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University of Illinois

The University of Illinois at Urbana‑Champaign is a large public research flagship known for top‑tier engineering, business, and computer‑science programs, a beautiful campus across the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana, and a tight‑knit, spirited student community. Students often rave about the strong academics, the vibrant Greek‑life scene, and the unique campus landmarks like the Main Quad and Memorial Stadium.

State

Illinois

Student Population

59,000

Acceptance Rate

42%

GPA Range

3.7–4.0

SAT Range

1390–1510

Common Majors

computer science, engineering (especially mechanical, electrical, and civil), business

“Sun‑downing the Quad every evening, knowing that the Engineering Quad feels like a second home, having some classes that move so fast you barely keep up, and watching how fast campus can feel impersonal until you plug into your major and suddenly it all clicks into place.”

Team & Tuition

Divison

Division 1

Tuition (no scholarship)

In-state: $16,004; Out-of-state: $35,124

Conference

Big Ten Conference

Scholarships Available

Yes. Both athletic and academic.

Avg Men's Scores

72.1

Avg Women's Scores

72.85

Men's Team Notes

Illini posted consistent low-70s team totals across Big Ten events, led by Brian Ma's elite 70.11 individual average and multiple top-10 finishes. Depth shone with Diego Saavedra-Davila's 71.75 scoring, securing strong regional positioning through invitationals.

Women's Team Notes

Women competed strongly at home-hosted Illini Invitational with top birdie production, maintaining competitive stroke averages behind key performers. Steady par-4 scoring and individual contention fueled solid Big Ten finishes throughout balanced fall-spring schedule.

Coaches

Men's Coach

Mike Small

Women's Coach

Renee Slone

Men's Email

small@illinois.edu

Women's Email

rslone@illinois.edu

Men's Coach Bio

Mike Small is the University of Illinois men’s head golf coach, leading the Fighting Illini in the Big Ten Conference and as a national‑level power in college golf. A former professional golfer, Small has guided Illinois to multiple Big Ten championships and NCAA‑Championship appearances, including a national‑runner‑up finish in 2013. He emphasizes course‑management focus, team‑culture strength, and continuous development of future PGA‑Tour professionals.

Women's Coach Bio

Renee Slone is the University of Illinois women’s head golf coach and one of the most decorated figures in the program’s history. A former Illini player and LPGA/Futures‑Tour competitor, she has led the team to its first Big Ten title and multiple NCAA postseason appearances. Entering her 20th season, she combines deep playing experience with a keen eye for recruiting and player‑development, helping the Illini become a consistent Big Ten contender.

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