The faculty is dedicated to excellence in teaching and to the advancement of knowledge. Many are well known nationally and internationally. SIUC's academic year consists of two semesters and an eight-week summer session. Campus Life SIUC has on-campus residential areas for single students. Each area includes a cafeteria, post office, laundry facilities, and computer labs.
Some residence halls remain open during holidays and some during the eight-week summer session.
On-campus events include concerts, plays, festivals, guest speakers, and musicals. The International Friends Club offers several programs to help students adjust to life in Carbondale and to promote intercultural understanding through friendship on campus and throughout Southern Illinois. SIUC's Center for English as a Second Language offers instruction in English grammar, pronunciation, conversation, reading, and writing at beginning through advanced levels.