Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2025
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
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
- #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
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: $11,900Expenses: $21,482Starting Salary: $51,600Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Alabama known for?
University of Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #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
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: $12,536Expenses: $22,762Starting Salary: $56,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Auburn University known for?
Auburn University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Economics
- Business
- History
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Political Science
- Education
- Earth Sciences
- Communications
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.
- #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
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: $8,832Expenses: $20,547Starting Salary: $48,400Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #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
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: $23,440Expenses: $20,014Starting Salary: $42,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #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
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: $11,878Expenses: $18,000Starting Salary: $52,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #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
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: $38,144Expenses: $19,312Starting Salary: $59,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #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
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: $9,676Expenses: $16,133Starting Salary: $46,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of South Alabama known for?
University of South Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Medical
- Earth Sciences
- History
- Physics
- Biology
- Engineering
- Political Science
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.
- #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
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: $9,792Expenses: $14,366Starting Salary: $41,100Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Troy University known for?
Troy University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- History
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Education
- Business
- Literature
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Medical
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.
- #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
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: $11,248Expenses: $12,682Starting Salary: $30,600Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Alabama State University known for?
Alabama State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Engineering
- Education
- Medical
- History
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Political Science
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.
- #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
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: $23,920Expenses: $14,420Starting Salary: $40,700Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Faulkner University known for?
Faulkner University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Law
- History
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Literature
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Business
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.
- #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
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: $10,024Expenses: $17,458Starting Salary: $35,500Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Alabama A&M University known for?
Alabama A&M University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Social Work
- Engineering
- Physics
- Education
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Communications
- Computer Science
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.
- #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
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: $9,436Expenses: $13,346Starting Salary: $38,000Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #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
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: $10,990Expenses: $12,972Starting Salary: $40,400Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #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
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.
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
46%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Mobile
Cost of Degree: $26,120Expenses: $17,226Starting Salary: $38,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Mobile known for?
University of Mobile’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- History
- Political Science
- Nursing
- Computer Science
- Business
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
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.
- #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
Tuition + fees
$10K
Graduation
50%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Amridge University
Cost of Degree: $10,470Starting Salary: $47,600What 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.
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 TopColleges 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?
- 7 Research Universities
- 20 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 16 Graduate Schools
- 14 Public Colleges & Universities
- 13 Private Colleges & Universities
- 12 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 18 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 20 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 23 Community Colleges
- 20 Online Colleges Undergrad
- 21 Online Master’s Programs
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.
Alabama’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
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.
