| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: Carbondale, Illinois
Type: Public research university
Founded: 1869
Campus Size: Approximately 1,200 acres
Motto: "Deo Volente" (Latin for "God Willing")
Mascot: Saluki (a breed of dog, representing speed and endurance)
Colors: Maroon and White
SIU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering
Business
Medicine (SIU School of Medicine)
Law (SIU School of Law)
Agriculture
Aviation
Communications & Media
Science & Technology
Education
Research Institution: SIU is classified as an R2 (High Research Activity) university.
Aviation Program: One of the top aviation programs in the U.S.
Diverse Student Body: Enrolls students from all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries.
Outdoor Activities: The campus is near the Shawnee National Forest, offering hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation.
Jim Belushi – Actor and comedian
Dennis Franz – Actor (NYPD Blue)
Bobby McFerrin – Musician ("Don't Worry, Be Happy")
Richard Roundtree – Actor (Shaft)
SIU offers more than 100 undergraduate majors across various colleges. Some of the most popular programs include:
A. College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
Aerospace Engineering
Automotive Technology
Biomedical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Science
Electrical & Computer Engineering
Industrial Management & Applied Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
B. College of Business and Analytics
Accounting
Business Analytics
Finance
Information Systems & Applied Technologies
Management
Marketing
C. College of Health and Human Sciences
Aviation Flight
Aviation Management
Dietetics
Exercise Science
Health Care Management
Hospitality, Tourism, & Event Management
Nursing
Physical Therapy Assistant
Radiologic Sciences
D. College of Liberal Arts
Anthropology
Communication Studies
Criminology & Criminal Justice
English
History
Journalism
Music
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
E. College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
Agribusiness Economics
Animal Science
Biochemistry
Biological Sciences
Environmental Science
Forestry
Geology
Microbiology
Plant Biology
SIU offers more than 75 graduate degree programs. Some notable ones include:
A. Engineering & Technology
M.S. & Ph.D. in Civil Engineering
M.S. & Ph.D. in Computer Science
M.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering
M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
Ph.D. in Engineering Science
B. Business & Analytics
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
M.S. in Accounting
M.S. in Business Analytics
Ph.D. in Business Administration
C. Health & Human Sciences
M.S. in Aviation & Aerospace Management
M.S. in Health Administration
M.S. in Kinesiology
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
D. Sciences & Liberal Arts
M.A. & Ph.D. in Psychology
M.A. in Communication Studies
M.A. & Ph.D. in Political Science
M.S. in Environmental Science
M.S. & Ph.D. in Biological Sciences
E. Professional Schools
Juris Doctor (J.D.) – SIU School of Law
Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) – SIU School of Medicine
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Aerospace Engineering |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Automotive Technology |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Electrical & Computer Engineering |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Aviation Flight |
4 years |
$15,840 (+ flight fees) |
|
Aviation Management |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Health Care Management |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Hospitality, Tourism & Event Management |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Radiologic Sciences |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Criminology & Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Biological Sciences |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Agribusiness Economics |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Forestry |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Journalism |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
Communication Studies |
4 years |
$15,840 |
|
English |
4 years |
$15,840 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Business & Administration |
|
|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Accounting |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Finance |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Marketing |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Supply Chain Management |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
College of Engineering, Computing & Technology |
|
|
|
MS in Computer Science |
1.5 – 2 years |
$32,000 |
|
MS in Data Science |
1.5 – 2 years |
$32,000 |
|
MS in Civil Engineering |
1.5 – 2 years |
$32,000 |
|
MS in Mechanical Engineering |
1.5 – 2 years |
$32,000 |
|
MS in Electrical & Computer Engineering |
1.5 – 2 years |
$32,000 |
|
MS in Biomedical Engineering |
1.5 – 2 years |
$32,000 |
|
MS in Industrial Engineering |
1.5 – 2 years |
$32,000 |
|
College of Science |
|
|
|
MS in Chemistry |
1.5 – 2 years |
$31,000 |
|
MS in Physics |
1.5 – 2 years |
$31,000 |
|
MS in Mathematics |
1.5 – 2 years |
$31,000 |
|
MS in Biology |
1.5 – 2 years |
$31,000 |
|
College of Health & Human Sciences |
|
|
|
MS in Public Health |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Kinesiology |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Nutrition |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Health Informatics |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Social Work (MSW) |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
College of Education & Human Services |
|
|
|
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
M.Ed. in Special Education |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Counseling |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MS in Psychology |
1.5 – 2 years |
$31,000 |
|
College of Liberal Arts & Communication |
|
|
|
MA in Communication Studies |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MA in Political Science |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MA in English |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
|
MFA in Studio Art |
1.5 – 2 years |
$30,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Business & Administration |
|
|
|
PhD in Business Administration |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Economics |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
College of Engineering, Computing & Technology |
|
|
|
PhD in Computer Science |
4 – 5 years |
$32,000 |
|
PhD in Civil Engineering |
4 – 5 years |
$32,000 |
|
PhD in Mechanical Engineering |
4 – 5 years |
$32,000 |
|
PhD in Electrical & Computer Engineering |
4 – 5 years |
$32,000 |
|
PhD in Biomedical Engineering |
4 – 5 years |
$32,000 |
|
PhD in Industrial Engineering |
4 – 5 years |
$32,000 |
|
College of Science |
|
|
|
PhD in Chemistry |
4 – 5 years |
$31,000 |
|
PhD in Physics |
4 – 5 years |
$31,000 |
|
PhD in Mathematics |
4 – 5 years |
$31,000 |
|
PhD in Biological Sciences |
4 – 5 years |
$31,000 |
|
College of Health & Human Sciences |
|
|
|
PhD in Public Health |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Kinesiology |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Nutrition & Dietetics |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Health Informatics |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Social Work |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
College of Education & Human Services |
|
|
|
PhD in Educational Leadership |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Special Education |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Counseling |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Psychology |
4 – 5 years |
$31,000 |
|
College of Liberal Arts & Communication |
|
|
|
PhD in Communication Studies |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Political Science |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in English |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Fine Arts |
4 – 5 years |
$30,000 |
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships – Lower tuition costs compared to other U.S. universities, with financial aid options.
STEM & Business-Focused Programs – Strong programs in Computer Science, Engineering, Business, and Health Sciences.
High Research Activity – Designated as an R2 Research University by the Carnegie Classification.
Diverse & Inclusive Campus – Home to students from 100+ countries, with international student support services.
Career & Internship Opportunities – Access to OPT (Optional Practical Training) & CPT (Curricular Practical Training) for post-graduation jobs.
Safe & Affordable City – Located in Carbondale, Illinois, SIU offers a low cost of living and a student-friendly environment.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admissions
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
English Proficiency Requirements:
TOEFL (iBT): 68+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo: 95+
PTE Academic: 47+
SAT/ACT: Optional but may help with scholarship consideration.
Required Documents:
Online application + $40 application fee.
Official transcripts (translated into English).
English proficiency test scores.
Copy of passport.
Financial statement showing proof of funds.
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) / Master’s degree (for PhD).
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (on a 4.0 scale).
English Proficiency Requirements:
TOEFL (iBT): 80+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Additional Requirements (Varies by Program):
GRE/GMAT (Some programs require it, waivers available).
Letters of Recommendation (2-3).
Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Resume/CV.
Step 1: Check Admission Requirements
Eligibility Criteria:
High school diploma (or equivalent).
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
English Proficiency (For International Students Only):
TOEFL (iBT) – 68+
IELTS – 6.0+
Duolingo – 95+
PTE – 47+
SAT/ACT: Optional (not required but may help with scholarships).
Additional Requirements for Transfer Students:
Must have at least 24 college credits or a minimum college GPA of 2.0.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
How to Apply?
Apply through the SIU website: https://admissions.siu.edu
Pay the $40 non-refundable application fee.
Application Deadlines:
Semester |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
June 1 |
|
Spring (January Start) |
November 1 |
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Official high school transcripts (translated into English if necessary).
English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo).
Copy of passport (for international students).
Financial statement (for international students) to show proof of funds.
Step 4: Check Admission Decision
SIU typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks.
You will receive an admission decision via email.
If accepted, you will receive an I-20 form (for visa application, international students only).
Step 5: Confirm Admission & Pay Deposit
Accept the admission offer and pay any required deposits.
Apply for student housing if needed.
Step 6: Apply for a Visa (International Students Only)
After receiving the I-20 form, apply for a U.S. student visa (F-1 visa):
Pay the SEVIS fee ($350) at.
Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Prepare required documents (passport, I-20, admission letter, proof of funds, SEVIS fee receipt).
Attend the visa interview and receive a decision.
Step 7: Register for Classes & Attend Orientation
Sign up for New Student Orientation at SIU.
Meet with an academic advisor and register for classes.
Arrive on campus before classes start!
For students applying to Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) programs.
Step 1: Check Admission Requirements
General Eligibility:
Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) / Master’s degree (for PhD).
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (on a 4.0 scale).
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT) – 80+
IELTS – 6.5+
Duolingo – 105+
Additional Requirements (Varies by Program):
GRE/GMAT Scores:
Required for some business & STEM programs.
Some programs may offer GRE waivers.
Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 (from professors or employers).
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Personal essay about academic and career goals.
Resume/CV: Required for professional and research-based programs.
Research Proposal (For PhD Applicants): Required for some research-intensive programs.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
How to Apply?
Apply online at https://gradschool.siu.edu
Pay the $65 non-refundable application fee.
Application Deadlines:
Semester |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
April 1 (Priority), June 1 (Final) |
|
Spring (January Start) |
October 1 |
Note: Some graduate programs may have earlier deadlines (Check specific department websites).
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Official university transcripts (translated if necessary).
English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo).
GRE/GMAT scores (if required by the program).
Letters of Recommendation (2-3).
Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Resume/CV.
Copy of passport (for international students).
Financial statement (for international students).
Step 4: Check Admission Decision
Graduate applications take 6-8 weeks for review.
If accepted, you will receive an I-20 form (for visa application, international students only).
Step 5: Apply for a Visa (International Students Only)
Follow the same visa process as undergraduate students.
Step 6: Accept Admission & Register for Classes
Accept the admission offer and confirm enrollment.
Apply for scholarships, graduate assistantships, or research funding (if applicable).
Register for New Graduate Student Orientation.
SIU offers three main intakes for international and domestic students:
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Semester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (Main Intake) |
June 1 (Undergraduate) |
August |
|
Spring |
November 1 (Undergraduate) |
January |
|
Summer (Limited Programs) |
March 1 (Undergraduate Only) |
May |
Key Notes:
Fall (August Start) is the main intake with the most program availability and scholarship opportunities.
Spring (January Start) is available for many programs but with limited scholarships.
Summer (May Start) is available for select undergraduate programs but has fewer courses.
SIU has different eligibility requirements for undergraduate and graduate programs. Below are the general admission requirements for both levels.
Who Can Apply?
High school graduates or transfer students.
General Requirements:
High school diploma (or equivalent).
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
SAT/ACT: Optional (not required but may help with scholarships).
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): 68+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo: 95+
PTE: 47+
Additional Requirements for Transfer Students:
Must have at least 24 college credits or a minimum college GPA of 2.0.
Undergraduate Application Fee: $40 (non-refundable).
Who Can Apply?
Students with a Bachelor’s (for Master’s) or Master’s degree (for PhD).
General Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) / Master’s degree (for PhD).
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (on a 4.0 scale).
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): 80+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Additional Requirements (Varies by Program):
GRE/GMAT Scores: Required for some business & STEM programs, but waivers may be available.
Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 (from professors or employers).
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Personal essay about academic and career goals.
Resume/CV: Required for professional and research-based programs.
Research Proposal (For PhD Applicants): Required for some research-intensive programs.
Graduate Application Fee: $65 (non-refundable).
You DO NOT need TOEFL/IELTS if:
You have studied in a U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, or English-speaking country for at least 3 years.
You have completed an English-taught degree program from an accredited university.
For Undergraduates: Maintain a high GPA and submit strong academic records.
For Graduates: Get strong recommendation letters, submit a well-written SOP, and apply early.
For International Students: Score higher on TOEFL/IELTS and apply for scholarships or assistantships.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking Category |
Ranking |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global University Ranking |
1001-1200 |
|
QS World University Rankings |
USA University Ranking |
201-250 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Universities (USA) |
#263 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top Public Schools (USA) |
#132 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs |
Top 150 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Graduate Engineering Programs |
Top 200 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Business Schools (Graduate) |
Top 250 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Computer Science Programs |
Top 200 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Nursing Programs |
Top 150 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
International Student Merit Scholarship |
GPA: 3.5+, strong leadership & extracurriculars |
Up to $5,000 |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
GPA: 3.5+, SAT/ACT optional |
$2,000 – $8,000 |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Transfer Student Scholarships |
GPA: 3.2+, Min. 24 transfer credits |
Up to $3,000 |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Alumni Legacy Scholarship |
Parent/Grandparent must be an SIU alum |
Up to 50% of out-of-state tuition |
Apply via SIU scholarship portal |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
High academic performance, leadership skills |
$1,000 – $5,000 |
Apply via SIU scholarship portal |
Note: Some undergraduate scholarships are renewable for up to 4 years if students maintain a minimum GPA requirement.
Scholarship / Assistantship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Teaching Assistantship (TA) |
Strong academic record, good communication skills |
Tuition waiver + Stipend |
Apply through department |
|
Graduate Research Assistantship (RA) |
Research experience, faculty recommendation |
Tuition waiver + Stipend |
Apply through department |
|
Doctoral Fellowship |
GPA: 3.5+, research potential |
Full tuition + Stipend |
Apply through department |
|
Merit-Based Graduate Scholarship |
GPA: 3.3+, academic performance |
Up to $5,000 |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Nonresident Tuition Waiver (Graduate Students) |
GPA: 3.0+ |
Covers 50-100% of out-of-state tuition |
Apply via SIU scholarship portal |
Note: Most graduate scholarships require students to apply directly through their department. Research assistantships (RAs) and teaching assistantships (TAs) provide tuition waivers + stipends.
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Libraries |
Morris Library with 24/7 study spaces, digital resources, and research support. |
|
Student Center |
Dining, study lounges, event spaces, and student services. |
|
Sports & Recreation |
Gym, indoor/outdoor tracks, swimming pool, climbing wall, and fitness classes. |
|
Research Centers |
Advanced labs in engineering, business, and health sciences. |
|
Dining Services |
Multiple dining halls, food courts, cafés, and meal plan options. |
|
Health Services |
On-campus medical clinic, mental health counseling, and wellness programs. |
|
Transportation |
Free campus shuttle and access to public transport. |
|
Student Clubs & Activities |
Over 250+ student organizations, including academic, cultural, and recreational clubs. |
SIU provides various housing options for undergraduate and graduate students. Below is a comparison of housing types and their costs.
Accommodation Type |
Room Type |
Meal Plan Required? |
Cost Per Semester (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
Shared Room |
Yes |
$3,800 – $4,500 |
$7,600 – $9,000 |
|
Suite-Style Housing |
Private Room in Shared Suite |
Yes |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
$9,000 – $11,000 |
|
Apartments (Single Student) |
Private Bedroom in Shared Apartment |
No |
$4,800 – $6,500 |
$9,600 – $13,000 |
|
Graduate & Family Housing |
One-Bedroom Apartment |
No |
$5,000 – $7,000 |
$10,000 – $14,000 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Private Apartment |
No |
$5,000 – $8,000 |
$10,000 – $16,000 |
Additional Costs:
Meal Plans (For Students in Meal-Plan-Required Housing): $1,800 – $2,500 per semester.
Security Deposit: $200 – $300 (refundable).
SIU is home to students from over 100 countries, creating a multicultural and inclusive environment where international students feel welcomed and supported. The Center for International Education (CIE) helps students adjust to life in the U.S. through orientation programs, cultural events, and mentorship programs.
International Student Association (ISA) and other cultural clubs organize events such as:
International Festival
Cultural Nights
Global Conversations & Networking Sessions
With over 250 student organizations, SIU provides countless ways for students to engage in campus life.
Academic & Professional Clubs – Engineering Club, Business Association, Pre-Med Society.
Cultural & International Clubs – International Student Association, Asian Student Club, Latino Student Union.
Arts & Media Groups – Theatre Club, SIU Radio, Photography Society.
Sports & Adventure Clubs – Rock Climbing, E-Sports, Running Club.
Community Service & Leadership – Volunteer Network, Student Government Association (SGA).
Leadership Opportunities: Students can join student government, mentor new students, or become campus ambassadors.
SIU is part of the NCAA Division I Missouri Valley Conference, offering competitive and recreational sports opportunities.
Sports Teams (The Salukis): Basketball, Football, Soccer, Baseball, Volleyball, and more.
Recreational Facilities: The Student Recreation Center features a gym, swimming pool, climbing wall, running track, and group fitness classes.
Outdoor Adventure Programs: SIU is surrounded by nature, offering activities like hiking, camping, kayaking, and rock climbing.
SIU organizes exciting events throughout the year, ensuring students have plenty of opportunities to socialize and unwind.
Annual Events & Traditions:
Saluki Startup & Week of Welcome – A fun-filled orientation event for new students.
Homecoming Week – A week of celebrations, parades, and sports events.
Saluki Con – A convention for comic, anime, and gaming enthusiasts.
Spring Fest – Outdoor festival with live music, food, and games.
International Festival – A cultural event showcasing food, music, and traditions from around the world.
Arts & Entertainment:
Live performances, music concerts, and art exhibitions at the McLeod Theater & Shryock Auditorium.
Movie nights, open mic events, and student-run radio shows.
Libraries & Study Spaces:
Morris Library offers 24/7 study spaces, quiet reading rooms, and technology labs.
SIU provides on-campus housing options for undergraduate and graduate students, ensuring comfort and convenience.
Dining Services:
Multiple cafeterias and food courts offering a variety of cuisines.
Meal plans available with vegetarian, vegan, and halal options.
Popular food outlets like Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and Subway are available on campus.
Housing Options:
Traditional residence halls for first-year students.
Suite-style and apartment-style housing for upperclassmen and graduate students.
Off-campus housing options available within a few miles of campus.
SIU helps students gain professional experience through internships, part-time jobs, and career development programs.
Career Services & Internship Support:
SIU Career Development Center offers resume workshops, mock interviews, and job placement assistance.
On-campus employment opportunities for students.
SIU’s Handshake Portal helps students connect with recruiters and apply for internships and full-time jobs.
International Student Work Options:
On-campus jobs: Work up to 20 hours per week.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Allows students to do internships while studying.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Provides 12-month post-graduation work permit (Up to 36 months for STEM graduates).
Free Shuttle Services: SIU offers free campus shuttles to help students get around.
Bike Rentals: The university’s bike-sharing program provides an eco-friendly transportation option.
Public Transportation: The Saluki Express connects the campus to downtown Carbondale and nearby areas.
Safe & student-friendly campus with modern facilities.
250+ student organizations for diverse interests and hobbies.
Exciting campus events, traditions, and recreational activities.
Multiple work opportunities, including internships and career support.
1. Career Services & Placement Assistance
SIU’s Career Development Center offers multiple services to help students secure internships and full-time jobs:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Professional advisors help students improve their applications.
Internship & Co-op Programs – Gain hands-on work experience in your field.
On-Campus Recruitment – Companies visit SIU for career fairs and networking events.
Job Placement Support – Helps students find full-time jobs after graduation.
Handshake Portal – SIU’s job portal where students can apply for internships and jobs.
Career Center Website: https://careerdevelopment.siu.edu/
2. Top Hiring Companies at SIU
Many top organizations and Fortune 500 companies recruit SIU graduates across different industries. Some of the top employers include:
Tech & IT Companies:
Microsoft
IBM
Cisco
Oracle
Infosys
Business & Finance:
Deloitte
Bank of America
Wells Fargo
JP Morgan Chase
Ernst & Young (EY)
Engineering & Manufacturing:
Boeing
Caterpillar
Ford Motors
General Electric (GE)
Lockheed Martin
Healthcare & Life Sciences:
Pfizer
Novartis
Abbott Laboratories
SIH (Southern Illinois Healthcare)
Memorial Hospital
SIU students have access to local, national, and global job opportunities through these hiring partners.
3. Employment Rate & Salary Packages
Degree |
Average Salary (USD per Year) |
Employment Rate |
|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) |
$45,000 – $65,000 |
85% within 6 months |
|
Graduate (Master’s & MBA) |
$65,000 – $85,000 |
90% within 6 months |
|
PhD & Research-Based Jobs |
$75,000 – $110,000 |
95% within 6 months |
Note: Salaries vary based on industry, job role, and location.
4. Best Placement Programs at SIU
Certain programs at SIU have higher placement rates and strong industry partnerships:
Best Placement Programs:
Computer Science & IT – 95% placement rate
Business & MBA – 90% placement rate
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace) – 88% placement rate
Healthcare & Nursing – 90% placement rate
Finance & Accounting – 87% placement rate
STEM graduates have higher job placement rates and longer OPT (Optional Practical Training) duration in the USA.
5. Internship & Co-op Opportunities
SIU provides internship and co-op programs to help students gain real-world experience before graduation.
Internship Benefits:
Students earn an average of $18 – $30 per hour during internships.
Many internships convert into full-time job offers.
SIU partners with top companies to provide internships across multiple industries.
How to Apply for Internships?
Use Handshake Portal to find internship listings.
Attend career fairs and networking events to meet recruiters.
Apply for on-campus research assistant (RA) and teaching assistant (TA) positions.
6. Work Opportunities for International Students
SIU helps international students with career planning and work authorization in the USA.
Work Options for International Students:
On-Campus Jobs – Work up to 20 hours per week during semesters.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Internship program for F-1 visa students.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – 12-month post-graduation work permit (Up to 36 months for STEM graduates).
SIU’s International Office assists students with CPT, OPT, and H-1B visa sponsorship opportunities.
7. Career Fair & Networking Events
SIU hosts multiple career fairs, networking sessions, and employer meet-ups throughout the year.
Major Career Events:
STEM Career Fair – Connects students with tech and engineering companies.
Business & Finance Fair – Opportunities for MBA and finance students.
Healthcare & Life Sciences Fair – Internships and jobs in medical and biotech fields.
Graduate School Fair – Helps students explore Master’s & PhD opportunities.
Pro Tip: Attending these fairs increases job placement chances by 70%.
8. How to Improve Job Placement Chances?
Tips for Getting Hired Faster:
Build a strong resume – Highlight projects, internships, and certifications.
Attend career fairs – Connect with recruiters and industry leaders.
Gain internship experience – Many SIU internships convert into full-time jobs.
Network with alumni – Leverage SIU’s strong alumni network for job referrals.
Improve interview skills – Use SIU’s mock interview sessions.
Apply early – Many top companies hire months before graduation.
Overall Acceptance Rate: 92%
Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 94%
Graduate Acceptance Rate: 65-75% (Varies by program)
Undergraduate Admissions: SIU accepts most qualified applicants, provided they meet the GPA and English proficiency requirements.
Graduate Admissions: More competitive, especially for STEM, Business, and Research programs. PhD programs may have a lower acceptance rate due to funding and faculty availability.
GPA Requirements:
Undergraduate: Minimum 2.5 – 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
Graduate: Minimum 3.0+ GPA (Some competitive programs may require higher).
Test Scores:
SAT/ACT (Undergraduate): Optional but may help with scholarships.
GRE/GMAT (Graduate): Required for some programs, but waivers are available for many.
English Proficiency (International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 68+ (Undergraduate) / 80+ (Graduate).
IELTS: 6.0+ (Undergraduate) / 6.5+ (Graduate).
Duolingo: 95+ (Undergraduate) / 105+ (Graduate).
Note: Higher GPAs, strong recommendation letters, and relevant work experience increase chances of admission, especially for graduate programs.
Address:
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
1263 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
Google Maps Location: Click Here
Carbondale is known for:
Affordable cost of living for students.
Safe and welcoming environment.
Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping.
Growing job market with opportunities in engineering, business, and healthcare.
