From the School
Southwestern University provides a top-ranked integrated liberal arts and science education that prepares students to think critically, collaborate, adapt and solve problems. Our graduates leave ready to innovate and create positive change in their professional careers and in life.
Southwestern University, located in scenic Georgetown just 25 miles north of Austin, was the first institution of higher education in the state. It has a strong history of academic excellence. SU emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to learning, where students develop the skills needed to create original ideas, adapt and innovate. Employers and top graduate programs recognize and seek these critical skills, proven by the fact that Southwestern's Career Services ranks #12 nationally.
Southwestern's curriculum incorporates humanities, fine arts, social sciences and natural sciences. It has 26 academic departments covering the core STEM disciplines, business, fine arts and more. In addition, SU offers seven pre-professional programs including pre-engineering, pre-law and pre-medicine, with acceptance levels into graduate programs significantly higher than the national average. *
During their time at Southwestern, students participate in high impact learning experiences such as studying abroad, collaborative research projects with faculty, community engaged learning and internships. With an average class size of 17, students are challenged and engaged, learning to collaborate and see things from multiple perspectives. SU students graduate with the skills to think, create, innovate and contribute solutions to real world problems.
The majority of SU students live on campus and are actively involved in one or more student organizations. Students are civic-minded and volunteer in the community at more than twice the national average. Athletically, the Pirates compete in 20 different varsity sports at the NCAA Division III level, with many more involved in club or intramural sports.
Recent SU graduate Taylor Lewis, class of 2018, explains the Southwestern experience as: "an exhilarating, rewarding and life-changing process of personal development and growth through experiential intercultural and interdisciplinary learning. Personally, my Southwestern experience has been one great big opportunity to discover my true passions, hone in on my strengths, and learn from my weaknesses-all while being a part of a community that not only supports me, but encourages me to be the best person I can be."
Office of Admissions
Southwestern University
1001 E. University Street
Georgetown, TX 78626
Telephone: 1-800-252-3166
E-mail:admissions@southwestern.edu
Website: www.southwestern.edu
Overall
From The School
In looking for engaged learners, we consider academic performance, both grades earned and challenging courses in areas of interest, above all else. Additionally, strength and depth of writing samples, SAT and/or ACT score, participation and demonstrated leadership in extracurricular activities, cogency and content of recommendations, a visit to campus, legacy connections, United Methodist Church membership, and recognition/achievement in national programs allow us to determine how a student will fit within our community. We value the opportunity to get to know students better through an optional interview.
Our mission is to treat all applicants fairly and with respect. In all cases, our decisions are reached by multiple individuals reviewing the application and voting in a manner s/he believe is in the best interest of both the student and the University. We take this responsibility seriously and realize we are dealing with the lives and future directions of our applicants.
Beginning August 1, 2017, students may choose to apply Early Decision (binding), Early Action or Regular Decision, based on the time frame that works best for the student. Students may apply by submitting a Common Application, an Apply Texas application or by submitting Southwestern's own application.
Transfer students, students who have completed at least one semester (12 hours or more) following high school graduation, are welcomed during the Fall and Spring semesters and may apply using either the Common Application or Apply Texas. Students should submit an essay, an official high school transcript, an official college transcripts from all schools attended, official SAT/ACT scores and a college official's report. An individual interview allows transfer students to ask question regarding course transferability.
To learn more, visit southwestern.edu/admission/
CAREER SERVICES AND PLACEMENT
Southwestern's Career Services ranks #12 nationally by the Princeton Review. Students begin utilizing the Career Services during their first year to develop the skills needed to obtain a job or continue their education after graduation. Career counselors stress important skills such resume writing, interviewing and job search strategies.
With the help of Career Services, at least two-thirds of all students compete in at least one internship program, and 92 percent of graduates are employed or in graduate school within ten months. They also make connections to employers, graduate schools, and other resources that benefit them throughout their career.
Last year, Southwestern introduced The Alumni Network Mentoring Program. This program provides Southwestern students the opportunity to be mentored by Southwestern alumni. Students are matched with alumni based on their professional interests and activities.
Overview
Applicants
4,133
Acceptance Rate
43%
Test Scores
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
25th-75th percentile
(enrolled students)
(enrolled students)
570 - 670
SAT Math
25th-75th percentile
(enrolled students)
(enrolled students)
540 - 650
ACT Composite
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
23 - 29
Testing Policies
Yes
ACT Writing Policy
ACT with or without Writing accepted
SAT Essay Policy
SAT with or without Writing accepted
Deadlines
Early Decision — November 1
Early Action — December 1
Regular — February 1
Other Admission Factors
Academic
Rigor of Secondary School Record
Class Rank
Academic GPA
Standardized Test Scores
Application Essay
Recommendation(s)
Selectivity Rating
Get a personalized plan for a competitive application from an admissions expert.
Learn MoreOverall
From The School
Academic Programs
Southwestern provides students an integrated liberal arts and science program that incorporates humanities, fine arts, social sciences and natural sciences. All students take a First-Year Seminar that introduces them to the campus learning environment and sets the stage for critical thinking and innovative learning. Other requirements include social justice, foreign language proficiency and a capstone experience. SU?s "Paideia" philosophy is woven throughout all courses, encouraging students to think outside a narrow focus, dig deeper and make connections. The curriculum allows for increased "student agency," where students have the freedom to pursue their passion and explore subjects outside their major. As a sociology and English double major explains, "It?s nice to be able to get a taste of how others may see and understand the world in various other disciplines."
One of the unique advantages at SU is the opportunity for faculty-student research. While this type of work is often reserved for graduate-levels at other universities, it?s not uncommon for a student to collaborate or co-author a paper with a professor. On campus, the Fondren-Jones Science Hall is currently undergoing a major renovation, with phase one complete and phase two scheduled to be open in Fall of 2019.
The Sarofim School of Fine Arts has a global reputation for providing a world-class arts education. Political science majors benefit from the school?s proximity to Austin, the state capital. Additionally, the seven pre-professional programs, including pre-engineering, pre-law and pre-medicine, produce graduates accepted into top graduate programs at rates significantly higher than the national average.
SU provides many experiential opportunities such as community engaged learning, student-faculty research, study abroad, academic internships and innovative creative projects. The King Creativity Fund provides grants to support up to 20 "innovative and visionary projects" each academic year. The Research and Creative Works Symposium provides an annual opportunity for students to present original research and creative work in an academic conference setting. SU faculty lead programs in England, Spain, Peru and Argentina, as well as a service-learning program in Jamaica. The university also sponsors internships in Washington, D.C., arts apprenticeship programs in New York City and other countless other opportunities for hands-on learning.
Majors and Degrees Offered
Our curriculum allows for greater student agency, where students have the freedom to pursue their passion and explore subjects outside their chosen discipline, often resulting in a double major or minor. Even so, Southwestern?s four-year graduation rate is nearly twice the national average.*
- Brown College of Arts and Sciences
- Anthropology
- Applied Physics
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry
- Classics
- Communication Studies
- Computational Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Education
- English
- Environmental Studies
- Feminist Studies
- French
- German
- Greek
- History
- Independent Major
- International Studies
- Kinesiology
- Latin
- Latin American & Border Studies
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Religion
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Minors Only
- Animal Studies
- Chinese
- Data Science
- Exercise & Sports Studies
- Health Studies
- Race & Ethnicity Studies
- Sarofim School of Fine Arts
- Art (Studio)
- Art History
- Music
- Theatre
- Minor Only
- Architecture & Design Studies
- Pre-Medicine
- Pre-Dentistry
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine
- Pre-Law
- Pre-Engineering
- Pre-Ministry
- Pre-Physical Therapy
Faculty and Class Information
Student/Faculty
11:1
Total Faculty
146
with Terminal Degree
133
75
Women
71
Men
24
Minority
3
International
Most frequent class size
10 - 19
Most frequent lab / sub section size
10 - 19
Graduation Rates
Graduate in 4 years
67%
Graduate in 5 years
73%
Graduate in 6 years
74%
Majors
-
AREA, ETHNIC, CULTURAL, GENDER, AND GROUP STUDIES.
Latin American Studies.
Women's Studies.
-
BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES.
Biochemistry.
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.
-
BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES.
Business/Commerce, General.
-
COMMUNICATION, JOURNALISM, AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.
-
COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
-
EDUCATION.
Education, General.
-
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS.
English Language and Literature, General.
-
FOREIGN LANGUAGES, LITERATURES, AND LINGUISTICS.
Ancient/Classical Greek Language and Literature.
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General.
French Language and Literature.
German Language and Literature.
Latin Language and Literature.
Spanish Language and Literature.
-
HISTORY.
History, General.
-
MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS.
Computational Mathematics.
Mathematics, General.
-
NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
Environmental Studies.
-
PARKS, RECREATION, LEISURE, AND FITNESS STUDIES.
Kinesiology and Exercise Science.
-
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES.
Philosophy.
Religion/Religious Studies.
-
PHYSICAL SCIENCES.
Chemistry, General.
Physics, General.
Physics, Other.
-
PSYCHOLOGY.
Psychology, General.
-
SOCIAL SCIENCES.
Anthropology.
Economics, General.
International Relations and Affairs.
Political Science and Government, General.
Sociology.
-
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
Music History, Literature, and Theory.
Music Performance, General.
Music Theory and Composition.
Students Say
Known as "Texas' first university," Southwestern University is a small liberal arts school of around 1,600 or so for students who develop a passion for lifelong learning and a desire to contribute to society. The school focuses on building connections between different disciplines, which is at the heart of the unique "Paideia experience." Paideia is actually a common occurrence in all classes, and professors "actively seek to make connections across disciplines and encourage students to do the same," with social justice and environmentalism both common themes. The university also "has excellent institutions built in," and the "stellar" career services program, helmed by a small staff that "is very invested in student's well being and success," sets the school apart. To that end, more than half of all students complete an internship during their time at Southwestern, with similar numbers for study abroad participation.
"Discussion is the primary mode of delivery, and critical thinking is encouraged," and since the classes are small, professors "all know you by name (even if you don't have their class!)." They teach the course material "with passion and interesting perspectives/mediums that allow for better retention and integrative understanding." Most are available at any time "to assist in understanding, clarification, and extrapolation of the ideas discussed in class," which also leads to many research opportunities with faculty. They "not only push us to be better but know we are capable of it, even if we as students aren't sure that we are." The course load here is "very demanding but worth it," and communication via classroom technology and email between the teachers and the students is excellent. "Southwestern is all about making a connection with the people around you while making connections between the subjects you study," says a student.
Degrees
Bachelor's
Career Services
On-Campus Job Interviews Available
Yes
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Interest Inventory
Internships
Regional Alumni
Opportunities at School
Experiential
Internship
Notable Faculty
Prominent Alumni
John Tower
Former Senator of Texas
Red McCombs
CEO/McCombs Enterprises/Owner-Minnesota Vikings
J. Frank Dobie
Author and Texas Folklorist
Pete Sessions
U.S. Congressman from Texas
Sharon Brown Christopher
United Methodist Bishop
David Clifford
Research Physician
Joan Bray
Missouri State Legislator
Academic Rating
89/99
Graduation Rates
Graduate in 4 years
67%
Graduate in 5 years
73%
Graduate in 6 years
74%
Career Services
On-Campus Job Interviews Available
Yes
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Interest Inventory
Internships
Regional Alumni
Opportunities at School
Experiential
Internship
ROI & Outcomes
Information from PayScale:
Starting Median Salary (Up to Bachelor's degree completed, only)
$50,300
Mid-Career Median Salary (Up to Bachelor's degree completed, only)
$88,500
Starting Median Salary (At least Bachelor's degree)
$51,600
Mid-Career Median Salary (At least Bachelor's degree)
$89,200
Percent High Job Meaning
52%
Percent STEM
19%
Students Say
Many students say that Southwestern's “stellar career services program” helps to distinguish the school. They can turn to the Office of Career Services for help “creat[ing] resumes, apply[ing] to grad school and find[ing] the perfect career.” SU students frequently attend the myriad of events career services sponsors throughout the year. These offerings consist of everything from GRE strategy sessions and pre-med previews to cover letter writing workshops and industryspecific panels. The office even holds photo shoots for undergrads to get the perfect professional picture for their LinkedIn account. Best of all, SU hosts multiple career fairs which enables students to network with a wide variety of employers.
Overview
From The School
Tuition, Room, Board and Fees
Costs for 2017-18 Academic Year
Tuition (Full-time, 12-19 hours per semester): $40,560
Room and Board (approximate): $12,236
Other Fees:
- Part-Time Tuition-per credit: $1,690
- Fine Arts Music Fee/ Applied Music Lessons-per credit: $180
- Vehicle Registration Fee-per semester: $100
- Lab fee-per applicable class: $75
Financial Aid
For a world-class liberal arts and science education at one of the best schools in the country, Southwestern provides an excellent return on investment. Tuition at public universities may seem lower at first glance, but when scholarships, financial aid and graduation rates are factored in the results can show quite a different story.
Southwestern awards over $30 million in merit scholarships and need-based grants. In addition, SU awards over $2.5 million in federal and state grants and over $4 million in student loans.
First-year merit scholarship amounts start at $17,000. Entering students are evaluated for merit scholarships on a holistic review basis using information from the admission application. Need-based financial aid is awarded annually and requires the submission of a FAFSA, which is available beginning October 1 prior to the year in which the student will enroll.
Dates
Application Deadlines
Mar 1
Notification Date
Dec 15
Required Forms
FAFSA
Financial Aid Statistics
Average Freshman Total Need-Based Gift Aid
$31,462
Average Undergraduate Total Need-Based Gift Aid
$30,483
Average Need-Based Loan
$5,005
Undergraduates who have borrowed through any loan program
58%
Average amount of loan debt per graduate
$34,788
Average amount of each freshman scholarship/grant package
$31,462
Financial aid provided to international students
Yes
Expenses per Academic Year
Tuition
$42,000
Required Fees
Average Cost for Books and Supplies
$1,300
Tuition / Fees Vary by Year of Study
No
Board for Commuters
$2,940
Transportation for Commuters
$950
On-Campus Room and Board
$12,000
Comprehensive Fee
Available Aid
Financial Aid Methodology
Federal
Scholarships and Grants
Need-Based
Need-Based College/University Scholarship or Grant Aid from Institutional Funds
Need-Based Federal Pell
Need-Based Private Scholarships
Need-Based SEOG
Need-Based State Scholarships
Non-Need-Based
Institutional non-need-based scholarship or grant aid is available
Federal Direct Student Loan Programs
Direct PLUS Loans
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Federal Family Education Loan Programs (FFEL)
College/university loans from institutional funds
Federal Perkins Loans
State Loans
Federal Perkins Loans
State Loans
Is Institutional Employment Available (other than Federal Work Study)
Yes
Direct Lender
No
Financial Aid Rating
88/99
Overall
From The School
Southwestern's Career Services ranks #12 nationally by The Princeton Review. Career Services offers 50 programs per year, students gain skills they will need to obtain a job or continue their education upon graduation. They teach career-management skills needed throughout a lifetime including resume writing, interviewing, job search strategies. They provide opportunities to explore a variety of occupations and gain experience through internships. They also make connections to employers, graduate schools, and other resources.
With the help of Career Services, at least two-thirds of all students complete at least one internship program and 92 percent of graduates are employed or in graduate school within ten months.
This year, Southwestern introduced The Alumni Network Mentoring Program. This program provides Southwestern students the opportunity to be mentored by Southwestern alumni. Students are matched with alumni based on their professional interests and activities.
FACULTY
The Southwestern faculty truly sets the university apart. This diverse and dynamic group consists of innovative leaders and award-winning researchers in their respective fields. Professors often work side-by-side with students, conducting research and collaborating on research.
Ninety-nine percent of tenured or tenure-track faculty hold a doctorate or the highest degree in their respective field. As educators, Southwestern faculty excel at teaching in an intimate and engaged environment (student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1, with an average class size of 17 students). The university provides multiple development and training opportunities for its faculty, keeping them on the cutting edge of the latest research and ideas. As citizens of our community, the Southwestern faculty brings a collaborative and personal approach to their work. SU classes are taught by professors (not teaching assistants), and collaborative research and publication with students is common.
Student Body Profile
Total Undergraduate Enrollment
1,387
Foreign Countries Represented
12
Demographics
3.33%
Asian
5.36%
African-American
23.84%
Hispanic
60.58%
Caucasian
1.09%
Unknown
57% female
43% male
10% are out of state
99% are full time
1% are part time
Students Say
Students are, across the board, "highly involved and motivated." "Almost everyone has a major, minor, and one or two organizations in which they are heavily involved," says a student. The culture here is largely one of "acceptance and stimulating engagement." Everyone here "celebrates a range of personalities and points of view," and is "unashamedly passionate about our goals." A uniting force is "involvement in social justice and activism," and the university "offers a unique scholarly bubble that makes you feel like a scholar yourself." It's a small school, so "you don't feel lost in the crowd," and the atmosphere is "very similar" to nearby Austin and the "Keep Austin Weird" stereotype.
Overview
From The School
Location
As the first institute of higher learning in Texas, Southwestern's campus is filled with history and tradition. Located on 700 gorgeous acres in the heart of Georgetown, SU's towering oak trees, early 20th century buildings and lush lawns add to its picturesque feel. It has a strong commitment to sustainability, with two LEED-certified buildings on campus and an agreement with the City of Georgetown that allows for the use of wind power for electricity on campus, making SU the first university in the state and one of the first nationally to be 100% powered by wind.
Stroll through campus on any given day and you'll see students conversing on the lawn, lounging in a hammock or pedaling to class on one of the shared yellow Pirate bikes. There's a true feeling of community.
The majority of SU students live on campus, which adds to the camaraderie. All freshmen live in one of four residence halls (one female, one male and two coed dorms). The central dining hub on campus, Mabee Commons, features a variety of meal, snack and drink choices. The nearby Cove has a coffee bar and grill open late for playing pool or simply hanging out with friends.
Southwestern's location just 25 miles north of Austin provides the best of both worlds for its students. The city of Georgetown, with its historic downtown and the flowing San Gabriel River provides small-town charm with access to the capital city. Not only is Austin known for its live music, SXSW and world-famous BBQ, but it was recently dubbed the "Silicon Valley of the South" for its tech-focus and innovation.
Campus Facilities & Equipment
As the first institute of higher learning in Texas, Southwestern's campus is filled with history and tradition. Located on 700 gorgeous acres in the heart of Georgetown, SU's towering oak trees, early 20th century buildings and lush lawns add to its picturesque feel. It has a strong commitment to sustainability, with two LEED-certified buildings on campus and an agreement with the City of Georgetown that allows for the use of wind power for electricity on campus, making SU the first university in the state and one of the first nationally to be 100% powered by wind.
Stroll through campus on any given day and you'll see students conversing on the lawn, lounging in a hammock or pedaling to class on one of the shared yellow Pirate bikes. There's a true feeling of community.
The majority of SU students live on campus, which adds to the camaraderie. All freshmen live in one of four residence halls (one female, one male and two coed dorms). The central dining hub on campus, Mabee Commons, features a variety of meal, snack and drink choices. The nearby Cove has a coffee bar and grill open late for playing pool or simply hanging out with friends.
Southwestern's location just 25 miles north of Austin provides the best of both worlds for its students. The city of Georgetown, with its historic downtown and the flowing San Gabriel River provides small-town charm with access to the capital city. Not only is Austin known for its live music, SXSW and world-famous BBQ, but it was recently dubbed the "Silicon Valley of the South" for its tech-focus and innovation.
Off-Campus Opportunities
Southwestern's Career Services ranks #12 nationally by the Princeton Review. Students begin utilizing the Career Services during their first year to develop the skills needed to obtain a job or continue their education after graduation. Career counselors stress important skills such resume writing, interviewing and job search strategies.
With the help of Career Services, at least two-thirds of all students compete in at least one internship program, and 92 percent of graduates are employed or in graduate school within ten months. They also make connections to employers, graduate schools, and other resources that benefit them throughout their career.
Last year, Southwestern introduced The Alumni Network Mentoring Program. This program provides Southwestern students the opportunity to be mentored by Southwestern alumni. Students are matched with alumni based on their professional interests and activities.
Campus Life
Undergrads living on campus
77%
Help finding off-campus housing
Yes
90/99
First-Year Students living on campus
99%
Campus Environment
Suburban
90/99
Housing Options
Apartment Single
Disabled Student
Dorms Coed
Disabled Student
Dorms Coed
Dorms Female
Dorms Male
Frat Sorority
Dorms Male
Frat Sorority
Students Say
Southwestern is a draw for "thinkers and learners, for people who like to be challenged and have fun at the same time." The students here are definitely academically focused, and "even those involved in other organizations (which most of us are) are still excellent students." In fact, Southwestern is all about balance, and "the academics and the athletics really work together to make sure that everybody maintains a high GPA." Students are assigned "a substantial amount of homework," but "you can study anywhere...from the hammocks to the chairs around campus," which is easily traversed via the campus bikes. Greek life is very prevalent and "is sort of the social heart of the campus," but the school also offers lots of other activities for students who are not involved with the Greek system, such as events held every Friday and Saturday night. Georgetown, Texas is not a typical college town, but there are shops and restaurants for when students want to get off campus. There is plenty to do outdoors—luckily, it's warm a large part of the year, so "people go to the hiking trails, go swimming, or hang out on the academic mall."
Special Needs Admissions
Program / Service Name
Services for Students with Disabilities
Type of Program
For all students with disabilities
Director
Jennifer Smull
College Entrance Tests Required
Yes
Interview Required
No
Documentation Required for LD
Full psychoeducational evaluation report is strongly preferred, but an IEP or 504 plan showing history of accommodations for LD would also be acceptable.Documentation Required for ADHD
Verification of diagnosis and functional limitations from an appropriately licensed health provider (typically a psychiatrist or primary care physician).Special Need Services Offered
Calculator allowed in exams
Yes
Dictionary allowed in exams
Yes
Computer allowed in exams
Yes
Spellchecker allowed in exams
Yes
Extended test time
Yes
Scribes
Yes
Proctors
Yes
Oral exams
No
Notetakers
Yes
Distraction-free environment
Yes
Accommodation for students with ADHD
Yes
Reading machine
Yes
Other assistive technology
Yes
Student Activities
Registered Student Organizations
107
Number of Honor Societies
17
Number of Social Sororities
4
Number of Religious Organizations
10
28% join a fraternity
23% join a sorority
Sports
Athletic Division
Division III
37% participate in intramural sports
31% participate in intercollegiate sports
Men's Sports (Pirates)
11 Sports
Baseball
Basketball
Cross Country
Diving
Football
Golf
Lacrosse
Soccer
Swimming
Tennis
Track Field Outdoor
Basketball
Cross Country
Diving
Football
Golf
Lacrosse
Soccer
Swimming
Tennis
Track Field Outdoor
Women's Sports (Pirates)
11 Sports
Basketball
Cross Country
Diving
Golf
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track Field Outdoor
Volleyball
Cross Country
Diving
Golf
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track Field Outdoor
Volleyball
Student Services
Health
Womens Center
Air Force ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: University of Texas - Austin
Womens Center
LGBT Support Groups: Coalition for Diversity & Social Justice, Pirates for Pride, Planned Piratehood
Minority Support Groups: Asian Student Association, Ebony, HALO, Kappa Delta Chi, SEAK, SU Planned Piratehood, SU NATIVE, Coalition for Diversity & Social Justice
Air Force ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: University of Texas - Austin
Sustainability
Students looking to make a positive change for the planet can get a head start with Southwestern’s environmental studies program, an interdisciplinary major or minor that explores the interactions of humans and the environment as well as the impacts of these interactions. Graduates from this program often go into fields as diverse as NGOs, environmental law, and the sustainability sector. Southwestern is also the second university in Texas to sign the Talloires Declaration, which calls upon the school to engage in sustainable practices like a computer-based effluent water irrigation system, low-volume shower heads, and LEED certification on all new construction projects. One of the key environmental groups on campus is Students for Environmental Action and Knowledge (SEAK), which maintains a strong presence on Facebook and strives to promote environmentally sound practices at Southwestern and raise awareness of environmental issues. In the dining halls, in partnership with supplier Sodexo, Southwestern is committed to providing as much locally sourced food as possible, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizing food waste, which is the single largest contributor to landfills. For students looking to broaden their horizons while furthering their environmental education, Southwestern offers the Environmental Fellows Study Abroad Program, which provides students up to $5,000 for approved programs in locations as varied as Costa Rica, Kenya, and Australia. Students staying in Texas are encouraged to use alternative modes of transportation; the Pirate Bike Share Program provides quick and easy access to bikes all around campus for students and faculty to hop on and peddle to class or the library.
93/99
School Has Formal Sustainability Committee
Yes
Sustainability-focused degree available
Yes
School employs a sustainability officer
Yes
Public GHG inventory plan
Yes
% food budget spent on local/organic food
65%
Available Transportation Alternatives
Bike Share
Yes
Car Sharing Program
No
Carpool/Vanpool Matching Program
No
Condensed Work Week Option For Employees
Yes
Free Or Reduced Price Transit Passes And/Or Free Campus Shuttle
No
Incentives Or Programs To Encourage Employees To Live Close To Campus
No
Indoor And Secure Bike Storage, Shower Facilities, And Lockers For Bicycle Commuters
Yes
Reduced Parking Fees For Car And Van Poolers
No
School Adopted A Policy Prohibiting Idling
No
School Developed Bicycle Plan
Yes
School Offers A Telecommute Program For Employees
Yes
Campus Security Report
Campus Security Report
The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose their security policies, keep a public crime log, publish an annual crime report and provide timely warnings to students and campus employees about a crime posing an immediate or ongoing threat to students and campus employees.
Please visit The Princeton Review’s page on campus safety for additional resources: http://www.princetonreview.com/safety
The Princeton Review publishes links directly to each school's Campus Security Reports where available. Applicants can also access all school-specific campus safety information using the Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool provided by the Office of Postsecondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education: http://ope.ed.gov/security
Other Information
Campus-wide Internet Network
Yes
% of Classrooms with Wireless Internet
100
Fee for Network Use
No
Partnerships with Technology Companies
No
Personal computer included in tuition for each student
No
Discounts Available with Hardware Vendors
Yes
Description
Dell Computer
Apple Computer
Campus Visits Contact
Contact
Dana Marchant
Assistant Director of Admissions
Assistant Director of Admissions
Address
Admission Office
PO Box 770
Georgetown, TX 78627-0770
PO Box 770
Georgetown, TX 78627-0770
Phone
512-863-1200
Email
marchand@southwestern.edu
Experience College Life
Most Popular Places On Campus
Robertson Center-indoor olympic size pool
McCombs Center-Student Center
Fountainwood Observatory
Academic Mall-grassy area in the middle of campus
Korouva Milkbar-student run coffee house
McCombs Center-Student Center
Fountainwood Observatory
Academic Mall-grassy area in the middle of campus
Korouva Milkbar-student run coffee house
Most Popular Places Off Campus
Lake Georgetown
Wolf Ranch Shopping Center
6th St. in Austin
Lake Travis
Georgetown Square
Wolf Ranch Shopping Center
6th St. in Austin
Lake Travis
Georgetown Square
Campus Tours
Campus Visiting Center
Mon-Sat
Weekdays 9am-5pm, Select Saturdays 9am-12pm
512-863-1200
Weekdays 9am-5pm, Select Saturdays 9am-12pm
512-863-1200
Campus Tours
Appointment Required: Yes
Dates: Year-round
Times: Weekdays - 9am, 1pm, 3pm; Select Saturdays - 9am
Average Length: 1 hour
Dates: Year-round
Times: Weekdays - 9am, 1pm, 3pm; Select Saturdays - 9am
Average Length: 1 hour
On Campus Interview
Campus Interviews
Yes
Information Sessions
Available
Times
Daily weekdays
Faculty and Coach Visits
Dates/Times Available
Academic Year
Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office
Advance Notice
2 weeks
Contact Email Address for Visit
admission@southwestern.edu
Class Visits
Dates/Times Available
Academic Year
Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office
Overnight Dorm Stays
Overnight Dorm Stays
Available
Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office
Limitations
Not on Friday or Saturday nights, HS Seniors only
Transportation
Types of Transportation Available to Campus
Austin-Bergstrom Airport. We will pick up visiting students with 2 weeks notice, upon request.
Greyhound Bus Station in Georgetown.
Driving Instructions to Campus
From Interstate 35 take Exit #261 (Texas Highway 29). Follow Highway 29 east (University Avenue) into Georgetown, approximately 1.3 miles. Turn left at Maple, the first street beyond the train tracks. Visitor parking is available along Maple, next to the Cullen Building.
Local Accommodations
La Quinta (800-531-5900); Holiday Inn Express (512-868-8555); San Gabriel House Bed and Breakfast (512-930-0070); Comfort Suites of Georgetown (512-863-7544); Sheraton Georgetown (737-444-2700).
