About
Southern Oregon University, located in Ashland, Oregon, is a public institution with a history dating back to its establishment in 1872. The university's campus spans across 175 acres and currently accommodates a total enrollment of 5,182 students.
The university offers a wide range of academic options, including over 140 undergraduate majors and minors. In addition to its undergraduate programs, Southern Oregon University provides graduate programs in education, business, and nursing, allowing students to pursue advanced degrees in these fields.
A vibrant student life is a hallmark of the university, with an impressive array of more than 200 student organizations contributing to a diverse and engaging campus atmosphere.
Notably, Southern Oregon University maintains an acceptance rate of 89%, reflecting its inclusive approach to admissions. For those considering enrollment, in-state tuition is set at $11,142 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay $28,962 annually.
Top Reasons to Study in the Southern Oregon University
- Excellent academic programs: SOU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including business, education, health sciences, the arts, and humanities. The university is also known for its strong programs in sustainability and environmental studies.
- Beautiful campus: SOU is located in Ashland, Oregon, a charming city known for its art scene, outdoor recreation, and mild climate. The university's campus is nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Diverse and inclusive community: SOU is committed to diversity and inclusion. The student body is made up of students from all over the world, and the university offers a variety of programs and resources to support students from underrepresented groups.
- Hands-on learning opportunities: SOU emphasizes experiential learning. Students have the opportunity to participate in internships, field studies, and other hands-on learning opportunities that allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
- Supportive faculty: SOU faculty are dedicated to student success. They are available to provide guidance and support to students, and they are committed to helping students reach their full potential.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
89%
Application Fee
$60
How to Apply at Southern Oregon University
- Create an account and complete the online application. The application fee is $60.
- Submit official transcripts from your high school or college. Transcripts must be translated into English if they are not originally in English.
- Submit a copy of your high school diploma or university degree.
- Submit official English proficiency test scores
- Apply and wait for the results.
Documents Required to Apply to Southern Oregon University
Here is the list of documents to apply to Southern Oregon University as international students:
Undergraduate student:
- Completed application and application fee
- Official high school transcripts
- English proficiency score
- 2.5 min GPA requirement on a scale of 4.0
Graduate students:
- Completed application and application fee
- Official college transcripts
- English proficiency score
- GRE scores (if required by the program)
- Resume
- Personal statement
- Letter of recommendation
Exams Accepted By Southern Oregon University
Below given are the minimum requirement for the exam accepted by the university:
Undergraduate students:
- TOEFL (iBT): 68
- TOEFL (PBT): 520
- IELTS: 5.5
Graduate students:
- TOEFL (iBT): 76
- TOEFL (PBT): 540
- IELTS: 6.0
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
There are a variety of transportation options available in the city of Southern Oregon University. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Public bus: The Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) provides bus service throughout the Rogue Valley, including Southern Oregon University. Students, faculty, and staff can purchase a discounted bus pass for $15 per term.
- Bike: Southern Oregon University is a very bike-friendly campus. There are bike racks located all over campus, and the university offers a bike maintenance shop where students can repair their bikes for free.
- Car: If you need to drive to campus, there is a parking garage located on campus. Parking permits are required for all vehicles.
- Walking: Southern Oregon University is a relatively small campus, so it is easy to get around by walking.
Services offered by the university
Southern Oregon University offers a variety of services to its students, faculty, and staff. These services include:
- Academic advising: Students can get help with course selection, scheduling, and educational planning from academic advisors.
- Financial aid: Students can apply for financial assistance, such as grants, scholarships, and loans, to help pay for their education.
- Student health services: Students have access to a variety of health services, including medical care, mental health counselling, and substance abuse counselling.
- Career services: Students can get help with job searching, resume writing, and interview skills from career counsellors.
- Disability services: Students with disabilities can get help with accommodations, such as note-takers, extended test time, and accessible transportation.
- Diversity and inclusion services: SOU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and offers a variety of services to support students from all backgrounds.
Student life at Southern Oregon University
Here are some of the things you can do as a student at Southern Oregon University:
- Join a club or organization: There are over 200 student organizations at SOU, so there's sure to be something for everyone. You can join a club based on your interests, such as the hiking club, the environmental club, or the theatre club.
- Participate in intramural sports: SOU offers a variety of intramural sports, so you can find something to play, whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking to get some exercise.
- Attend events at the Stevenson Union: The Stevenson Union is the heart of campus life, and it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, speakers, and dances.
- Go to a sporting event: SOU has a robust athletic program, and there are always games to be watched. Cheer on the Raiders at a football game, a basketball game, or a volleyball game.
- Explore the Rogue Valley: Southern Oregon is a beautiful place, and there are plenty of opportunities to get outdoors. Go hiking, camping, fishing, or kayaking.
- Get involved in the community: SOU is committed to giving back to the community, and there are many opportunities for students to get involved. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen, help out at a homeless shelter, or tutor children at a local school.
On campus accomodation at Southern Oregon University
Southern Oregon University offers a variety of on-campus housing options to suit the needs of all students.
- Residence Halls: Southern Oregon University has four residence halls: Shasta Hall, McLoughlin Hall, Madrone Hall, and Siskiyou Hall. Residence halls offer a variety of room options, including single rooms, double rooms, and triple rooms. All residence halls are furnished and include utilities
- Student Apartments: Southern Oregon University also offers student apartments, which are located just two blocks from campus. Student apartments offer a variety of floor plans, from studios to four-bedroom apartments. Apartments are furnished and include utilities
- Family Housing: Southern Oregon University also offers family housing, which is located just two blocks from campus. Family housing offers a variety of floor plans, from two-bedroom to four-bedroom apartments. Apartments are furnished and include utilities.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
The university boasts a total of 251 faculty members. Notably, 153 of these individuals serve as full-time faculty, constituting a notable 60.2% of the faculty body. Complementing this, 98 educators contribute their expertise as part-time faculty, making up 39.8% of the faculty composition.
Within this academic community, 49 accomplished individuals hold positions on the esteemed tenure track, representing 19.1% of the faculty. A more substantial segment, comprising 202 faculty members, serves in non-tenure-track roles, encompassing 70.9% of the total.
Diversity is a hallmark of SOU's faculty, with 145 female educators, making up 57.5% of the faculty, and 106 male educators, accounting for 42.5% of the faculty.
In terms of compensation, the average faculty salary stands at $72,000, reflecting the university's dedication to fairly rewarding its educators for their valuable contributions.
Career Opportunities
University Endowments Value
Internship opportunities at Southern Oregon University
There are many internships and part-time job opportunities available at Southern Oregon University. Here are a few examples:
- Internship in the Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies program: This internship provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of gender studies. Students may work with faculty on research projects, assist with student organizations, or intern at local non-profits.
- Part-time job as an Occupational Therapy Aide: This position is available for students who are interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy. Duties include assisting OTs with patient care, providing transportation to and from appointments, and maintaining patient records.
- Internship in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) field: There are many STEM-related internships available at SOU, such as internships in computer science, engineering, and biology. These internships provide students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in their chosen field.
- Part-time job as a Student Assistant: Student assistants provide support to faculty and staff in a variety of departments, such as the library, the athletic department, and the admissions office. These positions are a great way to gain experience and learn about different areas of the university.
Placement of Southern Oregon University
Hiring Companies
According to the Southern Oregon University Career Center, the following are the top 10 employers of SOU graduates:
- Medford School District
- Rogue Valley Medical Center
- US Forest Service
- Asante Health System
- City of Medford
- Oregon Department of Transportation
- Oregon Health Authority
- Jackson County
- US Air Force
- US Army
Salaries
The average salary for SOU graduates is $50,000 per year. However, salaries vary depending on the field of study and the employer. For example, graduates with degrees in education and healthcare tend to earn higher salaries than graduates with degrees in the arts and humanities.
Popular Courses · 17
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
27,450
tuition / yr
Masters in Applied Mathematics
Masters in Arts or Science in Education
Masters in Business Administration
28,935
tuition / yr
Masters in Environmental Education
Masters in Environmental Science
Masters in French
Masters in French (Teaching)
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated June 10, 2026