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Suburban Colleges in Alabama

5 schools in Alabama. See our methodology.

Samford University commands attention among Alabama's suburban colleges with graduates earning $58,469 annually, nearly double the state's community college outcomes. This Birmingham institution maintains a 79.9% graduation rate while accepting 83.3% of applicants, creating an accessible path to strong career prospects. The $30,795 net price reflects serious investment, yet Alabama's growing aerospace and automotive sectors increasingly reward such credentials. Hyundai, Airbus, and NASA Marshall Space Flight Center anchor the state's technical economy, creating demand for skilled graduates. Jacksonville State University offers a middle ground at $14,850 net cost with 51.1% graduation rates, while community colleges like Chattahoochee Valley provide entry points at $5,814. The Alabama Student Grant Program helps bridge funding gaps, making suburban campuses viable stepping stones into industries transforming the state's economic future.
5
Schools
$17,386
Avg. Net Price
$41,936
Avg. Earnings
43.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Suburban Colleges in Alabama

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Suburb-Large 3,828 $30,795 79.9%
2 Suburb-Large 1,044 $5,814 36.1%
3 Suburb-Small 7,030 $14,850 51.1%
4 Suburb-Large 1,151 $14,514 25.7%
5 Suburb-Large 445 $20,957 25.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Samford University worth its higher cost compared to other Alabama suburban colleges?

Samford graduates earn $58,469 annually, significantly outpacing the $32,627-$45,235 range at other suburban Alabama colleges. The 79.9% graduation rate indicates strong student support systems, while the Birmingham location connects students to major employers like Airbus and growing aerospace companies.

How do acceptance rates vary among Alabama's suburban colleges?

Acceptance rates span from 78.5% at Jacksonville State University to 94.1% at Herzing University-Birmingham. Most suburban Alabama colleges maintain accessible admission standards, with four of the five schools accepting over 80% of applicants, providing multiple entry points for students.

Is community college a viable option for suburban Alabama students?

Chattahoochee Valley Community College offers the lowest net cost at $5,814 with graduates earning $36,438 annually. The 36.1% graduation rate reflects typical community college completion patterns, but the affordable entry point serves students targeting Alabama's automotive and technical industries.

Does location affect career outcomes for Alabama suburban college graduates?

Birmingham-area colleges show stronger earning potential, with Samford graduates earning $58,469 and Herzing graduates earning $36,909. This reflects proximity to NASA Marshall, Airbus facilities, and Hyundai operations, where Alabama's aerospace and automotive sectors concentrate high-paying technical positions.

Where can students find the best value among Alabama's suburban colleges?

Jacksonville State University balances cost and outcomes at $14,850 net price with graduates earning $45,235 annually. The 51.1% graduation rate and 7,030 enrollment provide substantial alumni networks, while the Jacksonville location offers small-town benefits with access to Alabama's industrial corridor.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.