About the University of Illinois

Chartered in 1867 as the Illinois Industrial University, the University opened for business in 1868. Renamed the University of Illinois in 1885, it is one of the original 37 public land-grant institutions created after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Morrill Act in 1862.

The University of Illinois has 16 colleges and instructional units and one of the largest public university library collections in the world.  In 2009, 53,000,000 visitors found their way to the Library’s online catalog. The Library boasts 10,500,000 volumes; 37 campus libraries, including the largest engineering library in the nation, a state-of-the-art agricultural library and world-renowned Rare Book and Manuscript Library.

Illinois is a world leader in research. In 2007, $473,711,000 was spent on research and development in science and engineering.  There are 150 affiliated centers and institutes performing research for government agencies, industry and campus units.

Also a leader in computing, there are 70,000 computer connections on the campus network, more than 130 buildings and wireless access in 76% of all classrooms. 

With five standout facilities, the arts and culture come alive at Illinois. Krannert Center for the Performing Arts has four theaters, seats about 4,000 and annually hosts 350 student and professional performances, as   well as commencements, lectures, and other events, many of them free. The Illini Union has more than 16,000 visitors per day and the Illini Union Board, the largest programming student organization on campus, offers more than 200 programs, lectures, musicals, and concerts throughout the year.  Foellinger Auditorium seats 1,750 for concerts, speakers, and special events.  The Assembly Hall has seating for 17,200, the largest Illinois arena outside of Chicago’s United Center and hosts concerts, Broadway shows, campus events and men’s and women’s basketball games.  Japan House and Arboretum offers formal and informal tearooms, stroll gardens, and art and cultural classrooms.