Admissions
Most Commonly Asked Freshmen Questions continued
Do I have to take Math or Foreign Language?
All SOU students must take at least one college-level math class from a specific list of freshman-level math classes; some majors require additional math classes. A math placement test will help you determine what class you should start out with. Placement tests are offered on both Ashland and Medford campuses. Foreign language does need to be taken if you plan on getting a Bachelor's of Arts degree. You are not required to take foreign language if you plan on getting a Bachelor's of Science degree. More information about the BA/BS requirements can be accessed through the online catalog.)
Do you accept AP/IB credit and CLEP scores?
We do accept AP and IB credit. For an AP chart and IB information please reference the SOU catalog beginning on page 7. We also accept CLEP scores. CLEP chart and information is available via the SOU catalog.)
When can I register for classes?
New admitted Fall freshmen should participate in one of the SOU Raider Registration Programs held throughout the summer. Admitted students living in Hawaii may participate in the SOU Hawaii Raider Registration in Honolulu during the spring each year. (Watch the Hawaii Regional Page for the dates and more information.) Once you are advised for your first term of classes, the dates to register for future terms are dependent upon your current college credit standing and what term you are registering for. To find out more information you can contact Admissions at (541) 552-6411 or Academic Support Programs at (541) 552-6213.
Who is my advisor?
Academic Support Programs offers advising to students who have not decided on or declared a major. For freshmen enrolled in the University Colloquium, the instructor serves as their advisor. Once you declare a major, you may choose an advisor from the department you are majoring in, or one will be chosen for you. Once you reach junior standing (90 credits), you should have declared a major and developed a plan for the completion of your degree.
Do you have counseling, academic, disability, or tutoring services available?
Yes, all of the above. Personal counseling is available at the Student Health and Wellness Center. Any student who has paid the student health fee and currently enrolled is eligible for these services. You can contact Academic Support Programs to inquire about the academic advising, tutoring, and disability services available at 541-552-6213.
How many credits do I need to take to get financial aid? What financial/scholarships are available for transfer students?
You must be an admitted student to receive financial aid. You may qualify for federal financial aid and some scholarships if you are attending as a part-time student (students taking fewer than 12 credits). Your financial aid will be adjusted according to the number of credit hours you are registered for. Information about scholarships and financial aid availability can be accessed at the SOU Financial Aid web site.
Are internships available?
Most departments offer practicum or internship credit. You should contact the practicum coordinator of the department you are majoring in for more information about how to attain such credit.
Do you have distance and/or online courses and programs?
Distance Learning at Southern Oregon University serves the southwestern Oregon region with academic credit course work in the Master of Education Program, Business Administration, Continuing Professional Development for teachers, and a variety of upper division Criminology courses. Each year more people are taking advantage of Southern Oregon University's regional programs - completing degrees and taking classes via distance delivery technologies. These technologies include interactive television, the Web, and computer-based independent study.