7 Best Colleges and Universities Near Birmingham, AL

Birmingham is the biggest city in the state of Alabama and home to a number of world-class colleges and universities.

Located in the middle of the state, Birmingham offers a relaxed atmosphere and warm weather. Students can find the perfect degree by exploring the options for colleges near Birmingham, Alabama.

From large public universities to cozy private colleges, Birmingham has something for every student.

Featured Colleges in Birmingham, AL

Learn more about great colleges near Birmingham, Alabama.

1. University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is a great choice for students looking to make a splash in their field of study.

UAB is the largest college near Birmingham, Alabama, and a major center for scientific research and innovation. The school offers a wide range of institutional scholarships to help students earn a college degree affordably.

Students can learn more about the university and campus by booking an in-person or virtual tour.

2. Birmingham-Southern College

Birmingham-Southern College (BSC) has played a key role in the long-term success of thousands of students.

BSC is one of the top colleges in the nation for preparing students for graduate study. Students attend a graduate program at a rate of 80% within a year of graduation.

The high-quality education is made possible by a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of 13.

About 90% of students live on campus and a diverse student body will provide connection and community for students of all backgrounds.

3. Herzing University - Birmingham

Herzing University - Birmingham (HUB) is another great choice for a college near Birmingham, Alabama.

HUB offers both in-person and online degrees, and all instructors are attentive and passionate about their students.

The university offers degrees in many areas of study including technology, public safety, legal studies, behavioral health, business, and healthcare.

HUB is well known for its outstanding nursing programs and ability to train future leaders in healthcare.

4. Strayer University

Strayer University is a respected national university with a campus located in Birmingham, Alabama.

Strayer University offers a unique advantage to students looking to save money. General education credits can be completed free of charge through an affiliate partner program.

Both graduate and undergraduate degrees are offered, and the university has a record of success in areas such as information technology and business management.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is $1,525 per course or around $500 per credit hour.

5. Samford University

Samford University (SU) is a private Christian university that values the unique needs of each student.

SU has one of the highest employment rates in the country with 97% of students working or continuing their education within six months of graduation.

The university has also won awards for career preparation and student engagement due to its innovative curricula and expert instruction.

SU offers a wide range of liberal arts degrees including areas such as arts, sciences, education, health sciences, law, and business.

6. Highlands College

Highlands College (HC) is a faith-based institution offering holistic degrees that emphasize character development and leadership.

HC is a great choice for students looking to work in churches or religious organizations and offers many specialized ministry training programs.

The college has achieved an 80% student satisfaction rating and high student retention rates.

Close to 89% of graduates find employment in ministry or continue their education after graduating from HC degrees.

7. Faulkner University

Faulkner University is another excellent choice for an Alabama degree. Faulkner has four campuses across the state, including one in the city of Birmingham.

The private faith-based university offers over 60 degree programs on campus and 30 online options.

Faulkner University seeks to develop both the intellect and the character of its students with an innovative faith-based curriculum.

The average class size is only 15 students and students from 35 countries study at Faulkner University.

Other Colleges Near Birmingham, Alabama

Miles College

Miles College (MC) has a track record of inspiring the next generation to achieve their dreams. MC degrees are designed to give students the technical and creative skills needed to keep up with a rapidly changing world.

The college has a history of civic empowerment through rigorous academic training that leads to intellectual freedom and critical thinking.

MC has an effective strategy of retaining passionate faculty to ensure that students are taught by the best instructors possible.

University of Montevallo

Students looking for a cost-effective degree should consider the University of Montevallo (UM).

Located in Montevallo, Alabama, the university has won awards for the value of its degrees and is considered one of the top public universities in the region.

Undergraduate tuition costs only $6,855 for full-time students with Alabama state residency.

UM emphasizes civic engagement, diversity, and inclusion to make a positive impact on the surrounding community.

Alabama State University

Alabama State University (ASU) is one of the most influential public universities in the region. The school has a rich legacy of supporting civil rights and education for all.

The state university is located on a gorgeous 172-acre campus in Montgomery, Alabama.

ASU has dozens of colleges that offer respected degrees in areas such as education, health sciences, business, politics, and engineering.

What Is the Biggest School Near Birmingham, Alabama?

The University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) has a total enrollment of 22,289 making it the biggest college near Birmingham, Alabama.

UAB is a large public institution and is one of the few R1 research universities in the state of Alabama.

How To Choose the Right College Near Birmingham, Alabama

Factors like cost, degrees offered, campus atmosphere, facilities, and location are all key factors in determining the best fit for each student.

Students should arrange a campus visit to potential universities. Making contact with faculty in the department you are interested in can also be helpful.

Paying for Your Degree Near Birmingham, Alabama

The two main types of financial aid are need-based and merit-based forms of funding.

Need-based funding usually requires students to fill out the FAFSA form to determine their level of financial need.

Merit-based programs like academic achievement scholarships award students for excellence in a given area.

It's also important to choose a university with affordable tuition since most forms of financial aid are applied against the initial cost of tuition.

Start Your Degree Near Birmingham, Alabama Today

Gain the knowledge and skills you need to reach your potential. Find a great college near Birmingham, Alabama, and get started today.