Southern Oregon University Overview

Southern Oregon University is a four-year, medium full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Ashland, OR. It has an enrollment of 3,208 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 89.70%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $9,931. Tuition is $11,142.00 without financial aid.

Southern Oregon University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Southern Oregon University, 69.19% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Southern Oregon University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20 to 1.

Southern Oregon University Website

Southern Oregon University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 89.70%.

SAT or ACT scores are recommended

• The average SAT score was 1103.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 22.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Southern Oregon University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $9,931. The in-state tuition is $11,142.00. Out-of-state tuition is $28,962.00

The average tuition is:

• $7,991, when family income is less than $30,000

• $9,786, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $10,300, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $11,531, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $12,333, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 32.70% of students received a federal student loan and 25.04% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $28,962.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Southern Oregon University Net Price Calculator

Southern Oregon University Majors/Salaries

Southern Oregon University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Southern Oregon University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Master’s Degree) – $30,771
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,042
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $48,432
• Education, General. (Master’s Degree) – $47,650
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,322
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $47,729
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,052
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,967
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,739
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,192
• Social Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Visual and Performing Arts, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,312
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,596
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $16,874
• Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $47,260
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,017
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $44,971

Southern Oregon University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Southern Oregon University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 1.50%
• Asian: 2.24%
• Black: 2.24%
• Hispanic: 13.31%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 1.09%
• Non-resident alien: 1.34%
• Two or more races: 10.19%
• Unknown: 11.00%
• White: 57.08%

At Southern Oregon University, 14.01% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Southern Oregon University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Southern Oregon University?

Southern Oregon University has a strong school spirit, and the university offers many activities and events to promote a vibrant campus culture. The school’s sports teams, known as the Raiders, have a dedicated fan base, and games often draw large crowds. The university also hosts a variety of student-led clubs, performances, and events throughout the year, providing opportunities for students to connect with one another outside of the classroom. Additionally, Southern Oregon University has a strong commitment to sustainability, and many students are involved in environmental organizations and initiatives on campus. Overall, Southern Oregon University has a lively and engaged student body that values community, activism, and school spirit.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Southern Oregon University?

Southern Oregon University (SOU) offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities for students. Here are some of the most popular extracurriculars at SOU: 1. Outdoor Adventures: SOU is located in Ashland, Oregon, which is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests. The Outdoor Adventures program is a popular choice for students who love to hike, bike, ski, and explore the great outdoors. 2. Athletics: SOU has a strong athletics program with many sports teams, including basketball, soccer, wrestling, and cross country. Students can attend games and matches throughout the year. 3. Music and Theater: SOU has a rich arts scene, and many students participate in music and theater productions on campus. SOU is home to the Oregon Center for the Arts, which offers a variety of performances and exhibits. 4. Clubs and Organizations: SOU has over 70 clubs and organizations, ranging from academic and professional groups to social and cultural clubs. Students can join clubs related to their interests or start their own club. 5. Volunteer and Community Service: Many SOU students volunteer in the local community, working with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the Rogue Valley Humane Society, and the Ashland Food Project. SOU also offers a Center for Community Engagement to help students get involved in service and outreach opportunities.

How are the food choices at Southern Oregon University?

Southern Oregon University has a variety of food options on campus, including multiple dining locations and cafes. They offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options as well as a variety of international cuisine such as Italian, Chinese, and Mexican. Additionally, the university has local partnerships with farms and businesses to provide fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Overall, students at Southern Oregon University have reported positive experiences with the food options available on campus.

Is there Greek life at Southern Oregon University?

Yes, Southern Oregon University (SOU) does have Greek life on campus. There are currently four active Greek organizations at SOU: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Psi Delta Sorority, Inc., Alpha Phi Omega Co-Ed Service Fraternity, and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. These organizations offer opportunities for leadership, community service, and social events for students who choose to become members.

What is Southern Oregon University known for?

Southern Oregon University is primarily known for its programs in the fields of performing arts, creative writing, and environmental studies. It also has a notable Outdoor Adventure Leadership program. SOU has a strong commitment to sustainability and is recognized as a “Green Power Partner” by the Environmental Protection Agency. The university is located in Ashland, Oregon, which is a popular tourist destination known for the famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

What are the most popular school clubs at Southern Oregon University?

Some popular school clubs at Southern Oregon University (SOU) include: 1. Outdoor Adventure Leadership Club 2. Queer Resource Center Club 3. Sustainability Club 4. Latinx Unidos Club 5. Harry Potter Club 6. Japanese Culture Club 7. Debate Club 8. SOU Gaming & eSports Club 9. Black Student Union 10. Climbing Club. There are many more student organizations on campus, catering to a variety of interests. The university encourages all students to explore and become involved in at least one club or organization to enhance their college experience.

Is the campus at Southern Oregon University safe?

Southern Oregon University is generally considered a safe campus, and security measures are in place to help ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. The university has a campus safety department that provides safety escorts, enforces parking regulations, and responds to emergencies. In addition, the university has emergency call boxes located throughout campus, as well as a text and email alert system that can notify students and staff of any emergency situations. Students are also encouraged to report any crimes or suspicious activity to campus safety or local law enforcement.