Southwestern Illinois College
Out-of-state tuition
$6,720
In-state $7,740
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
8,492
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
36.9%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 41.0%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) is a prominent community college located in the Metro-East region of Illinois, just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, Missouri. Established in 1946, SWIC has played a pivotal role in providing accessible and affordable education to the local community. The college's mission emphasizes student success and lifelong learning, guided by its core values of integrity, respect, and excellence. SWIC offers a diverse array of programs and degrees, including associate degrees, certificates, and transfer options, catering to a wide range of academic and professional interests. With a strong focus on workforce development, the college collaborates with local businesses and industries to ensure that its curriculum aligns with current job market demands, thereby enhancing graduates' employability.
The campus is equipped with modern facilities that support a rich learning environment. Students benefit from state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and technology centers, which foster an engaging and interactive educational experience. SWIC also boasts a vibrant campus life, offering numerous clubs and activities that encourage student involvement and community engagement. The college’s commitment to athletics is evident in its various sports programs, which promote physical health and teamwork among students. Additionally, SWIC has a diverse student body, creating a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates cultural differences and enhances the overall educational experience. With a dedicated faculty and a supportive environment, Southwestern Illinois College continues to empower students to achieve their academic and career goals.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Southwestern Illinois College
The data from Southwestern Illinois College reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. One of the most striking observations is the dramatic fluctuation in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2019, in-state tuition for undergraduate students increased from approximately $8,624 to $12,240, representing a rise of nearly 42%. However, by 2020, this cost drastically reduced to $6,390, likely due to the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and shifts in enrollment policies. This tuition decrease may have been an effort to attract and retain students during a challenging period for higher education.
In tandem with tuition changes, student enrollment has shown a concerning decline. The number of undergraduate students decreased significantly from 11,332 in 2014 to just 6,906 in 2021, indicating a drop of approximately 39%. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts, economic challenges, and possibly the rising costs associated with higher education.
Moreover, graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has steadily improved from 7.2% in 2013 to 15.7% in 2023. This increase suggests that despite lower enrollment, the college may be enhancing its support services to ensure that students who do enroll are more likely to complete their degrees within the expected time frame.
Lastly, retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 63% in recent years. This metric is essential as it indicates the college’s ability to keep students enrolled from year to year, which is crucial for maintaining enrollment numbers and ensuring the institution's sustainability.
In summary, Southwestern Illinois College is experiencing significant changes, with fluctuations in tuition costs, declining enrollment numbers, but improving graduation rates, all while maintaining a steady retention rate. These trends highlight the evolving landscape of higher education and the necessity for institutions to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- St. Louis, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), about 30 mi
- Also known as
- SWIC, Belleville Area College, BAC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Nicholas Mance (President)
- Phone
- 6182352700
- City
- Belleville, Illinois
- Address
- 2500 Carlyle Ave, Belleville, IL 62221-5899
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data from Southwestern Illinois College
The data from Southwestern Illinois College reveals intriguing insights into the graduation landscape for the year 2023. Notably, the majority of the programs reported substantial numbers of associate degree graduates. For instance, the Registered Nursing program stands out with an impressive 75 graduates, indicating a robust interest and demand in the healthcare sector. This trend aligns with the national narrative, where nursing remains a critical profession, particularly in the wake of the ongoing healthcare challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In contrast, many programs, particularly in the fields of engineering and technology, reported zero graduates at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels. This raises questions about the accessibility and attractiveness of these programs for students, as well as the potential impact on the future workforce in crucial industries. The absence of international students graduating from these programs further highlights a possible gap in appeal, suggesting that Southwestern Illinois College may need to innovate or enhance its offerings to attract a diverse student body.
Moreover, the data on associate degree graduates shows that fields related to health, such as Physical Therapy Assistant and Medical Office Assistant, are also performing well. Given the growing emphasis on health and wellness in society, programs in these areas are likely to see sustained interest. In summary, while the college excels in producing graduates in practical fields like nursing, it faces challenges in attracting students to more technical degrees, which could have long-term implications for local and national job markets.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $33,267 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | $31,309 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician. | $50,063 | |
| Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician. | $79,057 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |
| Information Technology. | - | |
| Network and System Administration/Administrator. | $60,876 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Trades, General. | - | |
| Carpentry/Carpenter. | - | |
| Electrician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Accounting. | - | |
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - | |
| Small Business Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. | $41,254 | |
| Welding Technology/Welder. | $41,254 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $68,027 | |
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Sign Language Interpretation and Translation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Baking and Pastry Arts/Baker/Pastry Chef. | - | |
| Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management/Manager. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | $46,732 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew. | - | |
| Aviation/Airway Management and Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Prepress/Desktop Publishing and Digital Imaging Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Drafting and Mechanical Drafting CAD/CADD. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
Students
8,492 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 68.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,987
- First-year undergraduates 860
- Transfers and others 3,645
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (8,492)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Southwestern Illinois College in 2023
The student demographics at Southwestern Illinois College for 2023 reveal a diverse and dynamic academic environment. The total enrollment showcases a significant number of undergraduate freshmen, with 1,216 students, reflecting a healthy influx of new perspectives. Interestingly, this group of freshmen has a near-equal gender distribution, with 51.1% male and 48.9% female students, indicating an encouraging trend towards gender balance in higher education.
Meanwhile, the undergraduate seniors represent the largest cohort, with 3,859 students. However, this group has a more pronounced gender imbalance, with females making up 59.6% while males account for only 40.4%. This discrepancy suggests that while more females are pursuing their undergraduate studies, there may be underlying factors affecting male retention or enrollment in later years of study.
The undergraduate transfer students, though fewer in number at 218, show a relatively balanced gender ratio of 45% male and 55% female. This indicates that the transfer process is attracting a diverse group of students, which is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, while detailed statistics are not available for all groups, the presence of students from various backgrounds can enrich the educational experience. By promoting inclusivity and representation among its student body, Southwestern Illinois College is positioning itself as an institution that values diversity and prepares its students for a global society.
Overall, the data reflects positive trends in gender balance among new students and highlights the importance of addressing retention issues for male students in the upperclassman categories. The college's commitment to diversity and inclusion remains essential for its continued growth and success.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Southwestern Illinois College
The age demographics of Southwestern Illinois College reveal a predominantly young student population, with the majority of students falling into the categories of under 18 and 18-19 years old. Notably, there are 466 males and 599 females under the age of 18, while the 18-19 age group shows a similar trend with 912 males and 894 females. This trend highlights the college's appeal to high school graduates and younger individuals seeking higher education.
As we progress through the age categories, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. For instance, the 20-21 age group sees a drop to 578 males and 652 females, followed by 352 males and 435 females aged 22-24. This pattern suggests that as students age, fewer continue their education at this institution, which is consistent with national trends where younger students are more likely to enroll in college immediately after high school.
The data also reveals a significant gender disparity, with female students consistently outnumbering male students across all age groups. For example, in the 25-29 age bracket, there are 304 males compared to 467 females. This gender gap in higher education enrollment has been a topic of discussion, as recent reports indicate that women are increasingly achieving higher education degrees compared to men.
Furthermore, the presence of older students (30 years and above) is relatively minimal, with only a small number continuing their education later in life. This could suggest that additional support and flexible learning opportunities could be beneficial in attracting a more diverse age range of students.
Overall, the age demographics at Southwestern Illinois College reflect broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the importance of catering to younger students while also considering strategies to engage adult learners.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
28 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Southwestern Illinois College
The data regarding international student enrollment at Southwestern Illinois College presents a compelling narrative of growth and fluctuation over the years. In the early 2000s, the presence of international students was minimal, with percentages hovering around 0.07% to 0.11%. However, a notable transformation occurred in the latter half of the decade, particularly from 2018 onwards, when the percentage of international students soared dramatically.
By 2019, international students constituted 0.50% of the undergraduate population, and this figure further escalated to 0.59% in 2020. The trend of increasing international enrollment reached its peak in 2023, where international students represented an impressive 1.28% of the undergraduate student body. This marks a significant shift, reflecting a growing interest in the college from international applicants, which may be attributed to various factors, such as enhanced global connectivity, the college's reputation, and its efforts to attract a diverse student body.
This surge in international enrollment can also be viewed in the context of broader trends in higher education, where many institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of fostering a multicultural learning environment. Additionally, the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have led many students to reconsider their study destinations, possibly contributing to the growing enrollment figures.
In conclusion, the data underscores a remarkable evolution in the international student demographic at Southwestern Illinois College, highlighting an expanding global footprint in its educational offerings and a promising future for international engagement.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$18,630
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $6,720
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,740
- Room and board
- $11,910
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -57% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 178%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$150M
Expenses$128M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 23 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| Golf | 11 | 3 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Soccer | 25 | 25 |
| Basketball | 17 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 8 | 5 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 23 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Tennis | - | 5 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Saint Louis UniversitySaint Louis · 18.7 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Washington University in St LouisSt. Louis · 22.7 mi
U.S. News #16
-
University of Missouri--St. LouisSaint Louis · 24.8 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Principia CollegeElsah · 37.7 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleCarbondale · 67.5 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 107.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 132.9 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Oakland City UniversityOakland City · 139.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignChampaign · 142.3 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Southwestern Illinois College:
-
Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 24th in the US News rankings, this prestigious university is known for its rigorous academics and strong research programs.
-
Saint Louis University - With a rank of 105, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a commitment to service and social justice.
-
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Ranked 35th, this university is renowned for its engineering and business programs, as well as its vibrant campus life.
-
University of Missouri-Columbia - This university holds the 124th rank and is recognized for its research initiatives and a strong emphasis on student engagement.
-
Purdue University-Main Campus - Ranked 43rd, Purdue is particularly well known for its engineering and agricultural programs, attracting students from all over the country.
-
Bradley University - With a rank of 185, this university offers a blend of liberal arts and professional programs, fostering a well-rounded education.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are key players in the region's higher education landscape.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Campus Crime Trends at Southwestern Illinois College
The crime statistics from Southwestern Illinois College over the years reveal some interesting trends in campus safety. Between 2013 and 2023, the average number of crimes per 1000 students showed fluctuations, with a notable peak in 2020, recording a rate of 3.20. This spike could potentially correlate with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have altered student behavior and campus dynamics.
Particularly striking is the increase in gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents in recent years, peaking in 2017 and 2020 respectively. The data shows that while the overall crime rate fluctuated, specific types of offenses such as gun arrests have remained persistent issues that warrant further attention from campus authorities.
In contrast, the year 2021 stands out with a significant drop in crime rates to 1.30, suggesting possible improvements in campus safety measures or changes in student population dynamics. However, the slight increase observed in 2022 and 2023 indicates that the college must continue to remain vigilant in addressing safety concerns to ensure a secure environment for its students.
This analysis emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures in managing campus safety. Higher education institutions must engage with law enforcement, provide awareness programs, and foster a culture of safety to mitigate crime rates effectively. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Southwestern Illinois College include Sandra Magnus (NASA astronaut and engineer), Matt Hughes (Two-time UFC Welterweight Champion) and Josh Harrellson (Professional basketball player, former Kentucky center).
-
Sandra Magnus 1964–
NASA astronaut and engineer
-
Matt Hughes 1973–
Two-time UFC Welterweight Champion
-
Josh Harrellson 1989–
Professional basketball player, former Kentucky center
-
Jerry Costello 1949–
Former U.S. Representative from Illinois
-
Keanau Post 1992–
Canadian basketball player
-
Randy Wells 1982–
Former MLB pitcher
-
Justin Hampson 1980–
Former MLB pitcher for Rockies, Padres and Mets
-
Zeke Moore 1997–
Trinidadian-American professional basketball player
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.