Acceptance Rate
69%
Avg. SAT
1410
75th percentile
“A public university in Huntsville with a deep connection to space research and engineering innovation.”
Huntsville, AL
Location
Midsize City
Campus Setting
Nestled in the heart of Huntsville, Alabama, the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) carries a legacy tied to the city’s nickname as the 'Rocket City.' Founded in 1950 as an extension of the University of Alabama, it became an independent campus in 1969, growing alongside Huntsville’s emergence as a hub for aerospace and defense industries, largely due to nearby NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and Redstone Arsenal. This connection shapes UAH’s identity, making it a magnet for students fascinated by science, technology, and the stars. The campus itself, with its modern architecture and green spaces, sits in a suburban area, offering a quieter pace compared to urban universities, though it’s just minutes from downtown Huntsville’s evolving cultural scene.
If you’re a student who geeks out over engineering challenges, dreams of working on space missions, or thrives in a focused, STEM-heavy environment, UAH could feel like home. The student body leans toward the pragmatic—many are first-generation college students or come from Alabama and surrounding states, drawn by affordable in-state tuition and a clear path to technical careers. However, if you’re seeking a sprawling, traditional college-town vibe with endless social distractions or a broad liberal arts focus, UAH’s narrower scope and smaller campus energy might leave you wanting more.
Huntsville itself is a city of contrasts—known for high-tech industries yet surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills. You’ll find a growing downtown with breweries, museums like the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, and outdoor spots like Monte Sano State Park for hiking. The tradeoff is that Huntsville isn’t a bustling metropolis; entertainment options can feel limited, and public transportation isn’t as robust as in larger cities, so having a car often helps.
Photo Gallery
+5
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
UAH stands out for its powerhouse programs in engineering, computer science, and atmospheric science, deeply rooted in its proximity to NASA and defense contractors. The College of Engineering is a cornerstone, with hands-on projects and research tied to real-world applications like satellite design and propulsion systems—students often collaborate with industry experts right from undergrad. Science fields, especially space-related studies, also shine, with unique opportunities to work on projects that could literally reach orbit. You can expect a curriculum that prioritizes technical skills and problem-solving, often with direct pathways to internships in Huntsville’s tech corridor.
Classroom experiences vary—introductory courses in popular majors might pack larger lecture halls, but upper-level classes and research labs tend to offer closer interaction with professors who are often active in their fields. The academic culture leans intense for STEM students, with a competitive edge in securing research spots or co-ops, though non-STEM majors might find fewer standout resources or variety in course offerings. If your heart isn’t set on a tech-driven path, you may need to seek out smaller departments like nursing or business to carve your niche, as the spotlight often stays on engineering and science.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
6,800 undergrad • 1,764 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
67%
Black / African American
9%
Hispanic / Latino
6%
Asian
4%
Other / Multi-racial
13%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Huntsville, AL
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at UAH reflects a balance of focused academics and a tight-knit, down-to-earth community. With a smaller undergraduate population, you’ll find it easier to connect with peers through student organizations, whether it’s joining the Rocketry Club to build high-powered rockets or diving into Greek life, which plays a modest but active role on campus. Traditions like Charger Blue Fridays, where students and staff sport school colors, foster a sense of pride, and hockey games—UAH is one of the few Southern schools with a Division I team—bring unexpected energy to the social scene. Most students live on campus for at least their first year, creating a residential vibe where friendships form over late-night study sessions or quick trips to the student center.
That said, UAH isn’t known for a wild party culture; the social scene leans quieter, with many students prioritizing academics or part-time jobs over constant nightlife. Huntsville’s suburban setting means you might need to plan outings for entertainment, and the Alabama weather—hot, humid summers and occasional tornado watches—can test your adaptability. Cost of living remains reasonable compared to larger cities, but without a car, getting around off-campus can feel inconvenient at times.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Gulf South Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
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
84%
4 Years Graduation Rate
43%
6 Years Graduation Rate
60%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$61,767
84% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at University of Alabama in Huntsville and return in the fall. 43% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 60% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
43%
4-5 years
17%
6-8 years
2%
Non-grad
38%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$10,120
Acceptance
69%
Undergrads
6,800
4-Year Grad Rate
43%
Endowment
$100M
Huntsville, AL 35899
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