About The University
Known as the Capstone, The University of Alabama prepares students for the future through 200+ degree programs across 13 colleges and schools. Our faculty earn nationally competitive research grants, mentor one of the largest communities of National Merit Scholars at any public university, and fuel an economic impact that reaches every county in Alabama.
The Future-Ready Flagship
The University of Alabama is a future-ready flagship. We develop the leaders and workforce a changing economy needs, advance research that solves real problems, and strengthen communities across Alabama and beyond. Every decision serves that mission.
Mission and Objectives
Teaching, research & service is the core of our mission.
Administration
Leadership and organization of The University of Alabama.
History
Key events in our legendary history.
Strategic Plan
Advancing the flagship.
Discover the traditions and landmarks that make Alabama home, sweet home to generations of alumni and friends.
R1 Status
UA is one of the country's top-tier research universities, ranked in the highest research-activity category by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education (Very High Spending and Doctorate Production).
42,360currently enrolled students for the Fall Semester 2025
1,170+National Merit Scholars
Facts and Figures
Quick facts about the University, our
legends and legends in the making.
The University of Alabama plays a leading role in the advancement of our state and the empowerment of its people.
Resource for institutional data and reporting.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the University of Alabama known for?
The University of Alabama is known for its tradition of excellence. With top-ranked academics, nationally recognized faculty, extensive leadership opportunities and championship-level athletics, UA offers a comprehensive student experience.
What sets The University of Alabama apart academically?
UA is a top-tier public research university with one of the nation's strongest records of attracting high-achieving students. The University enrolls more than 1,260 National Merit Scholars, one of the largest communities at any public university, and has produced 17 Rhodes Scholars, 72 Goldwater Scholars and 16 Truman Scholars. UA has been named a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Students nine times in the last 11 years.
Nationally ranked programs include the School of Law (highest-ranked in Alabama, top nationally for federal clerkship placement), the Capstone College of Nursing (Top 25, with a 99.6% NCLEX pass rate), the Culverhouse College of Business (Manderson MBA in the top 30 among public schools) and the College of Communication and Information Sciences' public relations program (Top 5 nationally per PRWeek 11 times). UA also appears on 15 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs lists, with seven in the Top 10.
How does The University of Alabama advance research and discovery?
UA holds R1: Very High Spending and Doctorate Production status in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, the highest designation for doctoral research universities in the United States. The University’s research enterprise reached an all-time high of $269.9 million in sponsored awards in fiscal year 2024, marking more than a decade of consecutive growth. Research is organized through more than 30 centers and the Alabama Research Institutes, with focus areas in transportation, water, life sciences, cybersecurity and multiscale analytical sciences.
Why do students choose The University of Alabama?
Students find that The University of Alabama provides exceptional resources and support they need to reach their highest potential. With more than 200 majors and programs and more than 650 student organizations, students can tailor their experience to their academic, professional and personal goals.
Where is The University of Alabama?
The University of Alabama is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, a city of more than 100,000 residents in the west-central part of the state. Tuscaloosa sits along the Black Warrior River, approximately 60 miles southwest of Birmingham. The University's campus spans roughly 1,400 acres and is regularly recognized as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the nation.
Why is The University of Alabama called "the Capstone?"
The nickname dates to 1913, when University President George H. Denny described the institution as the "capstone of the public school system in the state." The phrase reflected Denny's vision of UA as the pinnacle of Alabama's public education system. The nickname stuck, and "the Capstone" remains one of the University's most recognized identifiers alongside its formal name.
Who is the president of The University of Alabama?
Peter J. Mohler, Ph.D., is the 30th president of The University of Alabama. Before joining UA, Dr. Mohler spent nearly 15 years at The Ohio State University, where he served as executive vice president for research, innovation and knowledge; chief scientific officer of the Wexner Medical Center; and acting president. He earned his bachelor's degree in biology from Wake Forest University and his doctorate in cell and molecular physiology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
