Illinois College Builds Momentum as More Students Choose the Hilltop

More students are choosing Illinois College, building momentum on the Hilltop for the third consecutive year. Students and families are discovering an IC experience that combines high-demand academic programs, hands-on learning, lifelong friendships and a promise to Graduate READY.

This fall, Illinois College's enrollment reached 1,063 students, exceeding the College's 10-year average of 998. The growth follows one of the largest incoming classes in IC history last year and reflects continued interest from students looking for a college experience that delivers both the connections they want now and the preparation they need for the future.

"I feel like Illinois College is preparing me for whatever comes next," said Rylie Joelner, a current junior from Belleville, Illinois. "I love my classes, and my professors really know me and want to see me succeed. I've had so many opportunities to learn, grow and figure out what I'm capable of. I feel supported here, and I know I'm building a strong foundation for my future."

Students are increasingly choosing Illinois College for programs connected to strong career opportunities. Nursing is the top area of interest among first-year students, followed by education, business administration, engineering and criminal justice. Across those programs and more than 80 others, students gain experience through internships, research, clinical experiences and other opportunities that prepare them for careers or graduate education.

Nursing offers a striking example of that growth. Illinois College welcomed 67 new first-year nursing students this fall, compared with 36 in 2023. Overall nursing enrollment has increased nearly 65% in three years, from 97 students in 2023 to 160 this fall.

IC is also creating new pathways based on what today's students and employers need. Recent developments include an online education major, a special education endorsement, a restructured online psychological and behavioral health major, and hybrid programs in digital marketing and financial planning.

"Students and families are seeing the value of what is happening at Illinois College," said Stephanie Chipman, vice president of external relations. "They want an experience where they can discover what they're capable of, but they also want to know their investment will lead somewhere. From internships and hands-on learning to programs aligned with workforce demand, we promise students they will Graduate READY - and we are delivering on that promise."

That experience is also becoming more affordable for families. Every Illinois College student receives a minimum of $23,000 in scholarships annually, helping make a private college education more accessible. Through the Illinois College Advantage Plus, qualified Illinois students can receive additional financial support, including 100% of their demonstrated financial need, while included textbooks, internships and the Finish in 4 guarantee add even greater value.

Three consecutive years of enrollment growth reflect something larger happening at Illinois College. As IC responds to what students, families and employers are looking for, more students are choosing a place where they can build a future - and a community where they belong.