University of Illinois Springfield

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) stands as a dynamic public liberal arts university, a proud and integral part of the esteemed University of Illinois system. With its motto "Leadership Lived," UIS fosters an environment dedicated to public engagement and impactful learning. Originally founded with a strong emphasis on post-graduate studies, it has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering a rich blend of undergraduate and graduate programs designed for students ready to lead and innovate.

UIS began its journey in 1969 as Sangamon State University, conceived by the Illinois General Assembly as a truly pioneering segment of public education. It first welcomed students as an "upper-division" university, focusing on the latter years of undergraduate education and graduate work. This spirit of openness and adaptability guided its early years. A significant milestone occurred on July 1, 1995, when Sangamon State officially joined the prestigious University of Illinois system, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of higher education in Illinois.

Today, UIS offers an impressive array of academic opportunities, including 56 bachelor's degrees, 39 minors, 44 master's degrees, and a doctoral program, alongside numerous graduate certificates. Students benefit from exceptional resources, including the expansive Brookens Library, home to nearly 800,000 books and serials, with access to even more across the U of I system. Located on a picturesque 740-acre campus near Lake Springfield, UIS provides a vibrant "midsize city" experience. With 4,661 students as of Fall 2023, the university prides itself on a supportive community where Prairie Stars excel academically and athletically in NCAA Division II.