Illinois State University

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health & Sustainability

Illinois State University is located in the growing twin cities of Bloomington and Normal, with a metro population of approximately 172,000. The community is also home to Illinois Wesleyan University, Heartland Community College, St. Joseph Medical Center, Carle BroMenn Medical Center, COUNTRY Financial, State Farm Insurance's International Headquarters, Central Illinois Regional Airport, and electric truck manufacturer Rivian Motors. The community has distinguished itself for its outstanding school systems, and its citizens' high level of educational attainment, as well as its parks and recreation, health care, vibrant fine arts scene, job growth, economic opportunity, historic sites, and low crime rates. Bloomington made Livability's top 100 Best Places to Live (2024) and ranked No. 3 on College Values Online's list of Best Small College Towns in America (2024). Bloomington-Normal is conveniently located about three hours from Indianapolis; two hours from both Chicago and St. Louis; and an hour from Peoria, Champaign-Urbana, Decatur, and Springfield. Many of these locations are accessible from Bloomington-Normal via Amtrak, which is located one block from Illinois State's campus. For more information on our community, visit visitbn.org.

Illinois State University is located in the growing twin cities of Bloomington and Normal, with a metro population of approximately 172,000. The community is also home to Illinois Wesleyan University, Heartland Community College, St. Joseph Medical Center, Carle BroMenn Medical Center, COUNTRY Financial, State Farm Insurance’s International Headquarters, Central Illinois Regional Airport, and electric truck manufacturer Rivian Motors. The community has distinguished itself for its outstanding school systems, and its citizens’ high level of educational attainment, as well as its parks and recreation, health care, vibrant fine arts scene, job growth, economic opportunity, historic sites, and low crime rates. Bloomington made Livability’s top 100 Best Places to Live (2024) and ranked No. 3 on College Values Online’s list of Best Small College Towns in America (2024). Bloomington-Normal is conveniently located about three hours from Indianapolis; two hours from both Chicago and St. Louis; and an hour from Peoria, Champaign-Urbana, Decatur, and Springfield. Many of these locations are accessible from Bloomington-Normal via Amtrak, which is located one block from Illinois State’s campus. For more information on our community, visit visitbn.org.

Housing availability at Illinois State University (ISU) varies, with different halls like Cardinal Court, Fell/School Street apartments, and Hewett-Manchester having different contract terms and availability. The university has an on-campus housing policy requiring first-time students to live in university housing for their first two years out of high school. Students may be exempt from the on-campus housing policy if they are married, have a dependent child, or live with a parent/legal guardian within 40 miles of campus.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, Illinois State University estimates a total cost of attendance of about $35,230 for in-state students living on campus, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. In-state tuition and fees alone for a full-time, 15-credit hour undergraduate student are approximately $16,144 ($12,066 tuition + $4,078 fees). Out-of-state students can expect to pay significantly more, with total estimated costs around $47,304.

Students who attend the University may be eligible to receive financial aid in the form of loans, scholarships, tuition waivers, grants and employment.

We recognize diversity as an integral part of a student's educational journey and are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable educational environment for all students. Whether you're a new student or a current student, we are dedicated to ensuring you have the support you need. We will work with you to determine your accommodations and teach you how to access them. To learn more, go to Student Access and Accommodation Services.

The Student Activities unit coordinates a variety of events for students, including Welcome Week. It also oversees Registered Student Organizations and provides support and advisement to enhance student involvement and engagement opportunities. Find out more at https://deanofstudents.illinoisstate.edu/involvement/activities/

With over 400 registered student organizations (RSOs) from which to choose, you have the opportunity to explore your interests, implement academic knowledge, and develop leadership skills. Explore at Dean of Students Office.

Over 400 Illinois State student athletes compete in 19 sports, primarily in the Missouri Valley Conference. The Redbirds have taken home nine team and individual national championships, hundreds of All-American honors and more than 160 MVC league titles. Led by the award winning Red Alert student section, fans pack the stands on gameday helping make Illinois State one of the toughest places to play in the Midwest. Learn more at https://illinoisstate.edu/athletics/.

Illinois State University (ISU) has recently won the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) All-Sports Championship for the 2024-25 season, marking the fifth time in six years. Beyond conference success, the university's athletic programs have won nine national team and individual championships and hundreds of MVC league titles. In addition to ISU's achievements, the university hosted the 2025 IHSA Girls Volleyball State Finals at its CEFCU Arena in Normal.

There are many different parking options at Illinois State University's campus, including: Metered Spaces, Pay Lots, Faculty-Staff Surface Lots, Commuter Surface Lots, Student Storage Lots, Motorcycle/Moped Parking, Evening and Weekend Parking, etc. Find out more at https://parking.illinoisstate.edu/parking/.

Illinois State University offers a diverse selection of undergraduate academic programs, including those spanning a number of academic disciplines. Find out more at https://illinoisstate.edu/academics/majors/.

Illinois State University celebrates global learning through its study abroad program. Find out more at Study Abroad.

The university provides resources like the Technology Support Center, free software like Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud, and in-residence computer consultants for assistance. Specific technical requirements vary by program.

Illinois State University's admission requirements vary by student type (freshman, transfer, graduate) but generally include a high school transcript, self-reported GPA, and optional personal statement for freshmen. Transfer students need transcripts from all previous colleges, while graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree and may need specific test scores like the GRE or professional certifications. All applicants should check specific program requirements and deadlines. 

Application/Transfer deadlines can be found at https://illinoisstate.edu/apply/deadlines/.

Illinois State University welcomes international students and scholars from over 70 countries annually, valuing diversity and promoting a global perspective. Find out more at https://isss.illinoisstate.edu/.

Illinois State University's mission is to prepare diverse, engaged, and informed members of society through collaborative teaching, scholarship, and service. This is achieved by fostering a diverse, scholarly community that promotes high academic standards and provides the opportunities of a large university while maintaining a small-college atmosphere, all while creating a supportive and productive environment.

student-centered education, research, innovation, intercultural understanding, ethical behavior, social justice, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Illinois State University offers high quality Summer Session programming and innovative learning opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students. Find out at https://provost.illinoisstate.edu/resources/summer/, https://coursefinder.illinoisstate.edu/.

Illinois State University’s alumni are accomplishing great things all over the globe. Find out more at https://alumni.illinoisstate.edu/association/notable-alumni/

Illinois State University was founded in 1857 as Illinois State Normal University, the first public university in Illinois, with the mission of training teachers. It evolved from a "normal" school into a comprehensive liberal arts university, officially changing its name to Illinois State University in 1967. Throughout its history, the university has grown, adapted to new demands, and weathered economic challenges.