WIU Earns Recognition on Wall Street Journal Rankings

Western Illinois University is proud to receive recognition from the Wall Street Journal for its commitment to social mobility.

WIU was named the No. 68 University in the country for social mobility according to the 2026 Wall Street Journal/College Pulse rankings, highlighting the work the University has done to be accessible for all students.

“This recognition by the Wall Street Journal is an affirmation of Western Illinois University’s commitment to inspiring students to reach their full potential while ensuring that the value of a WIU degree extends beyond graduation,” WIU President Kristi Mindrup said. “WIU is committed to accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives and prepares graduates for meaningful careers and lifelong achievement.”

Overall, WIU was named No. 120 nationally among public universities and was No. 4 among public universities in Illinois.

WIU’s top scoring categories came from its salary impact for its students, its learning facilities and its affordability.

WIU is also a recognized member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and has been named among the state's most affordable higher education institutions. WIU was also named an Opportunity College and University by Carnegie, highlighting its affordability, accessibility and long term earning potential of its students.