Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Sam Houston State University and SHSU Online?: SHSU Online is a department within Sam Houston State University (SHSU) tasked with facilitating the university's online courses and supporting online students. SHSU Online works with SHSU colleges and faculty to develop online degree programs. A degree offered through SHSU Online is an SHSU degree. Learn more about about How It Works.
Is SHSU Online accredited?: Sam Houston State University (SHSU) has been an established state university for over 130 years. Sam Houston State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call (404) 679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Sam Houston State University or visit their website www.sacscoc.org. Learn more about our accreditation.
Will my degree say that it was earned online?: No. Your degree will be the same degree as any other SHSU student regardless of whether you took classes at one of our physical campuses, online, or a combination of both.
Will I have to come to campus for my degree?: Because of the nature of some fields of study, a few degrees require lab participation or other on-campus requirements. Check the description of your degree for notes about these requirements. You can also contact us with specific questions about your degree.
Can online students get financial aid?: Yes. As an online student, you will be enrolled in Sam Houston State University and are eligible to apply for the same scholarships and financial aid programs as any other SHSU student.
Does SHSU Online have resources for veterans / active military?: Yes. Sam Houston State University is a Veterans Preferred institution and is listed by GI Jobs® as a Military Friendly School. See more about steps to apply as a veteran and our programs for veterans and military personnel.
Will my credits transfer from another university or college?: You can check your transfer credits using the SHSU Course Transfer Equivalency Guide. See more about applying as a transfer student.
Will my work experience count towards my degree?: Work experience is evaluated on an individual basis and by degree program. Undergraduate students need to contact the admissions office to have their transcript evaluated. Graduate students should contact the Graduate Adviser for their program.
Other websites list a different tuition cost for SHSU, which is correct?: Although we try to correct the information outside parties put on their websites, the official SHSU website is the ONLY place on the internet to find accurate information about SHSU.
Does SHSU offer academic advising before I enroll in my courses?: Yes. In fact, it is required for all undergraduate students and highly recommended for graduate degrees. After you have applied and been accepted to SHSU, you will be given instructions on academic advising.
How long are the semesters?: The academic calendar is divided into two 16-week semesters, one each in the fall and spring, and two 4-week summer sessions.
Other than the ones listed, what other SHSU degrees are available online?: Because SHSU offers over 400 courses online with more added every semester, all undergraduate and most masters degrees at SHSU can be partially completed online.
I previously attended SHSU, do I need to re-apply or retake classes?: Terms of readmission to SHSU are determined by several different factors (when you were last a student, what your standing was, what degree program you were in, etc.). Students looking to return to SHSU should contact the SHSU Admissions office.
Which courses are offered online in the upcoming semester?: You can look up courses and course descriptions at SHSU's current schedule of classes. Select the appropriate semester, then select “internet” as the Instructional Method.