University of Montevallo
Acceptance rate
53.9%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$26,968
In-state $13,948
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,642
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
40.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 54.8%
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 Montevallo, located in Montevallo, Alabama, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to liberal arts education, which emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and ethical reasoning. Established in 1896, the university has a rich history and stands out for its picturesque campus that features historic buildings and beautiful natural surroundings. The campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and provides a serene environment that fosters learning and personal growth. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship, which contributes to a supportive academic atmosphere.
Montevallo is dedicated to providing a well-rounded education through its diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs, including strong offerings in education, business, and the arts. The university’s mission statement emphasizes the importance of integrating academic excellence with a commitment to service, preparing students to be thoughtful leaders in their communities. The vibrant campus culture is enriched by various student organizations and activities, promoting engagement and collaboration among students. Moreover, Montevallo is known for its emphasis on sustainability, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental stewardship. Overall, the University of Montevallo offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a holistic educational experience.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The University of Montevallo, as a public institution, has shown notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition increased from $10,000 to $13,710, reflecting a significant rise of 37% over a decade. For out-of-state students, the tuition grew from $19,690 to $26,730, which is a staggering 36% increase. These rising costs can present financial challenges for students and their families, especially in a context where student debt continues to be a pressing issue in the United States.
In terms of student success, the graduation rates have exhibited a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has climbed from approximately 19% in 2013 to nearly 35% in 2023. This improvement indicates that the university is likely enhancing its support systems and resources for students, which could be contributing to higher retention and graduation outcomes.
Retention rates also tell a compelling story. After a slight decline in 2022, the retention rate for undergraduates rebounded to about 73% in 2023. This resilience suggests that the university is successfully engaging students and fostering a supportive environment that encourages them to continue their education despite the challenges posed by rising costs.
Additionally, gender ratios among students have remained relatively stable, with female undergraduates consistently outnumbering their male counterparts, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The continued focus on inclusivity and support for diverse student populations will be crucial as the university navigates these changes.
Overall, while tuition increases pose challenges, the positive trends in graduation and retention rates indicate that the University of Montevallo is committed to improving student outcomes, which is essential for long-term success in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Birmingham, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), about 30 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- John W. Stewart III (President)
- Phone
- 2056656155
- City
- Montevallo, Alabama
- Address
- Station 6001, Montevallo, AL 35115-6000
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 51.6%, women 54.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Trends at the University of Montevallo
The admissions data for the University of Montevallo reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the acceptance rate for males peaked at approximately 90.2% in 2014, indicating a time of relatively higher accessibility for male applicants. Conversely, in 2023, the acceptance rate fell dramatically to around 59.2%, reflecting a tightening of admissions standards and a possible increase in demand for spots amid a competitive landscape.
The disparity in acceptance rates between genders is also noteworthy, with female candidates generally experiencing higher acceptance rates. For instance, in 2014, the rate for females reached 85.9%, while the subsequent years saw a decline, particularly in 2023, where it dropped to approximately 63.1%. These trends may suggest changing applicant demographics or strategic shifts within the university's admissions policies.
Enrollment numbers have varied, peaking at 544 in 2023, despite the high number of denied applications, which stood at 2,581. The figures highlight a robust interest in attending Montevallo, even amidst challenging admission criteria. The increasing number of deferred admissions, especially in recent years, may indicate that the university is trying to maintain a balance between selectivity and accommodating a larger applicant pool.
Overall, the university's data reflects broader trends in higher education where institutions are experiencing heightened competition for enrollment, resulting in more selective admissions practices. This evolution may be influenced by various factors, including changes in academic programs, shifts in public perception, and the overall landscape of higher education in the U.S.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Business School3 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at University of Montevallo
The data from the University of Montevallo reveals significant trends in SAT and ACT submissions over the years. Notably, the percentage of students submitting ACT scores has remained relatively high, reaching up to 93% in 2007. Conversely, the SAT submissions were only a small fraction in the years following, with percentages as low as 1% in 2019, indicating a potential shift in applicant preferences or testing policies.
The SAT reading and math scores have shown a range of performance levels, with the 25th percentile scores fluctuating between 440 and 520, while the 75th percentile scores have generally remained stable between 590 and 620 in recent years. This suggests that while there are students performing at the higher end of the score spectrum, there is also a considerable number at the lower end, which may affect the overall academic profile of incoming classes.
It is interesting to note the relatively consistent number of SAT submissions over the years, peaking at 68 submissions in 2020, which corresponds to a 14% submission rate. This spike could be attributed to changes in admissions policies or increased awareness of the importance of standardized testing during that period.
Overall, the data indicates that while the University of Montevallo maintains a strong emphasis on ACT scores among applicants, the SAT's role appears to be diminishing. This trend reflects broader national conversations about the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions, especially as many institutions reconsider their testing requirements in light of equity issues and varying preparation levels among applicants.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
6,280 applicants in 2025, 53.9% admitted
3,382 admitted 2,898 not admitted Yield 16.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's40 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's37 (11% international)
- Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's27 (0% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's13 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's10 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's9 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at University of Montevallo
The graduation data for 2023 from the University of Montevallo reveals interesting trends in major selections across different academic disciplines. Notably, the fields of education and business administration show significant outputs, reflecting the growing demand for professionals in these areas. For instance, while 38 students graduated with a bachelor's degree in Counselor Education, another 38 earned a master's degree in the same field, highlighting the importance placed on advanced training in educational support services.
The arts also play a crucial role in the university's graduation landscape. With 38 graduates in Art Studies and 23 in Drama, it is evident that creative disciplines attract a considerable number of students, showcasing the institution's commitment to fostering artistic talents. This aligns with national trends where arts education is increasingly recognized for its value in developing critical thinking and creativity.
Interestingly, international students are represented in the business sector, with four earning bachelor's degrees, indicating the program's appeal beyond domestic borders. However, other fields like psychology and biology show only minimal international enrollment, suggesting potential areas for growth in attracting global talent.
Moreover, the lack of doctoral graduates across most programs may suggest a need for more advanced academic pathways, especially in burgeoning fields like health and technology. With a shifting job market increasingly requiring specialized knowledge, the university could benefit from developing more master's and doctoral programs to prepare students for future challenges.
In conclusion, the graduation data at the University of Montevallo reflects a diverse range of academic interests, primarily concentrated in education, business, and the arts. The university’s strategic focus on these areas could enhance its reputation and attract more students, both domestically and internationally.
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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,805-$51,988 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Management Science. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $43,213 | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $42,930-$50,807 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $42,930-$50,807 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $42,930-$50,807 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $25,125 | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $29,933 | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiology/Audiologist. | $43,205-$55,068 | ||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $43,205-$55,068 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $33,858 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $32,512 | ||
| Rhetoric and Composition. | $34,398 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $27,571 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $38,406 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Informatics. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General. | $34,180 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
Students
3,088 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 72.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,447
- First-year undergraduates 552
- Graduate students 446
- Transfers and others 643
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,642)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at the University of Montevallo in 2023
The University of Montevallo's student composition for 2023 reveals a diverse and dynamic academic environment. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 544 students, with a gender distribution that shows 40.4% male and 59.6% female. This trend of a higher female population continues among undergraduate upperclassmen, where they account for an even larger 64% of the 1,451 students.
In terms of diversity, the undergraduate transfer students comprise 133 individuals, with 30.8% identifying as male and 69.2% as female, indicating a consistent pattern across the undergraduate levels. The graduate student body, consisting of 414 students, exhibits a notable gender disparity, with only 20.8% male and 79.2% female. This significant skew may reflect broader trends in graduate education where more women are pursuing advanced degrees.
The data also highlights the racial and ethnic diversity among students, particularly within the freshman and undergraduate groups. The representation of different ethnicities, including White, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students, adds a rich cultural dimension to the university. However, detailed insights into these demographics are not fully available, as some data appears to be incomplete.
Overall, the University of Montevallo showcases a commitment to inclusivity and diversity, aligning with national trends in higher education where institutions strive to foster an environment that supports varied backgrounds and perspectives. As the university continues to grow, it will be essential to monitor these demographic trends to ensure equitable representation and support for all students.
Analysis of Age Composition at University of Montevallo in 2023
The age distribution of students at the University of Montevallo provides interesting insights into the demographics of its student body. A significant portion of the undergraduate population is concentrated in the 18-19 age group, accounting for 53.6% of total undergraduates. This aligns with national trends, where first-time college students are typically around this age, reflecting the traditional pathway of high school graduation leading directly to college enrollment.
The data also indicates a notable presence of students aged 20-21, making up 27.1% of the total undergraduate population. This suggests that many students are either continuing their education directly after high school or may be returning to education after a brief hiatus. Interestingly, the 22-24 age range shows a mixed demographic with a combination of undergraduates and graduate students, hinting at the increasingly common trend of non-traditional students pursuing advanced degrees.
In contrast, the percentage of students over 25 years old is relatively small, comprising only 7.4% of the overall student body. This reflects a broader trend in higher education, where younger students dominate the enrollment figures. However, the presence of older students, particularly those aged 30-34 and 35-39, indicates that the university may be accommodating adult learners who are balancing education with work and family commitments.
Overall, the University of Montevallo’s age demographics highlight a diverse and evolving student population, with a strong foundation in the traditional college age groups while also providing opportunities for non-traditional students to pursue their education. This diversity can enrich the campus experience and foster a more inclusive academic environment.
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.
84 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of Montevallo
The data regarding international student enrollment at the University of Montevallo reveals interesting trends over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students has gradually increased, reaching 3.41% in 2023 compared to just 1.66% in 2004. This upward trend indicates a growing acceptance and appeal of the university among international applicants, which can be attributed to its expanding programs and global outreach.
However, the numbers for graduate students tell a different story. Despite some fluctuations, the percentage of international graduate students remains notably lower than that of undergraduates. For instance, while the undergraduate percentage peaked at 3.41% in 2023, the graduate percentage only reached a maximum of 1.95% in the same year. This discrepancy could suggest that the university's graduate programs might not be as internationally recognized or competitive as its undergraduate offerings.
Additionally, the overall enrollment of both undergraduate and graduate students has seen a decline from 2004 to 2023. This decline raises concerns about the university's ability to attract students in a competitive educational landscape, especially as many universities are vying for international talent.
In conclusion, while the University of Montevallo shows progress in attracting international undergraduate students, it still faces challenges in enhancing its graduate programs to appeal to a broader international audience. Continued efforts in marketing and program development will be crucial in reversing the declining enrollment trend and improving the university's global standing.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$38,340
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $26,968
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $13,948
- Room and board
- $11,372
- Graduate tuition
- $26,532
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$96.7M
Expenses$94.0M
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 · Gulf South Conference
Gulf South Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 129 | 91 |
| Lacrosse | 71 | 28 |
| Soccer | 38 | 32 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Wrestling | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Swimming | 15 | 19 |
| Other Sports | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 15 | 9 |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 138 | 84 |
| Lacrosse | 63 | 26 |
| Soccer | 34 | 27 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Swimming | 24 | 18 |
| Wrestling | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 13 |
| Tennis | 16 | 10 |
| Golf | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 117 | 87 |
| Lacrosse | 62 | 25 |
| Soccer | 31 | 25 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Swimming | 22 | 23 |
| Basketball | 17 | 13 |
| Golf | 13 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Samford UniversityBirmingham · 25.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham · 27.9 mi
U.S. News #137
-
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa · 40.1 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 87.3 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Alabama--HuntsvilleHuntsville · 112.6 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Mississippi State UniversityMississippi State · 113.8 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 148.2 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 149.7 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 149.7 mi
U.S. News #191
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of Montevallo:
-
Emory University - Ranked 24 in the 2024 US News rankings, Emory University is known for its strong research programs and prestigious healthcare education.
-
Vanderbilt University - With a rank of 18, Vanderbilt University is recognized for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33, this institution is renowned for its engineering and technology programs, attracting students from across the globe.
-
Auburn University - With a rank of 93, Auburn University combines a comprehensive education with a strong community spirit and athletic pride.
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142, UAB is known for its health-related programs and research, particularly in the fields of medicine and public health.
These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and specialized programs, contributing to a rich educational environment in 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
Analysis of Crime Rates at the University of Montevallo
The crime data from the University of Montevallo over the past decade showcases an interesting trend in campus safety. The average crime rate per 1,000 students has seen fluctuations, from a peak of 11.47 in 2015 to a lower rate of 5.10 in 2023. This decline in crime rates in recent years is a positive sign, suggesting that the university may be implementing effective safety measures or that there are changes in student behavior.
Focusing on the types of offenses, arrests related to drug use and possession seem to be notable contributors to the overall crime statistics. Drug-related arrests are often a reflection of broader societal issues and can impact the campus environment significantly. Additionally, incidents of alcohol-related arrests highlight the need for continued education and awareness programs regarding substance use among students.
Moreover, the absence of firearm-related incidents or arrests on campus is commendable, indicating a potentially safer environment for students. However, the presence of domestic violence and stalking incidents suggests that there are still areas of concern that require attention. Educational initiatives on healthy relationships and consent could further mitigate these issues.
In conclusion, while the reduction in overall crime rates is encouraging, the university should remain vigilant and proactive in addressing specific types of incidents. Continuous assessment of campus safety policies, combined with community engagement, can help maintain and improve the safety and well-being of students. For further details on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Montevallo include Polly Holliday (Actress, two-time Golden Globe winner), Elizabeth B. Andrews (First woman to represent Alabama in US House) and Rebecca Luker (Broadway musical actress and singer).
-
Polly Holliday 1937–2025
Actress, two-time Golden Globe winner
-
Elizabeth B. Andrews 1911–2002
First woman to represent Alabama in US House
-
Rebecca Luker 1961–2020
Broadway musical actress and singer
-
Mildred Wolfe 1912–2009
Artist based in Jackson, Mississippi
-
Nate Driggers 1973–
Retired player for the Boston Celtics
-
Giuliano Frano 1993–
Canadian soccer player
-
Rusty Greer 1969–
Former MLB outfielder for the Texas Rangers
-
Mary Elizabeth Counselman 1911–1995
Writer of short stories and poetry
-
Jim Dunaway 1941–2018
AFL defensive tackle for the Buffalo Bills
More alumni (12, by field)
Politics and law
-
Todd Strange 1945–
56th mayor of Montgomery, Alabama
-
Priscilla Dunn 1943–2024
Member of the Alabama Senate
-
Beth Chapman 1962–
Former Alabama Secretary of State
-
Nancy Worley 1951–2021
Former Alabama Secretary of State
Science and academia
-
Martha J. Ross 1923–2013
Historian and leading oral history practitioner
Arts and media
-
Ray Reach 1948–2026
Pianist, composer and music educator
-
Tim Hodge 1963–
Animator and voice actor on VeggieTales
-
Richie Jean Jackson 1932–2013
Author, teacher and civil rights activist
Sports
-
Jon Maloney 1985–
English footballer
-
Pierre Omanga 1988–
French footballer
-
Austin McIntosh 1987–
English footballer and defender
Other fields
-
Patricia Swift Blalock 1914–2011
Librarian, social worker and civil rights activist
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.