Current research confirms alcohol and drug use continues to cause significant problems on college campuses, where it contributes to poor academic performance, sexual assault, and accidental injuries (USDE, 2000). The purpose of this study was to assess the level of substance use at a southern university, describe demographic characteristics which relate to substance use, and compare the data to national rates. An adapted version of the National College Health Risk Behavior Survey was used for this study. Specifically, only the drug and alcohol portion was utilized (i.e., the 29 items addressing licit and illicit drug use), along with 4 questions added to assess the use of MDMA and GHB. Respondents were undergraduate students enrolled during the Fall 2000 semester. A total of 625 students (mean age=21.47) completed the survey. Approximating the demographic characteristics of the university population, the sample was 68% female, primarily Caucasian (77%), and at the freshman or sophomore level (62%). Less than half (38%) reported cigarette use in the last 30 days, and of these, 49% smoked all 30 days. The majority (72%) had used alcohol in the last 30 days, 43% reported binge drinking at least once in the last 30 days, and of these half reported doing so 3 to 9 days per month. Thirty percent reported driving after they had been drinking, and 43% reported riding in a car driven by someone who had been drinking. Drinking behaviors were found to vary significantly by demographic characteristics (via t-tests and one-way ANOVAs), such as classification (sophomores and juniors drank more than freshman and seniors), gender (higher among males), and race (higher among Caucasians). Fifty-five percent reported smoking marijuana in their lifetime, 21% in the last 30 days. Marijuana use was highest among sophomores and juniors, and Caucasian males. With regard to MDMA (ecstasy), 26% reported using it at least once, and 9% in the last 30 days. Thirteen percent reported using the sedative GHB at least once, 3% in the last 30 days. When compared to the national NCHRBS, these data indicate a higher use of tobacco, alcohol and illegal drugs, particularly with respect to binge drinking (8% above the national rate), drinking and driving (3% higher), riding with an intoxicated driver (8% higher), and steroid use (approximately 6 times higher). Clearly, prevention and intervention programming needs to target binge drinking, drinking and driving behaviors, and steroid use, particularly among white males. Keyword(s): college level issues, health promotion, research