Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
Acceptance rate
75.3%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$15,690
In-state $9,960
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
3,084
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
23.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 32.9%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Southern Arkansas University (SAU) is located in Magnolia, Arkansas, and is known for its commitment to providing a comprehensive education in a supportive and friendly environment. Established in 1909, SAU has evolved into a vibrant institution that offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, agriculture, and the arts. The university prides itself on its small class sizes, which foster close relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the academic experience and promoting personalized learning. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, SAU encourages students to engage in internships, research projects, and community service, preparing them for successful careers.
The campus culture at SAU is characterized by a strong sense of community and school spirit. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including numerous clubs, organizations, and intramural sports, which contribute to a well-rounded college experience. The university also places a significant emphasis on athletics, competing in NCAA Division II sports, which helps to cultivate teamwork and leadership skills among students. Furthermore, SAU's commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its various programs and initiatives aimed at creating an inviting atmosphere for all students. Overall, Southern Arkansas University stands out as an institution dedicated to academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at Southern Arkansas University
Southern Arkansas University is experiencing notable trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention. Over the past decade, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen from approximately $7,386 in 2014 to $9,580 in 2023, reflecting a significant increase of over 29%. This upward trend in tuition is a common concern across many universities, as rising costs can impact accessibility for prospective students.
In parallel, graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from around 18.6% in 2013 to approximately 28.1% in 2023. This nearly 10% increase suggests improvements in academic support and student engagement initiatives, which are crucial for enhancing student success.
Retention rates also provide insight into student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness. The retention rate for undergraduates rose from about 60.3% in 2013 to around 70.5% in 2023. This increase indicates that more students are choosing to continue their education at Southern Arkansas University, which could be attributed to effective retention strategies and a supportive learning environment.
Overall, while the rising tuition may raise concerns about affordability, the concurrent improvements in graduation and retention rates are promising indicators that the university is fostering a more supportive and effective educational experience for its students. As institutions continue to navigate financial pressures, these metrics will be essential in evaluating their commitment to student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Little Rock, about 110 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 220 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Bruno Hicks (President)
- Phone
- 8702354000
- Address
- 100 E. University, Magnolia, AR 71753
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 63.6%, women 66.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Southern Arkansas University
The admission data from Southern Arkansas University over the years reveals notable trends in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. The male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 75% in 2010, reflecting a relatively open admissions policy during that period. However, this rate has seen fluctuations, hitting a low of around 63% in 2020, indicating a tightening of admissions standards possibly influenced by increased competition among applicants and a higher number of applications.
In terms of female admission rates, the trends mirror those of male applicants. The female acceptance rate was highest at about 73% in 2010 but dropped to around 61% in 2022, suggesting that the university may be facing challenges in maintaining gender parity in its admissions process. The overall enrollment numbers have varied, peaking at 900 students in 2019, but generally show a trend toward increased enrollment in recent years, particularly in 2017 and 2018.
The number of denied applications has consistently exceeded 1,000 in several years, indicating a competitive landscape for prospective students. Additionally, the number of deferred admissions has remained significant, suggesting that many applicants are still being considered for future enrollment, which can be a strategic approach for universities to manage their incoming classes.
Overall, the data reflects a dynamic and competitive admissions environment at Southern Arkansas University, with ongoing challenges in balancing acceptance rates, enrollment, and maintaining diversity among applicants. As the institution continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor these trends and adapt to the changing landscape of higher education.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School2 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 7% submitted SAT, 100% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores and Submission Trends at Southern Arkansas University
The data from Southern Arkansas University over the years reflects noticeable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates for both the SAT and ACT. A significant observation is the fluctuation in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, which varied from as low as 3% in 2017 to a peak of 10% in 2022. This indicates a shifting interest or requirement for standardized testing in college admissions, possibly influenced by broader national trends where many institutions began to adopt test-optional policies.
The SAT reading and math scores show a general trend of improvement from 2007 to 2023. The 25th percentile (start) and 75th percentile (end) scores for the SAT reading and math have generally shown upward movement, suggesting that the admitted students are performing better on average over time. For instance, the SAT reading scores improved significantly by 2023, indicating a competitive applicant pool.
Similarly, the ACT scores reveal a consistent performance level among admitted students, with the composite scores reflecting a stable range over the years. Notably, the 25th percentile scores shifted upwards, indicating that the lower end of the scoring spectrum has improved, which can be interpreted as an increase in overall academic preparedness among applicants.
Furthermore, the data underscores the importance of these assessments in the admissions process, as they serve as indicators of student readiness for college-level work. Overall, the evolving trends in test submissions and scores at Southern Arkansas University illustrate an adaptive response to changing educational landscapes and student demographics, mirroring national movements towards more holistic admissions processes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,708 applicants in 2025, 75.3% admitted
2,040 admitted 668 not admitted Yield 34.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer and Information Sciences, General · Master's541 (98% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's76 (1% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's43 (2% international)
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services, Other · Master's40 (0% international)
- Educational/Instructional Technology · Master's36 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's20 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Southern Arkansas University
The graduation data from Southern Arkansas University reveals notable trends across various academic disciplines for the year 2023. A striking observation is the dominance of the Education sector, which showcases a substantial number of graduates at both the master's level and the associate degree level. This trend aligns with the ongoing demand for qualified educators as schools and educational institutions strive to enhance the quality of education, particularly in the post-pandemic era.
Additionally, the Business Administration and Management disciplines demonstrate a healthy output of graduates, indicating a robust interest in business careers amidst a recovering economy. The increasing number of graduates in this field can be seen as a response to the evolving job market, where skills in management and entrepreneurship are highly sought after.
Interestingly, programs related to health sciences, specifically Registered Nursing, also reflect a significant number of graduates. This trend is particularly relevant given the heightened focus on healthcare services and the growing need for healthcare professionals in response to the ongoing public health challenges.
Moreover, the data indicates a notable presence of international students among the graduates, particularly within the master's programs. This highlights the university's attractiveness to international students, which is crucial for fostering diversity and enriching the educational experience on campus.
In conclusion, the graduation statistics at Southern Arkansas University for 2023 illustrate the institution's alignment with current workforce demands, emphasizing education, business, and health sciences as critical areas of growth. This reflects broader societal trends towards enhancing educational quality and addressing pressing healthcare needs, ultimately shaping the future workforce.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $32,429 | ||||
| Information Technology Project Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $46,652 | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $59,942 | ||||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | $49,787 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $47,726 | ||||
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services, Other. | $47,726 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $40,827-$47,161 | ||||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $40,827-$47,161 | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $40,827-$47,161 | ||||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $40,827-$47,161 | ||||
| Agricultural Teacher Education. | $50,024 | ||||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $50,024 | ||||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $30,193 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $41,241 | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $58,796 | ||||
| Accounting. | $41,240 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $69,942 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | - | ||||
| Agricultural Business and Management, General. | $39,452 | ||||
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | $39,452 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $34,369-$47,458 | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $34,369-$47,458 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $34,369-$47,458 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $28,697 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | $29,516 | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Visual and Performing Arts, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | $48,748 | ||||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,655 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Physics, Other. | $72,874 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | $73,682 | ||||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $33,490 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History and Political Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
Students
4,732 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 66.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,816
- First-year undergraduates 705
- Graduate students 1,648
- Transfers and others 563
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,084)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Southern Arkansas University in 2023
The student body at Southern Arkansas University in 2023 demonstrates a diverse composition across different classifications. The data reveals a total of 707 new undergraduate students, with a gender distribution slightly favoring female students, who make up 55.4% of this group. This trend continues with returning undergraduate students, where females constitute 56.1% of the 1,884 students. The proportion of female students remains significant among transfer undergraduates at 58.2%.
Graduate students present a more balanced gender ratio, with males at 48.7% and females at 51.3%, reflecting an increasing trend towards gender parity in higher education. This shift may be indicative of broader societal changes as more women pursue advanced degrees.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, detailed data on the specific breakdown of underrepresented groups among new and returning undergraduates is not fully available, but the overall figures suggest a predominance of white students. For instance, among new undergraduates, 410 students identify as white, while the numbers for other races remain unspecified. This lack of clarity in demographic representation is crucial for the university's efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity on campus.
The increase in enrollment, particularly in the graduate category, could be linked to the growing demand for higher education access and the need for advanced vocational skills in today's job market. Overall, these statistics reflect a positive trend towards a more gender-balanced and diverse student population, although continued efforts are necessary to enhance representation among all racial and ethnic groups.
Age Composition of Southern Arkansas University Students in 2023
The age composition of students at Southern Arkansas University in 2023 reflects a diverse demographic, showcasing a significant presence of traditional college-age individuals while also accommodating older students. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age bracket, comprising approximately 41% of the total female students and 32% of the total male students. This aligns with national trends wherein most universities see a majority of their enrollment from younger, first-time college attendees.
The data indicates that the percentage of graduate students increases notably in older age categories. For instance, students aged 25-29 account for nearly 29% of all graduate males and 45% of graduate females, suggesting that many individuals are pursuing higher education later in life, a trend that has become more prevalent as adult learning becomes increasingly recognized as vital for career advancement and personal fulfillment.
Moreover, the small representation of students aged 50 and above highlights a growing but still limited trend of lifelong learning. With the rise of online education and flexible learning options, we might anticipate a gradual increase in this demographic in the coming years, as more individuals seek to enhance their skills or shift careers.
Overall, the age distribution at Southern Arkansas University not only reflects the traditional college demographic but also illustrates the evolving landscape of higher education, where age diversity is becoming more pronounced and beneficial for fostering varied perspectives within the academic community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
39 in 2025 · 3.9% in 2016
697 in 2025 · 57.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Southern Arkansas University
The data on international student enrollment at Southern Arkansas University reveals notable fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has generally shown a declining trend, dropping from 4.56% in 2004 to just 1.68% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the university's appeal to international students amid increasing competition from other institutions across the United States and globally.
On the graduate side, the numbers paint a contrasting picture. The percentage of international students among graduate enrollees surged dramatically from 0.49% in 2004 to a peak of 70.62% in 2017. This spike may highlight a growing reputation for specific graduate programs or a broader trend of international students seeking advanced degrees in the U.S. However, the proportion has since stabilized, with 49.43% in 2023, indicating a robust but potentially saturating interest from international candidates.
These trends suggest that while Southern Arkansas University has successfully attracted a significant number of international graduate students, it may need to reassess its strategies to enhance its undergraduate international enrollment. This could include improved marketing efforts, partnerships with foreign institutions, and enhanced support services for international students. As global educational dynamics continue to evolve, it is crucial for the university to adapt and innovate in order to maintain its attractiveness to a diverse student body.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$23,601
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $15,690
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,960
- Room and board
- $7,911
- Graduate tuition
- $10,656
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$80.4M
Expenses$78.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great American Conference
Great American Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 149 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 73 | 56 |
| Baseball | 56 | - |
| Rodeo | 12 | 24 |
| Softball | - | 35 |
| Basketball | 16 | 17 |
| Golf | 11 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 67 | 57 |
| Football | 121 | - |
| Baseball | 63 | - |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Rodeo | 10 | 22 |
| Tennis | 12 | 11 |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 76 | 69 |
| Football | 118 | - |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Softball | - | 39 |
| Rodeo | 11 | 23 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Tennis | 15 | 10 |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Hendrix CollegeConway · 133.0 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Harding UniversitySearcy · 160.3 mi
U.S. News #276
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 199.3 mi
U.S. News #191
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 204.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 207.7 mi
U.S. News #85
-
University of MississippiUniversity · 224.9 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Rhodes CollegeMemphis · 225.7 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of North TexasDenton · 226.1 mi
U.S. News #208
-
University of MemphisMemphis · 226.8 mi
U.S. News #288
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Southern Arkansas University Main Campus:
-
University of Arkansas - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in various fields, including business, education, and engineering.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, this comprehensive university offers a vibrant campus life and is recognized for its business and law programs.
-
Texas Christian University - Ranked 98, this comprehensive university provides a rigorous education with a strong emphasis on liberal arts and sciences.
-
Rice University - As a highly prestigious comprehensive university ranked 17th, Rice is renowned for its research initiatives and strong programs in science, engineering, and humanities.
-
University of Houston - This comprehensive university, ranked 133, is known for its diverse student body and comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Southern Arkansas University
The crime data from Southern Arkansas University reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students peaked in 2013 at approximately 11.41, which indicates a concerning level of criminal activity on campus during that year. Over the subsequent years, there were drastic reductions in the crime rate, with the lowest recorded in 2022 at 2.62 incidents per 1,000 students. This decline suggests that the university may have implemented effective crime prevention strategies, fostering a safer campus environment.
However, the latest data from 2023 shows a rise in crime rates again, reaching 5.54 per 1,000 students. This resurgence may indicate the need for ongoing vigilance and possibly reevaluating security measures. The types of crime reported include serious offenses such as gun-related arrests and assaults, which are often linked to broader societal issues, including drug abuse and domestic violence.
The overall trend appears to reflect a university grappling with the complexities of ensuring student safety in an ever-changing environment. While the significant drop in crime rates is encouraging, the increase in 2023 serves as a reminder that complacency should not set in. Continuous efforts to engage students in safety initiatives, education on personal security, and community outreach programs are essential to maintain a safe campus atmosphere.
For more detailed information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Southern Arkansas University Main Campus include Tommy Tuberville (U.S. senator from Alabama, former football coach), Tracy Lawrence (Country music singer, songwriter and record producer) and Jordan Babineaux (Former NFL safety).
-
Tommy Tuberville 1954–
U.S. senator from Alabama, former football coach
-
Tracy Lawrence 1968–
Country music singer, songwriter and record producer
-
Jordan Babineaux 1982–
Former NFL safety
-
Wayne Dowd 1941–2016
Arkansas politician and lawyer
-
Nik Lewis 1982–
CFL slotback, two-time Grey Cup champion
-
Charlie Daniels 1939–2023
Former Arkansas Secretary of State and State Auditor
-
David Fielding 1955–
Democratic member of the Arkansas House of Representatives
-
Ron Simmons 1960–
Former Texas state representative
-
Skyler Stromsmoe 1984–
Canadian former professional baseball player
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Joyce Elliott 1951–
Arkansas state senator from 2009 to 2022
-
Lane Jean 1958–
Arkansas state representative
-
James Herbert Jones 1920–2008
Arkansas State Auditor and National Guard Adjutant General
-
DeAnn Vaught 1970–
Farmer and Arkansas state representative
Sports
-
Ken Beck 1935–2006
Former NFL defensive tackle for the Packers
-
Cedric Thornton 1988–
Former NFL defensive tackle
-
Tanner Hudson 1994–
NFL tight end for the Cincinnati Bengals
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.