An important aspect of any land grant university’s mission is the application of new and existing knowledge to address real world problems and improve local communities. Ordinarily associated with agricultural extension programs, this mission is also important to the School and the College of Fine and Applied Arts. Through the East St. Louis Action Research Project (ESLARP) architecture students can engage local communities. The Building Research Council (BRC) regularly studies ways to improve housing and the built environment.
Building Research Council (BRC)
East St. Louis Action Research Project
I space Gallery, Chicago
Smart Energy Design Assistance Center
Campus Resources
Campus Public Engagement Website
Office of Public Engagement
and Institutional Relations
QuickFact #003
In 1873 Nathan Clifford Ricker graduated from the University of Illinois with the first degree in architecture granted by an American University. After studying in Europe, he returned to the University to formally establish a Department of Architecture.
