University of Alabama in Huntsville logo

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Accept Rate
74.25%
Grad Rate
62.4%
Enrollment
6,650
Avg SAT
1321
Tuition
$11,770
Median Salary
$61,767
Overall Grade
C
C+
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
C+
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

UAH offers a pragmatic and tech-focused campus vibe deeply rooted in engineering and science. Students experience a collaborative, hands-on learning environment that feels like an extension of the city's aerospace and defense industries. It's a commuter-heavy campus with a tight-knit community feel.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

74.25%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 132175th Pctl
11951440
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2875th Pctl
2531
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight any STEM coursework or projects in your application to stand out. While test-optional, a strong SAT score near the 1321 average can strengthen your candidacy. Demonstrate genuine interest in Huntsville's tech ecosystem in your essays.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1321
40080012001600
School range: 1195โ€“1440

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

The university is a powerhouse in engineering, computer science, and nursing. It offers cutting-edge research opportunities in aerospace and cyber security, often in partnership with NASA and the U.S. Army. The curriculum is known for being rigorous and career-oriented.

Popular Majors

Engineering
30.9%
Business & Marketing
16.5%
Health Professions
10.8%
Computer Science
10.1%
Physical Sciences
5.1%
Biology & Biomedical
4.8%
Visual & Performing Arts
3.4%
Psychology
2.9%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
2.9%
Education
1.9%
English & Literature
1.9%
Social Sciences
1.8%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

62.4%
Graduation Rate
80.5%
Retention Rate
6,650
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$11,770
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$19,880
After financial aid
Total Cost
$27,098
Cost of attendance/year
22.5%
Receive Pell Grants
33.9%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Huntsville

Student life in Huntsville revolves around tech, aerospace, and outdoor activities. The city offers a vibrant downtown with breweries and arts districts, plus easy access to hiking and camping. It's a unique blend of Southern charm and high-tech innovation.

Local Rent Check

$1,067 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Huntsville
Explore Huntsville

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$47,080
$0Est. 4 Years: $47,080

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($61,767):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The UAH campus is generally considered safe with a dedicated campus police force. Huntsville is a growing city where standard urban precautions are recommended, especially at night.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong ties to NASA, Redstone Arsenal, and defense contractors
  • โœ“ High ROI with low tuition and high post-grad earnings
  • โœ“ Specialized strengths in engineering, optics, and cyber security
  • โœ“ Access to cutting-edge research as an undergraduate

Cons

  • โœ— Campus social life can feel subdued compared to larger SEC schools
  • โœ— Limited on-campus housing options
  • โœ— The city, while growing, lacks the amenities of a major metropolis

Notable Alumni

Homer Hickam
Former NASA engineer and author of the memoir Rocket Boys, which was adapted into the film October Sky.
Marye Anne Fox
A distinguished chemist who served as Chancellor of UC San Diego and won the National Medal of Science.
David L. Calhoun
Former CEO of The Boeing Company, with a background in engineering and finance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, UAH is widely recognized for its strong engineering programs, particularly in aerospace and mechanical engineering, with direct ties to NASA and the local defense industry.

The average class size is relatively small, fostering a more personalized learning environment, especially in upper-division courses.

Yes, the university has robust co-op and internship programs that allow students to gain practical work experience with local employers while earning their degree.

UAH has several on-campus residence halls, but it is known as a commuter-heavy school, so many students live off-campus in the surrounding Huntsville area.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Redstone Arsenal HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology Boeing Northrop Grumman
Smart Start Score
65

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 8,021
  • In-State Tuition $11,770
  • Out-of-State $24,662
  • Zip Code 35899

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 61% โ™€ 39%

The Money Talk

With tuition under $12k, UAH offers exceptional value for a research university. Graduates see a strong ROI with median earnings of $61,767, often entering high-paying local industries. The combination of low cost and high earning potential makes it a financially smart choice.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with University of Missouri-Kansas

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $11,770
Housing (12 mo) $12,804
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $31,774
With avg financial aid:
$19,880/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.