Although the University was founded in 1883, it began operating as Jacksonville State University in 1967. Jacksonville State University is the regional comprehensive institution of choice for individuals who want a strong, high quality education. At Jacksonville students will be challenged academically by dedicated and accessible faculty and have access to the latest technology to ensure success in an expanding global community.

Curriculum offerings will use developing methods of instruction to remove barriers of time and distance and allow the JSU experience to transcend regional boundaries.

Since its foundation, JSU has been developing a rich history of providing a quality education in a wide variety of fields of study. With pre-professional programs in medicine and law, as well as programs in education, business, criminal justice, nursing, social work, environmental management, music, and many others.

Online Learning
Jacksonville State University offers convenient online learning. Using Internet access, online degrees and programs can be earned entirely at a distance and are designed for motivated individuals needing flexible scheduling of course activities.

Jacksonville State University offers a growing number of educational opportunities through distance education for both undergraduate and graduate work, including single courses to complete programs. Online distance education courses are taught though the Internet. Videoconferencing is designed for live video instruction. A number of specialized programs which provide courses for professionals seeking to advance in their chosen careers by meeting educational objectives are offered. 

Financial Aid
At Jacksonville State University approximately 83% of the students receive some type of financial aid. So there is ample opportunity for students who seek financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA.) A FAFSA is used to determine a student's need/eligibility for financial aid.

JSU offers a variety of types of financial aid including Federal and State Grants, Federal Stafford Loans, Federal PLUS Loans and the Federal Workstudy Program.  The University also offers scholarships, veterans benefits and work with many outside resources.