Popular Colleges in Alabama: Find Your Perfect Fit
Explore the best Alabama colleges and universities with our detailed guide. Learn about admission requirements, majors, and campus life.
- By: The College Compass Team
Alabama is home to a thriving academic environment, boasting both public and private institutions with unparalleled reputations.
From the bustling University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa to the citadel-like Auburn University, you can find anything you’re looking for among all of the top-tier educational offerings in Alabama.
All of these higher learning institutions offer a unique student life experience, and there’s no shortage of things to do – be it hitting up downtown hotspots, engaging in campus events, or taking an educational trip with classmates.
Along with traditional academic pursuits, you can explore passion projects, including exploring cultures, business ventures, and nonprofit organizations that promote social justice.
Whether you’re in Huntsville, Birmingham, or Tuscaloosa, the best colleges in Alabama are teeming with opportunities for furthering one’s education while experiencing the state’s vibrant culture and charm.
Higher Education in Alabama: Overview & Important Info
Alabama is a unique pocket of college and university culture all its own, with institutions offering diverse educational experiences like Auburn University with its top-tier research or the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s up-and-coming aerospace engineering program.
From Division I athletics to smaller liberal arts programs and online learning opportunities, attending college in The Heart Of Dixie can be an exciting adventure providing the skills you need to make your mark.
Quick facts about colleges in Alabama:
- Types of Colleges in Alabama – Public colleges, Private colleges for profit, Private colleges not for profit, and Community colleges
- Number of Colleges & Universities by type – 14 four-year public colleges, 22 are four-year private colleges, 23 community colleges
- Number of Students – 292,181 students
- Average tuition cost from colleges listed – $14,993
- Economic impact of higher education in Alabama – Alabama’s 14 public universities are the primary economic growth engines throughout the state. In addition to employing over 20,000 people across all 67 counties, they provide critical healthcare services and invest in research and development of innovative ideas and new technologies.
- Popular student cities, areas, or towns – Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, and Huntsville
The Most Popular Colleges in Alabama in 2023
Auburn University
Auburn, AL
For more than 160 years, Auburn University has been a cornerstone of education in the state of Alabama.
With over 30,000 students and 140 educational programs to choose from – ranging from agricultural sciences to nursing & health sciences – you’ll be sure to find the perfect major for your college journey!
On top of this academic excellence is an impressive athletics program that’s part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) with 20 national championships under its belt. Discover what makes Auburn such a beloved university today!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$6,088
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public, research university
Enrollment
Close, Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Biomedical Sciences and Molecular Medicine
• Mechanical Engineering
• Business and Marketing
• Veterinary Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama is an educational leader, boasting Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty members and a plethora of graduate, undergraduate, and research programs for its 38000+ students from across the globe.
Beyond classes, many exciting student activities are available – NCAA Division I Athletics, Greek Life organizations galore, community service groups – even study abroad!
To realize your best self on campus, UA also offers resources such as tutoring centers & career services to ensure that you will have access to great opportunities in pursuit of academic success or personal growth.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$11,100
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Close, Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Family Studies and Consumer Sciences
• Health Professions and Related Programs
• Communication & Journalism
• Business & Marketing
• Mechanical Engineering
Samford University
Tuscaloosa, AL
Samford University is a bustling opportunity to explore your passions and dive into a diverse 200-acre campus. From traditional degrees like Arts & Sciences to Adult Degree Completion Programs and online classes – the possibilities are endless!
With over 90% of faculty holding the highest qualifications in its subject area, Samford promises top-notch education from experts in the field.
You will have countless ways to get involved with student clubs, honor societies, intramural sports activities, and performing arts events off-campus via volunteer projects. Whatever your passion may be – it awaits you at Samford University.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$38,144
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Journalism
University of Alabama, Huntsville
Huntsville, AL
Located in North Alabama near magnificent lakeside views and outstanding research centers, UAH brings together a vibrant student life with cutting-edge opportunities for exploration.
Through the National Space Grant program, you will gain access to first-class resources from NASA Marshall’s Flight Center and AMRDEC’s Research & Development center.
Plus, there are numerous events throughout the year, including an annual Festival of Arts & Sciences that attracts global speakers – making UAH the ideal destination for curious minds eager to discover innovative ideas!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$10,120
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Close, Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
54%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Mechanical Engineering
• Information Science
• Aerospace Engineering
• Computer Hardware Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
University of Alabama, Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
UAB is a leading public research university in Birmingham, Alabama. Established in 1969 and home to more than 20,000 students from all over the world, UAB boasts 11 prestigious schools such as Medicine, Nursing, and Optometry offering 140+ undergraduate programs plus 70 graduate options covering an extensive range of fields.
Some outstanding facilities include CARE (Center for Aids Research & Education) and Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB – nationally acclaimed centers transforming lives through innovative education initiatives daily!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$11,140
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Close, Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
58.7%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Nursing
• Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences
• Law Enforcement
• Psychology
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, AL
Founded as far back as 1883, Jacksonville State University (JSU) has since blossomed into one of the premier universities in the region, with over 90 degree programs ranging from Accounting to Psychology for you to choose from.
In addition to its robust academic offerings, JSU also provides countless opportunities for student involvement – through intramural sports teams or international exchange trips, Greek life organizations or career advisory services, and counseling on campus!
So why not join JSU – you’re sure to find something that suits your needs!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$9,720
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Close, Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
47%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Nursing
• Liberal Arts and Humanities
• Elementary Education
• Information Science
• Social Work and Youth Services
University of North Alabama
Florence, AL
With its stunning Appalachian surroundings, the University of North Alabama’s campus offers you the perfect place to learn and grow. In addition to peaceful natural spots for relaxation or study, UNA provides a variety of recreational activities, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and basketball courts.
On top of all that fun is an exciting community full of student organizations and events waiting for you!
Looking beyond UNA’s borders? There are also numerous opportunities available such as service-learning experiences abroad with internships, so you can make your mark on the world – just like UNA will make one for you!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$11,400
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Close, Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
49%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Accounting
• Elementary Education
• Social Work and Youth Services
• Kinesiology and Exercise Science
• Liberal Arts and Humanities
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL
The University of South Alabama is a leader in higher education, offering you an array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs and various extracurricular activities.
The expansive 1,200-acre main campus overlooks Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico while featuring internationally accredited schools like College Medicine, Mitchell Cancer Institute, and College Nursing & Health Professions for those seeking top-notch medical training.
USA also includes Children’s & Women’s Hospital services and extensions through its Baldwin County Campus or international campuses – exemplifying the commitment to quality learning from young adults worldwide!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$10,970
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
45%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Biology
• Liberal Arts and Humanities
• Health Service Preparatory Studies
• Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT Paramedic)
Birmingham - Southern College
Birmingham, AL
Founded in 1856, Birmingham-Southern College has been offering students an innovative liberal arts education for over 150 years.
From its original incarnation as the Birmingham Medical College to its current name and mission of preparing “lifelong learners and responsible citizens,” this private institution in Alabama offers a unique combination of intellectual rigor with professional preparation across more than 50 majors representing natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, engineering humanities social sciences business administration and fine arts.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$20,000
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Close Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor’s
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business
• Biology
• Political Science and Government
• Accounting
• Mathematics
Troy University
Birmingham, AL
Troy University is a prestigious institution that offers an outstanding educational experience for its 20,000-plus students.
Apart from the renowned liberal arts program, Troy also provides excellent degree pathways in engineering, business, aviation, and more – all backed by numerous accreditations and delivered both on-campus or through online classes.
Beyond academics, there are plenty of ways to get involved at Troy; with five museums plus intercollegiate athletics competing across NCAA Division I football and softball programs – it truly has something for everyone!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$11,640
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
37%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business
• Liberal Arts and Humanities
• Psychology
• Criminal Justice and Safety Studies
• Information Science
Spring Hill College
Mobile, AL
Spring Hill College is the oldest Catholic college in the South and has served students with various majors for over two centuries.
Accredited by SACSCOC to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, the programs include business administration (MBA), counseling psychology (MSCP), and theology (MA), as well as certificates in various fields.
Beyond academics, there are many student-led activities, including athletics clubs/organizations and volunteer service classes enriching lives on campus from sports teams to study groups – providing an opportunity no matter where your interest lies!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$21,100
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
53%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Health Professions and Related Programs
• Biology
• Business, Management, and Marketing
• Sociology
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee, AL
Tuskegee University is a renowned institution of higher learning and research, providing over 40 degrees from engineering to nursing.
There stands the mission of embracing diversity through comprehensive education, stressing academic success, creative growth, spiritual well-being, civic duty, and service for all people.
Among its impressive features is the George Washington Carver Museum – preserving his legacy in history- as well as critical markers like The Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site commemorating African American educational excellence since 1881.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$19,594
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
More Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Mechanical Engineering
• Animal Sciences and Husbandry
• Biology
• Electrical Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
Disclaimer:
All of the data about acceptance rates, graduation rates, tuition costs, and other relevant details for the list of popular colleges in Alabama mentioned above is sourced from CollegeScoreCard by the U.S. Department of Education, as well as each college’s respective official website.
Please use the information and data provided only as a general guideline and verify it before making decisions based on it.
Accreditation for Alabama Colleges
In Alabama, all public institutions are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
In contrast, private institutions may be accredited either by the SACSCOC or one of seven other recognized accrediting bodies.
Courses taken at a school accredited by SACSCOC are more likely to transfer to other schools than those from an unaccredited institution.
This ensures that you can easily move from one college to another without having to retake classes or worry about the validity of your credits.
Accreditation also signals to employers and other institutions that the school is a reputable institution of higher learning.
Things to Consider when Choosing a College in Alabama
Choosing a college or university is an important decision, and many students give Alabama serious consideration when deciding between schools.
The state boasts a wide selection of quality institutions with excellent academics, top-notch faculty and staff, and diverse student bodies worldwide.
Reasons to choose Alabama
- Students attending college in Alabama have access to the nation’s third-fastest growing economy, ensuring job opportunities upon graduation.
- There are numerous options for housing, making it easier to find the right fit for a student’s needs.
- Many of the institutions offer small class sizes, giving students a chance to connect with professors and classmates on a more personal level.
- Alabama also has a thriving college sports scene, with many of its schools boasting successful teams in both men’s and women’s sports.
- According to the U.S. News and World Report’s latest rankings, the University of Alabama was rated the 24th best university in the USA. At the same time, Auburn landed at number 77, with many smaller universities scoring as high as 70th nationally.
Student Tips for Choosing a College in Alabama
- Look online for scholarships offered by organizations or universities in Alabama that could help reduce the cost of tuition fees, books, room & board, etc., so you can save money while studying there.
- Research housing options near campuses if you plan on staying in the area during your studies – this will help ensure that you find a place close enough so that commuting does not become an issue or too expensive for your budget!
- Talk to current students at each school: Talking with current students can provide valuable insight into what it’s like to attend each college or university in Alabama and give you an idea of student life on campus.
Campus Life at Alabama Colleges
Whether you’re a student from the state or planning to move to Alabama for college, many exciting aspects of campus life await you.
On campus, you will have access to various resources, including libraries, recreation centers with fitness classes, museums and galleries offering free admission, gourmet dining halls serving fantastic food, and tech-ready classrooms where professors push boundaries in research.
For those coming from out-of-state, many universities provide resources like housing services, dedicated departments dealing with paperwork for international students, and transportation links that help ease the transition into university life in Alabama.
Additionally, some universities in Alabama offer special programs specifically designed for out-of-state students that provide help with navigating the process of moving to the state.
With such an engaging and supportive environment available to students in this state, pursuing higher education in Alabama promises an unforgettable journey full of learning and exploration!
Financial Aid and Cost of Living
Alabama is known for its relatively low cost of living, with housing, transportation, and grocery expenses all below the national average.
The college tuition fees nationwide have been increasing over recent years, so fortunately for future Alabama students, an undergraduate degree can still be achieved at a considerably lower cost than in many other states.
To further help with college expenses and financial barriers, several government initiatives are available to eligible high school applicants in Alabama. For example, the Alabama Commission on Higher Education’s Prepaid Affordable (APPLE) program allows parents to purchase college credits at any state-owned university or college at today’s prices regardless of when their children attend.
Additionally, the Alabama Student Grant Program assists those who demonstrate financial need in accessing higher education opportunities.
Collectively these two programs provide much-needed support for those from Alabama pursuing college degrees.
FAQ about Alabama Colleges
- A high school diploma or GED
- SAT or ACT scores
- Official transcripts
- An application fee
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essay or statement
- Health records and immunization forms
- Financial aid forms and other documents, if needed.
Note: Every college has different admissions requirements, so it is important to check what the specific requirements are for each one.
Jacksonville State University, University of North Alabama, and Tuskegee University are the hardest colleges in Alabama to get into.
Troy University, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Samford University are the colleges in Alabama that accept the majority of their applicants.
Yes, there are several scholarships available for college students in Alabama. For example, The Alabama Student Grant Program offers need-based awards to eligible undergraduates and various other grants and fellowships, such as the Alabama Scholarship Fund, providing funds to students in financial need.
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Auburn University, Birmingham-Southern College, University of South Alabama, Auburn University, University of Alabama, and Troy University have free tuition programs for senior citizens.
Yes, many research opportunities are available to students at Alabama colleges ranging from internships and fellowships to clinical trials and research assistantships.
Most of these opportunities are posted online on individual college or university websites. Students can also contact the research offices of the colleges and universities directly to inquire about available research opportunities.
Alabama colleges and universities offer a variety of extracurricular activities for students to get involved in. Many schools have an intramural (IM) program that allows you to participate in team sports like flag football, soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
There are also opportunities to join fraternities and sororities, student government organizations, honor societies, and other clubs related to interests like music, theater, dance, science, and technology.
Alabama colleges and universities provide various support services for students with disabilities, such as technical assistance, academic accommodations, counseling services, and help with job searching. Other resources include peer mentoring programs, assistive listening devices, accessible housing options, resources for financial aid, and scholarships specifically designed for students with disabilities.
Summary
Alabama is a great place to pursue higher education due to its low tuition, financial aid programs, and career opportunities.
Whether you’re from the state or planning on moving there for college, Alabama offers an exciting campus environment with plenty of resources, such as libraries, recreation centers, and museums.
With its diverse culture, dynamic people, and incredible job prospects – studying in Alabama promises an unforgettable journey!
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