A guide to colleges in Alabama

Choosing the right college or university, can shape the trajectory of your life. With 75 public and private colleges and universities in Alabama, a student can find an academic fit which will nurture him as he continues his educational pursuits. Knowing a little about these institutions will help the student make an informed decision about his future.

Public colleges

Alabama A&M University
A Historically Black College or University (HBCU), Alabama A&M University accepts qualified students of any ethnic background. Established by an ex-slave in 1875, the school is located in Normal, Alabama. Both undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as a distance learning program are offered through the school. Students can choose to participate in one of the over 115 student organisations on campus. University of Alabama
With campuses Huntsville and Birmingham as well as a law school in Tuscaloosa, the University of Alabam is the largest higher education system in the state. The University of Alabama Athletics Department offers eight competitive sports for men and 11 for women. In addition to undergraduate and graduate degrees, the schools offer a ELI (English Learning Institute) for students who do not speak English as their first language. University of South Alabama
Located in the south Alabama city of Mobile, the University of South Alabama is home to a medical school and the Mitchell Cancer Institute. A diverse community, the school has students from 90 different countries. The nearly 200 student organizations give young scholars many opportunities for fun and networking.

Private colleges

Oakwood Adventist University
Located in Huntsville, Alabama, Oakwood Adventist University is one of the private HBCU colleges in Alabama. Part of the higher education system of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the school offers 47 undergraduate degrees and one graduate degree. Although small, the University holds accreditations and memberships with twelve organisations. The United States Sports Academy
Founded in 1972, the United States Sports Academy is an institution of higher learning which prepares students for careers in the sports fields. The school offers three degrees: a Bachelor of Sports Science (B.S.S.), a Master of Sports Science (M.S.S.) and Doctor of Education in Sports Management (Ed.D.). In addition to this, the school offers a continuing education program which can be taken online. The school has accreditations and approvals from four different organisations. Judson College
One of the oldest women's colleges in the United States, Judson College is a Southern Baptist institution. The school offers 26 undergraduate degrees, 11 minors and 11 pre-professional programs. Three on-campus residence halls house students. Study abroad and mission opportunities are also available for students.