Western
Your next chapter starts today!
WIU offers every student the opportunity to succeed. Our hands-on experiences and opportunities empower you to unleash your full potential.
#1 Opportunity in Illinois
NEED PROOF? check our receipts
Substantial Earnings
• #1 in graduate earnings among Illinois public universities, as recognized by Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education
High Student Access
• #2 in access statewide — which means we serve a diverse, inclusive student body
Military Friendly
• Nationally recognized Military Friendly School
A Top Public University
• AACSB Accredited Business Program (Top 2% Worldwide)
• National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
• WIU is consistently ranked for value, impact, and academic quality as a “Best Midwestern College” for 21 years by The Princeton Review
LAUNCH YOUR CAREER Potential at WIU
WIU graduates go on to thriving careers, with an average salary of $84,476 *
Alumni at Top Companies: Graduates work at Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and industry leaders worldwide.
*Steppingblocks, 2024
“Come with an open mind to be ready for new experiences.”
-Leslie Chavez, Speech Pathology
Learn & thrive in a small town with an University!amazing
TYPICAL DAY IN THE LI
Corbin-Olson Dining Center
Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts
Browne Hall
Walk anywhere on campus within 10 minutes. Not feeling like walking? Hop on a free Go West bus to move around on campus or explore the city of Macomb.
• Thompson Hall Dining Center
Pancakes at 3-Egg Omelet Bar™
• Simpkins Hall
Costume fitting at Theatre Dept
• University Union
Burrito Bowl from Qdoba™
• Sherman Hall
Lead an Admissions Group Tour
• Memorial Hall
Visiting Career
• Corbin-Olson Dining Hall
Coffee and a bagel to go
• Currens Hall Lab class
• Garwood Hall 2D Design class
• Sallee Hall
Fundamentals in Public Speaking class
• Multicultural Center
Welcome Back Bash
Simpkins Hall
Horrabin Hall
Beu Health Center
Future
Olivia Alonzo
FE OF A LEATHERNECK
Library
Knoblauch Hall
Morgan Hall
Stipes Hall
University Union
Multicultural Center
Braden
Digital Rec & Esports Arena
• Spencer Student Rec Center Morning run and workout
• Knoblauch Hall
Crime Lab Class
• Malpass Library
Leading a study group session
• University Union Chicken nuggets from Chick-fil-A™
• Digital Rec & Esports Arena Fortnite™ battles with friends
Cadee
• Horrabin Hall
Spencer Student Rec Center
Children’s Literature & Disabilities class
• Stipes Hall
Coffee break at Dividends™
• Morgan Hall
American Government and Politics class
• Beu Health Center Flu Shot Clinic
• Browne Hall Practice with the Marching Leathernecks
Currens Hall
Garwood Hall
Memorial Hall
Sherman Hall
Malpass
Sallee Hall
Thompson Hall Dining Center
Grote Hall
UNDERGRADUATE MAJORS
Accountancy ∞
Agriculture
• Agricultural Business
• Agricultural Science
• Agriculture Teacher Education (6-12) *
Anthropology ∞
Applied Economics ∞
Art
• Art Studio
• Art Teacher Education (K-12) *
• Graphic Design
Biology
• Environmental Biology
• Medical Sciences (Pre-Health Professionals)
• Microbiology
• Science/Biology Teacher Education *
• Zoology
Broadcasting & Journalism
Business Administration
• Business Analytics ∞
• Economics ∞
• Finance ∞
• Human Resource Management ∞
• Management ∞
• Marketing ∞
• Supply Chain Management ∞
Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Chemistry
• Pharmacy
• Science/Chemistry Teacher Education *
Clinical Laboratory Science
Communication ∞
Computer Science
Construction Management
Cybersecurity
Educational Studies
Electrical Engineering + ²
Elementary Education + *
• Early Childhood Education (Birth-2)
• Elementary Education (1-6)
• English as a Second Language Education (9-12)
• Multilingual Education
Emergency Management ∞
Engineering Technology + English
• Creative Writing
• English Teacher Education *
• Literature and Language
• Professional Writing
Exercise Science
Fire Protection Services
• Fire Administration ∞
• Fire Science
Foreign Languages & Cultures
• French
• French Teacher Education (K-12) *
• Spanish
• Spanish Teacher Education (K-12) *
Forensic Chemistry
General Studies + ∞
Geographic Information Science
• Geoenvironment & Planning ∞
• Geospatial Science ∞
Health Services Management
History
• History ∞
• History - Teacher Education (9-12) *
• Pre-Law
Information Systems
Law Enforcement & Justice Administration ∞
Liberal Arts and Sciences
• African American Studies
• Paired Minors
Mathematics
• Actuarial Science
• Data Science and Statistics
• Mathematics
• Mathematics Teacher Education *
Mechanical Engineering + ² Meteorology
• Applied Meteorology
• Operational Meteorology
Middle Level Education (5-8) *
Music
• Applied Music
• Music Business
• Music Teacher Education (K-12) *
• Music Therapy
Musical Theatre
Nursing
Nutrition & Dietetics
Nutrition & Foodservice Management
Physical Education *
Physics
• Engineering Physics
• Science/Physics Teacher Education *
• Standard Physics
Political Science
• Government and Politics ∞
• Pre-Law
Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Psychology
Public Health +
Public Relations
Recreation, Park & Tourism Admin.
Social Work
Sociology ∞
Special Education (K-12) *
Speech Pathology & Audiology
• Speech Language Pathology Assistant
• Speech Pathology and Audiology
Theatre
• Performance
• Production/Design
UNDERGRADUATE MINORS
Accountancy
Agricultural Economics
Agricultural Technology
Management
Agriculture
Agronomy
Algorithms and Data
Management
American Sign Language
Animal Science
Anthropology
App Development
Applied Artificial Intelligence
Applied Mathematics
Art History
Art Studio
Broadcasting and Journalism
Business
Business Analytics
Cannabis and Culture
Cannabis Cultivation
Chemistry
Coaching
Communication
Computer Science
Computer Science
Education
Conceptual Physics
Construction and Facilities
Technology
Corrections
Creative Writing
Criminalistics
Cybersecurity
Dance Economics
Educational Studies
Emergency Management
Emergency Management (Operational)
Emergency Management (Tactical)
English
Environmental Studies
Event Planning and Management
Film
Finance
Fire Administration
Fire Science
Forensic Chemistry
Forensic Psychology
Forensic Science
French
Geographic Information Systems
Geography
Geology
Global Politics
Graphic Design
Health Communication History
Homeland Security
INTEGRATED 5-YEAR MASTER’S DEGREES
Business Administration (MBA)
Chemistry
College Student Personnel
Communication
Computer Science
Educational Studies
GIScience and Geoenvironment History Mathematics
Museum Studies
Human Resource Management
Industrial Technology
Information Systems
Information Technology
International Business
International Studies
Jazz Studies
Latinx Studies
Law and Society
Law Enforcement and Justice Administration
Legal Studies
Management
Manufacturing Technology
Marketing
Mathematics
Mental Health
Microbiology
Middle Level Literacy
Teaching
Middle Level Mathematics
Teaching
Middle Level Science
Teaching
Middle Level Social Studies
Teaching
Music
Music Business
Natural Resources
Conservation
Network Technologies
Nonprofit Administration
Nutrition
Occupational Safety
Operations Management
Philosophy
Physics
Plant Breeding
Political Science
Pre MBA
Precision Agriculture
Professional Writing
Psychology
Public Administration and Public Service
Queer Studies
Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration
Religious Studies
Security Administration
Social Media
Sociology
Spanish
Stage Combat
Supply Chain Management
Sustainable Business
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Theatre
Weather and Climate
Women’s Studies
Zoology
PRE-PROFESSIONAL PREP
Political Science
Public Safety Administration
Recreation, Park & Tourism
Administration
Sociology
Sport Management
Pre-Engineering
Pre-Forestry
Pre-Health (Pre-Medicine)
Pre-Law (History)
Pre-Law (Political Science)
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
the Leatherneck Quiz
Choosing your major doesn’t have to be stressful. This quiz is designed to help you explore programs at WIU based on what excites you, what you’re good at, and what makes you feel most fulfilled. Circle the letter (A–G) that best matches your answer for each question. Then tally up your most frequent letter to reveal your WIU vibe!
Which activity do you enjoy most?
A) Creating things like art, music, videos, or stories
B) Solving problems and helping people in tough situations
C) Teaching, mentoring, or supporting others
D) Leading projects or launching new ideas
E) Building things, working with tech, or solving puzzles
F) Exploring nature, animals, or how the world works
G) Learning about cultures, people, or deep ideas
What task would you do most?
A) Run a social media account or design a poster
B) Help someone solve a conflict or stay safe
C) Volunteer with kids or plan a student event
D) Create a business plan or sell a product
E) Code a website or build something cool
F) Study wildlife or test water samples
G) Read a history book or debate in class
What are you best at?
A) Thinking creatively and expressing yourself
B) Staying calm in emergencies and helping others
C) Being patient, kind, and organized
D) Leading a group and thinking big-picture
E) Solving problems and focusing on details
F) Asking questions and doing hands-on research
G) Understanding people and seeing different perspectives
Which career sounds interesting?
A) Graphic designer, filmmaker, or musician
B) Police officer, social worker, or EMT
C) Teacher, counselor, or speech therapist
D) CEO, event planner, or marketing director
E) Software developer, engineer, or architect
F) Environmental scientist, biologist, or geologist
G) Historian, lawyer, or cultural researcher
How do others describe you?
A) Creative, expressive, imaginative
B) Loyal, brave, dependable
C) Caring, helpful, thoughtful
D) Ambitious, outgoing, confident
E) Logical, curious, focused
F) Observant, hands-on, nature-loving
G) Wise, open-minded, deep thinker
What motivates you most?
A) Sharing ideas or expressing yourself
B) Protecting others or doing what’s right
C) Making a difference in someone’s life
D) Turning ideas into action
E) Solving technical or complex problems
F) Discovering how the world works
G) Exploring people, cultures, and big questions
IF YOU CIRCLED MOSTLY:
As – THE CREATOR
You’re expressive and full of ideas. You shine in creative spaces.
MAJORS TO EXPLORE:
Art & Design
Broadcasting & Journalism
Communication
Music, Theatre, or Dance
Public Relations
Film & Theater Production
English
Bs – THE PROTECTOR
You care about people and justice.
MAJORS TO EXPLORE:
Law Enforcement & Justice
Administration
Fire Protection Services
Forensic Psychology
Social Work
Emergency Management
Public Health
Cs – THE NURTURER
You’re patient, compassionate, and love helping others grow.
MAJORS TO EXPLORE:
Elementary Education
Special Education
Psychology
Speech-Language Pathology
Nursing
Recreation, Park, & Tourism Admin.
Ds – THE LEADER
You’re a go-getter who thrives on innovation and action.
MAJORS TO EXPLORE:
Management
Marketing
Human Resource Management
Finance
Supply Chain Management
Accounting
Es – THE INNOVATOR
You’re analytical and tech-savvy. You love building and improving things.
MAJORS TO EXPLORE:
Computer Science
Cybersecurity
Engineering
Construction & Facilities Management
Information Systems
Math
Fs – THE EXPLORER
You love science, the outdoors, and hands-on discovery.
MAJORS TO EXPLORE:
Biology
Agriculture
Chemistry
GIS
Meteorology
Gs – THE THINKER
You’re curious, reflective, and passionate about ideas and cultures.
MAJORS TO EXPLORE:
Political Science
Sociology
Anthropology
History
Liberal Arts & Science
STILL NOT SURE?
No problem! WIU supports undecided students with personalized advising, exploratory courses, and career discovery tools to help you figure out your path.
Experience campus life: Gamedays, Homecoming, First Wednesday Art Nights, Bingo Nights, Calle Murray Block Party, and more—all FREE!
The Multicultural Center recognizes and invites students from all backgrounds to build community together.
Casa Latina Cultural Center
Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center
LGBT*QA Resource Center Women’s Center
Join a sorority or fraternity: Choose from National Panhellenic, Interfraternity, Multicultural Councils
Clubs & Organizations: 200+ options, including Minorities in Blue, Hoof and Horn, Tradición Latin Dance Team, Westernettes Dance Team, Women Who Lift, WAVE Western’s All Volunteer Effort, Student Government, and more.
Learn more at: wiu.edu/leathernecklink
“People always say to ‘be yourself,’ but in my experience, college is about discovering who you truly are. Getting involved helps you realize your real interests as opposed to what you thought they were. It shapes your personal growth, builds meaningful connections, and opens doors.”
Jaylhien Colbert, Law Enforcement & Justice Administration
We Know Your Name and We Have Your Back
“Western’s environment is so welcoming. My professors want to see us all succeed. The people here care about you, and everyone is so nice.”
Leslie Chavez, Speech Pathology
Your president, Dr. Kristi Mindrup, doesn’t just lead from the top - you can find her playing with the pep band and on campus throughout the year, cheering on all our Leathernecks.
SUPPORT SERVICES
Career Services: 500+ employers recruit WIU students annually
Academic Support: Free tutoring, Writing Center, and specialized advising Counseling & Wellness: Therapy, mental health support, and wellness programs
Disability Resources: Works with students on accommodation requests Food Pantry: Provides free food and personal care items to students in need
wESTERN ILLINOIS ATHLETICS
WOMEN’S D1 SPORTS
Basketball
Bowling - NEW Fall 2025
Cross
Golf
Soccer
Softball
Tennis
Track/Field
Volleyball
MEN’S D1 SPORTS
Baseball
Basketball
Cross
Soccer
Track/Field
15+ Sport Clubs
Including the Western Electronic Gaming Association (WEGA), housed in the gamer-focused Digital Rec Center (DiRC). , , ,
WHAT THE HECK IS
A LEATHERNECK?
In 1927, WIU Athletic Director Ray “Rock” Hanson was granted permission by the U.S. Navy, based on his status as a Marine hero, to use a Marine term for his team. Western Illinois University holds the distinction of being the only non-military institution to officially have its nickname derived from an armed forces unit.
WESTERN ILLINOIS university Mascots , ,
Room to Grow Here
Paying for your Degree
How much does it cost to attend Western Illinois University? *
Tatiana Oscar, Social Work
Your next steps as a Applying for
Admission:
• wiu.edu/apply or with the Common App
• Freshman Admission Requirements:
• 2.75+ GPA on a 4.0 scale are accepted
• 2.74 GPA and below are reviewed on a holistic basis for potential alternative admission to our Reach Program
Send unofficial or official transcripts:
• WIU accepts unofficial and official transcripts to make an admission decision. Official transcripts are sent directly from each previous school to WIU.
When is the deadline?
• We accept admissions applications on a rolling basis; however, March 1 is the deadline to be eligible for scholarships.
