Illinois State University (ISU), established in 1857 in Normal, Illinois, is the state’s oldest public university. Originally founded as a teachers’ college, ISU has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering a wide array of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across various disciplines . The university comprises seven colleges, including the College of Education, College of Business, and Mennonite College of Nursing, among others. ISU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and holds numerous discipline-specific accreditations, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence.
With a student-centered approach, ISU emphasizes personalized education, fostering a supportive learning environment. The university’s dedication to research, public service, and community engagement positions it as a leader in higher education. ISU’s strategic initiatives focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to prepare students for global citizenship. The campus is known for its vibrant student life, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong sense of community. ISU’s commitment to innovation is evident in its expanding online programs, designed to provide flexible learning opportunities for students worldwide.
Online Graduate Programs at Illinois State University
Illinois State University offers a diverse range of online master’s and doctoral programs designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time students, including international learners. These programs are structured to provide flexibility without compromising academic rigor, making them ideal for working professionals and those seeking advanced degrees remotely.
Master’s Programs
ISU’s online master’s programs span various disciplines:
- Master of Science in Nursing Systems Administration: Designed for nurses aiming for leadership roles in healthcare organizations.
- Master of Music Education: Tailored for music educators seeking advanced pedagogical skills.
- Master of Science in Chemistry Education: Focused on enhancing the teaching of chemistry at various educational levels.
- Master of Science in Teaching & Learning: Aimed at educators looking to deepen their instructional strategies.
- Master of Education in Special Education: Prepares educators to work effectively with students with diverse learning needs.
- Master in Physical Education Pedagogy: Enhances teaching methods in physical education settings.
These programs offer both full-time and part-time enrollment options, providing flexibility for students balancing professional and personal commitments.
Doctoral Programs
ISU’s online doctoral offerings include:
- Doctorate in Special Education (Ed.D.): Prepares expert educators and leaders to enhance special education services and teacher preparation. The program is fully online and emphasizes individualized study plans based on students’ backgrounds and career goals.
- Doctorate in Educational Administration and Foundations – Higher Education Administration: Designed for professionals aiming for leadership roles in higher education institutions. The program is delivered online, accommodating working professionals.
- Ph.D. in Leadership, Equity, and Inquiry: An interdisciplinary program focused on social justice, equity, and leadership in education. Classes meet four weekends per semester, and the program is structured to accommodate part-time students with full-time jobs.
These doctoral programs are structured to support both full-time and part-time students, with flexible schedules to accommodate working professionals.
Enrollment Options for Local and International Students
ISU’s online graduate programs are accessible to both domestic and international students. The university offers flexible enrollment options, allowing students to choose between full-time and part-time study based on their individual needs and circumstances.
International students can enroll in fully online programs; however, it’s important to note that due to limited on-campus courses, immigration documentation cannot be issued for students seeking F-1 or J-1 status. International applicants must meet specific admission requirements, including a minimum TOEFL score of 79 iBT or an IELTS score of 6.5.
Tuition Fees
For the academic year 2023-2024, the average graduate program tuition and fees at ISU are:
In-State Students: $10,009
Out-of-State Students: $12,646
Specific programs may have different tuition rates. For example:
- Doctor of Nursing Practice: Total cost of $13,722, with a cost per credit of $403.59.
- Master of Science in Nursing Systems Administration: Total cost of $14,529, with a cost per credit of $403.59.
Students are encouraged to consult the university’s official resources for the most current and program-specific tuition information.
Scholarship Opportunities
ISU offers various scholarships and financial aid options for graduate students, including international applicants:
- International Admissions Scholarship: Awarded to academically talented new students with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. No separate application is required; recipients are notified at the time of admission. The scholarship is renewable for up to one additional year, provided the student maintains continuous enrollment with 9 hours or more and a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
- Graduate Assistantships: Offer tuition waivers and monthly stipends or hourly wages. Approximately 38% of graduate students receive assistantships, which are intended to facilitate progress toward a degree while providing professional development.
- Endowed Scholarships and Fellowships: Competitive awards based on specific educational criteria. Examples include the Ada Belle Clark Welsh Scholarship for individuals in liberal arts and humanities and the Diversifying Higher Education Faculty in Illinois (DFI) Fellowship for underrepresented doctoral students aiming to become faculty members in Illinois higher education institutions.
- External Scholarships: International students may also explore external funding opportunities such as the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship, which provides scholarships for selected international women for graduate study in the United States, with a maximum award of $12,500 annually.
Students are encouraged to utilize ISU’s ScholarshipFinder and consult the Office of Financial Aid for detailed information on available scholarships and application procedures.
Application Process
Prospective students interested in ISU’s online graduate programs should follow these steps:
- Review Program Requirements: Each program has specific admission criteria, including minimum GPA, prerequisite degrees, and professional experience.
- Prepare Application Materials: Common requirements include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and standardized test scores (if applicable).
- Submit Online Application: Applications are submitted through ISU’s official admissions portal.
- Apply for Scholarships and Assistantships: Indicate interest in financial aid opportunities during the application process and submit any additional required documents.
- Monitor Application Status: Regularly check the application portal for updates and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
International applicants should also ensure they meet English language proficiency requirements and be aware of visa limitations related to online study.
Prospective students are encouraged to explore the university’s offerings and take the next step in their educational journey.
