Academic Programs & Learning
Everything you need to know about the academic environment at Southwestern Illinois College: retention, online options, and enrollment data.
What About Academic Quality at Southwestern Illinois College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
17:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
66%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
44%
Part-time students continuing
How Southwestern Illinois College Compares
Southwestern Illinois College's 66% full-time retention is right in the typical band for trade and vocational schools (most run between 50% and 70%). A 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio and 44% part-time retention tell a balanced story — academic quality is solid without being a clear standout.
Understanding Academic Quality Metrics
Student-Faculty Ratio: A ratio of 17:1 means there are approximately 17 students for every faculty member. This moderate ratio balances personalized attention with institutional capacity.
Retention Rates: These show the percentage of students who return for their second year. Higher retention rates typically indicate student satisfaction, academic support, and program quality.
Graduation Rate Survey Cohort: 21% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Southwestern Illinois College?
Tenure Status
Academic Ranks
Understanding Faculty Composition
Southwestern Illinois College employs 157 instructional staff across a range of academic ranks. About 43% hold tenured positions, providing institutional stability and academic continuity.
Where Do Online Students at Southwestern Illinois College Come From?
Geographic distribution of students enrolled exclusively in online courses (Fall 2024 census)
Where exclusively-online students are located
About this data: The geographic breakdown above uses IPEDS Fall Enrollment census data, which captures a single-day snapshot. The enrollment figures in the "How Do Students Learn?" section above use 12-month unduplicated headcount, which typically shows higher numbers as it covers the full academic year. Both are official IPEDS data — they measure different things.
98% of Southwestern Illinois College's exclusively online students are located in IL. The school primarily serves local online learners.
What Is the Academic Load at Southwestern Illinois College?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:69.7% FTE ratio indicates many students attend part-time
Academic Load: FTE represents the equivalent of full-time students based on credit hours, helping compare institutional capacity regardless of part-time enrollment.
At Southwestern Illinois College, the FTE metric combines full-time and part-time enrollment into a single number, making it easier to compare with other institutions.
How Intensively Do Students Study at Southwestern Illinois College?
Student Enrollment Intensity
The Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) ratio shows the average course load intensity. An FTE ratio of 1.0 means all students attend full-time, while lower values indicate more part-time enrollment.
A mix of full-time and part-time students, offering flexibility for those balancing work, family, and education.
FTE represents student enrollment adjusted for course load. Two half-time students equal 1 FTE.
FTE Ratio Scale
Southwestern Illinois College has an enrollment intensity of 0.70, reflecting the proportion of full-time to part-time students. This can signal the pace and rigor of available programs.
Academic Support & Resources
Academic Advising
Students have access to academic advisors who can help with course selection, degree planning, and career guidance. Contact the admissions office to learn about advising services.
Student Success Services
Many institutions offer tutoring, study groups, and academic success workshops. These resources help students develop study skills and overcome academic challenges.
For detailed information about academic support services, tutoring hours, and learning resources, contact Southwestern Illinois College directly at 6182352700 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1 supports personalized learning
- 157 instructional staff with 43% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students primarily from IL (98% in-state)
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Southwestern Illinois College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.