Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Alabama

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 24 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$46,066

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

49%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,670

Avg. Net Price

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Finding the right master's program can be a pivotal step in advancing your career. In Alabama, 24 schools stand out for their graduate outcomes, giving prospective students plenty to consider. With an average earnings figure of $46,066 for graduates, these programs provide a glimpse into the potential return on investment.

The best schools on this list are distinguished by their graduation rates, average earnings, and student debt figures. A higher graduation rate often correlates with better job placements and earnings, while manageable debt levels can ease financial burdens after graduation. This ranking reflects how well each program prepares its students for the workforce and what they can expect to earn.

For instance, Auburn University leads the pack with impressive earnings of $65,337, but it also comes with a net price of $24,323 and an 81% graduation rate. In contrast, the University of Alabama in Huntsville has lower earnings at $61,767, but a significantly lower net price of $18,796. These differences highlight the trade-offs students must consider when weighing their options.

Key Findings

Auburn University graduates earn an average of $65,337, significantly higher than the state average of $46,066.

With a graduation rate of 81%, Auburn outpaces the average of 49%, indicating strong program support.

The University of Alabama in Huntsville has the lowest net price at $18,796, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious students.

Average debt for graduates across these programs is $21,700, which can vary significantly depending on the school.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 24

Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,066

Avg. graduation rate 49%

Avg. net price $19,670

Avg. median debt $25,174

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Alabama ranked by graduate outcomes

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 Alabama in Huntsville

Huntsville, AL

Graduation63%

Earnings$61,767

Net Price$18,796

View full profile →

Auburn University

Auburn, AL

Graduation81%

Earnings$65,337

Net Price$24,323

View full profile →

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

Graduation63%

Earnings$54,501

Net Price$18,749

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Huntsville, AL · 6,591 students · Public

The University of Alabama in Huntsville serves a diverse student body of over 6,500 and is particularly strong in engineering and technology. With a graduation rate of 63%, students here can take advantage of a supportive community that fosters academic success and innovation, leading to median earnings of $61,767 after ten years.

69% accepted 63% graduate $61,767 earnings

University's full profile

Auburn University

Auburn, AL · 26,816 students · Public

Auburn University is home to nearly 27,000 students and is known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs. With an impressive 81% graduation rate, Auburn supports students in reaching their goals and offers a degree that can lead to substantial earnings — a median of $65,337 at ten years post-graduation.

46% accepted 81% graduate $65,337 earnings

Auburn's full profile

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL · 11,635 students · Public

With a student body of over 11,600, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) creates a vibrant campus life in the heart of Birmingham. Known for its strong health sciences programs, UAB gives students hands-on experiences in a city that is home to numerous healthcare facilities, making it a great choice for those interested in medical careers.

88% accepted 63% graduate $54,501 earnings

University's full profile

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL · 33,227 students · Public

Located in Tuscaloosa, the University of Alabama is a large institution with over 33,000 students, known for its spirited campus culture and a wide array of programs. With a graduation rate of 74%, students can find pathways to success, earning a median salary of $59,221 at the ten-year mark, reflecting the institution's commitment to student achievement.

77% accepted 74% graduate $59,221 earnings

Samford University

Birmingham, AL · 4,206 students · Private nonprofit

Samford University, a private nonprofit institution in Birmingham, enrolls around 4,200 students and prides itself on a supportive and close-knit environment. With a graduation rate of 78%, students are likely to earn a degree that leads to average earnings of $58,469 after ten years, reflecting the university's focus on academic excellence and personal growth.

82% accepted 78% graduate $58,469 earnings

Samford's full profile

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville, AL · 7,036 students · Public

Jacksonville State University (JSU) serves around 7,000 students in a friendly, intimate setting in Jacksonville, AL. Known for its commitment to community engagement and student involvement, JSU fosters a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive both academically and socially, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a personal touch in their education.

78% accepted 53% graduate $45,235 earnings

Jacksonville's full profile

University of North Alabama

Florence, AL · 5,811 students · Public

The University of North Alabama (UNA) is a welcoming campus nestled in Florence, where about 5,800 students create a close-knit community. With a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, UNA encourages engagement and personal growth, making it an excellent option for students who thrive in smaller settings and value student-faculty relationships.

87% accepted 54% graduate $45,415 earnings

University's full profile

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL · 8,879 students · Public

Located in Mobile, the University of South Alabama (USA) combines a lively campus atmosphere with a strong commitment to academic success for its 8,879 students. The university is known for its health-related programs and research opportunities, providing a robust pathway for those pursuing careers in healthcare and beyond.

71% accepted 53% graduate $49,379 earnings

University's full profile

University of Mobile

Mobile, AL · 1,307 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $43,611 at 10 years after graduation, the University of Mobile presents a solid option for students looking to invest in their future. The school's 78% acceptance rate indicates a welcoming environment that encourages a diverse range of students to pursue their academic aspirations in a private nonprofit setting.

78% accepted 56% graduate $43,611 earnings

University's full profile

#10

University of Montevallo

Montevallo, AL · 2,151 students · Public

At the University of Montevallo, students find a close-knit community that fosters academic and personal growth, reflected in its graduation rate of 52%. With a student body of 2,151, this public university offers an intimate setting where individuals can thrive and develop meaningful connections during their college years.

54% accepted 52% graduate $42,957 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Auburn University at Montgomery

Montgomery, AL · 2,542 students · Public

Auburn University at Montgomery has a welcoming atmosphere, evident in its 92% acceptance rate and a diverse student population of 2,542. Despite a graduation rate of just 34%, the school is committed to helping students navigate their academic paths, with resources designed to support their unique journeys toward success.

92% accepted 34% graduate $44,391 earnings

Auburn's full profile

#12

Spring Hill College

Mobile, AL · 782 students · Private nonprofit

Spring Hill College provides a supportive environment for its 782 students, with a graduation rate of 54% indicating a commitment to student success. Located in Mobile, AL, it fosters a community that encourages engagement and personal growth, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a smaller college experience.

77% accepted 54% graduate $51,500 earnings

Spring's full profile

#13

University of West Alabama

Livingston, AL · 2,974 students · Public

Located in Livingston, the University of West Alabama caters to a smaller student body of about 2,974, creating an intimate learning environment. The school has a strong commitment to access, with 58% of its students receiving Pell Grants, which reflects its dedication to helping financially disadvantaged students succeed.

43% accepted 36% graduate $44,232 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Huntingdon College

Montgomery, AL · 879 students · Private nonprofit

Huntingdon College in Montgomery is a private nonprofit institution with a close-knit community of around 879 students. The college demonstrates a commitment to diversity and support, with 40% of students receiving Pell Grants, allowing access for many who may need financial assistance to pursue higher education.

69% accepted 47% graduate $49,601 earnings

Huntingdon's full profile

#15

Faulkner University

Montgomery, AL · 1,549 students · Private nonprofit

Faulkner University in Montgomery has around 1,549 students, fostering a tight-knit atmosphere ideal for personalized learning. With 46% of its student body receiving Pell Grants, it actively supports those from lower-income backgrounds, ensuring that many can access quality education without overwhelming financial burdens.

73% accepted 38% graduate $43,457 earnings

Faulkner's full profile

#16

Tuskegee University

Tuskegee, AL · 2,630 students · Private nonprofit

At Tuskegee University, students become part of a rich legacy of African American education and empowerment. With around 2,630 students, this private nonprofit institution is committed to creating a close-knit community that encourages personal and academic growth.

49% accepted 56% graduate $49,641 earnings

Tuskegee's full profile

#17

Stillman College

Tuscaloosa, AL · 706 students · Private nonprofit

Stillman College, a private nonprofit institution in Tuscaloosa, AL, caters to a tight-knit student body of 706. With a commitment to fostering personal relationships, the college places a strong emphasis on student support, which is reflected in its 76% Pell Grant recipient rate. This focus on community might resonate with students looking for a more intimate educational experience.

62% accepted 32% graduate $35,421 earnings

Stillman's full profile

#18

Troy University

Troy, AL · 9,805 students · Public

With nearly 10,000 students and a welcoming 96% acceptance rate, Troy University offers a vibrant community for those looking to further their education. It’s particularly notable that 43% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong support for low-income families as they pursue their degrees.

96% accepted 48% graduate $42,062 earnings

Oakwood University

Huntsville, AL · 1,153 students · Private nonprofit

Oakwood University is situated in Huntsville, a city known for its innovative spirit and strong ties to the aerospace industry. With a smaller student body of 1,153, Oakwood fosters a unique atmosphere where personal attention is prioritized, and students can build lasting relationships with faculty and peers alike.

45% accepted 47% graduate $42,488 earnings

Oakwood's full profile

#20

Alabama A & M University

Normal, AL · 6,124 students · Public

With 6,124 students, Alabama A & M University in Normal, AL, creates a vibrant community for those seeking a public education. The university has a significant percentage of Pell Grant recipients, at 63%, which highlights its commitment to supporting students from diverse financial backgrounds. The school's focus on accessibility and inclusion makes it a compelling option for many families.

58% accepted 26% graduate $40,628 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#21

Talladega College

Talladega, AL · 701 students · Private nonprofit

Talladega College sits in a vibrant community with deep historical significance, serving around 701 students. This private nonprofit institution prides itself on building a supportive environment that values diversity and cultural heritage, making it an appealing choice for those who want to connect with their roots while pursuing higher education.

85% accepted 43% graduate $32,229 earnings

Talladega's full profile

#22

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL · 3,477 students · Public

Alabama State University in Montgomery, AL, is a public institution with a diverse student body of 3,477. The university is characterized by its inclusive environment, boasting an impressive 98% acceptance rate. This accessibility makes it a practical option for students from varied backgrounds who are eager to pursue higher education.

98% accepted 30% graduate $34,502 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#23

Herzing University-Birmingham

Birmingham, AL · 442 students · Private nonprofit

Herzing University-Birmingham is a smaller institution with just 442 students, focusing on career-oriented programs that cater to the needs of the local job market. With an acceptance rate of 93%, the school welcomes a diverse range of students, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

93% accepted 28% graduate $36,909 earnings

Herzing's full profile

#24

Miles College

Fairfield, AL · 1,155 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Fairfield, AL, Miles College is a private nonprofit institution that serves a smaller student population of 1,155. With a graduation rate of just 20%, the school faces challenges, but its high Pell Grant recipient rate of 72% indicates a dedication to supporting students from lower-income families. This focus on accessibility can create opportunities for those who might otherwise struggle to afford college.

20% graduate $32,627 earnings

It's important to recognize that the differences in graduate outcomes can be substantial. Auburn University not only leads in earnings at $65,337 but also boasts a graduation rate of 81%. In contrast, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, while offering a lower net price of $18,749, has earnings of $54,501 and a graduation rate of just 63%. The data suggests that investing in a program with a higher graduation rate may yield better financial outcomes.

After reviewing the options, take the time to consider what factors matter most to you. Think about program fit, location, and campus culture alongside these financial metrics. Choosing a program is not just about numbers; it's about finding the right environment and support system that aligns with your career goals.

The stakes are high when it comes to education and future earnings. For many families, a single decision about a master's program can have lasting implications on their financial stability and career trajectory. As you weigh your options, remember the data: the right program could mean higher earnings and reduced debt, ultimately shaping 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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