Rankings / By State

Best Education Colleges in Alabama

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 17 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$45,851

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

50%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$18,481

Avg. Net Price

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When considering education colleges in Alabama, prospective students and their families are looking for programs that lead to meaningful careers. In this list, we highlight 17 institutions that stand out in terms of outcomes and program concentration. With average earnings at $45,851, the landscape of education programs here is both competitive and promising.

What sets the strong schools apart from the others in the list are their graduation rates, earnings potential, and manageable debt levels. For instance, Auburn University leads with an impressive 81% graduation rate and average earnings of $65,337. In contrast, other schools on the list may have lower earnings or completion rates, which can significantly impact a graduate's career trajectory and financial stability.

Take Samford University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham as examples. While Samford's graduates earn $58,469 on average with a graduation rate of 78%, UAB's graduates earn less at $54,501 and have a lower completion rate of 63%. These differences highlight the trade-offs students must consider as they evaluate their options.

Key Findings

Auburn University graduates earn an average of $65,337, the highest among Alabama education colleges.

Samford University has a graduation rate of 78%, signaling strong student support.

The average graduation rate across these schools is just 50%, underlining the challenge of completing a degree.

UAB has the lowest net price at $18,749, but a higher debt level of $22,300.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 17

Avg. earnings at 10yr $45,851

Avg. graduation rate 50%

Avg. net price $18,481

Avg. median debt $25,353

How We Ranked

Education 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

University of West Alabama

Livingston, AL

Graduation36%

Earnings$44,232

Net Price$12,684

View full profile →

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville, AL

Graduation53%

Earnings$45,235

Net Price$14,279

View full profile →

Auburn University

Auburn, AL

Graduation81%

Earnings$65,337

Net Price$24,323

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of West Alabama

Livingston, AL · 2,974 students · Public

With a smaller student body of nearly 3,000, the University of West Alabama offers a more intimate educational experience in Livingston. However, it faces challenges with a graduation rate of just 36%. Despite this, graduates earn a median salary of $44,232 after ten years, reflecting opportunities that exist for those who commit to their studies. The university emphasizes a supportive atmosphere that can be particularly beneficial for students who thrive in smaller settings.

43% accepted 36% graduate $44,232 earnings

University's full profile

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville, AL · 7,036 students · Public

With 7,036 students, Jacksonville State University has a vibrant campus community that highlights its commitment to student engagement and academic success. The 53% graduation rate reflects the university's dedication to helping students navigate their educational journeys and reach their goals.

78% accepted 53% graduate $45,235 earnings

Jacksonville's full profile

Auburn University

Auburn, AL · 26,816 students · Public

With nearly 27,000 students, Auburn University in Alabama is a vibrant community that blends academic rigor with a rich campus life. An impressive 81% of students graduate, reflecting a supportive environment that encourages persistence and achievement. The $65,337 median earnings at 10 years post-graduation indicate that many alumni find success in their careers, which can be attributed to strong programs and connections in industries across the South and beyond.

46% accepted 81% graduate $65,337 earnings

Auburn's full profile

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL · 11,635 students · Public

The University of Alabama at Birmingham serves over 11,600 students and emphasizes research and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 63%, the school fosters resilience among its students. Graduates can expect to earn around $54,501 within ten years, reflecting the university's strong connections to local industries and healthcare sectors in the region. UAB is a place where students interested in health sciences and research can truly flourish.

88% accepted 63% graduate $54,501 earnings

University's full profile

University of Montevallo

Montevallo, AL · 2,151 students · Public

The University of Montevallo, with a student population of 2,151, provides a personalized educational experience. Although the graduation rate is 52%, students here enjoy a supportive atmosphere that fosters individual growth and academic achievement, which is essential for navigating college life.

54% accepted 52% graduate $42,957 earnings

University's full profile

Samford University

Birmingham, AL · 4,206 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Birmingham, Samford University fosters a close-knit community with around 4,200 students. The university has a 78% graduation rate, which indicates that students are supported in their academic journeys. Graduates earn a median salary of $58,469 after ten years, reflecting the value of a Samford education in the job market. The university's commitment to a well-rounded education prepares students not just academically, but also personally.

82% accepted 78% graduate $58,469 earnings

Samford's full profile

University of North Alabama

Florence, AL · 5,811 students · Public

Located in Florence, the University of North Alabama offers a close-knit campus experience, with a student body of 5,811. The school has a graduation rate of 54%, indicating a strong focus on student success and retention, which is crucial for anyone considering their college options.

87% accepted 54% graduate $45,415 earnings

University's full profile

University of Mobile

Mobile, AL · 1,307 students · Private nonprofit

In Mobile, the University of Mobile welcomes 1,307 students into a private, nonprofit environment that prioritizes academic excellence and personal development. With a graduation rate of 56%, the university cultivates an atmosphere that encourages students to thrive and successfully complete their degrees.

78% accepted 56% graduate $43,611 earnings

University's full profile

Auburn University at Montgomery

Montgomery, AL · 2,542 students · Public

Auburn University at Montgomery may be a smaller public institution, but it has a welcoming environment with a 92% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. With a diverse student body of 2,542, 42% of whom receive Pell Grants, this school is committed to supporting those from varying financial backgrounds.

92% accepted 34% graduate $44,391 earnings

Auburn's full profile

#10

Huntingdon College

Montgomery, AL · 879 students · Private nonprofit

Huntingdon College may be smaller, with about 879 students, but it provides a unique private college experience in Montgomery. The college's 47% graduation rate highlights its challenges, yet the 40% of Pell Grant recipients indicates a focus on making education accessible to diverse students.

69% accepted 47% graduate $49,601 earnings

Huntingdon's full profile

#11

Spring Hill College

Mobile, AL · 782 students · Private nonprofit

Spring Hill College, a private nonprofit institution, fosters a close-knit community with around 782 students. The college's 54% graduation rate reflects its dedication to student success, and the 32% of students receiving Pell Grants shows its support for those from lower-income backgrounds.

77% accepted 54% graduate $51,500 earnings

Spring's full profile

#12

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL · 8,879 students · Public

The University of South Alabama offers a larger campus experience with nearly 8,900 students, creating a vibrant community in Mobile. Its 53% graduation rate suggests a supportive environment where students can thrive academically, and 38% of the student body are Pell Grant recipients, indicating a commitment to accessibility and diversity.

71% accepted 53% graduate $49,379 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Stillman College

Tuscaloosa, AL · 706 students · Private nonprofit

Stillman College in Tuscaloosa offers a unique environment for its 706 students, with a strong focus on community and support. While the graduation rate sits at 32%, the college serves a significant portion of Pell Grant recipients at 76%, indicating its dedication to accessibility for low-income students.

62% accepted 32% graduate $35,421 earnings

Stillman's full profile

#14

Troy University

Troy, AL · 9,805 students · Public

With nearly 10,000 students, Troy University is a vibrant public institution located in Alabama. Its 96% acceptance rate means that many students have a pathway to a college education, and the school has a diverse community, with 43% of its students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to accessibility.

96% accepted 48% graduate $42,062 earnings

Talladega College

Talladega, AL · 701 students · Private nonprofit

Talladega College, a private nonprofit institution, may be small with just 701 students, but it fosters a close-knit community where personal connections thrive. An impressive 67% of students receive Pell Grants, highlighting their commitment to supporting low-income individuals who seek higher education.

85% accepted 43% graduate $32,229 earnings

Talladega's full profile

#16

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL · 3,477 students · Public

With an acceptance rate of 98%, Alabama State University in Montgomery welcomes a diverse range of students, creating a vibrant campus community. The school’s focus on accessibility is evident, particularly for its 71% Pell Grant recipients, indicating a commitment to supporting low-income students.

98% accepted 30% graduate $34,502 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#17

Alabama A & M University

Normal, AL · 6,124 students · Public

Alabama A & M University, located in Normal, is a public institution that cultivates a rich sense of history and community among its 6,124 students. With a relatively low acceptance rate of 58%, it aims to attract students who are committed to their academic pursuits, even though its graduation rate stands at just 26%.

58% accepted 26% graduate $40,628 earnings

Alabama's full profile

A closer look at Auburn University and Jacksonville State University illustrates the nuances in these education programs. Auburn, with a graduation rate of 81%, not only offers higher earnings at $65,337 but also has a significantly lower average debt of $21,000 compared to Jacksonville State's $22,189. This discrepancy highlights how supportive environments can lead to better financial outcomes for graduates.

As you sift through these schools, weigh factors like location, program fit, and financial implications against your personal goals. For example, if managing debt is a priority, UAB's low net price might be appealing despite its lower earnings potential. Alternatively, if career prospects are your main focus, consider the higher earning potential at schools like Auburn and Samford.

Ultimately, this data sheds light on the critical connection between education and financial stability. A degree from a strong program can significantly influence life after college, impacting everything from job prospects to earning potential. Making an informed decision now can lay the foundation for a more secure future for you and your family.

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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