About the College

Our Mission

Southwestern Illinois College upholds the dignity and worth of all people and believes that learning is a life-long process which enhances the quality of life. The college provides for individual growth through educational excellence and active partnerships with students and the community. Read more about our values.

Fast Facts

Students

• 16,496 students attended SWIC in Fall 2009
• Average age – 28
• 26% of the district's high school graduates enroll at SWIC
• 65% of our students are employed outside the home
• 36% of our students are employed full time

Faculty

• 152 full-time faculty – 33 with doctorates and 109 with master's degrees
• 600-700 part-time faculty who have professional experience in their teaching fields

Instructional Programs

• 87 associate degree programs that prepare you for a career upon graduation or for transfer to a four-year college or university
• 90 certificates of proficiency that can usually be completed in one year or less

Tuition

• $85 per credit hour
• Tuition for four semesters, based on taking 16 credit hours per semester, is $4,800
• The average tuition cost at a state university for four semesters is $11,672 (Based on College Board information.)

Locations

• Three campus locations – Belleville, Granite City and Red Bud
• More than 20 off-campus sites, including Scott Air Force Base and East St. Louis Community College Center