University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Diversity

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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Diversity - Diversity - College ProwlerCollege Prowler3.85

Diversity

Quick Stats

African American 7%
Asian American 13%
Hispanic 7%
International 8%
Native American 0%
White 63%
Unknown 2%
Historically Black College/University? No
Tribal College? No
Out-of-State Students 20%
Common States of Residence
  • California
  • Foreign countries
  • Missouri
  • New Jersey
  • New York
Student Age Breakdown Under 18: 1%
18-19: 33%
20-21: 36%
22-24: 15%
25+: 15%
Female Faculty 33%
Male Faculty 67%
Faculty Diversity African American: 4%
Asian American: 12%
Hispanic: 4%
International: 6%
Native American: 0%
White: 73%
Unknown: 0%

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

Opinions on the diversity of U of I's student body really depend on the type of students you ask. A minority student will say that the campus is not diverse, but a white student will generally say the campus is very diverse. The truth is that a large percentage of the students are white, while there is less than 10 percent each of African Americans and Hispanics. However, for being located in central Illinois, these statistics are rather impressive. Moreover, the University has one of the highest international student enrollments in the country—10th among public universities—due to the prestige of its engineering and business programs. Efforts are made to reach minority students, and cultural events and art shows give much needed attention to non-white students. There are many groups that connect UIUC students to international students, as well as dozens of minority student organizations that are very active on campus and frequently host events or put on shows.

A big debate on campus in 2007 was the issue of the Chief mascot. The campus was divided over this issue, which the NCAA resolved by eliminating such mascots for several colleges. Critics claimed that the practice took a sacred Native American tradition and used it for sport, while supporters claimed it was a respectful dance, a harmless tradition, and a priceless institution. Currently, the University will retain the “Illini” and “Fighting Illini” nicknames. Hopefully, the change will allow former critics to feel more comfortable.

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Illinois Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Diversity at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

nandunu

Political Science and Government '15

5.0
A+

Lots and Lots of Ethnicities

There's many different international students and people from all over the country of different races, religions, ethnicities, and etc.

May 17, 2012

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Diversity at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

JakeAstin

Sociology '14

3.5
B

A Fine Mix

The UIUC population features all sorts of different individuals from all over the country with a good amount of international students as well. The student body seems well accepting of different backgrounds and beliefs.

May 14, 2012

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Diversity at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

soconnor14

Mathematics '14

2.7
C+

Segregation

There is definitely segregation on the U of I campus. There are definitely those dorms made up of one minority. Illini Towers is known for having a high Jewish population where FAR is known for its high concentration of black students. It creates communities of races but also divides them quite obviously.

Apr 17, 2012

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User rating for University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Diversity is 3.5 out of 5 based on 54 user reviews.

Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

How diverse is the student body in the following areas?

How diverse is your personal circle of friends in the following areas?

How accepting is the campus community as a whole toward someone who falls into the minority (ethnic, sexual, or religious)?

How would you best describe your personal political beliefs?

How would you best describe the political beliefs of campus as a whole?

Facts

Gay Pride

Groups like PFLAG and LGBT encourage tolerance, and there are SafeZones on campus. On the other hand, the gay community is not very outspoken.

Political Activity

Most of the campus is socially and politically liberal. However, these views are rarely expressed in rallies or protests, and are for the most part confined to the opinions section of the student newspaper.

Economic Status

U of I is predominantly a middle-class environment. People generally come from small or medium-sized cities throughout Illinois.

Most Common Religions

Groups like InterVarsity and Campus Crusade for Christ, as well as Bible study groups, actively recruit students. The Atheists, Agnostics, and Freethinkers group occasionally engages in panel discussions with Christian groups, encouraging theological discussion among students.

Minority Clubs on Campus

The minority clubs are active on campus. There are fraternities and sororities for different ethnicities, and the campus hosts multicultural events to encourage diversity and education.

Did You Know? The University of Illinois has the largest Greek system in the country, in terms of the sheer volume of organizations.

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Most Recent Student Author View all

Name
Emily Thiersch
Hometown
Wilmette, Ill.

College Prowler is seeking talented student authors to assist with writing and updating the College Prowler guides to their schools. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain experience and tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is really like at your college.

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