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Eastern Illinois University

Eastern Illinois University (EIU) is a public university in Charleston, Illinois, known for broad‑based programs in education, business, psychology, biology, nursing, and the liberal arts on a mid‑size, residential campus in a small‑town setting. Students often rave about the friendly, Midwestern vibe, over 200 clubs and organizations, strong educator‑preparation programs, and a campus life that balances affordable tuition with plenty of events and Greek‑life involvement.

State

Illinois

Student Population

8,800

Acceptance Rate

65–68%

GPA Range

3.2–3.6

SAT Range

890–1110

Common Majors

education (elementary, special, and early‑childhood), psychology, business administration

“I love EIU’s small‑town, close‑knit feel, how easy it is to get involved in clubs and Greek life while still being close to a working‑class Midwestern town, but from a past‑student view I’ll say the slow‑paced off‑campus scene, the long winters, and the way the campus can feel a bit quiet once the semester gets busy were all more noticeable once I stopped visiting and started living there.”

Team & Tuition

Divison

Division 1

Tuition (no scholarship)

$13,377 / $15,859

Conference

Ohio Valley Conference

Scholarships Available

Yes. Both athletic and academic.

Avg Men's Scores

76

Avg Women's Scores

82.6

Men's Team Notes

Panthers fired 290 final round for runner-up honors at Keene Trace Collegiate on Champions Trace Golf Course (598 total), led by strong individual play from Jack Yewchuk. Competitive finishes at YSU Roseann Schwartz Invitational highlighted birdie precision amid Midwest winds on challenging Ohio Valley layouts.

Women's Team Notes

EIU women posted team low 312 at YSU Roseann Schwartz Invitational, battling through regional events on courses like Mill Creek Park Golf Course. Resilient mid-pack placings showcased depth with steady par saves despite firm Illinois greens and windy tournament conditions.

Coaches

Men's Coach

Craig Toler

Women's Coach

Craig Toler

Men's Email

cwtoler@eiu.edu

Women's Email

cwtoler@eiu.edu

Men's Coach Bio

Craig Toler serves as Head Golf Coach for Eastern Illinois men's program, leading Panthers through OVC schedules from Charleston base. With his staff, he develops competitive squads competing at regional invitationals while emphasizing academic progress (1000 APR) and scoring consistency for conference contention.

Women's Coach Bio

Craig Toler heads EIU women's golf alongside men's duties in OVC play, guiding Panthers with 7 team members maintaining excellent 1000 APR. From campus facilities, he fosters team growth through Midwest matchups prioritizing student-athlete development and postseason qualification.

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