The University of Illinois Springfield emphasizes a strong liberal arts core and broad engagement in timely public affairs issues. Students and faculty conduct research and public service projects in the living laboratory that is the Illinois state capital to improve regional, state, national, and global communities.

Every year, approximately 4,000 students enroll at UIS to earn a University of Illinois degree. Our right-sized community means classes aren’t too big or too small, and professors really know their students. We’ve created and empowered leaders for 50 years, and now it’s your turn to rise!

1. Feel Supported

UIS offers a wide range of support for students to get involved and feel supported:

  • Academic Support: At UIS, we provide you will the tools and support needed for you to be successful and reach your goals. Any student can take advantage of these extensive resources and services.

  • Hispanic/LatinX Initiative

  • Men of Color Initiative: Recruit, educate, and retain men of color from diverse socioeconomic populations and localities

  • First-Generation Initiative

  • Necessary Steps Mentoring Program: is a Living Learning Community that was established in 2009 at UIS. It is designed to transition first-generation students to the challenges and demands of college life. First-generation is defined as students whose parents/guardians have not graduated from a four-year college or institution.

  • International Student Services: ISS provides the support and assistance necessary for international students to achieve their educational goals and to ensure institutional compliance with government immigration regulations.

2. Belong

  • National Hispanic/LatinX Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) honors the culture, heritage, and contributions of Hispanic Americans each year. The event began in 1968 when Congress deemed the week including September 15 and 16 National Hispanic Heritage Week to celebrate the contributions and achievements of the diverse cultures within the Hispanic community.
  • Clubs and Organizations: Baile Monarcas Latin Dance, Organization of Latin American Students, Ritmo, Flow y Son, Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Incorporated, Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, Incorporated.
  • Hispanic/LatinX Graduation: At the end of the Spring semester, the Diversity Center hosts an additional graduation ceremony for those who identify as Hispanic or LatinX.
  • Pan y Café: As part of the Hispanic/LatinX (H/L) Initiative, the Pan y Cafe series is an opportunity for the campus community to gather, enjoy traditional H/L pastries, and talk about topics surrounding H/L communities.

3. Learn

  • Programs of Study
  • Online Programs: Online learning at UIS offers flexibility and convenience with the same high quality as our on-campus coursework.
  • Whether your goals are to complete a degree, learn new skills, advance your current career, or find a new profession, our 52 online programs will help you get there. UIS provides its online students with the most flexible and cost-efficient way to earn a University of Illinois degree from anywhere in the world.

4. Live

  • UIS is located on the southeast side of Springfield, Illinois, near Interstate 55. It is approximately 200 miles southwest of Chicago and 100 miles northeast of St. Louis. Springfield, rich in Midwestern charm and historic tradition, offers a variety of activities. Students enjoy theaters, 30 public parks, eight public golf courses, and water sports on Lake Springfield.
  • Abraham Lincoln’s hometown, population about 115,000, also boasts a wildlife sanctuary, zoo, memorial gardens, botanical gardens, and the world’s largest carillon. Shopping enthusiasts come from all over the area to central Illinois’ largest enclosed shopping facility, White Oaks Mall, and to the specialty shops in Springfield’s downtown historic district.
  • Regular bus service is provided from the UIS campus to the mall, downtown area, and to other points around the city.