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Summer Start

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  • University of South Alabama Summer Start Logo
  • South Alabama Students posing in front of the South Paw statue on campus
  • South Alabama Students throwing up "the J" on South Alabama's soccer field.
  • South Alabama Students posing in front of the South Paw statue on campus
  • South Alabama students throwing up the J in front of the Jaguar statue at the Mitchel Center
  • South Alabama students posing in front of the entrance to South Trails located on campus.

What is Summer Start?

Summer Start is a six-week summer program designed to help students earn 7 credit hours while getting a head start on the fall semester. This unique opportunity allows students to explore South’s campus before it gets busy, learn in smaller, more personalized classes, and develop strong academic skills with peer support. 

Who is Summer Start for?

Summer Start is a program for first-year applicants to University of South Alabama who are offered Summer admission. There is no additional application for Summer Start. First-year applicants to South are automatically considered for Summer admission during the application review process, and a select group receives a Summer offer of admission. Students admitted for the Summer term must successfully complete the program, as defined by the university, to continue enrollment into the Fall 2026 term. Summer Start is also a great fit for students who are looking for a more hands-on, structured, and supportive transition into college. If you’re interested in building confidence, forming connections early, and starting strong, this program may be right for you.

▼   Key Dates for Summer Start 2026
  • Move-In for On-Campus Students: Friday, June 12, 2026
  • Onboarding for All Summer Start Students: Sunday, June 14, 2026
  • Classes Begin: Monday, June 15, 2026
  • Classes End: Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Don’t miss this chance to start strong, make connections, and prepare for success!

▼   Summer Start Learning Communities

     

Learning communities are small groups of students who take two classes together during their first semester at South. These classes are based on your major or interests, so you'll be with people who share similar goals. It's a great way to make friends, build a support system, and feel more connected to campus right away. Plus, students in learning communities are more likely to stay on track and graduate on time!  


 

English Learning Community

 

The English Learning Community is ideal for majors that do not require math beyond Finite Mathematics (MA 110). This community emphasizes reading, writing, and critical thinking skills through shared coursework and collaborative learning experiences that support academic growth across a range of creative and communication-focused disciplines.

  • Intro to English Composition (EH 101) 
    and
  • Intro to US Government (PSC 130).  

These courses give you credit for your first English Composition course and a Social Science Elective. These courses are required for all majors.

 

Math Learning Community

 

The Math Learning Community is designed to support students, particularly those majoring in STEM fields or needing  higher-level math courses, by fostering collaboration and academic success. Members will benefit from shared classes, peer support, and targeted resources to strengthen their math skills and build a strong foundation for their major.

  • Essentials for Precalculus (MTH 100) and Intro to Communications (CA 100).
    or
  • Essentials for Precalculus (MTH 100) and Intro to Theater (DRA 110). 

These courses give you credit for the prerequisite to Precalculus Algebra (MA 112) and a Humanities elective or Social Science Elective that is needed for most majors.

 

 

All Learning Communities will be linked to a a reflection course (CAS 190). This course helps with the transition from High School to College. It fosters reflection on the information you are learning, connecting with resources available on campus, and establishing relationships on campus. 

Once you are placed in your courses for the summer semester, you may reach out to  Autumn Courtney if you see any concerns with your placement. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Autumn directly at amcourtney@southalabama.edu.

▼   You're Accepted! Now What?

You’ve taken the first step—now it’s time to get everything in place for a strong start. Summer Start is designed to keep you on track, so following each step carefully will ensure a smooth transition into your first term. From securing housing to registering for orientation and preparing financially, each item plays an important role in your success. Use the checklist below as your guide to stay organized and ready for day one!

Here are the next steps to complete:

Have questions? Check out our FAQs for quick answers and helpful guidance. If you need additional support, feel free to contact us at amcourtney@southalabama.edu

We’re here to help every step of the way!

 

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