The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is a public research university located in Birmingham, Alabama. Established in 1969, UAB has grown into a prominent institution known for its strong emphasis on research, healthcare, and interdisciplinary education.
Academics and Research
UAB offers a wide array of programs across various disciplines, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. The university comprises multiple schools and colleges, such as the College of Arts and Sciences, and schools dedicated to Business, Education, Engineering, Health Professions, Nursing, Public Health, Medicine, Dentistry, and Optometry.
The university is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity,” reflecting its significant contributions to research and innovation. In 2023, UAB invested $780 million in research expenditures, ranking 21st among public institutions for federal research funding. The university’s research initiatives span various fields, including medicine, engineering, and the sciences.
Rankings
In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings, UAB was tied for the 137th best national university and ranked 64th among public universities. Several of its graduate programs have received notable rankings, such as Healthcare Management (1st), Nursing (Master’s 10th, Doctoral 11th), and Medical School in Primary Care (24th) and Research (35th).
Student Body
As of the fall semester of 2018, UAB’s student enrollment included 13,836 undergraduates, 6,933 graduate students, and 1,154 professional doctoral students. The university attracts students from all 67 Alabama counties, all 50 U.S. states, and over 110 foreign countries, reflecting its diverse and inclusive community.
Athletics
UAB’s athletic teams, known as the Blazers, compete in NCAA Division I sports as part of the American Athletic Conference. The university offers a variety of men’s and women’s sports, including basketball, football, soccer, and tennis.
Recent Developments
In January 2025, UAB was involved in a lawsuit challenging Alabama’s new state law banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at universities. The lawsuit, filed by university professors and students, argues that the law violates the First Amendment and discriminates against Black students by limiting supportive programs.
For more detailed information about UAB’s programs, admissions, and campus life, you can visit their official website: