History
Western's annual Founders' Day celebration was established by Donald S. Spencer in his inaugural presidential year (1994) to honor the beginnings of the University that evolved from the Western Illinois State Normal School (WISNS) with 229 student.
Education
WIU offers over 100 innovative undergraduate and graduate degree programs, integrated programs, pre-professional programs, and certificate programs. Become a future leader through student success at Western Illinois University.
Career
Career Development services are available for current WIU-QC students and alumni.
- Resume reviews and writing guidance
- Job searching tips
- Cover letter assistance
- Interviewing techniques and mock interviews
- Career fairs and workshops
- Leatherneck Link, WIU's online job listing database
Housing services
Caroline Grote Hall is connected to Lincoln-Washington and houses approximately 150 upper-division students. Commonly referred to as Grote, the hall shares amenities with Lincoln-Washington including a common space with a TV and pool, foosball, and Ping-Pong tables.
Library services
Western Illinois University Libraries is comprised of the main Leslie F. Malpass Library, the Music Library, the Physical Sciences Library, the Curriculum Library, and the WIU-Quad Cities Library (Moline, Illinois). WIU Libraries employs a dedicated staff of eleven library faculty and twenty-eight civil service employees.
ICT services
ResNet currently provides up to 2 Gbps for internet access, as well as network & technical support to students who wish to connect their computer systems to the WIU network in the residence halls and Graduate and Family Housing. Wireless access is available in all residence hall common areas and rooms.
Medical services
Beu Health Center is an accredited full service medical clinic offering quality outpatient health care, student health insurance and health education and wellness education to registered Western Illinois University students. At Beu Health Center, students' individual needs are attended to in a confidential and caring manner.
Campus life
Western Illinois University's main campus is located in the rural community of Macomb, Illinois and offers a vibrant collegiate experience for almost 8,000 students. The beautifully landscaped campus has more than 60 buildings on more than 1,000 acres, including nine residence halls, a 300-acre farm, and an 18-hole golf course.
Student clubs
- Sigma Chi
- Sigma Pi
- Delta Tau Delta
- Pi Kappa Phi
- Omega Psi Phi
Accreditation
- The Higher Learning CommissionNorth Central Association: 2020-2021
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education: 2019
- National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements: 2016-2017
- Athletics Accreditation: NCAA-Division I
Western Illinois University Overview
Western Illinois University Campus Locations
#1 Main Campus
United States Country
Macomb City
#2 Branch Campus
United States Country
Moline City
Western Illinois University Student Reviews & Awards
4.2
Based on 34 reviews
- 5 Star 13 Reviews
- 4 Star 18 Reviews
- 3 Star 2 Reviews
- 2 Star 0 Reviews
- 1 Star 1 Review
How Students Rated This University
- Student Teacher Interaction 4.2
- Student Diversity 4.3
- Quality of Student Life 4.6
- Career Development 4.1
Ontario nursing start
Just finished first year and loved it. More of a focus on social aspects of nursing in first year compared to other nursing programs in Ontario. Professors were nice and supportive. Clinical placements start at 3rd year, wish it was earlier. Lived on-campus and the people & support were great (and hiking trails along the river!). Campus is very beautiful too
Great school
Great program and school. Moved from different province for the program and am happy I did. I have learned a lot from my cohort and professors. Campus is very spaced out but all my classes are in same building. Great support from professors
Positive Community
Western University is more than just a school�it�s a vibrant, welcoming community that makes every student feel at home. From the moment you step on campus, you can feel the positive energy, school spirit, and supportive atmosphere. One of the best things about Western is its strong sense of community and inclusivity. Whether you're involved in student clubs, residence life, or campus events, there's always a place where you can connect with others and feel supported. The people here�students, professors, and staff�are friendly, helpful, and passionate about making Western an incredible experience for everyone. The university also fosters a culture of growth, leadership, and engagement. With countless opportunities for extracurricular involvement, networking, and professional development, Western truly prepares students for success beyond the classroom. If you're looking for a school that combines academic excellence, an amazing campus environment, and a thriving student life, Western is the perfect choice!
Studied here? Share your experience
Global Student Satisfaction Awards 2025
The Global Student Satisfaction Awards empower students across the globe to determine the best universities of 2025. Universities with a score above 4.0 (out of 5) in any of the 7 award categories, receive Badges of Excellence. Congratulations!
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Student Teacher InteractionHow helpful were your teachers?
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Student DiversityHow diverse was the atmosphere at your university?
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Quality of Student LifeHow was your everyday life?
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Career DevelopmentDid the university provide support for your career development?