Western Illinois University was recognized this month as a “Best Regional University in the Midwest” in 2024 by U.S. News and World Report.
It was one of four universities that tied for 38th place and was one of only two public institutions in Illinois to make it to the top 50 of the 2024 Best Midwestern list, according to a WIU news release.
WIU also was ranked 38th out of 167 public and private colleges and universities on the “Best Regional Universities (Midwest)” list in 2023 rankings.
U.S. News website said the university, which was founded in 1899, has a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,309 (fall 2022) and its Macomb campus is sited in a rural setting on 1,050 acres. The website listed in-state tuition and fees at $12,848; out-of-state tuition and fees at $12,848.
Along with Macomb, WIU also includes the Quad Cities Mississippi Riverfront Campus in Moline.
President credits staff
WIU President Guiyou Huang praised the faculty and staff for their dedication and commitment to ensure student success in the release announcing the honor.
“We are an institution that believes in preparing students through knowledgeable faculty and skilled professionals to take on the world and challenges outside of the university,” Mr. Huang said. “WIU is always adapting and changing to meet the workforce needs and provide students with the best education possible.”
In addition to recognition as the “Best Midwestern” institution, WIU said in the release it it has been recognized by U.S. News as a “Top Public School” (No. 10), “Best for Veterans School” (No. 18), “Best Value School” (No. 38) and “Top Performer on Social Mobility” (No. 36) in the Midwest region.
The university also is known for its undergraduate engineering programs, least amount of debt and highest proportion of classes under 20 students.
The U.S. News Best Colleges ranking includes institutions that offer undergraduate majors and master’s programs. The rankings are based on various measures. They include graduation and retention rates, social mobility, faculty resources, expert opinion, financial resources, student excellence and alumni giving.
