Acceptance Rate
35%
Avg. SAT
1020
75th percentile
“A historic heartbeat of Black excellence in Baton Rouge, blending rich HBCU tradition with hands-on learning.”
Baton Rouge, LA
Location
Southern University and A&M College, founded in 1880 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, stands as a cornerstone of African American higher education. Born out of a vision to provide access to learning for Black students in the post-Reconstruction South, it has grown into a vital public institution within the Southern University System. Its legacy as an HBCU (Historically Black College or University) shapes its soul—here, history isn’t just taught; it’s lived through a deep commitment to community, resilience, and cultural pride. If you’re a student eager to connect with a tight-knit network rooted in shared heritage, you’ll find a home on this campus.
The surrounding Baton Rouge area adds a layer of Southern charm and grit to the experience. As Louisiana’s capital, the city offers a blend of political buzz, Cajun flavors, and Mississippi River views, though it’s not without challenges like humid heat and occasional traffic snarls. Southern’s campus, perched on a bluff overlooking the river, feels like an oasis of purpose amid the urban sprawl. This school thrives for students who value history and are motivated to carve their own path, but those seeking a fast-paced, cosmopolitan vibe or a highly competitive academic environment might feel out of place.
Southern’s personality is warm and unapologetically rooted in its mission of empowerment. It attracts students who are often first-generation college-goers or those hungry for a supportive space to grow. While the campus fosters a family-like atmosphere, some may find the slower pace of Baton Rouge or limited off-campus entertainment options a bit isolating compared to larger urban hubs.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Southern University and A&M College shines in fields that blend practical skills with societal impact, particularly through its College of Nursing and Allied Health, which is widely respected for producing skilled healthcare professionals. The university also stands out in agriculture and mechanical engineering, reflecting its land-grant roots and a focus on solving real-world problems. As a student, you can expect a learning environment that prioritizes hands-on experience over theoretical abstraction—think labs, fieldwork, and community projects rather than endless lectures. Classes often encourage collaboration, and professors tend to be accessible, fostering a mentorship vibe.
That said, some introductory courses can feel crowded, and resources for certain programs might be stretched thin compared to larger state schools. Popular majors like nursing can be competitive to enter, requiring extra focus to secure a spot. If you’re driven and ready to advocate for yourself, Southern’s academics will equip you with tangible skills, but students expecting extensive research facilities or a wide array of niche majors may need to adjust their expectations.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
6,043 undergrad • 1,409 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
White
5%
Black / African American
87%
Hispanic / Latino
2%
Asian
2%
Other / Multi-racial
4%
Campus Life
Varsity Athletics
Campus life at Southern University pulses with energy, especially during football season when the Human Jukebox, the university’s legendary marching band, steals the show at games with electrifying performances. Traditions like Homecoming and the Bayou Classic—a historic rivalry game against Grambling State—bring students together in a celebration of pride and spirit that’s hard to match. You’ll find a social scene that’s welcoming, with Greek life, student organizations, and campus events fostering a sense of belonging. Residential life offers a chance to bond, though housing can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is wise.
Off-campus, Baton Rouge’s humid climate and occasional storms can test your patience, and the cost of living, while lower than in big cities, still requires budgeting for students on tight funds. The social vibe leans toward community-driven gatherings rather than a sprawling party scene, which suits those who prefer meaningful connections over constant nightlife. If you crave a bustling urban escape every weekend, you might find the area’s slower rhythm a bit limiting.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
NCAA
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
Yes
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
60%
4 Years Graduation Rate
27%
6 Years Graduation Rate
50%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$43,371
60% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Southern University and A & M College and return in the fall. 27% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 50% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
27%
4-5 years
23%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
49%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$4,973
Acceptance
35%
Undergrads
6,043
4-Year Grad Rate
27%
Endowment
$12M
Baton Rouge, LA 70813