15 BEST VALUE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN ALABAMA

This Alabama university doesn't exactly offer a varied education, but it makes up for this lack of degree options with an inspiring mission statement. In fact, this mission statement - which states that HCU's primary objective is "to equip God's people for greater service in His church," is precisely the reason you won't find dozens of different majors on campus. All undergraduates receive the exact same degree - a B.S. in Biblical Studies - and follow a carefully planned curriculum. Religious coursework combines with general education, professional studies, and elective classes to round out your academic experience, along with practicums in mission work. In addition, be prepared to take the ABHE Bible Exam in both your freshman and senior years.

At this Alabama university, you won't find any 100-year-old stories detailing the school's humble beginnings in the 19th century. What you will find is a story of unstoppable growth and ambition. A mere 40 years ago affordable Alabama college was little more than an extension center for surrounding schools, but today it stands as a reputable doctoral research university and medical center that attracts some of the area's brightest minds. It's hard to believe how large UAB has become in such a short time; students today can choose from degree programs in 11 different colleges and schools, including divisions in Engineering, Nursing, Education, and Health Professions, as well as the Honors College.

Seventh-day Adventist university, this Alabama university presents with a clear plan - to mold students into biblical scholars with a strong sense of duty, both to God and their fellow citizens. However, Oakwood doesn't force its values on students with a series of restrictive regulations; in fact, it looks to minimize rules as a way to maximize learning, relying instead on students' responsible citizenship as a way maintain a safe community. As a member of this affordable college in Alabama you'll also have substantial flexibility in your choice of extracurriculars - and there are no bad options! Attend the campus church, apply for a job on campus, or join a student organization such as the "Entrepreneur Collective" or Improv Comedy Team.

Some say that variety is the spice of life, and if that's true, life at the University of South Alabama delivers plenty of zest! Please your palette by taking a taste of everything this top college in Alabama has to offer, including more than 100 degrees (as well as an undergraduate honors program), 17 NCAA sports (including a fledgling football team), and stunning facilities (the 116,000 sq. ft. recreation center and disc golf course are impressive, to say the least). And given that this is a ranking for "best value" schools, it's worth mentioning that USA goes above and beyond to stay within the realm of affordability; the Mitchell-Moulton Scholarship Initiative plans to award $25 million in scholarships to deserving students.

A university that mixes work and play, UNA offers a well-rounded education to students who seek balance and a lifetime of memories. At this Alabama university, you can choose from 140+ academic programs and an equal number of student organizations, combining your interests to study marine biology while writing for the Flor-Ala student newspaper, get your education degree while performing with the University Players theatre troupe, or major in economics while volunteering at the school-sponsored STEM Camp over the summer. Of course, there are also plenty of events that all students will enjoy - including a visit to the two African lion mascots who live on campus!

A Christian institution, Samford University not only professes a dedication to the life and teachings of Jesus, but also uses this commitment to fuel personal empowerment, spiritual growth, and a love of learning in its students. If you choose to attend Samford, you won't experience a clear division between faith and academics. Rather, many of your activities at this Alabama university will integrate the two, from core courses that "reflect the Christian mission at the heart of the university" to the Preministerial Scholar Program that provides merit scholarships to aspiring church ministers. Samford also supports Scholar Programs for business students, biology and computational science majors, Latin American Studies program members, and high-achieving undergrads, making Samford one of the best colleges in Alabama for smart students of faith.

The campus culture at Alabama college attracts a very specific type of student, making it ideal for young learners who know exactly what they want. The student body is small (only 1,185) and smart (the average high school GPA is 3.5) and given BSC's affiliation with the United Methodist Church, many of the students are also religious. This top Alabama college also attracts those who are looking for a challenge. Experiential programs are abundant, and each will test your skills in a unique way. For example, as an Entrepreneurial Scholar you might write your own business plan or develop a non-profit, or you could become a Harrison Honors student and unlock special seminars and research opportunities.

The average college tends to the basics - providing a decent education and conferring degrees, but why go average when you can choose this Alabama college, where you will be "transformed by your experiences?" Acquire high-quality instruction in leadership and service to others at this U.S. News-dubbed "A+ college for B students." U.S. News also ranks SHC as one of "America's Best Colleges" in the South, cementing the school's status as one of the best universities in Alabama. Spring Hill is also moderately selective, with a 52% acceptance rate, and 90% of those admitted choose to live on campus - helping SHC maintain a tight-knit and friendly atmosphere.

Public research universities tend to focus their efforts on three distinct points of achievement: teaching, research, and public service/community engagement. This Alabama university excels in all categories, making it an easy contender on any list of the top universities in Alabama. An HBCU with support from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, AAMU has built an impressive reputation for graduating highly qualified African American scholars with bright futures. PayScale's report, which calculates the school's 20-year net ROI at $220,000, only supports this assertion further. And if you're not an "agricultural and mechanical" type of student, fear not! You could be just as successful earning a major in business, public affairs, engineering, education, or the humanities.

This Alabama university claims an exciting and inspiring history, all of which started thanks to the gumption of nine freed slaves who wasted no time after the end of the Civil War. The "Marion Nine" purchased a tract of land for $500, and over the next 150 years their altruistic vision evolved into what is now ASU. An HBCU and member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the university has recently extended its mission to students living abroad; 50% of international students hail from Nigeria, while another 20% are visiting from either Ghana or Trinidad and Tobago.