About South University-Montgomery
Students face significant financial challenges here. The average net price reaches $25,157 annually, while graduates earn a median of $34,421 ten years after starting school. Most students borrow money to attend, with 70% taking federal loans and graduating with a median debt of $26,123. The monthly loan payment of $277 represents a substantial burden given the relatively modest post-graduation earnings. Only 25% of borrowers successfully repay their loans on schedule.
The student body tells a concerning story about outcomes. Women make up 84% of enrollment, and 78% of students are Black. However, only 15% of students graduate within six years, and just 29% return for their second year. These retention and graduation rates signal serious academic or financial struggles. Despite these challenges, 95% of graduates find employment, suggesting the programs do prepare students for jobs even if many don't complete their degrees.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 13.2%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 11.4%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 15.4%
- Retention Rate
- 28.6%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $34,421
- Carnegie Classification
- Baccalaureate College
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $91,613 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $66,883 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Master | $60,839 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $45,207 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Bachelor | $44,418 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $43,489 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $42,799 |
| Public Administration. | Master | $41,007 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $39,986 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Master | $37,478 |
Campus Life
Montgomery sits about 90 minutes from Birmingham, offering access to state government internships and healthcare opportunities. Alabama's humid subtropical climate means students need both summer cooling strategies and light winter jackets for the brief cold snaps. The 13:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate learning environment where professors know students by name.
The university primarily serves working adults and commuter students, with 100% of enrollment coming from Alabama residents. This means campus life revolves around class schedules rather than traditional college social events. Students often juggle coursework with jobs and family responsibilities. The 28% retention rate reflects the challenges many face balancing education with other commitments. Weekend activities typically happen off-campus in Montgomery's downtown area or at home with families.
- Setting
- City-Midsize
- Calendar System
- Quarter
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 40°–60°F
- July Avg
- 74°–94°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 51.8"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.3"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 15.9%
- Women
- 84.1%
- White
- 17.6%
- Black
- 78.2%
- Hispanic
- 0.7%
- Asian
- 0.7%
- In-State Students
- 100.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 69.5%
Location
- Address
- Montgomery, Alabama 36116
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $34,421
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $59,826
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $32,500
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 25.5%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $277/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $26,123
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at South University-Montgomery?
The school maintains open enrollment policies typical of for-profit institutions, focusing on serving working adults and non-traditional students. With only 302 total students, South University-Montgomery operates as a small campus within the larger South University system. The institution primarily serves students seeking career-focused programs in healthcare and business.
How much does South University-Montgomery cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $25,157 annually, with tuition set at $18,238 for all students regardless of residency. Nearly 70% of students receive federal financial aid, though only 3.64% receive institutional grants averaging $5,000. Graduates typically leave with $26,123 in debt and monthly loan payments of $277.
What is the student-faculty ratio at South University-Montgomery?
The school maintains a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, allowing for smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. Classes operate on a quarter system, which accelerates degree completion for students in professional programs. The small enrollment of 302 students creates an intimate learning environment focused on practical skills.
What are the graduation rates at South University-Montgomery?
Only 15.4% of students graduate within six years, with a four-year graduation rate of 11.43%. The retention rate stands at just 28.57%, reflecting challenges common among for-profit institutions serving non-traditional students. Despite low completion rates, 94.7% of graduates find employment, though median earnings after six years average $32,500.
Where is South University-Montgomery located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Montgomery, Alabama's mid-sized urban environment, serving exclusively in-state students who make up 100% of enrollment. With 84% of students being women and 78% identifying as Black, the school creates a diverse community focused on professional development. The urban setting provides internship and job opportunities in Alabama's capital city.
Does South University-Montgomery have strong loan repayment outcomes?
The loan repayment rate of 25.48% indicates significant financial challenges for graduates, with over 70% of students taking federal loans. Median earnings one year after graduation reach $55,439, but drop to $34,421 after ten years, suggesting limited long-term earning growth. The for-profit model focuses on quick workforce entry rather than traditional academic advancement.
