Samford University
The Vibe Check
Samford offers a close-knit, traditional campus feel with a strong sense of community, set in a beautiful suburban environment in Birmingham. It feels like a place where students are supported by faculty who know them by name, fostering a collegial atmosphere that balances rigorous academics with a faith-based foundation.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Samford is known for its strong professional programs, particularly in health professions and business, supported by a low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. The university emphasizes high-quality teaching through its core curriculum and offers research opportunities, such as through the Brock School of Business and the Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Birmingham
Students enjoy Birmingham's vibrant food scene, including popular spots in the Avondale and Lakeview districts, as well as outdoor activities at nearby Oak Mountain State Park. The city offers a growing arts and music culture, with local venues and festivals providing plenty of weekend entertainment just a short drive from campus.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($58,469):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Samford's suburban campus is generally considered safe, with its own campus police force and well-lit pathways. The surrounding Homewood area is a safe, residential neighborhood, though students should always practice standard urban safety precautions when venturing into downtown Birmingham.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High retention (87.6%) and graduation rates (78.8%) indicate strong student satisfaction and support.
- ✓ Strong professional programs in Health Professions and Business lead to solid career outcomes.
- ✓ Small class sizes (12:1 student-faculty ratio) ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ The suburban campus offers a safe, traditional college environment with beautiful architecture.
Cons
- ✗ Tuition is high for a private university, with an average net price over $30,000.
- ✗ The student body is not very diverse, with a Pell Grant recipient rate of only 10.8%.
- ✗ The suburban setting may feel isolated for students who prefer a bustling, urban college experience.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Samford University is widely recognized for its strong professional programs, particularly in Health Professions (such as nursing and pharmacy) and Business through the Brock School of Business. It is also known for its beautiful, historic campus and its commitment to a faith-based, liberal arts education within a supportive Christian environment.
Samford is not highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 82.23%. However, admitted students typically have solid academic records, with an average SAT score around 1203. The university looks for students with a strong GPA and involvement in extracurriculars, making it accessible but still competitive for scholarships.
Campus life at Samford is characterized by a strong sense of community and a traditional residential experience in a safe suburban setting. Students are highly involved in Greek life, intramural sports, and over 150 student organizations, fostering a close-knit atmosphere where it's easy to get involved and build lasting friendships.
For many students, Samford offers a solid return on investment, especially in high-demand fields like health sciences and business, where 10-year median earnings reach $58,469. The high graduation and retention rates suggest that students are well-supported, which can justify the cost, though prospective students should actively seek scholarships to manage the sticker price.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 3,772
- In-State Tuition $38,144
- Zip Code 35229
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
At roughly $30,795 in average net price, Samford is a significant investment, but its 78.8% graduation rate suggests strong student outcomes. With 10-year median earnings of $58,469, the degree offers a solid return, particularly for graduates entering high-demand fields like nursing and business.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.