1. Samford University

Overview:

Samford University, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a private Christian university known for its rigorous academic programs and strong sense of community. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.

History:

Founded in 1841, Samford University has a rich history rooted in the Baptist tradition. Originally known as Howard College, it was renamed Samford University in 1965 in honor of Frank Park Samford, a local business leader and philanthropist.

Academic Offerings:

Samford University offers over 170 undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations, as well as numerous graduate and professional programs. The university is particularly known for its programs in business, law, nursing, education, divinity, and the arts.

Student Life:

Student life at Samford is vibrant, with a wide range of academic, social, and extracurricular activities available. The university has over 100 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, service organizations, and intramural sports teams.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Samford University is its commitment to community service and civic engagement. The university encourages students to become involved in service projects both locally and globally, and many students participate in volunteer work during their time at Samford.

Admissions:

Admission to Samford University is competitive, with selective acceptance rates. The university looks for students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to service. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Samford University boasts a large and active alumni network, with graduates making significant contributions in fields such as law, business, education, healthcare, and the arts. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning author Harper Lee, former U.S. Senator Howell Heflin, and current Alabama Governor Kay Ivey.

2. Spring Hill College

Overview:

Spring Hill College, located in Mobile, Alabama, is the oldest Catholic college in the Southeast and the third oldest Jesuit college in the United States. It offers a liberal arts education rooted in the Jesuit tradition.

History:

Spring Hill College was founded in 1830 by Michael Portier, the first Catholic bishop of Mobile. The college has a long history of academic excellence and service to the community.

Academic Offerings:

Spring Hill College offers undergraduate degrees in a variety of liberal arts and professional fields, including humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, business, and education. The college also offers graduate programs in several disciplines.

Student Life:

Student life at Spring Hill College is characterized by a close-knit community and a strong emphasis on service and social justice. The college offers numerous opportunities for students to get involved in campus ministries, service projects, student organizations, and athletics.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Spring Hill College is its Ignatian Center for Jesuit Education, which promotes the Jesuit ideals of intellectual excellence, spiritual growth, and social responsibility. The center sponsors lectures, retreats, and other programs designed to deepen students’ understanding of the Jesuit tradition.

Admissions:

Admission to Spring Hill College is competitive, with selective acceptance rates. The college considers a variety of factors in the admissions process, including high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Spring Hill College has a proud tradition of producing successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning author Eudora Welty, former U.S. Secretary of State James Byrnes, and current U.S. Senator Doug Jones.

3. Birmingham-Southern College

Overview:

Birmingham-Southern College, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It offers a comprehensive undergraduate education in a supportive and inclusive community.

History:

Birmingham-Southern College was founded in 1856 as the Southern University of Birmingham. It has a long history of academic excellence and a commitment to social justice and community engagement.

Academic Offerings:

Birmingham-Southern College offers over 50 major and minor programs in a variety of disciplines, including arts, humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and business. The college also offers pre-professional programs in fields such as law, medicine, and engineering.

Student Life:

Student life at Birmingham-Southern College is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of academic, social, and extracurricular activities available. The college has over 100 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, service organizations, and Greek life.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Birmingham-Southern College is its Experiential Learning Commons, which provides students with opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, research projects, and community-based learning experiences. The college also has a strong tradition of service-learning and civic engagement.

Admissions:

Admission to Birmingham-Southern College is selective, with competitive acceptance rates. The college looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to service. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Birmingham-Southern College has a proud tradition of producing successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Bragg, former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and current U.S. Senator Richard Shelby.

4. Faulkner University

Overview:

Faulkner University, located in Montgomery, Alabama, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Churches of Christ. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in a variety of fields.

History:

Faulkner University was founded in 1942 as Montgomery Bible School. It has since grown into a comprehensive university with a strong emphasis on Christian values and academic excellence.

Academic Offerings:

Faulkner University offers over 70 degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. The university is particularly known for its programs in business, law, education, counseling, and theology.

Student Life:

Student life at Faulkner University is characterized by a supportive community and a strong sense of Christian fellowship. The university offers numerous opportunities for students to get involved in campus ministries, service projects, student organizations, and athletics.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Faulkner University is its Great Books Honors College, which offers a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum focused on the great works of Western civilization. The university also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with students from a wide range of backgrounds and faith traditions.

Admissions:

Admission to Faulkner University is selective, with competitive acceptance rates. The university looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to Christian values. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Faulkner University has a proud tradition of producing successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, particularly within the Christian community and beyond. Notable alumni include ministers, educators, lawyers, business leaders, and authors who have made an impact in their respective fields and communities.

5. Huntingdon College

Overview:

Huntingdon College, located in Montgomery, Alabama, is a liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It offers undergraduate programs in a variety of fields, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership development, and service to others.

History:

Huntingdon College was founded in 1854 as Tuskegee Female College. It has a long history of providing a quality education grounded in the liberal arts tradition and the values of the United Methodist Church.

Academic Offerings:

Huntingdon College offers over 20 undergraduate majors and minors in fields such as humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, business, and education. The college also offers pre-professional programs in areas such as law, medicine, and ministry.

Student Life:

Student life at Huntingdon College is dynamic and engaging, with a variety of opportunities for academic, social, and extracurricular involvement. The college has over 50 student organizations, including academic clubs, service organizations, Greek life, and intramural sports teams.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Huntingdon College is its strong tradition of service and community engagement. The college encourages students to participate in service projects both locally and globally, and many students volunteer with organizations in the Montgomery area.

Admissions:

Admission to Huntingdon College is selective, with competitive acceptance rates. The college looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to service. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Huntingdon College has a proud tradition of producing successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including education, business, law, healthcare, and public service. Notable alumni include educators, lawyers, ministers, and community leaders who have made a positive impact in their professions and communities.

6. University of Mobile

Overview:

The University of Mobile, located in Mobile, Alabama, is a private Christian university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others.

History:

The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 as Mobile College. It has since grown into a comprehensive university with a strong emphasis on Christian values and holistic education.

Academic Offerings:

The University of Mobile offers over 90 academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including majors, minors, and concentrations in fields such as arts, sciences, business, education, and theology. The university also offers online and hybrid programs for non-traditional students.

Student Life:

Student life at the University of Mobile is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of opportunities for academic, spiritual, and personal growth. The university offers numerous student organizations, campus ministries, service projects, and cultural events to engage students in campus life.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of the University of Mobile is its Center for Performing Arts, which provides students with opportunities to study and perform music, theater, and visual arts at a high level. The university also has a strong emphasis on global engagement, with study abroad programs and international service opportunities.

Admissions:

Admission to the University of Mobile is selective, with competitive acceptance rates. The university looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to Christian values. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

The University of Mobile has a diverse alumni network composed of graduates who have gone on to pursue careers in various fields, including education, business, healthcare, ministry, and the arts. Notable alumni include educators, pastors, entrepreneurs, and artists who have made a positive impact in their communities and professions.

7. Judson College

Overview:

Judson College, located in Marion, Alabama, is a private women’s college affiliated with the Alabama Baptist Convention. It offers undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences, providing a supportive environment for women’s education.

History:

Judson College was founded in 1838 as Judson Female Institute. It is named in honor of Ann Hasseltine Judson, a pioneer female missionary. The college has a long history of empowering women through education and leadership development.

Academic Offerings:

Judson College offers a liberal arts curriculum with over 20 major and minor programs in fields such as humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, fine arts, and education. The college also offers pre-professional programs in areas such as law, medicine, and ministry.

Student Life:

Student life at Judson College is characterized by a strong sense of community and sisterhood, with a variety of opportunities for academic, social, and extracurricular involvement. The college offers student organizations, campus ministries, service projects, and cultural events to engage students in campus life.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Judson College is its Women’s Leadership Program, which provides students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and engage in mentorship and networking opportunities with female leaders in various fields. The college also has a strong tradition of service-learning and community engagement.

Admissions:

Admission to Judson College is selective, with competitive acceptance rates. The college looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to women’s education and empowerment. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Judson College has a proud tradition of producing successful alumnae who have gone on to pursue careers in various fields, including education, healthcare, business, ministry, and public service. Notable alumnae include educators, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who have made a positive impact in their professions and communities.

8. Concordia College Alabama

Overview:

Concordia College Alabama, located in Selma, Alabama, is a historically black Lutheran college. It offers undergraduate programs in a variety of fields, with a focus on providing education to underserved communities.

History:

Concordia College Alabama was founded in 1922 as Alabama Lutheran Academy and Junior College. It is affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and has a long history of providing a quality education to students from diverse backgrounds.

Academic Offerings:

Concordia College Alabama offers undergraduate programs in fields such as humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, business, and education. The college also offers pre-professional programs in areas such as law, medicine, and ministry.

Student Life:

Student life at Concordia College Alabama is characterized by a supportive community and a strong sense of Christian fellowship. The college offers student organizations, campus ministries, service projects, and cultural events to engage students in campus life.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Concordia College Alabama is its commitment to serving the local community through outreach programs and service-learning opportunities. The college also has a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and leadership development, with chapel services, Bible studies, and leadership retreats for students.

Admissions:

Admission to Concordia College Alabama is selective, with competitive acceptance rates. The college looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to Christian values. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Concordia College Alabama has a proud tradition of producing graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions in their professions and communities. Alumni of Concordia College Alabama include educators, healthcare professionals, business leaders, ministers, and community activists who have made a positive impact in various fields.

9. Oakwood University

Overview:

Oakwood University, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is a historically black Seventh-day Adventist university. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, integrating faith and learning in its educational approach.

History:

Oakwood University traces its roots back to 1896 when it was founded as Oakwood Industrial School. It has since grown into a comprehensive university with a strong emphasis on Christian values, academic excellence, and service to others.

Academic Offerings:

Oakwood University offers over 50 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as graduate programs in several disciplines. The university is particularly known for its programs in business, health sciences, education, theology, and the arts.

Student Life:

Student life at Oakwood University is vibrant and diverse, with a variety of opportunities for academic, spiritual, and personal growth. The university offers student organizations, campus ministries, service projects, and cultural events to engage students in campus life.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Oakwood University is its emphasis on holistic education, which integrates faith, learning, and service. The university also has a strong tradition of promoting diversity and inclusion, with students from a wide range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

Admissions:

Admission to Oakwood University is selective, with competitive acceptance rates. The university looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to Christian values. Admissions criteria include high school GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.

Alumni:

Oakwood University has a proud tradition of producing successful alumni who have gone on to pursue careers in various fields, including healthcare, education, business, ministry, and the arts. Notable alumni include healthcare professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, and religious leaders who have made a positive impact in their professions and communities.

10. Heritage Christian University

Overview:

Heritage Christian University, located in Florence, Alabama, is a Christian university affiliated with the churches of Christ. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in biblical studies and related fields, preparing students for careers in ministry and other vocations.

History:

Heritage Christian University was founded in 1971 as the East Francis Street Church of Christ Bible School. It has since grown into a comprehensive university with a strong emphasis on biblical education and spiritual formation.

Academic Offerings:

Heritage Christian University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in biblical studies, ministry, and related fields. The university is particularly known for its programs in theology, biblical languages, church history, and pastoral ministry.

Student Life:

Student life at Heritage Christian University is centered around spiritual growth, academic excellence, and Christian fellowship. The university offers chapel services, Bible studies, prayer groups, and other opportunities for students to deepen their faith and build relationships with others.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of Heritage Christian University is its close-knit community and supportive learning environment. The university emphasizes mentorship, discipleship, and personal development, helping students grow in their faith and prepare for lives of service and leadership.

Admissions:

Admission to Heritage Christian University is open to students of all backgrounds who are committed to Christian values and biblical education. The university looks for students who have a sincere desire to study God’s word and serve others in ministry and other vocations.

Alumni:

Heritage Christian University has a proud tradition of producing graduates who have gone on to serve as ministers, missionaries, educators, counselors, and church leaders in various parts of the world. Alumni of Heritage Christian University are known for their commitment to biblical truth, spiritual growth, and service to others.

11. United States Sports Academy

Overview:

The United States Sports Academy, located in Daphne, Alabama, is an independent, non-profit, accredited, special mission sports university created to serve the nation and world with programs in instruction, research, and service.

History:

The United States Sports Academy was founded in 1972 as a way to provide education and training in sports-related fields. It has since become a leading institution in sports education, offering a variety of programs for students interested in careers in sports management, coaching, and athletic performance.

Academic Offerings:

The United States Sports Academy offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in sports-related fields, including sports management, coaching, sports medicine, and sports studies. The university also offers continuing education programs and professional development opportunities for coaches, athletes, and sports administrators.

Student Life:

Student life at the United States Sports Academy is centered around sports and athletics, with opportunities for students to participate in intramural sports, fitness activities, and recreational programs. The university also hosts events, conferences, and symposiums related to sports education and research.

Unique Features:

One unique feature of the United States Sports Academy is its international focus and global reach. The university has partnerships with sports organizations and institutions around the world, allowing students to gain valuable experience and perspective in the field of sports management and coaching.

Admissions:

Admission to the United States Sports Academy is open to students who have a passion for sports and a desire to pursue careers in sports management, coaching, or related fields. The university looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to excellence in sports.

Alumni:

The United States Sports Academy has a diverse alumni network composed of graduates who have gone on to work in various roles within the sports industry, including coaches, athletic directors, sports administrators, and sports medicine professionals. Alumni of the United States Sports Academy are known for their expertise, professionalism, and dedication to advancing the field of sports education and research.

This comprehensive guide provides an overview of all private four-year universities in Alabama, highlighting their unique features, academic offerings, student life, admissions process, and notable alumni. Each institution offers a distinct educational experience, grounded in its own history, mission, and values.