The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a public land-grant research university in Illinois in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. It is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois system and was founded in 1867. Enrolling over 56,000 undergraduate and graduate students, the University of Illinois is one of the largest public universities by enrollment in the nation.
The College of Fine & Applied Arts
The College of Fine & Applied Arts at Illinois is singular in the nation for its diversity, innovation and breadth. Home to creative thinkers in the performing, visual, design and environmental arts, the college encourages daring collaborations and deeper cultural understandings. The college's bold artists, researchers and educators include Guggenheim Fellows, Doris Duke Award winners, Fulbright Scholars, members of learned societies, decorated educators and renowned performers. The dynamic atmosphere motivates students and faculty members to generate work that pushes boundaries and blends art forms; to focus artistry, research and teaching at the intersection of the arts, place and community; and to contribute uniquely to addressing the environmental, socioeconomic, cultural and civic challenges of an increasingly urbanized society.
Life in Urbana-Champaign
There’s a lot to do in Champaign-Urbana or, as locals say, “Chambana.” Explore Champaign’s Downtown, Midtown, and Campustown districts or Historic Downtown Urbana. Each area is unique, but they all offer a blend of restaurants, shops, night clubs, and culture. If you’re feeling studious, you can check out the Champaign Public Library. Or, perhaps, take a stroll past the many boutiques and shops located in the charming, historic buildings. For something unique (and recycled), Dandelion Vintage offers vintage clothing, accessories, and books. The Champaign County History Museum at the Historic Cattle Bank provides a glimpse of the past. For the kid in all of us, the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum inspires, engages, and educates children through science and the arts. Join the crowds at the historic Virginia Theater for Roger Ebert’s Film Festival, Ebertfest. Looking for something different to eat? Grab a quick bite in one of the many Campustown restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon or a night on the town, Champaign County has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet tree-lined neighborhood or the bustle of a larger apartment complex, you’ll find an array of options in Champaign-Urbana at affordable costs. The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $900. The majority of graduate students live in off-campus housing; however, there are a limited number of graduate and family housing units available.