Tarleton State vs Stephen F Austin State University (SFASU)

Tarleton State University and Stephen F Austin State University, both esteemed public universities in Texas, offer distinct educational experiences. Tarleton, with an acceptance rate of 84%, welcomes a diverse student body, while SFA, with a slightly lower acceptance rate of 79%, boasts a strong academic reputation. While both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Tarleton excels in fields like agriculture, business, and nursing, while SFA shines in areas such as forestry, engineering, and fine arts. Explore the detailed comparison table to discover more about these universities' unique strengths, student demographics, graduation rates, and other crucial factors that will help you make an informed decision about your higher education journey.
Stephen F Austin State University logo

Stephen F Austin State University

Tarleton State University logo

Tarleton State University

Overview

Location Nacogdoches, Texas Stephenville, Texas
Campus setting Town: Remote Town: Remote
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 76.0% 70.0%
Common app member Yes No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 83.1% 56.8%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $45

Graduate: $50
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
SAT range 980 - 1160 960 - 1140
ACT range 18 - 24 17 - 23
Students submitting SAT score 73.0% 46.0%
Students submitting ACT score 45.0% 27.0%
Total number of applicants 7,811 10,657
Total number of admissions given out 6,493 6,054
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,713 2,150
Yield rate 26.4% 35.5%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Not required Not required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Required Required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $25,118

Out of state: $36,134
In state: $22,286

Out of state: $32,078
Average net price $16,819 $13,752
Tuition
In state: $7,842

Out of state: $18,858
In state: $4,416

Out of state: $14,208
Room & board $9,642
Room/dormitory: $6,138

Meal plan: $4,068
Available payment plans
  • Prepaid tuition plan
  • Guaranteed tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Guaranteed tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

91.0%
Average amount $9,184
80.0%
Average amount $8,110
Students receiving federal student loan 52.0%
Average amount $5,549
56.0%
Average amount $8,327
Students taking out private loans 6.0%
Average amount $11,905
7.0%
Average amount $13,605

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 10,353
Men 36.7% Women 63.3%
11,666
Men 36.3% Women 63.7%
Graduate students 1,647
Men 28.8% Women 71.2%
2,329
Men 31.6% Women 68.4%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 2.0% 2.7%
International students 1.0% 0.7%
Campus local/setting Town: Remote Town: Remote
Dormitory capacity 4,441 3,906
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Texas Arkansas Louisiana New Mexico Arizona Texas California Arkansas Colorado Florida

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Business
  • Health Professions
  • Multidisciplinary Studies
  • Visual & Performing Arts
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Multidisciplinary Studies
  • Business
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
  • Agriculture
Students to faculty ratio 17:1 21:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 52.9% 48.8%
Dropout rate 14.7% 17.3%
Transferred out 30.8% 31.1%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,738
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $67,629
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $61,992
  • Year 2: $63,768
  • Year 3: $66,763
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,708
  • Year 2: $57,943
  • Year 3: $65,940
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $41,319
  • Year 2: $52,420
  • Year 3: $58,969
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,504
  • Year 2: $54,760
  • Year 3: $56,866
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,903
  • Year 2: $63,005
  • Year 3: $56,397
Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,033
  • Year 2: $50,231
  • Year 3: $54,522
Mathematics (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $50,856
  • Year 3: $52,654
Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $51,921
  • Year 2: $50,105
  • Year 3: $50,506
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,503
  • Year 2: $35,060
  • Year 3: $50,470
Information Science/Studies (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $63,005
  • Year 3: $75,511
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,941
  • Year 2: $60,013
  • Year 3: $69,141
Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,678
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $67,101
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $62,485
  • Year 2: $63,005
  • Year 3: $66,332
Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,487
  • Year 2: $51,482
  • Year 3: $64,639
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,500
  • Year 2: $59,576
  • Year 3: $62,108
Engineering Technology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $56,641
  • Year 3: $61,489
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,645
  • Year 2: $52,107
  • Year 3: $59,754
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,322
  • Year 2: $48,041
  • Year 3: $52,771
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,771
  • Year 2: $48,237
  • Year 3: $52,290

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University?

    Tarleton State University (Tarleton) is known for its strong agricultural programs, a close-knit community feel, and a focus on practical, career-oriented education. Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) is recognized for its comprehensive forestry program, a broader range of academic offerings, and a more traditional university experience. Tarleton is located in Stephenville, while SFA is in Nacogdoches.

  • Where are Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University located?

    Tarleton State University is located in Stephenville, Texas, a city known for its cowboy culture and small-town charm. Stephen F. Austin State University is located in Nacogdoches, Texas, the oldest town in Texas, offering a rich historical atmosphere.

  • Which university is larger, Tarleton State University or Stephen F. Austin State University?

    Stephen F. Austin State University generally has a larger student population than Tarleton State University. SFA typically enrolls more undergraduate and graduate students.

  • What academic programs are Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University particularly known for?

    Tarleton State University is well-regarded for its agriculture, nursing, business, and education programs. Stephen F. Austin State University is renowned for its forestry, education, music, and fine arts programs.

  • How do the campus cultures compare between Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University?

    Tarleton State University fosters a close-knit, community-oriented environment with a strong emphasis on tradition and school spirit. Stephen F. Austin State University offers a more diverse and traditional university experience with a wider range of student organizations and activities.

  • What are the athletic programs like at Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University?

    Both universities have strong athletic programs. Tarleton State University competes in NCAA Division I as part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). Stephen F. Austin State University also competes in NCAA Division I, as part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). Both offer a variety of sports for students to participate in and support.

  • What is the cost of attendance like at Tarleton State University versus Stephen F. Austin State University?

    The cost of attendance can vary depending on residency, program of study, and other factors. Generally, tuition and fees are comparable between the two universities for in-state students. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date and personalized cost estimates.

  • What kind of student life and extracurricular activities are available at each university?

    Both Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University offer a wide range of student life and extracurricular activities. Tarleton has a strong focus on traditions and spirit organizations, while SFA offers a broader array of clubs, organizations, and social events catering to diverse interests.

  • How do the career services and internship opportunities compare between Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University?

    Both universities offer career services to assist students with job searching, resume writing, and interview skills. Internship opportunities are available in various fields, often tailored to specific academic programs. The strength of these opportunities can depend on the specific major and the student's initiative in seeking them out.

  • What are the admission requirements for Tarleton State University and Stephen F. Austin State University?

    Admission requirements for both universities typically include a high school diploma or GED, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and a completed application. Specific requirements may vary depending on the program of study and the applicant's academic record. Check each university's admissions website for the most current and detailed information.

  • Which university might be a better fit for me?

    The best fit depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're interested in agriculture, a close-knit community, and a career-focused education, Tarleton State University might be a good choice. If you prefer a broader range of academic programs, a more traditional university experience, and are interested in forestry or fine arts, Stephen F. Austin State University could be a better fit. Visiting both campuses is highly recommended to get a feel for the atmosphere and culture.

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