Founded in 1883, Jacksonville State University is a learning-centered university in Jacksonville, Alabama, whose mission is to provide distinctive educational, cultural, and social experiences for a diverse student population.

Located in the Appalachian foothills of northeast Alabama, approximately midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, JSU is home to more than 9,500 students representing 44 countries. As a learning-centered university, it strives to challenge students academically in a responsive environment, meeting their educational, career and personal goals. As an academic institution, it seeks to produce broadly educated graduates prepared for global engagement. As a public, comprehensive university, it promotes excellence in scholarly and service activities consistent with its academic and professional strengths. For a complete list of Goals, Core Values and Strategies to fulfill this Mission, go to http://www.jsu.edu/president/strategic_planning.html

Academically JSU offers 95 academic programs and concentrations, including bachelor's, master's, post-baccalaureate, doctoral and advanced certificate programs in a variety of disciplines that prepare graduates for meaningful careers and ongoing education.  More than 40 online programs are offered.  The University features seven colleges on its 459-acre campus - Arts and Humanities; Business and Industry; Education and Professional Studies; Health Professions and Wellness; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Science and Mathematics; and Library. Most academic programs have discipline-specific accreditations, a reflection of their quality and JSU’s commitment to excellence.