The Department of Public Safety Police Division consists of three divisions (Field Operations, Investigations, or Support Services). The uniformed Field Operations division consists of three shifts that are staffed 24 hours per day throughout the year. The campus is patrolled using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, vehicle, bike, and foot patrols. The Department of Public Safety also staffs a student patrol program (Saluki Patrol) that consists of students who assist with reporting a variety of safety and security concerns to the police department. The Saluki Patrol performs their function by foot and bike patrols. They also assist with crowd control at various social and athletic events.

SIUC Police officers possess the same powers as any other police officer in the state of Illinois in counties where University property and/or concern is located. Such powers include the power to make arrests for violations of state law, city or county ordinances, and University rules or regulations. Officers work in cooperation with the Carbondale Police Department and the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.