Southern Illinois University--Carbondale

Situated in Carbondale, IL, Southern Illinois University--Carbondale is a well-regarded institution of higher education. The university is ranked #301 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report (2026). It is also recognized as #164 in Top Public Schools. The school features a rural setting and serves 8,553 undergraduate students. Admissions are welcoming to a broad range of applicants, with an acceptance rate of 87%. Admitted students typically present SAT scores of 900-1180 and ACT scores of 18-25. The average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.2. With a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, students benefit from close interaction with professors and hands-on learning opportunities. About 61% of classes enroll fewer than 20 students, fostering an intimate learning environment. Top fields of study at Southern Illinois University--Carbondale include Health Professions (11%), Education (10%), and Business and Management (9%). Those who major in Health Professions can expect a median salary of $46,391. The average net price for students receiving financial aid is $16,729. Southern Illinois University--Carbondale achieves a four-year graduation rate of 40%. Southern Illinois University--Carbondale is committed to academic excellence and preparing students for success in their chosen fields through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience.