Some of the cheapest colleges in Alabama are, in fact, well-established higher education institutions that offer premier education for undergraduate and graduate students at affordable rates. Most of these low-tuition colleges are very highly ranked in the United States and are thus a safe choice to pursue your education. Student debt has become a major problem in the US and cheap universities that offer affordable tuition and excellent learning outcomes are a breath of fresh air.
However, simply compiling a list of the cheapest universities in Alabama isn’t enough. You also need to find out other details like the school’s accreditation, the programs it is known for, and whether or not it offers financial assistance. Our list also includes some of the cheapest online colleges in Alabama. To help you select the right institution among the most affordable colleges in Alabama, we have also listed prospective job options for graduates of these private and public colleges.
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How Much Does College Cost in Alabama?
The cost of college in Alabama ranges from $5,775 to $11,826 in tuition per year for affordable universities. This does not include the cost of room and board, transportation, and other expenses that are traditionally attached to getting a degree. All in all, the average tuition you will pay depends on the specific school you attend, the degree of study, financial aid options, and whether or not you are a resident of Alabama.
Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama: The Basics
| School | Location | Undergraduate Tuition | Graduate Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Southern University | Orange Beach | $245/credit | $335-$435/credit |
| Alabama A&M University | Normal | $287/credit (in state); $574/credit (out of state) | $422/credit (in state); $840/credit (out of state) |
| University of West Alabama | Livingston | $325/credit | $429-$630/credit |
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville | $333/credit (in state); $665/credit (out of state) | $410/credit (in state); $820/credit (out of state) |
| University of North Alabama | Florence | $340/credit (in state); $680/credit (out of state) | $370/credit (in state); $740/credit (out of state) |
| Alabama State University | Montgomery | $347/credit (in state); $694/credit (out of state) | $412/credit (in state); $824/credit (out of state) |
| University of South Alabama | Mobile | $359-$408/credit (in state); $718-$816/credit (out of state) | $468-$507/credit (in state); $936-$1,014/credit (out of state) |
| Amridge University | Montgomery | $375-$430/credit | $650-$750/credit |
| Auburn University | Auburn | $433/credit (in state); $1,299/credit (out of state) | $577/credit (in state); $1,731/credit (out of state) |
| University of Alabama in Huntsville | Huntsville | $530/credit (in state); $1,236/credit (out of state) | $789/credit (in state); $1,782/credit (out of state) |
Cheapest Universities in Alabama: A Closer Look
The list below contains more details about the cheapest universities in Alabama. It is based on the table above but designed to provide more information about each school. The facts were collected directly from the official website of each university and are subject to change at the discretion of the school.
Founded in 1993, Columbia Southern University is an affordable online private university that is accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commission. It is one of the best options for people looking for schedule flexibility without compromising the quality of their education. Despite having a relatively large student-to-faculty ratio of 39 to one, the school is still well-known for its student-centered departments.
Columbia Southern University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $245/credit
- Graduate Tuition: $335-$435/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 100% (open admission)
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Columbia Southern University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $5,775
- Books and Supplies: $616
- On-Campus Room and Board: $7,592
Popular Columbia Southern University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This is a 120-credit undergraduate program that costs about $245 per credit. Here, you will learn how to analyze financial data, create financial strategies, and make important business decisions.
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health. The core subjects of this program teach you how to identify and troubleshoot occupational hazards by applying health and safety-related technology. Moreover, you can transfer up to 90 credits out of 120 into this program, making it a very affordable option for furthering your education.
- Master of Science in Homeland Security. This 36-credit program’s cost of tuition is $335 per credit, making it one of the most affordable master's degree programs in the state. It covers advanced homeland security topics like terrorism, military occupation, and weapons of mass destruction.
Alabama A&M University is a historically black college that was founded in 1875. At first, it was only a small school that started from a church. However, it has since grown to support a student body larger than 6,000 across four independent public colleges in life and natural sciences, engineering, education, and business. This school offers a wide range of on-campus classes as well as some of the most inexpensive bachelor’s degree programs in the state.
Alabama A&M University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $287/credit (in state); $574/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $422/credit (in state); $840/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Alabama A&M University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $10,024
- Books and Supplies: $1,600
- On-Campus Room and Board: $9,520
Popular Alabama A&M University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Biology. This degree is offered by the Department of Biology and Environmental Science and prepares you for a variety of careers, from a lab technician to physician. The program offers four concentrations, Environmental Health, Pre-Nursing, Pre-Professional Health, and Secondary Education Teacher.
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Getting this bachelor's degree is the first step to launching a successful career in finance, marketing, human resource management, and international business. The two concentrations available through this program are International Business and Management Information Systems.
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. If you want to learn how to become a mechanical engineer, this program is for you. Alongside a foundational curriculum in physics, mathematics, and structural engineering, this program offers two concentrations in Manufacturing Systems and Propulsion Systems.
The University of West Alabama (UWA) was founded in 1835 as a school for young women. With time, the curriculum expanded to become more inclusive and support the community in its professional endeavors. You can secure your associate degree, bachelor's degree, master's degree, or even doctoral degree from this school. There are also professional development certificate programs available.
University of West Alabama Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $325/credit
- Graduate Tuition: $429-$630/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of West Alabama NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $10,990
- Books and Supplies: $1,216
- On-Campus Room and Board: $7,594
Popular University of West Alabama Programs
- Bachelor of Science/Arts in Psychology. This is an online program that requires 123 credits to complete, 36 of which cover core topics like psychological research fundamentals, experimental psychology, and social science statistics. Undergraduate students can also transfer up to 90 credits based on the type of college they previously attended.
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This is a 123-credit online degree that can be completed in three to four years, depending on your speed. In addition to a 40-credit business professional component, the curriculum also requires accounting majors to take 30 credits in core subjects to prepare them for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license exam.
- Bachelor of Science/Arts in Sports Management. This Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management offers a thorough curriculum in kinesiology and exercise physiology, alongside concentrations in business administration and multidisciplinary marketing communication. You will need to complete about 123 credits to graduate from this four-year program.
Founded in 1883, Jacksonville State University (JSU) is the flagship public university in Jacksonville, Alabama. It currently has six colleges that support more than 9,000 students in their undergraduate and graduate educations. The school is renowned for the quality of its education, ranked in the 38th palace for Top Public Schools by US News & World Report for the year 2022.
Jacksonville State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $333/credit (in state); $665/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $410/credit (in state); $820/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Jacksonville State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $11,120
- Books and Supplies: $1,196
- On-Campus Room and Board: $8,320
Popular Jacksonville State University Programs
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing. The JSU School of Nursing offers this BS degree for students who intend to solidify their nursing career and take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Apart from enrolling directly, you can also transfer from adjacent professional nursing programs.
- Bachelor of Arts in English. This is a 120-credit course with 39 core English credits. It covers English literature, advanced grammar, history of the English language, interpersonal communication, and composition of speech. You will also learn about technical, creative writing, and publishing.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science-Data Science. If you want to become a data scientist or data analyst, this BS program can teach you the role of data science and data analytics in today's industry. Other covered topics include computation, technical writing, software engineering, and applied statistics.
Founded in 1830, this Florence-based school was initially designed for teacher education. Today, however, the University of North Alabama (UNA) is known to be one of the first mixed-sex schools in the state to provide comprehensive education across disciplines. Programs like Business Administration, Marketing, and Health Administration are some of the school’s most popular offerings.
University of North Alabama Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $340/credit (in state); $680/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $370/credit (in state); $740/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of North Alabama NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $10,620
- Books and Supplies: $1,500
- On-Campus Room and Board: $7,966
Popular University of North Alabama Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration. The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) is a highly rated program accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. You can take the four-year program either online or on-campus. However, among all its majors, only the General Management and Human Resource Management concentrations are supported online.
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Cinematic Arts and Theatre. This Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree is not just meant for people who wish to pursue careers in acting but also for those interested in stage design and general film production. Here, you will learn a wide variety of screenwriting, stagecraft, and directing techniques.
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Health Science. For this online 120-credit degree, online learners can complete the major coursework within two years. At $350 per credit, this degree is a bit more expensive than other undergraduate degrees UNA offers. However, it prepares you for higher-level jobs in health administration which often offer better-paying jobs than other industries.
Alabama State University (ASU) was founded in 1867 and has since maintained its reputation as a prominent historically black higher institution of learning over the years. At the time of writing, ASU had eight well-known degree-granting colleges covering the fields of liberal arts, social sciences, business administration, education, health sciences, engineering, and visual and performing arts.
Alabama State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $347/credit (in state); $694/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $412/credit (in state); $824/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Alabama State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $11,068
- Books and Supplies: $1,600
- On-Campus Room and Board: $6,050
Popular Alabama State University Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Communications Media. You will need between 120 and 123 credits to complete this undergraduate degree program. The curriculum includes courses like Mass Communication, Computer Systems, Diction, Interpersonal Communication, and a host of other relevant topics. The online school is also set up to support international students with this degree.
- Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services. This four-year degree is for people who want to work as vocational evaluators, rehabilitation experts, and social case managers. As part of the 21-credit major-specific curriculum, you will learn how to treat people in recovery and offer them support at different stages of their rehabilitation journey.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Criminal justice is another interesting Bachelor of Science (BS) degree that you can secure at ASU. The credit requirement ranges from 122 to 129 credit hours, depending on the selection of majors and minors. Apart from the core courses, you are also required to participate in an internship program designed to improve the transition from theoretical college experience to in-field experience.
The University of South Alabama was founded in 1963 as a four-year public research institute. The USA, as it is popularly called, has different colleges that offer undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is known for its high research activity, which has earned it an R2 doctoral rating. The school is also known for being an innovation hub that embraces technological advancement and creates lifelong learners.
University of South Alabama Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $359-$408/credit (in state); $718-$816/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $468-$507/credit (in state); $936-$1,014/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of South Alabama NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $8,756
- Books and Supplies: $1,300
- On-Campus Room and Board: $8,150
Popular University of South Alabama Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This four-year BSN program is for anyone who wants to become a licensed nurse. You can either enroll directly or transfer credits from an Associate Degree in Nursing. The program offers both a direct bachelor's degree and a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) track.
- Bachelor of Science in Biology. This is one of the most popular programs at this university. In this 120-credit curriculum spread across eight semesters, you will cover general biology, genetics, organic chemistry, ecology, evolution, as well as some social and behavioral electives.
- Bachelor of Science/Art in Interdisciplinary Studies. A highly versatile degree program, this bachelor’s degree does not need you to choose a minor. Across 120-credits, the four-year program covers unique topics like professional conduct, interdisciplinary critical thinking, human services, global leadership, and cultural competency.
Amridge University is a non-profit private school that was established in 1967. While it was initially created for seminary training, the school has since evolved to support several degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree levels. The school specializes in business, general studies, education, and theology. It also offers a continuing education program for individuals who need to complete the required credits for work.
Amridge University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $375-$430/credit (varies for each department)
- Graduate Tuition: $650-$750/credit (varies for each department)
- Acceptance Rate: 100% (open admission)
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Amridge University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $9,000
- Books and Supplies: N/A
- On-Campus Room and Board: N/A
Popular Amridge University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This 128-credit BS degree program prepares you for an entry-level job in business administration. It is ideal for adult or non-traditional learners as the program offers options for transferred credits from another school. However, at least 40 of your total credits must come from Amridge University to graduate.
- Bachelor of Science in Human Development. This bachelor’s degree is for people who wish to explore careers in human-related services. The curriculum spans 128 credits and covers the basics of psychology and sociology and how they influence human development.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. With a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, you can work as a police officer, private investigator, probation officer, or paralegal. This 128-credit degree program also prepares you for a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice or a related field. Undergraduate students must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA to successfully graduate from this program.
Founded in 1856, Auburn University is a land-grant public school that is known for its high research activity. While it started as a male college, it has since evolved into a co-ed school for undergraduate and graduate studies. Today, it is one of the best public universities in the United States that offers affordable education when compared to schools of similar standing.
Auburn University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $433/credit (in state); $1,299/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $577/credit (in state); $1,731/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Auburn University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $11,826
- Books and Supplies: $1,200
- On-Campus Room and Board: $14,596
Popular Auburn University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences-Interdisciplinary Health Science. This program requires 120 credits for graduation and runs for four years like most other bachelor’s programs in public institutions. Apart from the core subjects and general education requirements, students are required to complete 45 major-specific credits as well as select a formal minor.
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. There are several job opportunities that you can explore with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a specialization in finance, which is exactly what this BS degree prepares you for. This program has a 100 percent job placement rate with multiple graduates working in Fortune 500 companies throughout the United States.
- Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering. This is a 122-credit undergraduate degree program offered by the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering. With this degree under your belt, you can become a mechanical engineer, design engineer, manufacturing engineer, or product manager.
Founded in 1950, the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is a space-grant institution that started out by holding classes in West Huntsville High School. Today, the school is known as one of the best doctorate-granting institutions in the United States.
University of Alabama in Huntsville Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $530/credit (in state); $1,236/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $789/credit (in state); $1,782/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Alabama in Huntsville NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $11,488
- Books and Supplies: $2,300
- On-Campus Room and Board: $10,764
Popular University of Alabama in Huntsville Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This five-semester pre-licensure program is for any enrolled student at UAH interested in exploring a career in nursing. You will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to qualify for this program from within the school, although you can get direct entry if you have an Associate Degree in Nursing.
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Start your career in mechanical engineering with this 128-credit program. In addition to a core curriculum that includes subjects like physics, calculus, linear algebra, and electronics, you will also learn how to make thermal systems, develop kinetic and dynamic machines, and design and install machines.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This 120-credit course is for anyone who wants to dive into the world of information security. The computer science major requirements span 30 credits and include coursework in programming, data structures, algorithm design and analysis, and the fundamentals of operating system design.
Cheapest Online Colleges in Alabama
| School | Online Tuition | Programs Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama A&M University | $287-$574/credit (undergraduate); $422-$840/credit (graduate) | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
| University of North Alabama | $300/credit (undergraduate); $350/credit (graduate) | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
| University of West Alabama | $325/credit (undergraduate); $429-$630/credit (graduate) | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates |
| University of South Alabama | $328-$445/credit (undergraduate); $503-$594/credit (graduate) | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
| Jacksonville State University | $333/credit (undergraduate); $410/credit (graduate) | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
Cheapest Colleges in Alabama by In-State Tuition
- Columbia Southern University | $245/credit
- Alabama A&M University | $287/credit
- University of West Alabama| $325/credit
- Jacksonville State University | $333/credit
- University of North Alabama | $340/credit
Cheapest Colleges in Alabama by Out-of-State Tuition
- Columbia Southern University | $245/credit
- University of West Alabama| $325/credit
- Amridge University | $375/credit
- Alabama A&M University | $574/credit
- University of South Alabama | $718/credit
Why Is College So Expensive?
College is expensive because of the tuition, books, learning supplies, accommodation, transportation, and other things that make up the cost of attendance. The following are some factors of expense that even the most affordable colleges in Alabama cannot avoid.
Tuition
In the United States, tuition makes for a bulk of the cost of attendance. The tuition itself is charged by the university and thus, can be changed at the discretion of the school. Typically, private schools and Ivy League colleges often charge significantly more than public and non-profit schools.
Books and Supplies
Most universities charge for all the books and miscellaneous supplies they provide to help students complete their programs. This cost is usually paid around the same time as the tuition and its amount varies with the university. Some schools also have the option of students bringing their own supplies. Here, students can save by renting textbooks and equipment instead of purchasing them.
Accommodation and Personal Expenses
If you are attending a university far from home, you are bound to get accommodations on campus or somewhere near the school. In either case, this setup costs money. Other necessary expenses like food and clothing also influence the cost of attendance. Moreover, your personal lifestyle can also impact how much you spend while attending college.
Best Universities by State
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How to Save Money in College
- Apply for scholarships. One of the best ways to save money during a degree program is to apply for as many scholarships as possible. The number of scholarships you will be eligible for depends on the school you’re attending, your field of study, academic standing, economic circumstances, and your state of origin.
- Attend college from home. If you are attending a college in your community or state, you can save money by commuting from home instead of paying for separate accommodation. Alternatively, you could try distance education. Online students are able to graduate with degrees both faster and at a lesser expense than traditional students.
- Opt for on-campus accommodation. If attending college from home is not an option, consider getting on-campus accommodation. You will need to apply as early as possible since these accommodations fill up quickly. It is, however, far more affordable than off-campus housing options.
- Attend a low-tuition college. You can reduce the tuition cost by attending an affordable college, typically a non-profit or public institution. You do not need to go to an Ivy League university or a high-end private college to get a good education. Just make sure that the college you attend is accredited by the right regulatory bodies.
- Consider work-study options. One of the best ways to save money is to make money. Instead of waiting until you complete your college education before you get a job, you can start working while you study. However, it is very important you ensure that your grades and academic performance are not affected by this additional responsibility.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in Alabama
- Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for financial aid. You can find the list of requirements on the official Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website. The most basic requirements are enrollment in an accredited institution in Alabama, either citizenship, immigrant status, or permanent residency in the United States, and good academic standing.
- Apply for federal student aid identification (FSA ID). This is a unique number that you can use to track your application process and access your FSA information throughout your time in college. If you are dependent on someone else, ask the person to input their information when you apply.
- Visit the official FAFSA website to fill out the application form. Make sure you fill out the form when the website is open and when your school is still accepting financial aid applications. Within the required details, you must fill in your name, social security number, tax identification number (if available), and other listed identification or academic information.
- Submit your Student Aid Report (SAR) to the school you wish to attend. This SAR contains details about your federal financial aid request. You will need to follow up with the financial aid office at your school to make sure everything is in order.
Scholarships for Students in Alabama
| Scholarship Title | Provider | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| AGA Women’s Scholarship | Alabama Golf Association (AGA) | $2,500 per semester | Must be a woman and an Alabama resident pursuing an undergraduate degree in Alabama with a GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale |
| Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP) | Alabama Commission on Higher Education | $300-$5,000 per academic year | Must be an Alabama resident pursuing a degree at an accredited university in Alabama |
| Police Officer’s and Firefighter’s Survivors Educational Assistance Program (POFSEAP) | Alabama Commission on Higher Education | Covers tuition, fees, books and supplies | Must be the dependent of a police officer or firefighter and enrolled in a school in Alabama |
| Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program for High School Seniors | Thurgood Marshall College Fund | $10,000 per academic year | Must be enrolled at an accredited higher institution of learning or a continuing education program for two to four years |
| CollegeCounts Scholarship Program | Alabama’s 529 Fund | One-time award of $2,000-$4,000 | Must be an Alabama resident pursuing a degree at an accredited institution in Alabama with a GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale |
| EWl Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) | Executive Women Scholarship (EWI) | $2,000-$10,000 per academic year | Must be an adult student transitioning in the education sector or someone in need of retraining due to workplace challenges |
| NIADA Scholarships | National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) | Varies | Must be a high school senior who intends to pursue a career in the automotive industry |
| Southeast Desalting Association Scholarship | Southeast Desalting Association | $2,500 per academic year | Must be an undergraduate or graduate student with upper-level credit units (65 and above) and enrolled in a water-related program |
| Regions Riding Forward Scholarship | Regions Bank | $3,500-$5,000 per academic year | Must be a high school or a college student enrolled in an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale |
| Steve Bayless Undergraduate Scholarship | Southeastern Theater Conference | $2,000 per academic year | Must be planning to attend an accredited college in Alabama or any other SETC region in the United States |
How to Choose a Cheap College in Alabama
When it comes to choosing a cheap college in Alabama, there are many factors you need to consider. Some of the factors include accreditation, financial aid availability, enrollment, and graduation statistics.
Accreditation
Think of accreditation as an official green light from a reliable education regulator that gives the school the power to award degrees. The two most popular types of accreditation in the United States are regional and national accreditation. When selecting a low-tuition college in Alabama, you should prioritize schools accredited by the major regulating bodies.
Financial Aid Availability
Even if you are attending one of the cheapest universities in Alabama, you should still consider the financial aid options available in your school. Getting financial aid like scholarships, loans, or grants will not only help to reduce the burden of cost but will also act as a marker of academic merit which can help set your resume apart from your competition when applying for jobs or higher education opportunities.
Enrollment and Graduation Statistics
How many students are enrolled in the school every academic year, and how many graduate successfully? What percentage of those admitted complete their program? How many are retained until graduation? These are crucial questions that you need to ask yourself as they concern variables that provide insight into a university’s quality of education.
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Best Community Colleges by State
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Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in Alabama
| Job Title | Average Salary in Alabama | Minimum Education |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Services Manager | $124,100 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Economist | $111,980 | Master’s Degree |
| Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager | $110,250 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Operations Research Analyst | $105,110 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $103,080 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Financial and Investment Analyst | $100,980 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Information Security Analyst | $96,520 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Financial Risk Specialist | $95,610 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Civil Engineer | $93,820 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Budget Analyst | $91,800 | Bachelor’s Degree |
Best Jobs for College Grads in Alabama: Explained
- Average Salary: $99,290
- Average Salary in Alabama: $124,100
- Overall Job Outlook: 9% from 2020 to 2030
Every organization requires an administrative team to function. An administrative manager oversees this team to ensure it contributes smoothly and efficiently to the organization’s daily functioning. A Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or a related field is generally enough to get a job as an administrative services manager.
- Average Salary: $105,630
- Average Salary in Alabama: $111,980
- Overall Job Outlook: 13% from 2020 to 2030
Economists are charged with researching and developing theories, concepts, and strategies that affect the economy. While most of them work in the public sector, private organizations can also employ economists. You need a Master's Degree in Economics, Business, Accounting, or other related fields to qualify for most economist jobs.
- Average Salary: $133,380
- Average Salary in Alabama: $110,250
- Overall Job Outlook: 10% from 2020 to 2030
These individuals specialize in providing publicity for brands across a variety of industries. They use traditional or digital marketing techniques to generate public interest in certain products or services. Most marketing firms in Alabama demand a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field when surveying prospects for the position of an advertising and promotions manager.
- Average Salary: $82,360
- Average Salary in Alabama: $105,110
- Overall Job Outlook: 25% from 2020 to 2030
These analysts are information technology experts who collect, clean, analyze, and visualize data to help organizations make informed decisions about their own functions. An Alabama graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Operations Research, Data Science, Mathematics, or related fields can apply for the role of an operations research analyst at companies within the state.
- Average Salary: $99,270
- Average Salary in Alabama: $103,080
- Overall Job Outlook: 7% from 2020 to 2030
A computer systems analyst is an expert in the field of digital information technology who studies an organization's computer systems and network and recommends improvements. The standard degree requirement for computer systems analysts is a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science but you may find organizations willing to employ you even if you have an associate degree or relevant on-the-job experience.
- Average Salary: $81,410
- Average Salary in Alabama: $100,980
- Overall Job Outlook: 6% from 2020 to 2030
A financial analyst is a money expert who analyzes economic data sets and general market trends. They then use this analysis to guide the financial decisions of organizations and individuals. You can become a financial analyst if you have a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a Specialization in Accounting. A Bachelor’s Degree in Financial Analysis or Accounting will also work.
- Average Salary: $102,600
- Average Salary in Alabama: $96,520
- Overall Job Outlook: 33% from 2020 to 2030
An information security expert ensures that all the Internet and intranet-connected devices within an organization are protected from security breaches. You can become an information security analyst if you have a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Network Security, Information Systems, or Computer Science.
- Average Salary: $81,410
- Average Salary in Alabama: $95,610
- Overall Job Outlook: 6% from 2020 to 2030
Financial risk specialists are financial analysts who focus on identifying and preventing risk in organizations’ finances. They make recommendations to the executives, and their reports have a major influence on these organizations’ decision-making. You can become a financial risk specialist with a Bachelor's Degree in Financial Analysis.
- Average Salary: $88,050
- Average Salary in Alabama: $93,820
- Overall Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
Civil engineers are charged with the planning, implementation, and overall supervision of any infrastructure project. In the academic sector, civil engineers can research novel materials or techniques to optimize the current process of construction. You can become a civil engineer with a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction, or a related field.
- Average Salary: $79,940
- Average Salary in Alabama: $91,800
- Overall Job Outlook: 5% from 2020 to 2030
Budget analysts are financial experts who help organizations plan their finances. They come up with financial reports to minimize loss and optimize cost-effective functioning based on the organization's projections and needs. A Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business, or any related field will give you the knowledge base you need to become a budget analyst.
Accredited Online Colleges by State
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Is a Cheap College in Alabama Worth It?
Yes, cheap colleges in Alabama are worth it as long as they are accredited and offer high-quality education. It is important to note that most of the public colleges in Alabama are state-supported, so they get most of their funding from the state government. While this does not mean that their quality of education is low, it implies that these colleges are strongly impacted by changes in the state budget or legislature.
Cheapest Colleges in Alabama FAQ
No, there are no free colleges in Alabama at this time. However, veteran (GI) dependents are entitled to five years worth of scholarships at state-sponsored schools in Alabama. If you are not a GI dependent, there are several low-tuition colleges in Alabama where you can get a good education.
To qualify for in-state tuition rates in Alabama, you need to first be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. Once you qualify for permanent residency, you can establish residency in Alabama and apply for admission as an Alabama resident. If you do not reside within the state of Alabama, you cannot use in-state tuition rates.
Alabama is not as expensive as most other parts of the United States. The cost of living is lower than the national average for all states. If you are set to move into the state of Alabama, the bulk of your earnings will go into housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and, if applicable, child care.
The Alabama Student Assistance Program grant ranges from $300 to $5,000, depending on several variables. Regardless of the prize amount, applicants must be Alabama residents who are fully enrolled in academic programs at accredited institutions in the state to even be considered for the grant.
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