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Officials: Illinois' Online Programs Driving Record Graduate Enrollment | 10.31.2024

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has achieved a milestone this fall, welcoming its largest cohort of graduate students in university history, according to a Graduate College story.

The 7,425 new graduate students represent an 18% increase from last year’s enrollment, contributing to Illinois’ total of 20,765 graduate students—an impressive 35% of the university’s student body.

According to officials, the university’s online graduate programs have driven much of this growth, enrolling 41% of Illinois’ graduate students and expanding access to learners worldwide.

“Our diverse educational pathways meet a variety of learner needs—from cutting-edge doctoral programs to innovative online master’s and certificate offerings,” Provost John Coleman said. “This multifaceted approach has allowed Illinois to foster a vibrant graduate community filled with future leaders, researchers, and skilled professionals.”

Online master’s programs and new certificate options have been particularly popular, with certificate enrollments alone seeing a 55% increase since their launch in 2022. For example, the Gies College of Business, partnering with Coursera, has been instrumental in delivering affordable, quality education globally.

As Illinois continues to expand its graduate programs, particularly in online and flexible formats, the university is shaping a future where educational access and academic excellence go hand-in-hand.

Read the full Graduate College story.

Learn more about Illinois' online doctoral, master's, graduate certificate and endorsement programs.

Illinois Welcomes its Largest Cohort of Graduate Students | The Graduate College at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

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New interpreting booths help students master skills, simulate real-world practice | 5.6.2024

Two new interpreting booths in the School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics Building help students in Translation & Interpreting Studies (TIS) master interpreting skills. Students started using them in mid-February.

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Communication professor co-authored study on emotional radio ads impact on organ donation support among non-donors | 4.24.2024

The study highlights the power of emotional storytelling in overcoming barriers to organ donation, a critical issue in addressing the persistent shortage of available organs for transplantation. The team’s findings...

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Illinois' Summer Session 2024 offers students a chance to get ahead over the summer term | 3.5.2024

Summer Session 2024 offers Illinois undergraduate students and visiting students from other universities (non-degree students) an amazing opportunity to continue their education over the summer by taking one online course from anywhere in the world.

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Events

Date	Event
11.21.2024	Open Registration Begins for Winter 2024-2025 and Spring 2025 (?)
11.23.2024	Fall Break Begins (?)
11.28.2024	Thanksgiving Day (?)
12.2.2024	Instruction Resumes (?)
12.11.2024	Instructions Ends (?)
12.12.2024	Reading Day (?)
12.13.2024	Final Examinations Begin (?)
12.19.2024	Final Examinations End (?)
12.20.2024	Winter 2024-2025 Classes Begin (?)

Online Illinois Calendar

Blogs

Balancing year-end deadlines with holiday cheer | 11.11.2024

The holiday season brings both excitement and challenges, especially for busy professionals in graduate programs. From finalizing work projects to wrapping up semester assignments—not to mention holiday planning—it’s easy to feel pulled in multiple directions. Here are some time management strategies to help you stay on track you’re your goals and meet deadlines while also enjoying the festivities.

Prioritize Tasks by Impact and Deadline

Start by listing all of your end-of-year deadlines, including work projects, assignments and personal to-dos. Rank each task by deadline and impact to prioritize your list and determine what must be done first.

Prioritizing allows you to see where your time is most effectively spent. Hopefully, this helps you avoid last-minute stress, so that you can not only attend but also enjoy your holiday events.

Time Block Your Calendar—and Stick to It

Use time-blocking to designate periods for focused work, coursework, and holiday preparation. If it helps, set alarms for each block to help with transitions.

Blocking out time keeps you accountable and prevents work or study tasks from spilling into personal time.

Take Advantage of Flexible Study Hours to Get Ahead

One of the perks of online graduate programs is the flexibility to study around your schedule. Use this to your advantage by working ahead on assignments when you have free time. You may even try dedicating part of a weekend morning to study time to free up time later in the week.

By front-loading some of your coursework, you can start the holidays with a lighter load, giving you more time to enjoy the season.

Set Boundaries and Say No (Politely)

Your social invitations and family gatherings may already be stacking up and leaving you feeling overwhelmed. Practice saying "no" to non-essential commitments. Use this time to protect your study and work hours.

Protecting your boundaries will ensure that you don’t feel overwhelmed, helping you stay focused on your primary goals.

If it helps, let close friends and family know about your current commitments to avoid misunderstandings when you need time for work or study.

Automate Holiday Preparations When Possible

Streamline holiday planning by automating tasks like shopping (order online and schedule delivery) and meal planning.

Reducing holiday-related “to-dos” saves time and energy for work and study, helping you avoid burnout.

Schedule Time for Self-Care Amid the Holiday Hustle

Don’t forget to take short breaks to recharge, even if it’s a quick stretch, meditation session or a walk outside. Planning small breaks can help you stay sharp and motivated.

Remember – consistent self-care prevents burnout, boosts productivity, and helps you stay balanced as you juggle multiple responsibilities.

Reflect and Reset for the New Year

Finally, as the year wraps up, take time to assess your progress in school and at work. Set aside time for self-reflection by listing accomplishments this past year that you’re proud of and identifying any adjustments you’d like or areas you want to focus on in the coming year.

This intentional pause allows you to celebrate achievements, identify areas for growth, and prepare for a fresh start in January.

Balancing graduate school, work and the holidays requires strategic planning and clear priorities, but with a little preparation, you can enjoy the season without sacrificing your goals. By applying these time management strategies, you’ll enter the New Year feeling accomplished—and ready for whatever comes next!

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Leveraging online resources for academic success | 10.17.2024

By Laura Woo, Marketing Intern

Balancing graduate studies with a demanding professional life can feel like juggling two full-time commitments. Whether you’re pursuing an advanced degree to accelerate your career or to deepen your expertise, leveraging online resources can help you manage your time effectively and maximize your academic success. From productivity tools to specialized research databases, here’s how to utilize digital resources tailored for graduate students who are navigating coursework, career responsibilities, and personal commitments:

1. Take Advantage of University Tools

At the University of Illinois, students have access to various online tools like Canvas, Zoom, and specialized platforms that serve as virtual classrooms. Canvas offers features such as instructor feedback, discussion boards, and notifications for deadlines. Make sure to fully explore these tools to stay engaged with course content, submit assignments efficiently, and collaborate with peers.

2. Organize with Digital Planners and Calendars

Staying organized is key to balancing academic and professional responsibilities. Tools like Google Calendar help track deadlines, class schedules, and study sessions, while productivity apps like Trello, Notion, and Todoist offer task management solutions that allow you to prioritize and stay on top of your work. These platforms provide customizable features to meet the needs of busy graduate students.

3. Access Online Libraries and Databases

Illinois offers extensive online library systems, including access to academic databases such as JSTOR, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. These resources are invaluable for conducting research, finding scholarly articles, and completing assignments. Be sure to take advantage of these databases for efficient and thorough academic work.

4. Leverage Networking and Study Groups

Staying connected with classmates and professionals is vital for both academic and career growth. Join virtual study groups through platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack, and extend your network on LinkedIn to connect with fellow graduate students and industry professionals. These connections can provide not only academic support but also valuable career insights and opportunities.

5. Utilize Online Academic Support and Career Services

At Illinois, students have access to a range of online academic support services, including virtual tutoring and writing assistance through platforms like the Writers Workshop. Additionally, career services are available to help you with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement support. Make sure to tap into these resources to enhance both your academic and professional development.

Looking for more tips and resources to help you succeed in your studies? Check out more articles on our blog and stay informed on how Illinois can support you every step of the way!

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Study Playlist for Fall 2024 | 8.27.2024

By Laura Woo, Marketing Intern

With the start of Fall 2024, it's time to enhance your study sessions with a playlist that matches the season's vibe. Check out our Fall 2024 playlist! Whether you're into calming piano tunes or energizing beats, this playlist is crafted to keep you focused and motivated:

1. Lofi Beats

Perfect for those late-night study marathons. Let the chill vibes help you zone in on your work without distractions.

2. Acoustic Chill

Want something laid-back but engaging? Acoustic covers and mellow tracks create a soothing backdrop while you hit the books.

3. Focus-Boosting Classical

Classical music has long been known to aid concentration. Add Beethoven or Chopin to your study sessions for that extra brainpower boost.

4. Jazz Café Vibes

Imagine yourself studying in a cozy café with smooth jazz playing. It's the perfect ambiance for calm focus.

5. Nature Sounds

If music isn't your thing while studying, try nature sounds like rain, ocean waves, or a crackling fire to stay relaxed and focused.

6. Study Beats with a Twist

For those who enjoy upbeat tracks with focus, try mixing in some electronic beats that keep the energy high without being too distracting.

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Preparing for Success: Tips to Get Back into School Mode | 8.15.2024

By Laura Woo, Marketing Intern

As the new semester approaches, transitioning back into school mode can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you start strong and stay on track:

1. Set Clear Goals

Establish both short-term and long-term goals for the semester. Whether it’s achieving a certain GPA or mastering a specific subject, having clear objectives will keep you motivated.

2. Create a Study Schedule

Organize your time by creating a weekly schedule that includes classes, study sessions, and personal time. This will help you manage your workload effectively.

3. Organize Your Workspace

An organized workspace enhances productivity. Make sure your study area is equipped with all the necessary tools and is free from distractions.

4. Develop Healthy Habits

Consistent sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet contribute to better focus and energy levels. Prioritize your well-being to maintain peak academic performance!

5. Connect with Classmates

Building relationships with classmates can provide you with support and accountability. Join study groups or participate in online forums to stay connected.

6. Use Campus Resources

Take advantage of the resources available at UIUC, such as academic advising, tutoring centers, and mental health services. These can help you navigate challenges and stay on track.

7. Stay Flexible

Be prepared to adjust your strategies as needed. Flexibility is key to managing the unexpected and maintaining balance throughout the semester.

By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the new semester with confidence and success.

For other articles on thriving in the online environment, visit online.illinois.edu/articles.

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Graduate Enrollment at Illinois

Online Winter Courses 2024-2025

College of Education's New Trauma-Related Programs

Program in Translation & Interpreting Studies

Communication research

Your questions about non-degree study at Illinois answered!

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News

Events

Blogs

1. Lofi Beats

2. Acoustic Chill

3. Focus-Boosting Classical

4. Jazz Café Vibes

5. Nature Sounds

6. Study Beats with a Twist

1. Set Clear Goals

2. Create a Study Schedule

3. Organize Your Workspace

4. Develop Healthy Habits

5. Connect with Classmates

6. Use Campus Resources

7. Stay Flexible