University of Illinois at Springfield
Acceptance rate
85.9%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$20,139
In-state $12,557
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,309
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
43.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 53.6%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is a distinguished public university located in the capital city of Illinois, Springfield. Established in 1969, UIS is known for its commitment to providing a student-centered education, fostering a vibrant learning environment that emphasizes personal growth and academic excellence. With its beautiful campus nestled in a park-like setting, UIS combines modern facilities with a focus on sustainability, creating an inviting atmosphere for both students and faculty. The university boasts a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in public affairs, business administration, and environmental sciences.
UIS is dedicated to cultivating a strong sense of community and involvement among its students. The university's mission emphasizes the importance of experiential learning, and many students engage in internships, research projects, and community service programs, which enhance their academic experiences and prepare them for successful careers. UIS is also known for its active campus life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage student participation. Notably, the university's commitment to serving adult learners and non-traditional students has earned it recognition as a leader in accessible education. With a focus on excellence and a supportive environment, the University of Illinois Springfield continues to empower its students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations.
Analysis of Key Metrics at the University of Illinois Springfield
The University of Illinois Springfield has exhibited notable trends in tuition, enrollment, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. One of the most striking observations is the increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. For instance, from 2014 to 2024, in-state tuition rose from $8,952 to $12,472, while out-of-state tuition jumped from $13,512 to $19,460. This significant hike raises concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students, especially in light of the growing burden of student debt across the nation.
In terms of enrollment, the university has experienced a decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 3,054 in 2013 to just 2,393 in 2023. This decline may correlate with rising tuition costs and could impact the university's funding and future growth. Conversely, graduate enrollment saw some fluctuation but remains a critical part of the student body, with 1,805 students in 2023 compared to 1,994 in 2014.
Graduation rates present a mixed picture. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates has seen a slight improvement from 34.15% in 2018 to 40.53% in 2023. However, the overall graduation rates remain concerning, indicating potential challenges in student support and academic success initiatives. Retention rates, which indicate how well the university keeps its students, have fluctuated as well, dropping to 66.78% in 2022 before bouncing back to 75.77% in 2023. This trend suggests that while some students may be struggling to remain enrolled, recent strategies may have positively affected student retention.
Overall, the data reflects a university grappling with the challenges of increased costs and fluctuating enrollment, while also making strides in improving graduation rates and retention efforts. These metrics are crucial in understanding the institutional priorities and potential areas for improvement moving forward.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- St. Louis, about 80 mi
- Nearest international airport
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- UIS
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Janet Gooch (Chancellor and Vice President)
- Phone
- 2172066600
- City
- Springfield, Illinois
- Address
- One University Plaza, Springfield, IL 62703-5407
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 79.0%, women 75.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at University of Illinois Springfield
The admission data from the University of Illinois Springfield reveals significant trends in enrollment and acceptance rates over the years. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male rates ranging from approximately 54% to nearly 79%, while female rates have varied from about 49% to over 83%. This suggests a fairly competitive atmosphere, particularly from 2019 onward, where the male acceptance rate dipped to a low of 54.34%, while the female rate was slightly higher at 51.84%.
The enrollment numbers, however, do not consistently reflect these acceptance rates. For instance, in the year 2020, despite an increase in acceptance rates to over 78%, the enrollment peaked at 373 students, indicating that the university may have strategically chosen to prioritize quality over quantity. This trend continued into subsequent years, where lower enrollment numbers coincided with high acceptance rates, hinting at a potential shift in focus towards enhancing the overall academic profile of incoming students.
Additionally, the number of students deferred indicates a growing trend where students are opting to delay their entry, possibly due to external factors such as economic uncertainties or the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The overall increase in denied applications, particularly evident in 2019 with 1,120 denials, signals a more selective admission process in response to the increasing number of applicants.
In conclusion, the data highlights the evolving landscape of admissions at the University of Illinois Springfield, with a notable emphasis on maintaining a high standard of incoming students while navigating external challenges in the higher education sector.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School8 programs—
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 32% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of University of Illinois Springfield Admission Data
The admission data from the University of Illinois Springfield over the years reveals several trends in standardized testing scores and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of students submitting their SAT and ACT scores varies significantly, with a peak in 2019 where 76% of applicants submitted SAT scores. This suggests that as time progresses, there is an increasing reliance on standardized testing among applicants, possibly influenced by changes in admissions policies or the competitive nature of college admissions.
The reported score ranges for SAT reading and math, as well as ACT composite scores, show fluctuations over the years. For instance, while the 25th percentile SAT reading score started at 465 in 2008 and reached 510 in 2022, the upper bound also reflects a gradual increase, indicating that the quality of admitted students has been improving. This upward trend can be seen not only in SAT scores but also in ACT scores, with the 75th percentile increasing correspondingly.
Moreover, it is interesting to observe the decline in the number of students submitting test scores from 2022 to 2023, where the submission rate dropped to 48%. This could be indicative of a broader trend in higher education where more institutions are adopting test-optional policies, reflecting a shift toward a more holistic approach in evaluating student applications.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of standardized test submissions and scores at the University of Illinois Springfield paints a picture of a dynamic admissions process. As applicants increasingly navigate their options, institutions must adapt to these changes, considering the implications for academic preparedness and diversity within their student bodies.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
2,430 applicants in 2025, 85.9% admitted
2,087 admitted 343 not admitted Yield 12.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst · Master's222 (93% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's200 (15% international)
- Computer Science · Master's169 (74% international)
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance · Master's45 (24% international)
- Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General · Master's42 (2% international)
- Public Administration · Master's33 (6% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at University of Illinois Springfield
The graduation data from the University of Illinois Springfield reveals significant trends across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the Computer Science program stands out with a substantial number of master’s degree graduates, totaling 115. This could reflect the increasing demand for skilled professionals in technology and computer-related fields, driven by a digital economy that continues to grow rapidly.
In the realm of psychology, the traditional appeal of this discipline is visible, particularly in the counseling psychology area, which produced 29 master's graduates. This indicates a steady interest in mental health professions, especially in the wake of recent global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened awareness of mental health issues.
Business Administration also maintains relevance, with 83 individuals earning their master’s degrees. This aligns with national trends indicating that a business education remains a popular choice among students aiming for diverse career paths in a competitive job market.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of international students graduating with bachelor's degrees across the majority of programs. This might suggest barriers to entry for international students or a shift in educational preferences post-pandemic.
Lastly, the environmental sciences, which include multiple specializations, generated 26 master’s graduates, reflecting growing concerns over climate change and sustainability. As society increasingly prioritizes environmental issues, this trend is likely to continue, making this field an impactful choice for future students.
Overall, the data underscores the diverse interests of students and the evolving landscape of higher education, influenced by societal needs and global trends.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst. | $108,265 | |||
| Computer Science. | $74,686-$94,022 | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $74,295 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $47,625-$60,436 | |||
| Accounting. | $57,096-$61,733 | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,271 | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | $52,585 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $53,423 | |||
| Public Administration. | $74,715 | |||
| Public Policy Analysis, General. | - | |||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | |||
| Public Health, General. | $61,646 | |||
| Environmental Health. | $61,646 | |||
| Medical Informatics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $57,861 | |||
| Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision. | $57,861 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $50,169 | |||
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $45,606-$54,186 | |||
| Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics and Computer Science. | $106,805 | |||
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $68,508 | |||
| Financial Mathematics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | $69,898 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $42,638 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $43,074 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $35,442-$56,520 | |||
| Environmental Science. | $35,442-$56,520 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $35,383 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $49,494 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
4,628 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 74.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,552
- First-year undergraduates 257
- Graduate students 2,319
- Transfers and others 500
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,309)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at University of Illinois Springfield in 2023
The student demographics at the University of Illinois Springfield for 2023 reveal a diverse and dynamic academic environment. The data indicates that there are a total of 4,193 students categorized into undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate continuing students, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students. Notably, the undergraduate freshmen group, comprising 245 students, has a higher percentage of female students at 60.4%, while the male representation stands at 39.6%. This trend of higher female enrollment is also observed in the undergraduate transfer students, where women make up 58.9% of the cohort.
In contrast, the graduate student population appears to have a more balanced gender ratio, with males constituting 52.4% and females at 47.6%. This shift indicates that as students advance in their academic careers, there may be a more equal representation of genders, potentially reflecting broader societal trends in higher education.
The data further breaks down the demographics by race and ethnicity, showing a substantial representation of white students across all categories. However, the specific numbers for continuing and transfer students were not disclosed, leaving some gaps in understanding the full diversity within those groups.
Overall, the data from UIS highlights important trends in gender representation and suggests areas for potential growth in promoting diversity, particularly among underrepresented groups in higher education. As institutions strive for inclusivity, understanding and addressing these demographic patterns will be crucial in shaping future policies and programs.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at the University of Illinois Springfield
The age distribution of students at the University of Illinois Springfield presents an interesting insight into the demographic trends of the university. Notably, the largest age group is comprised of students aged 20-21, with a total of 762 students (338 females and 424 males). This substantial representation aligns with national trends where younger students, particularly those in the typical college age range, dominate the undergraduate population.
In the 18-19 age group, there are significantly more females (299) than males (154), indicating a growing trend of female enrollment in early college years. Conversely, as we move to older age brackets, particularly between 22-24 and 25-29, there is a noticeable increase in both male and female graduate students, with males showing a higher representation in the graduate category, especially between ages 25-29.
The presence of students aged 30 and above, while relatively smaller in number, reflects a diversifying student body with a mix of traditional and non-traditional students. This aligns with the increasing trend of adult learners returning to education, seeking to enhance their skills or change career paths.
Interestingly, the data also shows that the number of students aged 50 and above remains minimal, which might suggest that this demographic is less likely to pursue higher education at this institution.
Overall, the age demographic highlights a vibrant mix of young and mature students, indicative of the university's commitment to serving a diverse population and responding to the evolving educational landscape. As higher education continues to adapt, it will be crucial for institutions like UIS to cater to the varied needs of their student body, ensuring programs and support systems are in place for all ages.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
82 in 2025 · 5.4% in 2016
875 in 2025 · 35.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at University of Illinois Springfield
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Illinois Springfield reveals significant fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the undergraduate international student population has seen a gradual increase, peaking in 2016 with 159 international students, which represented 5.41% of the total undergraduate enrollment. However, this percentage saw a notable decline in subsequent years, indicating potential challenges in attracting international students in the following periods, particularly during the pandemic years.
On the graduate level, the international student enrollment has shown a more pronounced growth, especially from 2015 onwards. The peak was reached in 2016 with 885 international students, comprising 35.9% of the total graduate population. This trend suggests that the graduate programs may have become more appealing to international students, possibly due to targeted recruitment strategies or the diverse range of available programs. However, similar to the undergraduate data, there was a decline in the following years, although the 2023 figures show a resurgence with 560 international graduate students, which is a promising sign for the institution.
The fluctuations in these numbers may be reflective of broader global trends in international education, influenced by factors such as visa policies, geopolitical events, and the COVID-19 pandemic. As universities adapt to these changes, it will be crucial for the University of Illinois Springfield to implement strategies that enhance its attractiveness to international students, ensuring a more stable and robust enrollment in the years to come.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$32,381
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $20,139
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $12,557
- Room and board
- $12,242
- Graduate tuition
- $19,515
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 9% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$118M
Expenses$126M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Valley Conference
Great Lakes Valley Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 83 | 56 |
| Soccer | 30 | 35 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 10 | 6 |
| Tennis | 6 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 51 | 51 |
| Soccer | 40 | 35 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 20 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 9 | 7 |
| Tennis | 6 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 47 | 39 |
| Soccer | 36 | 29 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 9 | 7 |
| Tennis | 7 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Illinois State UniversityNormal · 63.2 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Principia CollegeElsah · 66.7 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Bradley UniversityPeoria · 66.8 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignChampaign · 78.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of Missouri--St. LouisSaint Louis · 79.6 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Saint Louis UniversitySaint Louis · 82.4 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Washington University in St LouisSt. Louis · 83.5 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Knox CollegeGalesburg · 92.8 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
Augustana CollegeRock Island · 131.9 mi
Liberal Arts #91
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near the University of Illinois Springfield:
-
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Ranked 35th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is well-known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Washington University in St Louis - With a rank of 24, this prestigious institution offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its research initiatives and strong emphasis on student success.
-
Saint Louis University - Ranked 105th, this comprehensive university provides a rich educational experience with a focus on service and community engagement.
-
Bradley University - This university ranks 185th and is recognized for its strong professional programs and commitment to experiential learning.
-
Illinois State University - Ranked 209th, it is known for its diverse academic programs and a supportive campus environment.
These schools offer a variety of educational opportunities and have strong reputations in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities 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 Crime Rates at the University of Illinois Springfield
The crime data from the University of Illinois Springfield reflects a concerning trend in campus safety over the past decade. In 2015, the average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked at 17.82, indicating a significant number of incidents relative to the student population. This spike could suggest a heightened awareness or reporting of crimes, particularly drug-related offenses and arrests.
However, from 2016 onwards, there has been a noticeable decline in the crime rates, culminating in a low of 5.07 per 1,000 students in 2022. This decrease could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security measures, community engagement programs, or a shift in student behavior towards safer practices. The data shows zero incidents of armed arrests or domestic violence in recent years, indicating a positive trend in specific categories of crime.
Yet, it's crucial to remain vigilant, as the data for 2023 shows a slight uptick in crime rate to 5.62. This fluctuation serves as a reminder that maintaining safety on campus is an ongoing challenge that requires continuous monitoring and proactive measures. The university community should work together to promote awareness and encourage reporting of incidents to prevent any regression in safety.
In conclusion, while the overall trend points towards improved safety, the slight increase in recent years highlights the need for sustained efforts in crime prevention and community support. For more insights on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Illinois at Springfield include Bobby McFerrin (Jazz vocalist, composer and conductor), Dana Perino (Former White House press secretary and political commentator) and Cheri Bustos (Former U.S. Representative from Illinois).
-
Bobby McFerrin 1950–
Jazz vocalist, composer and conductor
-
Dana Perino 1972–
Former White House press secretary and political commentator
-
Cheri Bustos 1961–
Former U.S. Representative from Illinois
-
Mike Cernovich 1977–
Right-wing social media personality and commentator
-
Ward Churchill 1947–2026
Activist, author and former University of Colorado professor
-
Jermaine Love 1989–
American professional basketball player
-
William Enyart 1949–
General and former US Representative from Illinois
-
Timothy Davlin 1957–2010
Former mayor of Springfield, Illinois
-
Richard Oruche 1987–
Former pro basketball player of Nigerian descent
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Brian K. Hopkins 1961–
Alderman of Chicago's 2nd ward
-
Karen Hasara 1940–
Former mayor of Springfield, Illinois
-
Elgie Sims
Illinois state senator
-
Kimberly A. Lightford 1968–
Illinois Senate Majority Leader
Sports
-
Bill Becher 1965–
Former soccer player and head coach
-
Nicholas Livas 1987–
Greek-American professional basketball player
-
Eddie J. Smith 1983–
Retired professional basketball player
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.