Jacksonville State University (JSU), in Jacksonville, Alabama is an example of how tradition can be maintained alongside progress. A historical, sprawling campus that features beautiful landmark buildings is one of the most appealing aspects of Jacksonville State. First established as a teacher’s college almost 150 years ago, Jacksonville State now boasts one of the state’s most recognized education programs, credentialing a great majority of Alabama teachers. JSU is also progressive, especially in its commitment to supporting underrepresented communities. This can be seen by the fact that JSU is also known for helping to launch successful business careers for many women who go through its MBA program. JSU’s academics encompass other fields of study as well, with bachelor’s and/or master’s degrees offered in Art, Biology, Broadcasting, Drama, Foreign Languages, Music, Nursing, Social Work, Technology and many others. Student life, like most of JSU’s offerings, is a balance of the traditional and the progressive. Student organizations, for example, range in focus from historically well-established honor societies and collegiate groups to more progressive ones like the service organization, which assists pregnant teens and associations devoted to minority causes. A state university, Jacksonville offers a substantially lower tuition for in-state residents who, nonetheless, may still apply for financial aid should they have the need. Undergraduate admission to JSU is based primarily on evaluation of grades and test scores.