The goal of the College is to prepare professionals who will advance the intellectual, physical, psychological and social wellbeing of our pluralistic democracy and global society. Offering preparation in varied fields and on multiple levels of study, the College serves a diverse student body at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The College has a reputation for excellence in its programs, strives to hold students to even higher expectations for learning, and is accountable for quality of academic programs and the assessment of learning. The College will sustain and create varied partnerships between faculty, students and community agencies, including business, industry and P-12 schools. Administration, faculty and staff are committed to design and implement programs that reflect the changing community.
All students participate in field-based experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Students are prepared to be leaders in their professions. They integrate technology effectively and responsibly in their personal and professional lives. Graduates demonstrate respect for the dignity of individuals because they have seen it modeled and integrated in the College experience. The University was established as Eastern Illinois State Normal School in 1895 by the Illinois General Assembly. In response to growth and change, the institution became Eastern Illinois State Teachers College in 1921, Eastern Illinois State College in 1947, and Eastern Illinois University in 1957.