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Southern Oregon University

Ashland, Oregon · Public

$16k/yearCost after aid
Feb 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

B+Value
N/ACampus
BAcademics
C-Admissions
B-Student Life
BOverall

About

Southern Oregon University is located in Ashland, Oregon. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 2,911 students.

sou.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$16kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$12,093
Out-of-state tuition$30,723
Room & board$16,248
Avg aid package$7,108
Students receiving aid24%
Pell grant recipients24%

Southern Oregon University offers an affordable education with a net price of $17,433. A significant 93% of students receive financial aid, making higher education accessible. SOU's commitment to value is reflected in its efforts to provide a strong return on investment for its students.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate83%
Average GPA3.18
Student–faculty ratio23:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$60

Application dates

Regular DecisionFeb 1

Southern Oregon University has an acceptance rate of 82%, indicating a moderately inclusive admissions process. The university values diversity and looks for students who will contribute to its vibrant academic community. SOU welcomes transfer students and offers generous acceptance of transfer credits.

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Academics

Graduation rate45%
Retention rate68%
Student–faculty ratio23:1
Full-time faculty54%

SOU provides a contemporary liberal arts education with a focus on critical thinking and personal growth. With a student-faculty ratio of 19:1, students benefit from close relationships with qualified faculty, 93% of whom hold terminal degrees. The university fosters an environment of intellectual curiosity and practical liberal learning.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$49,175
Avg starting salary$43,400
Job placement rate94%
Earn more than HS grad64%
Economic mobility161%
Loan default (3 yr)6%
Loan repayment (3 yr)50%

SOU prepares students for successful careers through practical learning and strong community connections. Graduates find opportunities in education, environmental sciences, and various regional sectors. The university emphasizes career preparation and the development of soft skills prized by employers.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
2,911Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 64%Male 36%
55% WhiteRacial diversity
White 55%Hispanic 14%Asian 2%Black 2%Other 28%
Campus housingYes

Southern Oregon University offers a vibrant campus life with a commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Students enjoy a welcoming community with various resource centers and clubs supporting multiculturalism and diverse identities. While the social scene is more subdued, the campus provides a safe and accessible environment with opportunities for community arts and outdoor activities.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Student

I wish I had received a tour of the campus. I would like to see the transferring of credits into the system done better. Most colleges will have all credits transferred in by the first day of classes. Financial aid was terrible. They took the time and a person in the office had to text them to expedite my account which is crazy.

Cost and value

Student

I use to work in financial aid as work study then permanent staff. They in my opinion do exactly as they wish them email students they reached they deadline when we waiting on them to process my financial aid which is crazy. They need a meeting and they need to come up with a plan to improve the way they do things so students are less stressed.

About Southern Oregon University

SOU is located in Ashland, a small town known for its safety. The university prioritizes student safety and security, providing a secure environment for learning and living. The campus benefits from the town's safe atmosphere and accessible environment.

The Honors College at SOU is being phased out, with a new Honors Program anticipated to launch in Fall 2027 or later. The current Honors College offers a rigorous curriculum and distinctive experiential-learning activities. The new program will be more dispersed into the majors, making it more sustainable for the university long-term.

SOU welcomes international students and offers dedicated support through its international admissions team. The university provides ESL programs and OPT/CPT opportunities for eligible students. International students can also apply for merit-based scholarships, making SOU a welcoming and supportive environment for a global community.

Endowment$36,147,320
Avg faculty salary$109,368

Southern Oregon University FAQ

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Southern Oregon University admits about 83% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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