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Public, 4-year

University of West Alabama

Livingston, Alabama · www.uwa.edu

中文

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
Livingston, Alabama
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

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
44.8%
Women
41.5%

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

SAT total860–1120Peer median 1080
ACT composite16–21
SAT Reading
440–560
600700800
SAT Math
420–560
600700800
ACT composite
16–21
253036

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)

Associate441 international (2.3%)
Bachelor's45313 international (2.9%)
Master's1,15216 international (1.4%)
Doctoral150 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
112
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels
78
Psychology, General
28
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
28
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
25
Communication and Media Studies, Other
24
Special Education and Teaching, General
23
Business Administration and Management, General
18
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General
16
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
15

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

Educationhas 1008 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
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.-
Health professionshas 180 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
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
Businesshas 148 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$42,181-$65,615
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 114 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biological and Physical Sciences.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.$41,067
Parks, recreation, leisure has 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$30,026
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$30,026
Communication has 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
Biologyhas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Conservation Biology.-
Psychology has 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$35,663
Experimental Psychology.-
Engineering technologieshas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General.-
Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Other.-
Homeland security has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other.-
History has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Social sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sociology, General.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Mechanic and repair has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Music, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-

Students

6,820 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 29:71 · Freshman retention 64.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,983)

White
1,483 · 49.7%
Black
1,159 · 38.9%
Unknown
93 · 3.1%
Two or more races
81 · 2.7%
Hispanic
76 · 2.5%
International
63 · 2.1%
Asian
9 · 0.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.4%
18–19
16.8%
20–21
18.5%
22–24
16.4%
25 and over
46.8%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.4%
22–24
12.0%
25–29
21.5%
30–34
17.6%
35 and over
44.6%

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.

Undergraduates2.1%

63 in 2025 · 6.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 6.3%2017: 5.9%2018: 4.9%2019: 5.0%2020: 4.0%2021: 3.0%2022: 2.8%2023: 3.0%2024: 2.3%2025: 2.1%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students1.1%

42 in 2025 · 1.9% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.9%2017: 2.8%2018: 1.5%2019: 1.0%2020: 0.8%2021: 0.7%2022: 1.3%2023: 0.8%2024: 0.9%2025: 1.1%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

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
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

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

Government grants and contracts
$64.0M54.6%
Tuition and fees
$42.5M36.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.7M3.2%
Investment return
$10K0.0%
Other
$7.0M5.9%

Expenses$92.4M

Instruction
$42.9M46.5%
Student services
$12.2M13.2%
Institutional support
$7.6M8.2%
Academic support
$5.7M6.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.4M4.7%
Public service
$3.3M3.6%
Scholarships
$1.6M1.7%
Research
$230K0.2%
Other
$14.4M15.6%

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.

All faculty
$72,302peers $80,690
Professor
$89,980peers $98,841
Associate professor
$71,590peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$63,161peers $74,446
Instructor
$56,259peers $58,934
Lecturer
$37,541peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other · Gulf South Conference

Gulf South Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football116-
Soccer2525
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2721
Baseball43-
Rodeo1820
Basketball1515
Softball-23
Tennis1010
Volleyball-16
2024
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football105-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3427
Soccer3022
Baseball34-
Basketball1415
Softball-21
Tennis1110
Volleyball-18
Rodeo--
2023
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football111-
Soccer3225
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3322
Baseball41-
Basketball1414
Softball-20
Tennis97
Volleyball-13
Rodeo--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near the University of West Alabama:

  1. The University of Alabama - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. Auburn University - With a ranking of 93, Auburn University is known for its strong emphasis on research and a vibrant campus life.

  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142, UAB is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.

  4. The University of the South - This liberal arts college is ranked 51 and is known for its picturesque campus and strong academic programs.

  5. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Motor vehicle theft
5
Dating violence
5
Rape
3
Liquor referrals
3
Aggravated assault
2
Fondling
1

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).

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

    Also attended: University of the Cumberlands

  • 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.