Southern Oregon University
About
Nestled in the picturesque, culturally vibrant mountain town of Ashland, Southern Oregon University (SOU) is a public liberal arts institution renowned for its commitment to environmental sustainability and its deep, collaborative partnership with the world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival. The university's flagship programs in Theatre Arts, Environmental Studies, and Creative Writing leverage this unique setting, offering undergraduates unparalleled hands-on internships, creative showcases, and field research opportunities. On campus, students enjoy an inclusive, environmentally conscious, and highly creative community that thrives on outdoor recreation in the nearby Siskiyou Mountains and active participation in the local arts scene. Notably distinguished as the nation’s very first official Bee Campus USA, SOU sets itself apart by combining the personalized mentorship of a small college with the progressive, future-focused resources of a public university.
Wikipedia:Southern Oregon University (SOU) is a public university in Ashland, Oregon, United States. It was founded in 1872 as the Ashland Academy, has been in its current location since 1926, and was known by nine other names before assuming its current name in 1997. Its Ashland campus, located 14 miles (23 km) from Oregon's border with California, encompasses 175 acres (71 ha). Five of SOU's newest facilities have achieved LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. SOU is headquarters for Jefferson Public Radio and public access station Rogue Valley Community Television. The university has been governed since 2015 by the SOU Board of Trustees.
Location
Cost
Admissions
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Essay Requirements
Southern Oregon University accepts the Common Application. All Common App schools require the personal statement essay. Some schools also require supplemental essays — check the school's page on Common App for current prompts and word limits.
See the current Common App essay prompts for the personal statement options.
Outcomes
Student Body
Programs & Earnings
Institutional
Wondering if Southern Oregon University is the right fit for you?
Scout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.