Overview
Jacksonville State University was founded in 1883 as a teacher training institution and has since grown into a comprehensive regional public university serving northeastern Alabama. Located in Jacksonville, Alabama, JSU has developed strong reputations in criminal justice, emergency management, and military science, partly due to its long history of producing ROTC officers. The university transitioned through several institutional identities before becoming a full university, and it continues to emphasize accessible, career-oriented education for students throughout the region and beyond.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Jacksonville, Alabama |
| Founded | 1883 |
| Total students | 9,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 18:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 70% |
| Graduation rate | 45% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $11,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $20,000 |
| Room & board | $10,500 |
| Average financial aid | $8,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 950-1150 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Criminal Justice
- Emergency Management
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Military Science
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.