University of West Alabama
Acceptance rate
42.7%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$20,090
In-state $10,990
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,983
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
28.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 35.1%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of West Alabama (UWA) is a public university located in Livingston, Alabama. Established in 1835, UWA has a rich history and provides a comprehensive educational experience for its students. One of the key features of UWA is its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The university's motto, "To Be, To Do, To Serve," reflects its dedication to developing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also prepared to contribute positively to society.
UWA offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including education, business, and the arts. The university is known for its small class sizes, which facilitate personalized attention from faculty members, ensuring that students receive the guidance and support they need to succeed. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, a well-stocked library, and recreational spaces that promote student engagement and well-being. Additionally, UWA boasts a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, fostering a sense of community and school spirit among students. With a focus on academic excellence and a commitment to student success, UWA continues to prepare its graduates for fruitful careers and meaningful contributions to their communities.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at the University of West Alabama
The University of West Alabama has displayed significant trends in several key educational metrics over the years. One of the most striking trends is the increase in undergraduate tuition for in-state students, which has risen from $7,660 in 2014 to $10,990 in 2023, marking an increase of approximately 43%. This upward trend in tuition reflects a broader national trend in higher education costs, which can create barriers for potential students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds.
Another notable metric is the graduation rate for undergraduate students, which has shown a promising improvement. The on-time graduation rate increased from approximately 15% in 2013 to about 32% in 2023. This nearly doubling of the graduation rate suggests that the university may be implementing effective strategies to enhance student success and support systems, which is crucial for improving overall student outcomes.
Retention rates have also demonstrated positive momentum, climbing from around 57% in 2013 to nearly 69% in 2023. This increase indicates that more students are choosing to continue their education at the university, which is essential for institutional stability and growth. Higher retention rates often correlate with student satisfaction and engagement, which are vital for a thriving academic environment.
Furthermore, the student-to-faculty ratio saw a shift, with a notable increase from 16 students per faculty member in 2013 to 18 in 2023. While a higher ratio may suggest larger class sizes, it could also reflect budget constraints or shifts in student enrollment dynamics. Maintaining an optimal student-to-faculty ratio is critical, as it impacts the quality of education and individual attention students receive.
In conclusion, the University of West Alabama's trends in tuition, graduation rates, retention rates, and student-to-faculty ratios reveal a complex yet evolving landscape of higher education that requires ongoing attention and adaptation to meet the needs of its student population effectively.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, remote
- Nearest major city
- Birmingham, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- UWA
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Todd Fritch (President)
- Phone
- 2056523400
- City
- Livingston, Alabama
- Address
- Station One, Livingston, AL 35470
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 35.0%, women 34.9%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at the University of West Alabama
The admission statistics for the University of West Alabama over the years reveal significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as the overall enrollment figures. The data shows a concerning trend, particularly in recent years. For instance, in 2018, the male admission rate plummeted to around 29.6%, while the female admission rate dropped to approximately 27.4%. Such low acceptance rates can reflect a competitive admissions process, possibly driven by increased applications or changes in institutional priorities.
Interestingly, 2019 and 2020 also witnessed a decline in acceptance rates, with both genders experiencing similar challenges. This pattern suggests that the university may have faced a surge in applications or perhaps tightened its admission criteria. The significant number of denials in these years, particularly 5,304 in 2018, raises questions about the university’s capacity to manage applicant flows effectively.
Conversely, 2021 marked a turnaround, with acceptance rates for both genders improving noticeably, especially for females at nearly 95%. This increase in enrollment, coupled with a dramatic drop in the number of denials, indicates that the university may have adapted its strategies to enhance access for underrepresented groups.
Overall, the University of West Alabama's admission data reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are grappling with balancing selectivity with accessibility. The fluctuations in acceptance rates underscore the dynamic nature of college admissions, influenced by a myriad of factors including societal trends, economic conditions, and institutional changes.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 3% submitted SAT, 61% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Submissions at the University of West Alabama
The data from the University of West Alabama reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions over the years. While the percentage of students submitting SAT and ACT scores fluctuates, there appears to be a notable reliance on the ACT, especially in earlier years where 100% of admitted students submitted their scores in 2007. This trend suggests that ACT scores may be more integral to the admissions process at this institution compared to SAT scores.
As we move through the years, the number of SAT submissions started low but has seen slight increases, indicating a gradual shift in the applicant pool. For instance, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores rose to 8% in 2020 and 2021, suggesting that the SAT may be regaining some relevance among prospective students.
Looking at the score ranges, the 25th to 75th percentile scores depict a consistent performance band that reflects a stable admission standard. The SAT reading and math scores show a range from the low 400s to the mid-500s, while ACT scores hover in a similar range, indicating that the university maintains a balanced approach to evaluating its applicants.
This data aligns with broader trends in higher education, where many institutions are re-evaluating their reliance on standardized testing. A growing number of universities are adopting test-optional policies, especially in light of the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This evolution in admissions strategies might further influence the future landscape of student applications at the University of West Alabama. Overall, the data captures a dynamic period in standardized testing and college admissions, reflecting both the challenges and adaptations within the educational system.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 4 in 10
2,729 applicants in 2025, 42.7% admitted
1,164 admitted 1,565 not admitted Yield 33.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's216 (0% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's183 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's113 (1% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's110 (3% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's92 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's86 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at the University of West Alabama
The graduation data from the University of West Alabama reveals several noteworthy trends, particularly in the field of education. It is evident that the majority of graduates in education-related programs are obtaining master’s degrees, with significant numbers in areas such as Elementary Education and Educational Leadership. This reflects a broader trend in the education sector where advanced qualifications are increasingly sought after, particularly in light of ongoing educational reforms and the emphasis on teacher quality.
Interestingly, there is a notable absence of international students graduating with bachelor’s or associate degrees in these fields, which may indicate either a lack of international enrollment in undergraduate programs or challenges faced by international students in completing these degrees. The fact that the data shows a count of international students only in master’s programs suggests that the university is attracting graduate-level international talent, which is a positive sign for its global engagement.
Moreover, the fields of health services and counseling also show promising graduation numbers, particularly at the master’s level. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals and mental health counselors, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the critical need for mental health services.
Overall, the graduation data for the University of West Alabama provides insights into the evolving landscape of higher education, emphasizing the importance of advanced degrees and the potential for growth in international student enrollment in graduate programs. As the job market continues to demand specialized skills, institutions like UWA may need to adapt their programs to meet these emerging needs while fostering a diverse student body.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $68,459 | ||||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $68,459 | ||||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | $59,502 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $56,993 | ||||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $62,237 | ||||
| Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching. | $40,931-$56,128 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $40,931-$56,128 | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $40,931-$56,128 | ||||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $40,931-$56,128 | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $40,931-$56,128 | ||||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $58,919 | ||||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||||
| Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling. | - | ||||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $71,382 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $42,181-$65,615 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - | ||||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $41,067 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $30,026 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $30,026 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Conservation Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,663 | ||||
| Experimental Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General. | - | ||||
| Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | ||||
| Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
Students
6,820 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 29:71 · Freshman retention 64.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,955
- First-year undergraduates 372
- Graduate students 3,837
- Transfers and others 656
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,983)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at the University of West Alabama in 2023
The student demographics at the University of West Alabama in 2023 reveal some interesting trends regarding gender distribution and enrollment types. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a notable gender imbalance, with 40.1% being male and 59.9% female. This trend continues among upperclassmen and transfer students, where the percentage of females significantly outweighs males, with female students comprising 71.0% and 73.6% of the respective categories.
For graduate students, the disparity is even more pronounced, with only 20.9% being male and a staggering 79.1% female. This raises questions about the factors influencing such a gender divide. It could reflect broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees and entering fields traditionally dominated by men.
The data also highlights the ethnic composition of students, particularly among freshmen, where white students make up a significant portion, accounting for 48.7% of the demographic. This indicates a need for universities to foster a more diverse environment, as the representation of other ethnic groups remains relatively low.
Overall, the data from the University of West Alabama illustrates a growing female predominance in higher education, alongside a concerning lack of ethnic diversity. As discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion continue to gain traction in academia, institutions must prioritize creating a more balanced and representative student body to reflect the diverse society they serve.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at the University of West Alabama in 2023
The age composition of students at the University of West Alabama in 2023 presents an interesting demographic landscape. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the 18-24 age group, which aligns with national trends in higher education where traditional-age students dominate enrollment figures. Specifically, the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets account for approximately 32% of the total male and female student population combined, reflecting the university's appeal to younger learners.
Interestingly, the presence of non-traditional students aged 25 and older is noteworthy. This group, particularly those aged 25-29, has a robust representation, with a total count exceeding 800 students. Such a trend suggests that the university is accommodating a diverse range of learners, including those returning to education for career advancements or personal fulfillment, which echoes broader societal shifts towards lifelong learning.
Moreover, the data shows a significant female presence, especially in the graduate categories, where the number of female graduate students surpasses that of their male counterparts. This trend could be indicative of the increasing number of women pursuing advanced degrees, which has been a focal point in educational discussions over recent years.
However, the underrepresentation of students aged 50 and above, comprising only a small fraction of the total, raises questions about accessibility and the university's efforts to cater to older learners. Overall, the age distribution at the University of West Alabama illustrates a vibrant academic community, balancing traditional and non-traditional students while highlighting the evolving landscape of higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
63 in 2025 · 6.3% in 2016
42 in 2025 · 1.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of West Alabama
The data on international student enrollment at the University of West Alabama reveals a fluctuating trend over the years from 2004 to 2023. In the early years, such as 2004, the representation of international students in undergraduate programs was notably low at just 1.12%, with only 19 out of 1692 students being international. However, there was a gradual increase in the proportion of international undergraduates, peaking at 6.32% in 2016, which marked a significant rise in diversity within the undergraduate population.
Conversely, the enrollment of international students in graduate programs has demonstrated a more variable pattern. For instance, in 2004, only 0.44% of graduate students were international, but this figure saw some increases in subsequent years, reaching a maximum of 2.79% in 2017. Nevertheless, the overall representation remains relatively low compared to national averages in higher education institutions, where international student percentages can exceed 10%.
The fluctuations in these percentages can be attributed to various factors, including global events, changes in immigration policies, and the university's outreach efforts to attract international talent. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, likely impacted enrollment numbers in 2020 and 2021, as seen with a noticeable decline in international student ratios during those years.
Overall, while the university has made efforts to enhance its international student population, ongoing challenges and competition from other institutions may hinder its growth. To foster a more diverse academic environment, the University of West Alabama might consider implementing more robust recruitment strategies and support systems for international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$28,320
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $20,090
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $10,990
- Room and board
- $8,230
- Graduate tuition
- $13,546
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$117M
Expenses$92.4M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other · Gulf South Conference
Gulf South Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 116 | - |
| Soccer | 25 | 25 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 27 | 21 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Rodeo | 18 | 20 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 105 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 34 | 27 |
| Soccer | 30 | 22 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 11 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Rodeo | - | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 111 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | 25 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 33 | 22 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Tennis | 9 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Rodeo | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa · 56.9 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Mississippi State UniversityMississippi State · 69.4 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Samford UniversityBirmingham · 100.9 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham · 102.3 mi
U.S. News #137
-
University of MississippiUniversity · 145.4 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 157.1 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Alabama--HuntsvilleHuntsville · 172.3 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of MemphisMemphis · 201.7 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Rhodes CollegeMemphis · 205.3 mi
Liberal Arts #49
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of West Alabama:
-
The University of Alabama - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Auburn University - With a ranking of 93, Auburn University is known for its strong emphasis on research and a vibrant campus life.
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142, UAB is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.
-
The University of the South - This liberal arts college is ranked 51 and is known for its picturesque campus and strong academic programs.
-
Emory University - Ranked 24, Emory is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia, known for its outstanding health programs and liberal arts education.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and contribute significantly to the educational landscape of the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Campus Crime at the University of West Alabama
The crime statistics from the University of West Alabama over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in campus safety. In 2013, the crime rate per 1,000 students was notably high at 2.83, with a total of 14 recorded incidents. However, this figure saw a considerable decline in the following years, reaching its lowest point in 2022 with a crime rate of just 0.82 per 1,000 students and a total of only 4.6 incidents.
This downward trend is promising and suggests that the university's efforts to enhance campus safety and security may be having a positive impact. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that even with these improvements, incidents such as drug arrests and alcohol-related offenses have been recorded, indicating ongoing challenges. For instance, while the data shows a decrease in overall crime, the presence of drug arrests remains a concern, highlighting a need for continuous vigilance and proactive measures.
The recent uptick in crime rate to 1.23 in 2023, despite being lower than previous years, reminds us that safety is an ongoing challenge for universities nationwide. This aligns with broader trends observed in academic institutions, where fluctuations in crime rates can be influenced by various factors, including changes in policy, campus culture, and external societal issues.
Overall, while the University of West Alabama has made strides in improving campus safety, the data underscores the importance of maintaining awareness and resources dedicated to crime prevention. For those interested in understanding how to calculate crime rates, further information can be found at this link: 'https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447'.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of West Alabama include Lois Wilson (Silent film era actress), Jey Uso (WWE professional wrestler, one half of The Usos) and Jimmy Uso (WWE professional wrestler).
-
Lois Wilson 1894–1988
Silent film era actress
-
Jey Uso 1985–
WWE professional wrestler, one half of The Usos
-
Jimmy Uso 1985–
WWE professional wrestler
-
Tyreek Hill 1994–
NFL wide receiver drafted by the Chiefs in 2016
-
Malcolm Butler 1990–
Former NFL cornerback with the New England Patriots
-
Ruby Pickens Tartt 1880–1974
Folklorist, writer and painter
-
Peterson Bryant Jarman 1892–1955
U.S. representative from Alabama
-
Jeremy Pruitt 1974–
Football coach, former Tennessee head coach
-
Jeff Branson 1967–
Former MLB infielder and coach
More alumni (5, by field)
Arts and media
-
Geneva Mercer 1889–1984
Alabama sculptor and painter
Sports
-
James Crawford 1960–
Basketball player in Australia's NBL, known for dunks
-
Thomas Hatch 1994–
Baseball pitcher for the SSG Landers
-
Ken Hutcherson 1952–2013
Former NFL linebacker and pastor
-
Kirsten Reilly 1995–
Scottish women's footballer
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.