For the media
Members of the press or media can use this page to find basic facts and information about Stephen F. Austin State University and its leadership, as well as whom to contact for additional information.
Institutional overview
Stephen F. Austin State University, the newest member of The University of Texas System, began a century ago as a teachers' college in Texas's oldest town, Nacogdoches. Today, it has grown into a regional institution comprising six colleges — business, education, fine arts, forestry and agriculture, liberal and applied arts, and sciences and mathematics. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, SFA provides the academic breadth of a state university with the personalized attention of a private school.
Nestled within a pine tree sanctuary, the main campus encompasses 421 acres that include 36 academic facilities, nine residence halls, and 68 acres of recreational trails that wind through our six gardens. With the inclusion of our off-campus Todd Agricultural Research Center, DeWitt School of Nursing Complex and aviation program hangars, SFA is spread across 1,210 acres of land in Nacogdoches County.
The university offers more than 80 bachelor's degrees, more than 40 master's degrees and four doctoral degrees covering more than 120 areas of study. Small class sizes, with a student-faculty ratio of 17:1, ensure students receive personalized attention from faculty members who act as mentors.
SFA ensures its academic offerings remain in line with shifting industry expectations. Within the past five years, it has launched an aviation initiative, where students can graduate with a bachelor's degree and pilot's license in four years; an agricultural communications major; a master's degree in publishing; and a Bachelor of Business Administration in entrepreneurship. SFA added its fourth doctoral-level degree program in 2023 with the creation of the Doctorate in Social Work.
Our commitment to academic excellence has garnered multiple distinctions, including SFA being ranked the 11th best public university in Texas by educational rating agency Niche. U.S. News & World Report ranked SFA's Charter School the second best charter elementary school in Texas in 2022. Our forestry program continues to achieve high rankings, like being named the best in Texas by education technology firm Plexuss.
Opportunities for immersive learning prepare students to enter the workforce. A survey of SFA's May 2022 graduating class indicated that 90% of graduates self-reported positive career outcomes within six months of graduation. Also, SFA achieved its highest six-year graduation rate in the university's history in 2022.
SFA also continues to make substantial upgrades to campus infrastructure and technology to uphold its promise of encouraging academic innovation. Recent additions include the Naymola Basketball Performance Center, Cole STEM Building with innovative makerspaces and cutting-edge tech, and a new first-year residence hall. A significant expansion of the Griffith Fine Arts Building completed in 2023 added a recording studio, sound stage, audio and video editing rooms, and an art gallery, among several other state-of-the-art additions.
A new 20,000-square-foot dining hall scheduled to open in fall 2024 will add outdoor seating and flexible spaces for such events as culinary expos and instruction. After its opening, the current Eatery on East dining hall will be razed to be replaced with a sprawling green space. The Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture is also set to undergo major renovations as the UT System has pledged $77 million toward improvements for the Forestry Building, Agriculture Building, Forestry Laboratories and Agricultural Mechanics Shop.
Our athletic teams compete in 18 intercollegiate sports at the NCAA Division I level. In addition, live performances, cultural programs, and special events take place throughout the year.
What is the general phone number and mailing address for the university?
- Physical address: 1936 North Street, Nacogdoches, Texas
- Campus operator: 936.468.2011
- Non-emergency phone number: 936.468.2608
- Media inquiries: 936.468.2605
How do I find contact information for SFA students, faculty and staff?
University employees can be found in our faculty and staff directory.
SFA is required by state law to provide student directory information that is classified as public information. For more information, contact University Marketing Communications. You may also find information regarding public information through the Office of the Registrar.
What do the letters “SFA” stand for?
Stephen F. Austin State University, also known as "SFA," is named for the Texas hero frequently referred to as the father of Texas.
Where can I learn more and find materials relating to SFA’s history?
We welcome you to explore the highlights of our institution's history. You can also learn more about SFA's century of history by visiting the East Texas Research Center on campus located in the Steen Library.
How can I make a gift to SFA?
Making a donation to SFA helps provide educational opportunities for current and future Lumberjacks. Contributions also enhance the learning environment provided by SFA's dedicated faculty and staff members. Learn more about opportunities to make a difference.
Where can I get memorabilia and other items with the SFA insignia?
Here are two great websites for your shopping convenience:
Are there campus tours for visitors?
Everyone interested in attending SFA is encouraged to visit our beautiful campus. To learn more about campus tours and open house events, go to our Visit Campus page.
How can I verify that a job applicant or ancestor was granted an SFA degree?
Visit the Office of the Registrar's website for details on enrollment and degree verifications.
What majors are available at SFA?
Visit our Academics page to learn more about SFA's 120+ areas of study.
Where can I find information about financial aid?
Visit our Admissions and Aid page to learn move about tuition costs and available options for aid including federal aid, grants, work-study, scholarships and more.
Where can I find information about campus tours?
Everyone interested in attending SFA is encouraged to visit our beautiful campus. To learn more about campus tours and open house events, go to our Visit Campus page.
What are SFA's admissions requirements?
Visit our Admissions and Aid page and select the applicant-type that is most appropriate to your situation for specific requirements.
Does SFA rent facilities for non-SFA events?
Contact the following:
- Baker Pattillo Student Center: 936.468.3400
- Ina Brundrett Conservation Education Building: 936.468.1832
- Homer Bryce Stadium/Johnson Coliseum, etc: 936.468.4540
- Student Recreation Center: 936.468.3507
- Cole Art Center: 936.468.2801
Who can use the SFA library?
Nacogdoches Public Library cards are accepted at Steen Library. Other individuals who are not affiliated with SFA as a student, faculty or staff member may request a user account at the Steen Library circulation desk by presenting a photo ID.
Where can I learn about SFA's trademark licensing activities and/or report the unauthorized use of the SFA name or insignias?
Call the SFA Athletics Department at 936.468.4334, or see the collegiate licensed vendor list.