Illinois State University (ISU) was founded in February 18, 1857. The name was chosen because the school established to prepare teachers. And “Normal” meant “teaching.” Illinois State made U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 rankings of America’s best public national universities, at No. 98, based on academic quality and excellence. In addition, Washington Monthly ranked the University No. 66 out of all national universities for the institution’s contribution to the public good through social mobility, research, and public services.
Illinois State University’s core values—Learning and Scholarship, Diversity and Inclusion, Respect, Collaboration, Individualized Attention, Civic Engagement, Integrity—are spelled out in Educate, Connect, Elevate: Illinois State – The Strategic Plan for Illinois’ First Public University 2018-2023. These goals embody our University’s culture of innovative and introspective growth. And it is through individuals in our Illinois State family that these values come to life through action. Illinois State remains a first-choice institution. With a strong enrollment of more than 20,000 students, while maintaining academic quality and small class sizes. International students from 44 states and 74 countries choose to study at this university.
The Graduate School is home to 3,000 students in 94 master’s degree sequences, 10 doctoral programs, and 33 certificate programs. Illinois State students complete their degrees on time. Our retention rate remains among the highest in the nation at over 78.6 percent, and our high graduation rate (69.5 percent) is well above the national average.
The University is looking to create an incubator that will offer space for students, faculty, and community partners to build connections and test ideas. Collaborate with faculty and engage with the research you’re most interested in. Get the tools you need to experience new opportunities at Illinois State and beyond.
Student employment positions encompass a wide variety of jobs across all interests, skill levels, and time commitments. Current and incoming students are encouraged to apply on ISU Jobs for student employment positions for which they meet the specified qualifications. The average student employment position averages 10 hours per week while school is in session, though the expected hours per week varies by department and position. Some positions require a regular work schedule while others are seasonal or event-based.
Location
Normal, Chicago (USA)
The campus is in Normal, more than 1,111 acres, just a short drive from Chicago and St. Louis. Uptown Normal’s Amtrak station and Bloomington’s airport put us within a few hours of most major U.S. cities. Researchers find that spending by Illinois State and its employees and students directly contributes more than $550 million to the local economy.
Bloomington-Normal ranks as one of the top 40 college towns in America based on it’s quality of life and among the top 10 for arts and entertainment opportunities. From Normal it’s just a short drive from Chicago and St. Louis. Uptown Normal’s Amtrak station and Bloomington’s airport put us within a few hours of most major U.S. cities.
School & Faculty
- College of Applied Science and Technology
- College of Education
- Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business
- Mennonite College of Nursing
