About
Southern Arkansas University
Nestled in a quiet and beautiful part of south Arkansas, SAU is a great place to call home and to study a broad range of academic programs, including some unique offerings to the state and region.Southern Arkansas University offers 70 undergraduate options, including pre-professional tracks, and 2+2 degree completion programs in four different academic colleges.
Tuition & Fees
At SAU, in-state and out-of-state students receive different tuition rates.
Tuition is at a cost of $3690 per semester for in-state students. Out-of-state students’ tuition costs $6555. Cost of attendance may increase due to residence hall and meal plan costs. To view a full breakdown, click the button.
Southern Arkansas University
Admissions & Acceptance
In order to attend classes at SAU, students must gain official admission to the University and must complete the enrollment process, which includes advisement, registration, and payment of tuition and fees. In order to gain acceptance, students must meet the following condition:
Submission of high school transcript or GED certificate showing graduation date (*minimum 2.30 cumulative high school GPA of non-remedial courses required or ACT 16 composite).
Financial Aid
SAU offers a wide range of academic scholarships for incoming freshmen. To view a full list of scholarships, click the button below.
Programs
SAU offers over 120 unique academic programs, aligned with real-world opportunities that prepare you for your Next Step!
Bachelors in Business administration to MBA (4+1)
SAU offers an optional 4+1 program for business majors that allows students to earn the BBA and MBA degrees simultaneously in five years. During the senior year, students can concurrently complete six graduate hours. By the end of the fourth year, students should complete 126 hours. Students will then complete 24 graduate hours during the fifth year. If a student decides to leave the BBA degree early or fails to maintain the required criteria for the 4+1 BBA/MBA program, the students will move to the BBA option.
Chemistry
This program is for students that are ahead of the curve, have high academic achievement in college thus far and who do well on the Pharmacy School PCAT exam. Students complete three years here, including all general education requirements and pharmacy school prerequisites. Students then apply as juniors to pharmacy school. After acceptance two successful years completed in pharmacy school, students send their transcripts are awarded a bachelor’s chemistry degree from Southern Arkansas University.
Computer science
This program is jointly offered with the Department of Art and Design for students interested in developing video games and animations. Students learn how to create innovative artistic narratives and how to translate those narratives into animated productions as mobile and desktop apps. Project-based industry-like experience is the focus of this training.
Student Life at SAU
Involvement in a campus organization can significantly contribute to a student’s total education. Through engagement in these organizations, students can meet new people, develop communication and leadership skills, find their passion, and enhance their campus experience.
Traditions
Traditions are at the heart of SAU, take a look at some their most notable traditions.
Celebration of Lights
Southern Arkansas University’s beloved Celebration of Lights holiday tradition marks its 40th anniversary this year. With this milestone approaching, the legacy of one man’s leadership, initiative, and love for students is being remembered. J Courson has left an indelible mark on the SAU campus and community through his unwavering dedication and establishment of enduring traditions.
Family Day
Family Day is one of the first events each academic year on SAU’s loaded activities calendar. These campus events not only offer students an exciting outlet from their studies and other academic endeavors, but they welcome the regional community and members of the Mulerider family onto campus.
A 10-year tradition: RHA Turkey Dinner
Southern Arkansas University student residents come from across the globe, but for the 10th year, they came together to serve the underprivileged in the Magnolia community a warm meal for Thanksgiving at the Annual Residence Hall Association Turkey Dinner.
Student Testimonials
Hear from Southern Arkansas University students.
Southern Arkansas University has been a really amazing experience. I have loved the campus and campus life. Greek life is really amazing and I’m glad that I rushed. Everyone is amazing and supportive. The academic side of the school is very good. I like most of my professors and they genuinely want you to succeed.
Anonymous
SAU Student
Southern Arkansas University offers an amazing opportunity to study in a beautiful South Arkansas town, while still feeling like you’re a world away! There are students from over 52 countries enrolled at SAU, and it makes campus a beautiful melting pot of so many different colors, languages, and ethnicities. We learn about one another’s cultures, religion, food, and family life. It has been eye opening and a joy to learn from so many…
Anonymous
SAU Student
SAU is the right school for me. I wanted to go somewhere away from my hometown to experience the “college life”. I have enjoyed making new friends and becoming more independent. It has been an adjustment from being in high school and living at home. I have had to learn time management and have had to be more responsible. I have classes pretty much every day…
Anonymous
SAU Student