Faulkner University: History, Programs, Campus Life, Admissions & Rankings

Faulkner University, a private Christian institution in Montgomery, Alabama, was founded in 1942 as Montgomery Bible College and has since grown into a comprehensive university offering associate to doctoral degrees across six colleges, including law, health sciences, business, and biblical studies, all taught from a Christian worldview. With a student population ranging from 1,700 to over 3,000 depending on reporting, it offers a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, an 82% acceptance rate, and strong online programs.

Its 78-acre campus supports vibrant student life through over 30 organizations, intramural sports, modern facilities, and extensive student services. Athletically, Faulkner competes in the NAIA with 14 varsity sports and has won multiple national championships. Accredited by SACSCOC, the university remains dedicated to integrating faith and learning while producing notable alumni in politics, sports, and law.

Faulkner University: A Deep Dive into its History, Academics, and Campus Life

Faulkner University, a private, Christian institution located in Montgomery, Alabama, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1942. Rooted in the Churches of Christ, the university has evolved from its initial mission of preacher training and education based on biblical principles to a comprehensive institution offering a wide array of associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across various disciplines.

Historical Roots and Evolution

Faulkner University began as Montgomery Bible College in 1942, established by Dr. Rex Turner, Dr. Leonard Johnson, and Joe Greer. Its initial focus was on providing theological education. In 1953, it was renamed Alabama Christian College. The current campus on Atlanta Highway was acquired in 1964. The institution expanded its reach in 1975 by opening extended campuses in Birmingham, Huntsville, and Mobile.

A significant milestone occurred in 1983 with the acquisition of the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law. The following year, the college received accreditation as a four-year university. In 1985, it was officially renamed Faulkner University in honor of Dr. James Faulkner, a prominent businessman, longtime supporter, trustee, and chairman of the board. Today, the university is home to six colleges:

• Alabama Christian College of Arts and Sciences
• Harris College of Business and Executive Education
• V.P. Black College of Biblical Studies
• College of Education
• College of Health Sciences
• Thomas Goode Jones School of Law

Academic Programs and Colleges

Faulkner University offers a diverse range of academic programs, catering to various career paths and intellectual interests. The university emphasizes a Christian worldview across its curriculum.

Colleges and Notable Programs:

• Alabama Christian College of Arts and Sciences: This college forms the heart of a liberal arts education at Faulkner, offering degrees in fields such as Humanities, Biology, Biochemistry, Computer Science, English, History, Mathematics, and Psychology.
• Harris College of Business and Executive Education: Provides programs in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Risk Management and Insurance. It also offers an Executive BBA and a Master of Science in Management (MSM) with a Data Science emphasis.
• V.P. Black College of Biblical Studies: Dedicated to theological education, offering Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, and graduate degrees such as Master of Arts (Biblical Studies) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies.
• College of Education: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs for aspiring educators, including Bachelor of Science in various education tracks (e.g., Early Childhood Education, Secondary Education) and Master of Education degrees (e.g., Curriculum and Instruction, Elementary Education, School Counseling).
• College of Health Sciences: A rapidly growing college with programs designed to prepare students for essential healthcare professions. Degrees offered include:
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
  • Master of Arts and Sciences in Speech Language Pathology (MSLP)
  • Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
  • Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MS-PAS)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD HS)
  • Doctor of Health Science (DHSc)
• Thomas Goode Jones School of Law: Offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, provisionally accredited by the American Bar Association in 2006 and fully accredited in 2009.

Online Degree Programs: Faulkner University has a strong online presence, offering a variety of associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees designed for working professionals seeking flexibility.

Admissions and Enrollment Data

• Total Enrollment (approx.): 1,792 (as of recent data). Other sources indicate total enrollment around 3,262 or 750 (with 750 graduate students), suggesting some variability depending on the reporting period and inclusion of all extended campus/online students.
• Undergraduate Students: Approximately 1,000 (though specific undergraduate numbers vary in reports).
• Men: 44.3%
• Women: 55.7%
• Acceptance Rate: 82% (minimally difficult admission). Some sources cite 76% or 66%.
• Average GPA of Enrolled Freshmen: 3.36 (based on weighted GPAs).
• SAT Middle 50% Range: 480-560 (for critical reading/math sections).
• ACT Middle 50% Range: 18-22.
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1.

Campus Life and Student Services

Faulkner University’s 78-acre campus in Montgomery, Alabama, offers a vibrant student life experience with a focus on Christian values.

• Student Organizations: Over 30 student organizations covering various interests.
• Intramural Sports: A variety of challenging and fun intramural sports.
• Residence Life: A significant portion of students reside in new or remodeled residence halls.
• Student Services: Comprehensive support services are available, including:
  • Academic Center for Excellence (tutoring, resources)
  • Career Services
  • Center for Disability Services
  • Student Success advising
  • The Counseling Center (confidential services for personal, emotional, social, and mental health concerns)
  • Health Services (registered nurse available for minor illnesses and injuries)
• Campus Facilities: Includes modern facilities for athletics, classrooms, administration, and a student multiplex.

Athletics

The Faulkner University athletic teams are known as the Eagles. They are a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and primarily compete in the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC). The football team is also an affiliate of the Mid-South Conference. Faulkner previously competed in the National Christian Collegiate Athletic Association (NCCAA).

Varsity Sports: Faulkner competes in 14 intercollegiate varsity sports:

• Men’s Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Soccer.
• Women’s Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball.
• Co-ed Sports: Bass Fishing, Esports.

Athletic Facilities:

• Billy D. Hilyer Stadium (Football, Soccer)
• Tine W. Davis Gymnasium (Basketball, Volleyball)
• Harrison Field (Baseball)
• Wynn Field (Softball)

Faulkner has achieved success in athletics, including two NAIA National Championships and two NCCAA National Championships.

Notable Alumni

Faulkner University boasts a list of distinguished alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, sports, and law. Some notable alumni include:

• Bobby Bright: Former U.S. Congressman from Alabama.
• Marcus Brimage: Professional Mixed Martial Artist, former UFC competitor.
• Ray-Ray Armstrong: Former NFL football player.
• Austin Adams: Major League Baseball player.
• Will Dismukes: Politician.
• Vivian Davis Figures: Politician.
• Jordan Veasy: Football player.
• Kelli Wise: Alabama Supreme Court Justice.

Financials and Costs

• Tuition & Fees (approx.): $23,920 per year (for undergraduate).
• Room & Board (approx.): $8,230.
• Financial Aid: 36% of students receive financial aid.
• Median Alumni Salary: $42,905 (starting salary).

Rankings and Accreditation

Faulkner University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). While specific rankings vary depending on the source, it is generally recognized as a respected private university. For instance, some rankings place it among the best private colleges and best value colleges in the South.

Faulkner University remains committed to its founding mission of providing a distinctively Christian education, fostering intellectual growth, character development, and service in its students.

FAQs about Faulkner University

What is Faulkner University known for?
Faulkner University is known for its Christian-based education, diverse academic programs, strong law and health sciences colleges, and vibrant campus life in Montgomery, Alabama.

Where is Faulkner University located?
Faulkner University is located in Montgomery, Alabama.

When was Faulkner University founded?
The university was founded in 1942 as Montgomery Bible College.

What religious affiliation is Faulkner University?
Faulkner University is affiliated with the Churches of Christ.

Is Faulkner University accredited?
Yes, Faulkner University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

What types of degrees does Faulkner University offer?
Faulkner offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across six colleges.

What colleges are part of Faulkner University?
The six colleges are: Alabama Christian College of Arts and Sciences, Harris College of Business and Executive Education, V.P. Black College of Biblical Studies, College of Education, College of Health Sciences, and Thomas Goode Jones School of Law.

Does Faulkner University have a law school?
Yes, the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and is fully accredited by the American Bar Association.

What are the most popular programs at Faulkner University?
Popular programs include Nursing, Business, Law, Biblical Studies, Education, Health Sciences, and various graduate degrees.

Does Faulkner University offer online programs?
Yes, Faulkner University offers a wide range of fully online associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.

How many students attend Faulkner University?
Enrollment ranges from approximately 1,700 to 3,200 depending on reporting periods and program types.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Faulkner University?
The student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1.

What is the acceptance rate at Faulkner University?
The acceptance rate is approximately 82%.

What GPA is required for admission to Faulkner University?
The average GPA of enrolled freshmen is around 3.36 (weighted).

What SAT and ACT scores are required for Faulkner University?
SAT scores typically range from 480-560, and ACT scores range from 18-22 for middle 50% of admitted students.

Is financial aid available at Faulkner University?
Yes, about 36% of students receive financial aid.

How much does it cost to attend Faulkner University?
Undergraduate tuition and fees are approximately $23,920 per year, with room and board around $8,230.

What is the average starting salary for Faulkner University graduates?
The median alumni starting salary is around $42,905.

What is campus life like at Faulkner University?
Campus life includes over 30 student organizations, intramural sports, modern residence halls, and a strong focus on Christian values and community.

What athletic conference is Faulkner University part of?
Faulkner competes in the NAIA’s Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) and the Mid-South Conference for football.

How many varsity sports does Faulkner University offer?
Faulkner offers 14 varsity sports across men’s, women’s, and co-ed teams.

What sports facilities are available at Faulkner University?
Key facilities include Billy D. Hilyer Stadium, Tine W. Davis Gymnasium, Harrison Field, and Wynn Field.

Has Faulkner University won any athletic championships?
Yes, Faulkner has won two NAIA National Championships and two NCCAA National Championships.

Are there residence halls on campus?
Yes, Faulkner offers modern and remodeled residence halls for students.

What student services are available at Faulkner University?
Services include academic advising, tutoring, career services, counseling, health services, and disability services.

Who are some notable alumni of Faulkner University?
Notable alumni include Bobby Bright (former U.S. Congressman), Marcus Brimage (MMA fighter), Ray-Ray Armstrong (NFL), Austin Adams (MLB), and Kelli Wise (Alabama Supreme Court Justice).

Does Faulkner University support transfer students?
Yes, Faulkner has dedicated resources and policies to support transfer students.

What is the campus size of Faulkner University?
The campus spans 78 acres in Montgomery.

Is housing guaranteed for freshmen?
Yes, housing is generally available for freshmen in on-campus residence halls.

Are there graduate programs at Faulkner University?
Yes, Faulkner offers graduate programs including master’s and doctoral degrees in various disciplines.

Does Faulkner University have a Christian mission?
Yes, the university is committed to integrating Christian faith with academic learning and personal development.

Faulkner University stands as a distinguished private Christian institution that blends academic excellence with faith-based values, offering a wide range of degree programs, supportive student services, vibrant campus life, and competitive athletics. With its rich history, personalized learning environment, and commitment to character development, Faulkner continues to prepare students for successful careers and meaningful lives grounded in Christian principles.