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Public, 4-year

Southern University at New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana · www.suno.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

78.9%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$16,954

In-state $8,054

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

2,179

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

7.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 17.0%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) is a prominent public historically black university located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Established in 1956, SUNO has a rich history of providing quality education and fostering a vibrant campus culture. The university is committed to its mission of empowering students through academic excellence, cultural diversity, and community engagement. With a focus on student success, SUNO offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, social sciences, and arts, which are designed to equip students with the skills necessary for thriving in a competitive job market.

The university prides itself on its dedicated faculty, who are not only committed to teaching but also to mentoring and supporting students in their academic journeys. SUNO's campus environment is characterized by a strong sense of community, where students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and cultural events. This engagement enhances the overall student experience and promotes personal growth. Additionally, SUNO has established partnerships with local businesses and organizations, providing valuable internship and employment opportunities for its graduates. With its strategic location in the culturally rich city of New Orleans, students also benefit from the city's vibrant arts scene, historical significance, and diverse cultural experiences, making their academic life both enriching and enjoyable.

Analysis of Tuition Trends and Student Metrics at Southern University at New Orleans

Southern University at New Orleans has exhibited significant trends in tuition costs and student metrics over the years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $4,850 in 2014 to $7,490 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 54% over a decade. This trend is reflective of a broader national issue where public universities have been increasing tuition to offset budget cuts and rising operational costs. For out-of-state undergraduate students, the increase was even more pronounced, rising from $4,850 to $16,390, demonstrating a staggering increase of over 236%.

In terms of student enrollment, the university has experienced fluctuations. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 2,349 in 2013 to 1,680 in 2023, indicating a decline that raises concerns about the university's appeal and competitiveness. This decline in student numbers may correlate with rising tuition costs, making it less accessible for potential students.

Moreover, the retention rate, which reflects the percentage of students who continue their studies at the same institution, has also seen a concerning downward trend, from approximately 61% in 2013 to around 46% in 2023. This decline suggests potential issues with student satisfaction or support services, which could further exacerbate enrollment challenges.

The graduation rates are another critical factor, with the percentage of students graduating on time remaining alarmingly low, hovering around 4% in 2023. This statistic indicates that the institution faces challenges in ensuring students complete their degrees within the expected time frame, which could impact both the university’s reputation and the future employability of its graduates.

Overall, the trends at Southern University at New Orleans highlight a complex interplay of rising costs, declining enrollment, and retention challenges, necessitating strategic interventions to enhance student experience and mitigate financial barriers.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
New Orleans, about 7 mi
Nearest international airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), about 15 mi
New Orleans, Louisiana
Also known as
SUNO
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Joseph Bouie, Jr (Chancellor)
Phone
5042865000
City
New Orleans, Louisiana
Address
6400 Press Drive, New Orleans, LA 70126

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
77.5%
Women
79.3%

In 2020: men 56.4%, women 62.2%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Southern University at New Orleans

The admission trends at Southern University at New Orleans over the years reveal significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting in 2011, the admission rates for male applicants were relatively high at approximately 51.15%, while female applicants had a slightly lower rate of 47.99%. However, these figures drastically changed by 2017, where male acceptance dropped to just 11.85% and female acceptance to 11.44%. This decline indicates a tightening of admission standards or possibly an increase in application numbers without a corresponding increase in available spots.
Interestingly, 2020 marked a turning point, with male acceptance rates soaring to 56.36% and female rates to 62.24%. This could be attributed to the broader impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have influenced both application and enrollment patterns across universities nationwide. Subsequently, the years following saw a continued upward trend in acceptance rates, culminating in a remarkable 90.49% for male applicants and 94.85% for female applicants in 2023.
Moreover, the enrollment numbers varied greatly, with the highest enrollment reaching 684 in 2014, while the lowest was just 111 in 2022. The overall trend highlights the university's responsiveness to changing applicant demographics and external factors impacting education. As higher education institutions adjust to fluctuating application rates, it is crucial to monitor how these patterns evolve, especially in light of ongoing societal changes and challenges.

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

Business School#439▲17

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 · 10% submitted SAT, 64% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total820–1050Peer median 1080
ACT composite15–20
SAT Reading
410–540
600700800
SAT Math
410–510
600700800
ACT composite
15–20
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Southern University at New Orleans

The admissions data for Southern University at New Orleans reveals some interesting trends over the years, particularly in the context of standardized test scores and the percentage of students submitting these scores. Notably, from 2011 onwards, we see fluctuations in both ACT and SAT submission rates with significant variations in the number of applicants.

In 2011, the data indicates that 71% of the admitted students submitted ACT scores, showcasing a strong reliance on this particular assessment for admissions. However, as we progress through the years, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores remains quite low, at only 1% in 2012 and 2013. This trend suggests a potential shift in the applicant pool's preferences, possibly influenced by broader educational trends or the accessibility of these tests.

The SAT reading and math scores show a consistent range for the middle 50% of admitted students, remaining between 360 to 390 in recent years. This relatively low score range could reflect the institution's focus on inclusivity and access for a diverse student body, as well as a broader trend seen in many universities to accommodate students from varied academic backgrounds.

As standardized testing continues to evolve, particularly with discussions around test-optional policies gaining traction nationwide, Southern University at New Orleans may need to consider how these changes affect their admissions strategy. The institution's data suggests a need for ongoing analysis to ensure they are meeting the academic and social needs of their students while maintaining a fair and equitable admissions process.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

6,526 applicants in 2025, 78.9% admitted

5,149 admitted 1,377 not admitted Yield 3.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate20 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1892 international (1.1%)
Master's9714 international (14.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
33
Psychology, General
28
Business Administration and Management, General
25
Social Work
24
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
14
Forensic Science and Technology
13
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
9
Family and Community Services
8
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
8
Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Social Work · Master's47 (2% international)
  • Criminal Justice/Safety Studies · Master's23 (0% international)
  • Information Science/Studies · Master's16 (75% international)
  • Museology/Museum Studies · Master's11 (9% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduates by Major at Southern University at New Orleans

The data from Southern University at New Orleans presents an interesting snapshot of the graduation landscape in 2023. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program and Psychology program each produced 41 bachelor's degree graduates, indicating a strong interest in these fields among students. This aligns with national trends where business and psychology are among the most popular undergraduate majors in the United States, often leading to diverse career opportunities in various sectors.

Interestingly, the Master’s programs in Public Administration and Computer Science have considerable outputs with 40 and 25 graduates respectively. This reflects a growing demand for skilled professionals in public service and technology, particularly as governments and organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making and effective public policies. Furthermore, the presence of international students in the Computer Science program (3 graduates) highlights the institution's appeal to global talent amidst a competitive job market.

On the other hand, the data shows a lack of graduates in many associate degree programs, which may suggest a shift in student interests towards bachelor’s and master’s degrees. This trend could also indicate a broader societal move towards higher education as a necessity for better employment prospects, especially in fields such as healthcare and education, where only a few graduates were noted.

Moreover, the absence of international students in many programs suggests potential areas for growth, especially as universities worldwide aim to attract a more diverse student body. Overall, the data reflects both current educational trends and potential areas for institutional focus to enhance enrollment and graduation rates across various disciplines.

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

Public administrationhas 75 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Public Administration.-
Social Work.$44,468
Homeland security has 69 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$33,494-$46,179
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Psychology has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Businesshas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$40,173
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Museology/Museum Studies.-
Health professionshas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator.-
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Computer and information sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Information Science/Studies.-
Human science has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Family and Community Services.$33,687
Biologyhas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Educationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-

Students

2,468 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 52.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,179)

Black
1,676 · 76.9%
Hispanic
182 · 8.4%
White
125 · 5.7%
Two or more races
70 · 3.2%
Asian
53 · 2.4%
International
40 · 1.8%
Unknown
24 · 1.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
39.7%
18–19
20.2%
20–21
8.7%
22–24
8.7%
25 and over
22.8%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.3%
22–24
14.2%
25–29
24.6%
30–34
13.5%
35 and over
47.4%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Southern University at New Orleans

In 2023, Southern University at New Orleans exhibited a diverse student body, with a total of 1,414 students across various categories. The undergraduate freshman group comprised 134 students, with a notable majority being female at 65.7%, indicating a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education. The undergraduate junior cohort had the largest representation, totaling 865 students, with a significant female demographic of 78.5%. This could reflect both societal shifts towards gender equity in education and targeted recruitment efforts by the university.

The undergraduate transfer student population was 145, again showing a predominance of women at 81.4%. This trend could be indicative of women seeking to advance their education and career opportunities. In contrast, the graduate student population consisted of 270 individuals, with males making up 28.9%. While the male-to-female ratio is more balanced here, the overall trend of higher female enrollment in undergraduate programs remains clear.

Ethnic diversity within the student body is also noteworthy. The data indicates varying representation among different ethnic groups, pointing towards an increasingly multicultural environment. However, specific breakdowns of ethnic diversity were not fully available for all student categories, leaving some gaps in understanding the full demographic picture.

Overall, the data from Southern University at New Orleans highlights ongoing trends in gender demographics and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for students from various backgrounds. This reflects broader societal changes in education and the increasing accessibility of higher education for diverse populations.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Southern University at New Orleans

The age composition data from Southern University at New Orleans reveals significant insights into the demographics of its student body. Notably, students under the age of 18 represent a substantial portion of the undergraduate population, with 160 male and 248 female students. This age group reflects a strong entry-level presence, indicating that the university successfully attracts high school graduates.

As we analyze the age groups between 18-24, there is a noticeable trend where both male and female undergraduate populations are higher than their graduate counterparts, particularly in the 22-24 age range. For instance, there are 54 male and 160 female undergraduates aged 22-24, compared to only 16 male and 23 female graduate students in the same age group. This may suggest that many students are pursuing their undergraduate degrees before moving on to graduate studies, aligning with national trends where younger students are increasingly attending college directly after high school.

The data also highlights a gradual decrease in the number of male students as age increases, particularly noticeable in the 30-34 age bracket, where the number drops to 18 males. This could indicate a trend where older students are more likely to be female, as seen in the 30-34 and 35-39 categories, which have 33 and 25 female students, respectively.

Interestingly, the number of students aged 50 and above remains minimal, with only 25 total students aged 50-64 and 9 students over 65. This reflects a broader trend in higher education where older adults are less represented, possibly due to career commitments or the perceived challenges of returning to academic life later in life.

Overall, the data provides a valuable snapshot of the age demographics at Southern University at New Orleans, highlighting the predominance of younger students and the increasing representation of female students across various age groups.

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.

Undergraduates1.8%

40 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.9%2018: 1.2%2019: 1.5%2020: 2.3%2021: 0.5%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.0%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students8.3%

24 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 6.7%2018: 5.5%2019: 2.6%2020: 2.7%2021: 0.6%2022: 0.0%2023: 1.1%2024: 0.3%2025: 8.3%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Southern University at New Orleans

The data from Southern University at New Orleans reveals a concerning trend in international student enrollment over the years. In 2017, the university had 18 international undergraduates, representing 0.91% of the total undergraduate population. This percentage saw a gradual increase until 2020, peaking at 2.27% with 43 international students. However, the numbers took a significant downturn in the following years, with only 3 international undergraduates enrolled in 2023, which is just 0.18% of the undergraduate student body.

On the graduate level, the situation appears similarly troubling. The percentage of international graduate students has fluctuated but has shown a general decline. In 2017, international students comprised 6.68% of the graduate population, but by 2023, this figure dropped to 1.11%, with only 3 international students recorded.

These trends may reflect broader national challenges faced by universities in attracting international students, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and changing immigration policies. The decline in international enrollment can have significant implications for the university's diversity, cultural exchange, and financial stability, as international students often contribute to tuition revenue and enrich campus life.

To address these challenges, Southern University at New Orleans may need to develop targeted recruitment strategies, enhance support services for international students, and foster a welcoming environment that encourages cultural exchange.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$28,291

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$16,954
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$8,054
Room and board
$11,337
Graduate tuition
$16,686
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 191% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 51%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$38.8M

Government grants and contracts
$28.9M74.4%
Tuition and fees
$5.8M15.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.3M5.8%
Gifts and private grants
$241K0.6%
Investment return
$181K0.5%
Other
$1.5M3.8%

Expenses$43.4M

Institutional support
$14.0M32.2%
Instruction
$8.9M20.5%
Student services
$5.1M11.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.5M8.1%
Scholarships
$3.4M7.9%
Academic support
$2.2M5.2%
Public service
$1.9M4.4%
Research
$402K0.9%
Other
$4.0M9.1%

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.

All faculty
$62,034peers $80,690
Professor
$75,533peers $98,841
Associate professor
$59,567peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$56,316peers $74,446
Instructor
$43,260peers $58,934

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference

Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Baseball30-
Basketball2010
Volleyball-10
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Baseball30-
Basketball2010
Volleyball-10
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Basketball2015

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Southern University at New Orleans:

  1. Tulane University of Louisiana - Ranked 73rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Tulane is a prestigious research university known for its strong programs in law, business, and public health.

  2. Loyola University New Orleans - With a ranking of 260, Loyola is a private Jesuit university that offers a liberal arts education with a focus on social justice and ethics.

  3. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College - Ranked 185th, LSU is a major public research university known for its vibrant campus life and comprehensive programs.

  4. University of Alabama at Birmingham - UAB, ranked 142nd, is renowned for its medical and health-related programs and is a leader in research and innovation.

  5. Rice University - One of the top universities with a ranking of 17, Rice is well-known for its rigorous academics, research opportunities, and beautiful campus.

  6. Texas A & M University-College Station - Ranked 47th, Texas A&M is a large public research university famous for its engineering, business, and agricultural programs.

These universities contribute to a rich educational landscape in the New Orleans area, providing a variety of academic opportunities and vibrant campus experiences.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Dating violence
14
Drug referrals
9
Stalking
5
Drug arrests
4
Fondling
3
Aggravated assault
3

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 University at New Orleans

The crime data from Southern University at New Orleans reveals significant fluctuations in criminal activity over the years. Notably, the year 2018 showed the highest crime rate, with 25.29 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a concerning spike in criminal behavior during that period. This surge could be attributed to various factors, including external societal influences or internal campus issues, such as inadequate security measures or increased student population.

Following 2018, a gradual decline in the crime rate can be observed, with 2022 recording one of the lowest rates at 2.28 incidents per 1,000 students. This decline may suggest that the university has implemented more effective strategies to tackle crime, such as enhanced campus security or educational programs to raise awareness about safety and crime prevention. However, the slight increase in 2023 to 8.31 incidents per 1,000 students indicates that challenges still persist.

Another critical aspect is the type of crimes reported. The data highlights a notable number of arrests related to gun possession and drug offenses throughout the years, which aligns with broader trends in college campuses across the United States. Addressing these issues requires ongoing collaboration between university administration, local law enforcement, and students themselves to foster a safer campus environment.

Overall, while there have been improvements in crime rates, continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to maintain and further enhance the safety of students at Southern University at New Orleans. For a more detailed understanding of crime rate calculations, refer to this link.

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.