Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2025

Badge for BEST IN ALABAMA GRADUATE SCHOOLS
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Sixteen schools in Alabama meet our criteria for the best grad schools in the state.
  • Earning a master’s or doctorate degree from one of the state’s best grad schools will qualify graduates to work in one of Alabama’s top industries.
  • It is important to choose a grad school in Alabama that offers opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.

10 Best Grad Schools in Alabama in 2025

  1. University of Alabama
  2. Auburn University
  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham
    +1
  4. Tuskegee University
    –1
  5. University of Alabama in Huntsville
    +1
  6. Samford University
    –1
  7. University of South Alabama
    +1
  8. Troy University
    +1
  9. Alabama State University
    –2
  10. Faulkner University

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best grad schools in Alabama saw a fair amount of shuffling. The University of Alabama at Birmingham gained the third ranking position as the college is implementing several enhancements to enrich the graduate student experience. Notably, UAB has introduced a new graduate program in artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine, approved by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, reflecting the university’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its curriculum.

Additionally, UAB’s graduate programs have received high rankings in the 2025 U.S. News Best Graduate School Rankings, with the Master of Science in Nursing program ranked No. 10 and the Doctor of Nursing Practice program ranked No. 11, among other notable rankings across various disciplines. These developments demonstrate UAB’s dedication to providing advanced educational opportunities and maintaining excellence in graduate education.

Best Grad Schools in Alabama

  1. #1

    University of Alabama

    Tuscaloosa , AL
    #12 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #1 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    42K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $11,900
    Expenses: $21,482
    Starting Salary: $51,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Alabama known for?

    University of Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Auburn University

    Auburn , AL
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #2 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    44%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1300/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Auburn University

    Cost of Degree: $12,536
    Expenses: $22,762
    Starting Salary: $56,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Auburn University known for?

    Auburn University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Auburn University offers a broad range of graduate programs. They combine arts and sciences while ensuring to maintain the traditions of Auburn which are about passion and spirit.

    What we love about Auburn University:

    At Auburn University, all their graduate programs are designed and committed to providing service to all Albamians.

    Auburn University is ideal for students who:

    Want to choose a program that is steeped in tradition.

    Auburn University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to attend a university with more food options.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Birmingham , AL
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #3 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1305/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Cost of Degree: $8,832
    Expenses: $20,547
    Starting Salary: $48,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Alabama at Birmingham known for?

    University of Alabama at Birmingham’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    You can choose among the 85 graduate programs that the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers. They even offer fast-track and accelerated graduate studies to make learning a breeze for working adults.

    What we love about the University of Alabama at Birmingham:

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham comes with distinguished faculty and professors. They support students in attaining rewarding careers through one-on-one advising.

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham is ideal for students who:

    Want to broaden their knowledge and participate in more discoveries.

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham might not be the best fit for students who:

    May not be a fan of the weather in the area where the school is located.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Tuskegee University

    Tuskegee , AL
    #1 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #6 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Alabama 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Alabama 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    30%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1092/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Tuskegee University

    Cost of Degree: $23,440
    Expenses: $20,014
    Starting Salary: $42,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Tuskegee University known for?

    Tuskegee University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    There are many graduate programs available at Tuskegee University. They are the only historically black university that is designated as a National Historic Site.

    What we love about Tuskegee University:

    Students at Tuskegee University will develop skills in order to be proactive scholars and have expanded scientific knowledge.

    Tuskegee University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a university that has a research-intensive focus.

    Tuskegee University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a school in a larger area.

    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of Alabama in Huntsville

    Huntsville , AL
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024 #5 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1328/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama in Huntsville

    Cost of Degree: $11,878
    Expenses: $18,000
    Starting Salary: $52,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Alabama in Huntsville known for?

    University of Alabama in Huntsville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Offering interdisciplinary programs and more than 80 graduate programs in diverse fields of studies, the University of Alabama in Huntsville is a university powerhouse and a pioneer research university in Alabama.

    What we love about the University of Alabama in Huntsville:

    The University of Alabama in Huntsville comes with research centers and labs that can support every learner in their graduate studies.

    The University of Alabama in Huntsville is ideal for students who:

    Want to have a well-balanced campus life.

    The University of Alabama in Huntsville might not be the best fit for students who:

    Would rather attend a diverse university.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Samford University

    Birmingham , AL
    #5 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #12 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Alabama 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Alabama 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Samford University

    Cost of Degree: $38,144
    Expenses: $19,312
    Starting Salary: $59,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Samford University known for?

    Samford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    As a Christian university offering graduate programs, Samford University boasts not only its beautiful campus but also is recognized for its academic quality and value.

    What we love about Samford University:

    Students at Samford University can develop their ethical and intellectual characteristics. Samford also teaches all their graduate programs with an emphasis on faith and the future.

    Samford University is ideal for students who:

    Prefer a Christian graduate school.

    Samford University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Will find their programs to be too rigorous.

    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of South Alabama

    Mobile , AL
    #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #5 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024 #7 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1101/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of South Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $9,676
    Expenses: $16,133
    Starting Salary: $46,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of South Alabama known for?

    University of South Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Students attending the University of South Alabama will be encouraged to practice creativity and discovery through integrating hands-on learning in all their graduate programs. More than 40 professional and graduate degrees are available at the University of South Alabama.

    What we love about the University of South Alabama:

    Students at the University of South Alabama can develop skills that will be valuable to enhance their careers.

    The University of South Alabama is ideal for students who:

    Want more research-focused programs.

    The University of South Alabama might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a smaller sized class.

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Troy University

    Troy , AL
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Alabama 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024 #8 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Troy University

    Cost of Degree: $9,792
    Expenses: $14,366
    Starting Salary: $41,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Troy University known for?

    Troy University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Use Troy University as a big step towards success. No matter what kind of learner, you can always take a pause but go back to your graduate studies at Troy.

    What we love about Troy University:

    Troy University offers one-year fast-track programs for those who want to finish their graduate studies faster.

    Troy University is ideal for students who:

    Want to get a professional boost in their career.

    Troy University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a more urban environment.

    Compare school
  10. #9

    Alabama State University

    Montgomery , AL
    #20 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Alabama 2025 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Alabama 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    28%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    934/18

    Career Outlook for degree at Alabama State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,248
    Expenses: $12,682
    Starting Salary: $30,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Alabama State University known for?

    Alabama State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Alabama State University started out servicing African-American students but has gotten more inclusive and diverse over the years. They have graduate programs from different fields of study.

    What we love about Alabama State University:

    Alabama State University offers graduate students many opportunities to build lifelong friends and learn outside of classrooms.

    Alabama State University is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend a vibrant campus.

    Alabama State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer small-sized classes.

    Compare school
  12. #10

    Faulkner University

    Montgomery , AL
    #16 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Alabama 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Alabama 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Alabama 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Faulkner University

    Cost of Degree: $23,920
    Expenses: $14,420
    Starting Salary: $40,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Faulkner University known for?

    Faulkner University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Graduate students at Faulker University will not only be trained to be professionals but also to be active Christians. Their academic programs are available in both traditional and online formats.

    What we love about Faulkner University:

    You can get the right higher education at Faulkner University that you need to level up your career. You can glorify God while being advanced with the skills necessary in your work.

    Faulkner University is ideal for students who:

    Want to study in a Christian environment.

    Faulkner University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Would want to have a more inviting campus or environment.

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Alabama A&M University

    Normal , AL
    #20 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #1 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024 #11 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024 #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Alabama 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    27%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    931/17

    Career Outlook for degree at Alabama A&M University

    Cost of Degree: $10,024
    Expenses: $17,458
    Starting Salary: $35,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Alabama A&M University known for?

    Alabama A&M University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Alabama A&M University offers online, traditional, and hybrid academic programs from a different set of fields. Their teachings are set out to produce the next leaders and thinkers of societies.

    What we love about Alabama A&M University:

    Alabama A&M University is focused on promoting innovation to build communities.

    Alabama A&M University is ideal for students who:

    Want to enhance their creative thinking skills.

    Alabama A&M University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to have more on-campus living options.

    Compare school
  14. #12

    Auburn University at Montgomery

    Montgomery , AL
    #9 Best Small Colleges in Alabama 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024 #9 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Alabama
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    36%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1100/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Auburn University at Montgomery

    Cost of Degree: $9,436
    Expenses: $13,346
    Starting Salary: $38,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Auburn University at Montgomery known for?

    Auburn University at Montgomery’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Anywhere you are, you can attend a graduate program offered at Auburn University in Montgomery. They offer personalized solutions and affordable higher education to make you prepare for a better future.

    What we love about Auburn University at Montgomery:

    Auburn University at Montgomery is focused on student success. Their campus culture is all about inclusivity and diversity.

    Auburn University at Montgomery is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend a vibrant campus.

    Auburn University at Montgomery might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are looking to attend a more exclusive school.

    Compare school
  15. #13

    University of West Alabama

    Livingston , AL
    #2 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024 #7 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024 #10 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) #11 Best Online Master's in Biology
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    930/19

    Career Outlook for degree at University of West Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $10,990
    Expenses: $12,972
    Starting Salary: $40,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of West Alabama known for?

    University of West Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of West Alabama aims to enrich lives by offering advanced graduate degrees so students can advance their careers.

    What we love about the University of West Alabama:

    The students at the University of West Alabama get all the help and support they need through support services.

    The University of West Alabama is ideal for students who:

    Want to explore opportunities beyond the classroom.

    The University of West Alabama might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer smaller-sized classes.

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Columbia Southern University

    Orange Beach , AL
    #1 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #7 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Alabama #9 Most Affordable Online Associate Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    31K

    What is Columbia Southern University known for?

    Columbia Southern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Whether you have professional or personal goals, Columbia Southern University offers the right avenue for graduate students. They have numerous online graduate programs fit for any type of working adult.

    What we love about Columbia Southern University:

    Columbia Southern University offers specialized training in all of its graduate programs. It is also military-friendly and excels as an online school.

    Columbia Southern University is ideal for students who:

    Want to make use of advanced technology for learning.

    Columbia Southern University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer stricter campus rules and value academic rigor.

    Compare school
  18. #15

    University of Mobile

    Mobile , AL
    #10 Best Christian Colleges in Alabama 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Mobile

    Cost of Degree: $26,120
    Expenses: $17,226
    Starting Salary: $38,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Mobile known for?

    University of Mobile’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    As a private Christian university, the University of Mobile provides in-demand graduate studies that fit into this modern world.

    What we love about the University of Mobile:

    Adapting a culture of mentoring, the University of Mobile ensures to focus on student success. Highly experienced professors are available to support students every step of the way.

    The University of Mobile is ideal for students who:

    Want to be challenged academically.

    The University of Mobile might not be the best fit for students who:

    May feel that the programs are too rigorous.

    Compare school
  19. #16

    Amridge University

    Montgomery , AL
    #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Alabama 2024 #3 Best Online Associate in Web Design #4 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024 #12 Most Affordable Online Associate Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Amridge University

    Cost of Degree: $10,470
    Starting Salary: $47,600
    What is Amridge University known for?

    Amridge University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Amridge University offers accredited graduate degrees for those who want to advance their careers. There are numerous scholarships and financial aid options to make education accessible.

    What we love about Amridge University:

    Amridge University highlights providing online education, ensuring academic excellence and spiritual vitality.

    Amridge University is ideal for students who:

    Want to enhance their leadership skills.

    Amridge University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer bigger classes.

    Compare school

Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in Alabama offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.

Back to Top

Colleges and Universities in Alabama

Online students and traditional students alike have a lot of options in the state of Alabama. The 54 colleges and universities in Alabama allow students to pursue master’s and doctorate degrees in many fields all over the state, as well as through a variety of excellent online degree programs. Some of the most notable degree areas include law, nursing, biology, history, engineering, and religious studies.

One of these degree programs give graduates the knowledge necessary to work in one of Alabama’s top industries, including:

  • Automotive
  • Bioscience
  • Chemicals
  • Cybersecurity
  • Aerospace and Aviation
  • Agricultural Products and Food Production

Students in Alabama can study any of these subjects either online or through online courses. If you’re looking for educational flexible education, Alabama has over 20 colleges and universities offering online degree programs.

Students hoping to obtain a graduate degree at a larger university can attend one of the two largest schools, the University of Alabama or Auburn University.

Students also have the option of attending one of Alabama’s 18 private higher education institutes, many of which have religious affiliations. Tuition costs vary widely, from $4,000 per year to $36,000 per year. Student populations also vary widely, from less than 100 students to as many as 15,000 students.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.


What are Alabama’s Colleges & Universities?


Alabama’s Best Overall


There are 16 doctorate-granting graduate schools in Alabama. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the Alabama is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.

  • Build your own college ranking
    • Back to Top

    Alabama’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest

    Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology

    Resources for Prospective Grad Students

    Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

    2023 Ranking Archive

    Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

    1. University of Alabama
    2. Auburn University
    3. University of Alabama at Birmingham
    4. Tuskegee University
    5. University of Alabama in Huntsville
    6. Samford University
    7. University of South Alabama
    8. Jacksonville State University
    9. Troy University
    10. Alabama A&M University
    Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here