A gold color metal and enamel shield shaped device 1 1/8 inches (2.86 cm) in height overall blazoned: Per fess Argent and Gules a fess wavy Azure inscribed "SIUE" in gold letters in chief a demi-sum issuant from the fess of the last, in base dexter a scroll bendwise surmounted by a quill bendswise sinister, a tricorn hat bendwise sinister all of the last.
The shied is divided in the school colors of red and white. The blue wavy horizontal band represents the Mississippi River and denotes the school's location. The rising sun over the river is taken from the Illinois state flag and reflects the school's prominence in the state. The quill and scroll symbolize the cadet's academic curriculum. The tricorn hat and the red, white, and blue of the shield indicate the cadets' patriotic dedication to school, community, and country.
The shoulder loop insignia was authorized 25 August 1995.