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Best Value Liberal Arts and Sciences Colleges in Alabama

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

University of North Alabama delivers the state's most affordable Liberal Arts and Sciences program at just $11,024 net cost, while Auburn University at Montgomery graduates earn $32,029 annually. This 190% difference between lowest cost and highest earnings reflects Alabama's changing economy where aerospace companies like Airbus and automotive manufacturers seek graduates with critical thinking skills and broad knowledge bases. Public universities dominate the value equation, with five schools offering sub-$15,000 costs. Samford University achieves the highest graduation rate at 79.9% but commands $30,795 annually. Alabama's manufacturing boom creates opportunities for liberal arts graduates in project management, quality control, and corporate communications roles.
14
Programs
$11,024 – $32,977
Net Price Range
$28,502
Avg. Program Earnings
51.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

14 Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,596 $32,029 $9,436 35.7% 92.2%
2 $14,850 $29,685 $12,426 51.1% 78.5%
3 $17,727 $30,988 $8,832 62.4% 86.7%
4 $14,559 $24,615 $10,024 28.7% 68.4%
5 $19,603 $25,194 $26,120 55.5% 84.1%
6 $21,165 $23,920 37.7% 82.4%
7 $11,024 $11,990 54.0% 95.7%
8 $23,384 $21,838 49.9% 68.1%
9 $30,795 $38,144 79.9% 83.3%
10 $19,514 $23,270 56.1% 72.6%
11 $12,272 $11,392 41.0% 64.5%
12 $13,461 $15,650 65.0%
13 $13,869 $9,792 46.8% 94.8%
14 $32,977 $23,440 57.1% 29.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of North Alabama the best value option?

North Alabama charges just $11,024 net cost with a solid 54% graduation rate and 95.68% acceptance rate. The school offers the lowest total cost among all 14 programs while maintaining above-average completion rates.

How much do graduates typically earn after completing these programs?

Liberal arts graduates in Alabama earn between $24,615 and $32,029 annually depending on the school. Auburn University at Montgomery leads in earnings at $32,029, while Alabama A&M graduates start at $24,615.

Is there a significant cost difference between public and private schools?

Public universities average $13,904 net cost compared to $21,686 for private institutions. However, private schools like Stillman College ($12,272) and Spring Hill College ($19,514) compete well on price.

Does graduation rate vary significantly across Alabama programs?

Graduation rates span from 28.7% at Alabama A&M to 79.9% at Samford University. Six schools maintain graduation rates above 50%, with UAB achieving 62.4% at a reasonable $17,727 cost.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.