Western Illinois University
About Western Illinois University
Western Illinois University offers a comprehensive education with a focus on student success and engagement. WIU provides a supportive learning environment with opportunities for research, leadership, and community involvement.
location_city City, State & Campus Insights
Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around Western Illinois University
groups 1. City Size & State Population
Macomb
29.99 sq km / 11.58 sq mi
15,051
12.8 Million
Density: 501.9 people per sq km / 1,299.7 people per sq mi
thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)
attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby
Western Illinois University Art Gallery
MuseumFeatures a diverse collection of contemporary and historical art, often showcasing student and faculty work alongside visiting artists.
Western Illinois Museum
MuseumDedicated to preserving and presenting the history and culture of west-central Illinois through exhibits and educational programs.
Chandler Park
ParkA large community park offering walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and recreational facilities, popular for outdoor activities.
Spring Lake Park
ParkA scenic park surrounding Spring Lake, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and enjoying nature just outside Macomb.
restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines
Horseshoe Sandwich
While more common in Springfield, variations can be found in Central Illinois. It's an open-faced sandwich with meat, fries, and cheese sauce.
Illinois Sweet Corn
During late summer, Illinois is famous for its exceptionally sweet and tender corn, often enjoyed simply boiled or grilled.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Though a Chicago staple, deep-dish pizza is iconic to Illinois and can be found in various pizzerias across the state, offering a hearty, cheesy experience.
diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition
Macomb's racial composition is predominantly White, with significant African American and Hispanic populations, largely influenced by the university's diverse student body.
workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures
John Mahoney
Best known for his role as Martin Crane on the long-running sitcom 'Frasier', he was an alumnus of Western Illinois University.
C. L. Max Nikias
Former President of the University of Southern California, he earned his master's and Ph.D. from Western Illinois University.
Mike Shula
Former NFL offensive coordinator and college head coach, he played quarterback for Western Illinois University.
directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around
Macomb's transportation primarily relies on personal vehicles, but it has a local bus system and is connected by Amtrak, with a regional airport nearby for broader travel.
Public Transit (Buses & Metro)
The Go West Transit system provides free bus service throughout Macomb, including routes connecting the university, downtown, and residential areas.
Walking & Cycling
Macomb has some sidewalks and residential streets suitable for walking, and efforts are ongoing to improve cycling infrastructure. The city is generally walkable, especially near the university and downtown.
Regional Rail & Airport
Amtrak's Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg lines serve Macomb, providing rail connections to Chicago and Quincy. The Macomb Municipal Airport (MQB) offers general aviation services, with larger regional airports (e.g., Quad Cities International Airport - MLI) about an hour's drive away for commercial flights.
school 8. Education & Literacy Level
99% (Estimated for Illinois)
32.4% (Macomb, estimates vary) / 36.8% (Illinois)
Macomb is centered around Western Illinois University, which significantly impacts its educational attainment. The city generally has a higher percentage of residents with bachelor's degrees compared to some rural areas, driven by the university's presence. Illinois as a state boasts a high literacy rate and a strong emphasis on higher education.
trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries
The economy of Macomb is heavily influenced by Western Illinois University, which is the largest employer. Other sectors include healthcare, retail, and local services.
Key Driving Industries
Major Corporate Employers
Popular Programs
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Admissions Info
Application Period
Main intake starts in September. Applications are typically accepted from October to January for the following academic year.
Fees & Living Costs
Tuition Fees / Year
$9,500.00 - $12,000.00
Living Expenses / Year
$12,000.00 - $20,000.00
* Costs are estimated. Actual fees may vary by course and lifestyle.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Need-Blind Admission
Financial need is not considered during the admission process for both domestic and international students.
Campus Life
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