Rankings / By State

Best Communications Colleges in Alabama

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 12 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$46,049

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

52%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,056

Avg. Net Price

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Communications programs in Alabama are drawing attention for their potential to launch careers in a variety of fields, from public relations to media production. With average earnings of $46,049 for graduates, these schools are worth considering for anyone looking to make a mark in the communications sector.

What sets the strongest programs apart are their outcomes: graduation rates, average earnings, and manageable debt levels. For example, Auburn University leads the pack with an 81% graduation rate and average earnings of $65,337, while other schools on this list may have lower earnings or higher debt, suggesting a trade-off that students need to weigh carefully.

Take Auburn University and the University of Alabama, for instance. Auburn's graduates earn nearly $6,000 more annually than those from Alabama, yet the latter has a slightly lower net price. This kind of contrast highlights the importance of aligning your educational choice with your career goals and financial situation.

Key Findings

Auburn University graduates earn an average of $65,337, the highest in the state.

The University of Alabama boasts a 74% graduation rate, making it a strong choice for completion.

Samford University has a net price of $32,622, the highest among the top five.

University of North Alabama has the lowest earnings at $45,415, which may impact debt repayment.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 12

Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,049

Avg. graduation rate 52%

Avg. net price $20,056

Avg. median debt $25,457

How We Ranked

Communications programs in Alabama ranked by outcomes and program concentration

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL

Graduation74%

Earnings$59,221

Net Price$22,420

View full profile →

Samford University

Birmingham, AL

Graduation78%

Earnings$58,469

Net Price$32,622

View full profile →

Auburn University

Auburn, AL

Graduation81%

Earnings$65,337

Net Price$24,323

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL · 33,227 students · Public

With over 33,000 students, the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa offers a large and diverse environment that can be appealing for those looking to make connections and explore a wide array of interests. The graduation rate of 74% indicates that while some students may face challenges, a significant number achieve their degree and go on to thrive in their careers.

77% accepted 74% graduate $59,221 earnings

Samford University

Birmingham, AL · 4,206 students · Private nonprofit

Samford University offers a more intimate setting with around 4,200 students, creating a close-knit atmosphere ideal for those who prefer smaller classes and personalized attention. The graduation rate of 78% is promising, and students can expect to receive a quality education that fosters growth and development.

82% accepted 78% graduate $58,469 earnings

Samford's full profile

Auburn University

Auburn, AL · 26,816 students · Public

Auburn University is home to nearly 27,000 students and a vibrant campus life, making it a great place for those seeking a sense of community. With an 81% graduation rate, students are not only enrolling but successfully completing their degrees, which speaks volumes about the support they receive throughout their academic journey.

46% accepted 81% graduate $65,337 earnings

Auburn's full profile

Spring Hill College

Mobile, AL · 782 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 54%, Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama, has a tight-knit community with just 782 students, fostering close relationships with faculty and peers. The college's median earnings at 10 years post-graduation stand at $51,500, suggesting that graduates find success in their careers, potentially benefiting from a personalized education in a supportive environment.

77% accepted 54% graduate $51,500 earnings

Spring's full profile

University of Montevallo

Montevallo, AL · 2,151 students · Public

At the University of Montevallo, the focus on personal growth and community is evident in its 52% graduation rate among 2,151 students. This public university stands out for its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, which can be ideal for students looking for a supportive campus culture as they navigate their college experience.

54% accepted 52% graduate $42,957 earnings

University's full profile

University of Mobile

Mobile, AL · 1,307 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Mobile draws students with its commitment to academic excellence and a graduation rate of 56%. Located in the heart of Mobile, this college has a student population of 1,307, allowing for a vibrant yet personal educational experience, which can be particularly appealing to those who thrive in smaller settings.

78% accepted 56% graduate $43,611 earnings

University's full profile

University of North Alabama

Florence, AL · 5,811 students · Public

The University of North Alabama is a smaller public school with about 5,800 students, which can lead to a more personalized educational experience. However, the graduation rate of 54% suggests that challenges exist for many students, making support systems crucial for academic success.

87% accepted 54% graduate $45,415 earnings

University's full profile

University of West Alabama

Livingston, AL · 2,974 students · Public

The University of West Alabama offers a unique experience in Livingston, with a graduation rate of just 36%, highlighting the challenges some students may face. With 2,974 students, this public university has room for growth and improvement, which can attract those ready to help shape a community and embrace the journey of higher education.

43% accepted 36% graduate $44,232 earnings

University's full profile

Oakwood University

Huntsville, AL · 1,153 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $42,488 a decade after graduation, Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama, is a place where many students can find their footing in the job market. The school has a strong support system, especially for its 44% Pell Grant recipients, making it a welcoming environment for those from lower-income backgrounds.

45% accepted 47% graduate $42,488 earnings

Oakwood's full profile

#10

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL · 3,477 students · Public

Alabama State University in Montgomery is a public institution with a large student body of 3,477, which fosters a vibrant campus life. However, the university’s graduation rate is only 30%, signaling that many students may struggle to complete their degrees. This could mean that those who thrive here are those who seek a strong support network and actively engage in resources available on campus.

98% accepted 30% graduate $34,502 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#11

Talladega College

Talladega, AL · 701 students · Private nonprofit

Talladega College, located in Talladega, Alabama, is known for its high acceptance rate of 85%, making it accessible for many students eager to pursue higher education. Despite a graduation rate of 43%, the college fosters a close-knit community that can help students navigate their academic journeys together.

85% accepted 43% graduate $32,229 earnings

Talladega's full profile

#12

Miles College

Fairfield, AL · 1,155 students · Private nonprofit

Miles College in Fairfield, Alabama, has a small student population of 1,155, which can create a tight-knit community atmosphere. However, the graduation rate is notably low at 20%, which raises questions about support systems and student retention. Students who thrive here are likely those who find strong mentorship and community ties to help them stay engaged and motivated.

20% graduate $32,627 earnings

A deeper look at the data reveals that Auburn University significantly outperforms the University of North Alabama in key metrics. With an 81% graduation rate and $65,337 in average earnings, Auburn stands in stark contrast to North Alabama's 54% graduation rate and $45,415 earnings. This discrepancy highlights how vital it is to consider both educational outcomes and financial implications when evaluating these programs.

As you survey these schools, think about what matters most to you. Are you willing to take on more debt for a potentially higher earning job post-graduation? Or are you looking for a more affordable option even if it means lower earnings? Weigh factors like location, campus culture, and the specific programs offered against your financial situation to find the right fit.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life often hinges on these decisions. One family might choose Auburn for its higher earning potential, while another may opt for a school like Samford, prioritizing a smaller campus experience. Each decision carries weight and can shape future opportunities, making it essential to choose wisely.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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