GovState at a Glance
Founded in 1969, Governors State University (GovState) has grown into Chicago’s south suburban region’s only comprehensive public university, serving about 4,600 students across 85+ degree and certificate programs. With a diverse community of faculty, staff, and students, GovState is dedicated to delivering accessible, high-value education that prepares graduates to thrive in a global world.
Whether you're a freshman, transfer, or graduate student, GovState helps you find the right path and advance your goals. Beyond academics, students enjoy a vibrant campus life with housing, athletics, over 70 clubs, and cultural experiences like the renowned Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park and the Center for Performing Arts.
Set on 750 acres of scenic prairie just 40 miles from Chicago, GovState offers a welcoming, diverse environment where students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed.
1,257 Degrees Awarded
4,349 Enrolled Students
332 Faculty Members
Our Mission
The mission and vision of Governors State University focus on providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers diverse students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in a global society.
Campus Leadership
Dr. Joyce Ester, University President
Dr. Joyce Ester, president of Governors State University, is committed to expanding access to affordable, high-quality education while strengthening student success and community impact.
Dr. Beverly Schneller, Provost
The Office of the Provost oversees the Academic Affairs division at Governors State University, leading academic programs and scholarship while ensuring excellence, accessibility, and a commitment to diversity.
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees are responsible for the governance of the University.
Mushtaq Choudhary, Dean of Students
The Office of the Dean of Students at Governors State University supports and advocates for students, helping them easily navigate university resources and services.
Visit Our Campus
Experience Governors State University firsthand—attend an Open House to explore campus, connect with faculty, and discover where your future begins.
Learn more about GovState
Follow the links below to read about our accreditations, accessibility policies, or view the A-Z Index page to find other areas to explore.
Begin your GovState Journey Today
Apply to Governors State University and take the first step toward a future built on opportunity, support, and success.
Departments
Student Accounts and Billing
Student Accounts disseminates information relating to students' financial accounts including payment processing, account balances, fees, payment deadlines and holds.
Information Technology Services
Information Technology Services supports the university community by providing academic computing, administrative computing and telecommunications.
Office of Financial Services
The Office of Financial Services & Comptroller provides cash management services, manages investments and oversees credit card merchant services.
Office of Procurement
The Office of Procurement and Business Services supports the university community in obtaining commodities, equipment and services to support GovState's educational mission.
Institutional Research
The Office of Institutional Research & Effectiveness (IRE) at Governors State University supports administrative planning and decision-making by providing accurate and timely data in high-quality reports.
OSPR
The Office of Sponsored Programs and Research at Governors State University can assist you with grant writing resources, securing grant funding and managing ongoing sponsored research and other sponsored programs.
Human Resources
The Human Resources Department supports the university community through strategic HR services, including employment, compensation, benefits, employee relations, training and development, workforce policies, and human resources administration.
Marketing and Communications
The Office of Marketing and Communications mission is to help present the university in the clearest, most effective and professional ways possible. You can receive help developing publications, websites, and other products that promote the university and our shared mission.
Facilities
The Facilities Development and Management Department is responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of the university facilities and its grounds.
International Services
The Office of International Services (OIS) welcomes you to Governors State University (GovState). OIS serves all international students, international faculty, staff, study abroad students and their families.
Disability Services
If you have a temporary health issue or a permanent disability, Access Services for Students with Disabilities is here to support you and help meet your individual needs.
Employment at GovState
To join our family – approximately 1,000 employees – look at the jobs currently available, then simply apply online for employment opportunities at GovState.