Public Affairs and Administration, Education, and Liberal Arts and Sciences. While it may not have the extensive research infrastructure of a large R1 university, UIS emphasizes faculty-mentored research experiences. Students can engage in research projects alongside professors, contributing to scholarly work and developing critical research skills. Opportunities often arise in fields like public policy analysis, environmental science, social work, and behavioral sciences. The university supports undergraduate research through programs like the Undergraduate Research Symposium, where students present their findings. While the focus is often on applied research relevant to public service and regional issues, students interested in pursuing graduate studies will find that the research experience gained at UIS is valuable for their applications. The smaller class sizes and accessible faculty facilitate closer mentorship, which can be a significant advantage for students eager to get involved in research early in their academic careers.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is often compared to other public regional universities within Illinois, such as Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC), Illinois State University (ISU), and Western Illinois University (WIU). Compared to SIUC and WIU, UIS generally offers a more focused environment, particularly for students interested in public affairs and state government careers due to its capital city location. ISU, located in Bloomington-Normal, has a larger student body and a broader range of popular majors, especially in education and business, and a more traditional college town feel. UIS typically has a lower tuition rate for in-state students than ISU and often a lower median debt load. While UIUC is a flagship institution with higher prestige and broader national recognition, UIS offers a more intimate setting and is more accessible for students who may not meet UIUC's highly competitive admission standards. UIS's key advantage lies in its unique niche in public administration and its affordability for Illinois residents, whereas peers might offer larger alumni networks or more diverse extracurricular scenes.

Employers, particularly those within Illinois state government and regional businesses, hold a generally positive view of degrees from the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS). Its location in the state capital makes it a go-to source for talent in public administration, policy analysis, and related fields. State agencies and local government bodies are familiar with the quality of UIS graduates and often actively recruit from the campus. For businesses in Central Illinois, such as Caterpillar or local financial institutions, UIS graduates are seen as reliable, well-prepared employees, especially those with practical internship experience gained locally. While UIS may not carry the same national brand recognition as larger, more prestigious universities, its reputation within its core strengths – public affairs, education, and regional business – is solid. Employers value the practical skills and community-focused approach that UIS graduates often bring. The Career Development Center's efforts to connect students with employers further bolster the perception of UIS alumni as job-ready candidates within their target industries and geographic areas.