Academic Programs & Learning
Academic quality, retention, and learning environment at Southern Union State Community College in Wadley, AL.
What About Academic Quality at Southern Union State Community College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
21:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
67%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
41%
Part-time students continuing
How Southern Union State Community College Compares
Southern Union State Community College reports 67% retention — middle-of-the-pack for trade colleges. Combined with a 21:1 student-faculty ratio, and 41% part-time retention, the school sits at expected levels on academic-quality indicators.
Understanding Academic Quality Metrics
Student-Faculty Ratio: A ratio of 21:1 means there are approximately 21 students for every faculty member. This higher ratio may mean larger class sizes but can also indicate efficient resource utilization.
Retention Rates: These show the percentage of students who return for their second year. Higher retention rates typically indicate student satisfaction, academic support, and program quality.
Graduation Rate Survey Cohort: 46% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Southern Union State Community College?
Understanding Faculty Composition
With 100 instructors on staff, Southern Union State Community College maintains a teaching-focused faculty. 76% of faculty hold tenured positions.
Where Do Online Students at Southern Union State Community College Come From?
Geographic distribution of students enrolled exclusively in online courses (Fall 2024 census)
Where exclusively-online students are located
About this data: The geographic breakdown above uses IPEDS Fall Enrollment census data, which captures a single-day snapshot. The enrollment figures in the "How Do Students Learn?" section above use 12-month unduplicated headcount, which typically shows higher numbers as it covers the full academic year. Both are official IPEDS data — they measure different things.
89% of Southern Union State Community College's exclusively online students are located in AL. The school primarily serves local online learners.
What Is the Academic Load at Southern Union State Community College?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:72.5% FTE ratio indicates many students attend part-time
Academic Load: FTE represents the equivalent of full-time students based on credit hours, helping compare institutional capacity regardless of part-time enrollment.
Understanding FTE at Southern Union State Community College helps put enrollment numbers in context — it reflects the combined impact of full-time and part-time student activity.
How Intensively Do Students Study at Southern Union State Community College?
Student Enrollment Intensity
The Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) ratio shows the average course load intensity. An FTE ratio of 1.0 means all students attend full-time, while lower values indicate more part-time enrollment.
A mix of full-time and part-time students, offering flexibility for those balancing work, family, and education.
FTE represents student enrollment adjusted for course load. Two half-time students equal 1 FTE.
FTE Ratio Scale
The enrollment intensity at Southern Union State Community College — measured by a 0.72 FTE-to-headcount ratio — shows the balance between full-time and part-time students.
Academic Support & Resources
Academic Advising
Students have access to academic advisors who can help with course selection, degree planning, and career guidance. Contact the admissions office to learn about advising services.
Student Success Services
Many institutions offer tutoring, study groups, and academic success workshops. These resources help students develop study skills and overcome academic challenges.
For detailed information about academic support services, tutoring hours, and learning resources, contact Southern Union State Community College directly at 2563952211 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 21:1 supports personalized learning
- 100 instructional staff with 76% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students from AL and beyond (9% out-of-state)
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Southern Union State Community College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.