Southern Utah University (SUU) vs BYU-Idaho

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences between Southern Utah University (SUU) and Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho)?

  SUU is a public university known for its strong outdoor recreation programs and location near national parks. BYU-Idaho is a private university owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizing a faith-based learning environment and practical, career-focused education. Key differences include tuition costs, religious affiliation, campus culture, and program emphasis.

• How do the tuition costs compare between SUU and BYU-Idaho?

  BYU-Idaho generally has lower tuition costs than SUU, especially for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. SUU's tuition varies depending on residency, with out-of-state tuition being significantly higher than in-state. Both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to help students manage expenses, but the overall cost of attendance will likely be lower at BYU-Idaho for members of the Church.

• What is the religious atmosphere like at each university?

  BYU-Idaho has a strong religious atmosphere rooted in the teachings and values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Students are expected to adhere to a strict honor code that includes standards of conduct, dress, and grooming. SUU is a secular public university and does not have a religious affiliation. While students of all faiths are welcome, the campus culture is not explicitly religious.

• What types of academic programs are SUU and BYU-Idaho known for?

  SUU is well-regarded for its programs in outdoor recreation, aviation, education, and performing arts. Its proximity to national parks provides unique opportunities for hands-on learning in environmental studies and related fields. BYU-Idaho focuses on practical, career-oriented programs such as business, agriculture, engineering technology, and teacher education. They also offer a three-track system, allowing students to attend year-round or take semesters off for work or other opportunities.

• How do the campus environments and student life differ?

  SUU's campus is located in Cedar City, Utah, a smaller town with a strong connection to the outdoors. Student life at SUU includes a variety of clubs, organizations, and outdoor activities. BYU-Idaho's campus is in Rexburg, Idaho, a town with a large student population. Student life at BYU-Idaho is heavily influenced by the university's religious affiliation, with activities and events often centered around faith and service. The honor code also shapes the social environment.

• What are the admission requirements for SUU and BYU-Idaho?

  SUU's admission requirements are generally less stringent than BYU-Idaho's. SUU typically requires a minimum GPA and ACT/SAT scores, while BYU-Idaho also considers factors such as religious endorsement and adherence to the university's honor code. Both universities require applicants to submit transcripts and complete an application form. Specific requirements may vary depending on the program of study.

• What kind of student would thrive at SUU versus BYU-Idaho?

  SUU is a good fit for students who enjoy outdoor activities, value academic freedom, and seek a more traditional college experience at a public university. BYU-Idaho is well-suited for students who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, desire a faith-based education, and are comfortable adhering to a strict honor code. Students seeking a career-focused education with opportunities for practical experience may also find BYU-Idaho appealing.

• Do SUU and BYU-Idaho offer online programs?

  Yes, both SUU and BYU-Idaho offer a variety of online programs. SUU has a robust online learning platform with degree programs and individual courses available. BYU-Idaho also offers online degree programs and certificates, often designed to be flexible and accessible to students with varying schedules. Check each university's website for a complete list of online offerings.

• What are the graduation rates and career placement rates for SUU and BYU-Idaho?

  Graduation rates and career placement rates can vary depending on the specific program of study. Generally, BYU-Idaho boasts high career placement rates due to its emphasis on practical skills and career preparation. SUU also has strong career placement rates, particularly in fields related to outdoor recreation and education. It's best to consult the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date statistics on graduation and career placement.

• How do the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios compare?

  SUU generally has slightly larger class sizes and a higher student-to-faculty ratio compared to BYU-Idaho. BYU-Idaho emphasizes smaller class sizes to foster a more personalized learning environment. While both universities strive to provide quality instruction, the smaller class sizes at BYU-Idaho may allow for more individual attention from professors.