Southern University and A & M College

The ROI score of 9 suggests a limited return on investment, with median earnings not substantially exceeding the median debt. Prospective students should consider their career aspirations and potential earning capacity beyond the provided median.

The most significant academic challenge highlighted by the data is the low graduation rate of 27.7%, indicating potential difficulties for students in completing their degrees.

In-state tuition is significantly lower at $9,922 compared to out-of-state tuition of $17,272, making it a more affordable option for Louisiana residents.

Graduates of Southern University and A & M College earn a median of $43,371 ten years after entry, which is a moderate income level that may require careful financial planning to manage student debt.

Students can expect a culturally rich environment at this HBCU with a predominantly Black student body. The campus is medium-sized, and the admission rate suggests a diverse range of academic backgrounds among admitted students.

Southern University and A&M College (SU) has a selective admission rate of approximately 35.1%, indicating that it is moderately competitive to gain admission. This means that for every 100 applicants, roughly 35 are offered admission. To be a competitive applicant, prospective students should focus on presenting a strong academic profile. This typically includes achieving a solid GPA, particularly in core college preparatory courses. While specific GPA and standardized test score cutoffs can vary by program and year, aiming for a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is generally advisable. SU also considers factors beyond grades, such as the rigor of high school coursework, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal essays. Applicants are encouraged to submit strong letters of recommendation and to highlight any community service or work experience that demonstrates responsibility and commitment. For those who may not meet all traditional academic benchmarks, SU may offer pathways through specific programs or conditional admission, emphasizing the importance of a holistic review process. Prospective students should thoroughly review the admissions requirements on the official SU website and consider contacting the admissions office directly to understand the most current criteria and to receive personalized guidance.

The value of a Southern University and A&M College (SU) degree is a nuanced consideration, leaning towards a moderate return, especially for in-state students. The in-state tuition of $9,922 per year is quite affordable, making the total cost of a four-year degree potentially around $40,000 before aid. With a median 10-year earning potential of $43,371, graduates are projected to earn back their initial investment over time. The median debt of $29,251 is a significant factor; it would take approximately 6.7 years of post-graduation earnings to pay off this debt if a substantial portion of income is dedicated to repayment. This timeline is manageable but requires financial discipline. The ROI score of 9 suggests a fair, though not exceptional, financial outcome. The value is amplified for students who secure employment in high-demand sectors within Louisiana, such as petrochemicals or healthcare, where starting salaries can exceed the median. Conversely, the lower graduation rate (27.7%) could indicate potential challenges in program completion, which can impact overall earning potential. For Louisiana residents, SU offers a cost-effective pathway to a degree with reasonable career prospects in the regional economy. Out-of-state students face a higher tuition burden, making the value proposition less compelling unless they secure significant financial aid or high-paying jobs immediately after graduation. Overall, SU is a reasonable investment for motivated in-state students focused on leveraging regional opportunities.

Southern University and A&M College (SU) offers several strong majors that align with regional economic strengths and offer promising career outcomes. Programs within the College of Engineering, particularly Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering, are highly regarded due to Louisiana's robust industrial and infrastructure needs. Graduates from these programs are sought after by major employers in the petrochemical, manufacturing, and construction sectors along the Gulf Coast. The College of Nursing and Allied Health offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which consistently produces graduates in high demand within the healthcare industry, both in Baton Rouge and statewide. The E.C. Chappelle College of Business offers programs like Accounting and Finance, which are foundational for careers in the region's diverse business landscape, including roles in the state government and private sector. For students interested in public service and policy, the Political Science program can be a strong choice, leveraging SU's location in the state capital. Additionally, degrees in fields like Computer Science and Cybersecurity are increasingly relevant and offer good career prospects in a technologically advancing economy. Prospective students should research specific program accreditation, faculty expertise, internship opportunities, and alumni placement data within their intended major to make the most informed decision.

Student life at Southern University and A&M College (SU) is deeply rooted in tradition, community, and the vibrant culture characteristic of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). As a public institution in Baton Rouge, SU offers a campus experience that blends academic pursuits with a strong sense of belonging and social engagement. The university boasts a wide array of student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, Greek life, and intramural sports, providing ample opportunities for students to connect, develop leadership skills, and pursue their interests outside the classroom. SU is renowned for its spirited athletics programs, particularly its football team, which fosters a strong sense of school pride and community engagement, especially during homecoming events. The campus itself is picturesque, located on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, providing a scenic backdrop for student activities. Social life often revolves around campus events, student government, and the university's rich musical traditions, including its highly acclaimed marching band. While academic rigor is a priority, SU emphasizes a holistic student experience, encouraging involvement in activities that contribute to personal growth and a well-rounded education. The proximity to Baton Rouge also allows students to explore the city's cultural attractions, dining, and entertainment options.

Southern University and A&M College (SU) provides a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of attendance. A significant portion of SU students receive some form of financial assistance, primarily through federal and state grants, scholarships, and student loans. Federal aid programs, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans, are available to eligible students based on financial need. Louisiana residents may also qualify for state-specific aid programs. SU offers institutional scholarships, which are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, specific talents (like athletics or music), or financial need. These scholarships can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost for students. The university's financial aid office is responsible for administering these aid packages and assists students in navigating the application process, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). While specific average aid amounts can fluctuate annually, it's common for students to receive a combination of grants (which do not need to be repaid) and loans (which do). Prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to be considered for all available aid. Information on specific scholarship opportunities and application deadlines can be found on the SU Financial Aid website.

Graduates from Southern University and A&M College (SU) can expect a median salary in the range of $43,371 ten years after graduation, according to available data. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, academic performance, internship experiences, and the specific industry and geographic location of employment. For instance, graduates from the College of Engineering, particularly in fields like chemical or mechanical engineering, often command higher starting salaries, potentially in the $60,000-$75,000 range, especially when employed by major petrochemical companies in the region. Similarly, nursing graduates from the College of Nursing and Allied Health typically find strong job markets with competitive starting salaries, often beginning in the $55,000-$65,000 range, depending on the healthcare facility and role. Business majors, such as accountants or finance professionals, might expect starting salaries in the $45,000-$55,000 range, with potential for growth. Graduates entering public service or administrative roles may see starting salaries closer to the overall median. It's crucial for students to leverage SU's career services, secure relevant internships, and network effectively to maximize their earning potential. The median earnings data reflects a 10-year outlook, suggesting that salaries increase with experience and career progression.

Southern University and A&M College (SU) offers a range of on-campus housing options designed to accommodate its student population. The university provides traditional dormitory-style living, typically featuring double-occupancy rooms with shared common bathrooms on each floor. These residence halls are generally equipped with basic furnishings, including a bed, desk, and closet space for each student. Common areas within the halls often include lounges for studying and socializing, laundry facilities, and sometimes kitchens or recreational spaces. SU aims to create a supportive living and learning environment, with Resident Advisors (RAs) available in each hall to assist students, enforce community standards, and organize floor activities. Specific residence halls may cater to different student groups, such as freshmen or upperclassmen. For example, residential options like Leonard Roy Harmon Hall and Harris Hall are often designated for first-year students, providing a structured introduction to university living. While on-campus housing is a primary option, especially for freshmen, SU also has a significant number of students who live off-campus, particularly as they progress through their academic careers. Students interested in on-campus housing should review the SU Housing and Residence Life website for detailed information on available halls, room rates, application procedures, and deadlines.

Southern University and A&M College (SU) provides opportunities for undergraduate research, particularly within its STEM disciplines, though it may not be classified as a top-tier research university on the scale of major R1 institutions. SU encourages students to engage in research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors, offering valuable hands-on experience that complements classroom learning. The university actively participates in programs like the Louis Stokes Louisiana Alliance for Minority Participation (LS-LAMP) and the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP), which often include research components. These initiatives aim to increase the number of minority students pursuing graduate studies in STEM fields by providing research opportunities, stipends, and mentorship. Colleges such as Engineering, Sciences, and Agriculture offer faculty actively involved in research, and students can often join their research teams. While SU's research output may be more focused on applied research and undergraduate training rather than groundbreaking discoveries, these experiences are crucial for students considering graduate school or careers in research-oriented industries. Students interested in research should proactively connect with faculty members whose work aligns with their interests and inquire about available research assistant positions or projects.

Southern University and A&M College (SU) is often compared to other public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and regional public universities in Louisiana and the surrounding Southern states. Peers like Grambling State University, Jackson State University, and Alcorn State University share similar missions, student demographics, and often, program offerings. Regionally within Louisiana, it competes with institutions like Louisiana Tech University and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for students and faculty, though these latter institutions may have a broader focus beyond the HBCU experience. SU's advantages often lie in its location in the state capital, Baton Rouge, providing unique access to state government internships and career paths, and its strong legacy within the Louisiana business and political landscape. However, compared to some of its peers, SU faces challenges such as a lower graduation rate and median earnings that are not as high as some other state universities. While institutions like Louisiana Tech might boast stronger engineering rankings or broader national recruitment, SU excels in fostering a distinct cultural experience and a strong sense of community often associated with HBCUs. The choice between SU and its peers often depends on a student's specific academic goals, desired campus culture, and career aspirations within the regional context.

Employers familiar with Southern University and A&M College (SU) generally hold a positive perception of its graduates, particularly those from programs aligned with the regional economy. Companies with significant operations in Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, such as ExxonMobil, Dow Chemical, and Ochsner Health System, actively recruit from SU, recognizing the quality of its engineering, nursing, and business programs. These employers value SU graduates for their strong work ethic, practical skills, and understanding of the regional industrial landscape. The university's status as a prominent HBCU also means its alumni network is well-established and influential, particularly within state government, education, and various professional organizations in Louisiana. While SU may not have the same national brand recognition as some larger flagship universities, its reputation within its core industries and geographic region is solid. Employers often look for graduates who have demonstrated leadership, community involvement, and practical experience gained through internships, all of which are emphasized at SU. The success of SU alumni in various fields, including notable figures in politics and business, further bolsters the perception of the university's ability to produce capable professionals ready to contribute to the workforce.