Acceptance Rate
88%
Avg. SAT
1450
75th percentile
“Urban public research powerhouse excelling in health sciences and biomedical innovation.”
Birmingham, AL
Location
Midsize City
Campus Setting
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) traces its roots to 1936 as an extension center of the University of Alabama, evolving into an independent institution in 1969 amid Birmingham's industrial growth. It rapidly expanded into a major research university, leveraging the city's medical heritage to become a hub for health-related advancements. Today, UAB is part of the University of Alabama System, with a pragmatic, forward-thinking personality shaped by its urban setting and commitment to practical impact.
Students who thrive at UAB are ambitious and resilient, often drawn to STEM, health professions, or business. They appreciate collaborative environments, undergraduate research opportunities, and a diverse community that reflects Birmingham's multicultural fabric. Independent learners comfortable in a bustling city atmosphere find UAB's no-nonsense approach to education rewarding.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
UAB stands out for its health sciences programs, including a top-30 medical school, highly ranked nursing and public health degrees, and specialized fields like optometry and biomedical engineering. The university's R1 research classification supports extensive undergrad involvement in labs tied to UAB Hospital, one of the nation's busiest academic medical centers. Class sizes vary, with large lectures in introductory courses giving way to smaller seminars in upper levels; teaching emphasizes evidence-based learning and real-world application.
Notable programs include the Honors College for interdisciplinary study and strong offerings in materials engineering and joint health/business degrees. Engineering and Collat School of Business provide solid technical training with co-op options.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
11,959 undergrad • 8,946 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
49%
Black / African American
22%
Hispanic / Latino
6%
Asian
8%
Other / Multi-racial
16%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Birmingham, AL
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
UAB's urban campus blends seamlessly with Birmingham's revitalized downtown, offering easy access to museums, restaurants, and internships. Campus life revolves around 300+ student organizations, including active Greek life (about 15% participation) and cultural groups reflecting a student body where over 25% are international or from underrepresented minorities.
Traditions include Blazer basketball games at Legacy Arena, where the team has won multiple Conference USA titles, and community service events tied to the city's health initiatives. The social scene is casual and inclusive, with frequent concerts, festivals, and apartment-style housing fostering independence.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
American Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
80%
4 Years Graduation Rate
44%
6 Years Graduation Rate
58%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$54,501
80% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at University of Alabama at Birmingham and return in the fall. 44% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 58% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
44%
4-5 years
14%
6-8 years
2%
Non-grad
40%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$8,832
Acceptance
88%
Undergrads
11,959
4-Year Grad Rate
44%
Endowment
$739M
Birmingham, AL 35294-0110
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