University Marketing

Purple Stands Out

Innovative, Creative, Resilient

At Western Illinois University, a Leatherneck doesn’t salute to how things have always been but instead envisions a world full of possibility. A Leatherneck is a creative, outside-the-box-thinker, someone who trail blazes ahead into the unknown. Through the lived experiences of our faculty and staff, we are able to connect and create unique learning opportunities, enabling you to map your future. At Western, Leathernecks are not meant to blend in because purple stands out!

An Education That Stands Out

3
Campuses: Macomb, Quad Cities, & Online

0%
annual tuition increase with our cost guarantee

18
years as a best midwestern college
—Princeton Review

17
average Class Size

94%
of classes are taught by full-time faculty

$10M
Scholarships awarded annually

  • Scholarships
  • Test Optional Admission

ACT/SAT Scores Not Required

Get Involved

  • 225+ student organizations
  • Our state-of-the-art Multicultural Center houses: Casa Latina Cultural Center, Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center, LGBT*QA Resource Center and the Women’s Center
  • NCAA Division I athletics program with highest term GPAs
  • One of the largest digital gaming lounges in the Midwest

Customize Your Leatherneck Experience
Connect with WIU


OR CALL (309) 298-3157

Rocky live bulldog mascot

“Oftentimes people talk about cookie cutter programs where all of the students are basically taught to fit into a mold in order to find success. Luckily, WIU doesn’t follow that method, as each student’s progress is individually tailored for their success.”

–Daniel, Musical Theatre

student in gold shirt holding out arms in welcoming gesture