University of West Alabama Overview: Programs, Campus Life, Admissions & Rankings

The University of West Alabama (UWA), a public institution in Livingston, Alabama, has a rich history dating back to 1835 and has grown into a comprehensive university offering over 90 fields of study across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. With a focus on personalized education, a 17:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and special programs like Honors and ROTC, UWA also boasts a vibrant campus life with clubs, Greek organizations, and outdoor activities.

The university fields 16 NCAA Division II varsity teams as the West Alabama Tigers and recently achieved record enrollment in 2023. Tuition varies for in-state, out-of-state, and international students, with most receiving financial aid. UWA ranks moderately among global and national universities and claims several notable alumni, including NFL stars and cultural figures, underscoring its educational and athletic impact.

The University of West Alabama: A Comprehensive Overview

The University of West Alabama (UWA), located in Livingston, Alabama, is a public institution with a rich history dating back to its charter in 1835 as a church-related female academy. It has evolved significantly over the years to become a comprehensive university offering a diverse range of academic programs and a vibrant student life.

A Storied History

UWA admitted its first students in 1839. After facing challenges during the Civil War and Reconstruction, the institution reopened in the late 1860s or early 1870s, demonstrating its resilience and commitment to education. This long-standing history has shaped the university’s traditions and its deep roots in the West Alabama community.

Academic Excellence and Diverse Programs

UWA provides a wide array of academic programs across various disciplines, including business, education, liberal arts, natural sciences and mathematics, engineering and technology, and nursing. Students can pursue undergraduate degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral programs, along with several specialist degrees and minors. The university offers over 90 fields of study, with a focus on providing a hands-on, immersive, and supportive educational experience.

Some of the major specializations offered include:

• Undergraduate: Accounting, Athletic Training, Automotive Engineering Technology, Biology, Business Administration and Management, Chemistry, Communication and Media Studies, Conservation Biology, Early Childhood Education, English Language and Literature, Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Finance, History, Marine Biology, Marketing, Mathematics, Music, Nursing, Physical Education, Psychology, Sociology, Special Education.
• Graduate: Adult and Continuing Education, Athletic Training, Business Administration, Counselor Education/School Counseling, Educational Leadership and Administration, Higher Education/Higher Education Administration, Management Information Systems, Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling, Mental Health Counseling, Experimental Psychology.

UWA also offers special academic programs such as Accelerated Study, Distance Learning, Double Major options, Dual Enrollment for high school students, an Honors Program, Independent Study, and ROTC (Air Force). The university boasts an average student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1, emphasizing personalized attention.

Campus Life and Facilities

The UWA campus fosters a lively student environment with numerous opportunities for involvement beyond the classroom. Students can engage in a wide range of clubs and organizations, covering academic, departmental, professional, special interest, and service-oriented pursuits. Greek life is also a prominent part of the student experience.

The university provides various recreational opportunities, including a fitness center, intramural sports, and outdoor recreation activities. Livingston’s proximity to beautiful parks and natural attractions like the Sumter County Nature Trails, Sucarnoochee River, and Lake LU (located on campus) offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. UWA also features a 90-seat University Cinema, open to both students and the community.

Athletics: The West Alabama Tigers

The University of West Alabama is represented by the West Alabama Tigers in intercollegiate sports. Competing at the NCAA Division II level, the Tigers are primarily members of the Gulf South Conference since the 1970–71 academic year. Men’s and women’s rodeo teams compete as affiliate members in the Ozark Region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.

UWA fields 16 varsity teams:

• Men’s Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Rodeo, Soccer, Tennis, Outdoor Track.
• Women’s Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Rodeo, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Outdoor Track, Volleyball.

The athletic program has a strong tradition, with notable rivalries against North Alabama and Delta State. Facilities include Tiger Stadium for football and soccer, Pruitt Hall Gymnasium for basketball, Tartt Field for baseball, and the UWA Softball Complex, among others.

Enrollment and Admissions

In Fall 2023, UWA recorded its highest enrollment in university history, with a total of 6,195 students, marking a nearly six percent increase from the previous fall. This includes both on-campus and online enrollment, from freshman undergraduates to doctoral candidates. Undergraduate enrollment specifically saw a more than 10 percent increase to 2,674 students.

In 2023, UWA received 2,041 undergraduate applications, accepting 1,778 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 87.1%. The university’s overall enrollment yield, representing admitted students who enrolled, was 17.7%. The student body in 2023 was primarily 53.6% White and 33.3% Black or African American, with other ethnic groups making up smaller percentages. The full-time retention rate for undergraduates was 61%.

Tuition and Expenses

For the academic year, estimated costs for on-campus undergraduate students (excluding books and supplies, which are approximately $1,200 annually) are:

• In-State:
  • Tuition: $9,100
  • Housing: $5,700
  • Food: $3,864
  • Fees: $1,390
  • Total: $20,054
• Out-of-State:
  • Tuition: $18,200
  • Housing: $5,700
  • Food: $3,864
  • Fees: $1,390
  • Total: $29,154

For international students, approximated total costs are around $30,100 for undergraduates and $25,100 for masters-level graduate students, including tuition & fees, living expenses, health expenses, and books & supplies. Doctoral program costs vary. It’s noteworthy that 89% of UWA students receive financial aid.

Rankings

According to EduRank’s 2025 rating, the University of West Alabama is ranked:

• Global: 3931st out of 4,586
• United States: 1027th out of 2,496
• Alabama: 18th out of 33

The rankings are based on research output, non-academic reputation, and the impact of notable alumni. UWA has scored in various research topics, including Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Environmental Science, Biology, and Computer Science.

Notable Alumni

UWA boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some prominent examples include:

• Malcolm Butler: NFL player
• Jeff Branson: Former MLB player
• Erskine Hawkins: Jazz Musician
• Terry Bowden: Football Coach
• Cynthia Cooper-Dyke: Basketball Player
• Katherine Johnson: Mathematician (though often associated with NASA, her college roots are here)
• Tyreek Hill: NFL player
• Seth Roberts: NFL player
• Jey Uso: Professional wrestler

The University of West Alabama continues to uphold its mission of providing a quality education and fostering student success, contributing significantly to the academic and athletic landscape of Alabama and beyond.

FAQs about University of West Alabama

What is the University of West Alabama known for?
The University of West Alabama is known for its strong programs in education, nursing, business, and psychology, a personalized learning environment, and a rich history dating back to 1835.

Where is the University of West Alabama located?
It is located in Livingston, a small town in western Alabama.

Is UWA a public or private university?
UWA is a public university.

What academic programs does UWA offer?
UWA offers over 90 fields of study, including undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and specialist degree programs across disciplines like business, education, nursing, and the sciences.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at UWA?
The average student-to-faculty ratio at UWA is 17:1.

How many students attend UWA?
As of Fall 2023, UWA has 6,195 students enrolled, the highest in its history.

Does UWA offer online programs?
Yes, UWA provides a variety of online undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

What is the cost of attendance at UWA?
Estimated annual costs for in-state undergraduates are around $20,054 and $29,154 for out-of-state students, excluding books and supplies.

Does UWA offer financial aid?
Yes, about 89% of UWA students receive financial aid through scholarships, grants, and loans.

What are the admission requirements at UWA?
UWA has an acceptance rate of 87.1%. Admissions typically consider high school GPA, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.

What is UWA’s retention rate?
The undergraduate full-time retention rate is 61%.

What kind of campus life does UWA offer?
Students can participate in various clubs, organizations, Greek life, and intramural sports. There are also outdoor recreation opportunities on and near campus.

Does UWA have Greek life?
Yes, Greek organizations are an active part of student life at UWA.

What sports teams does UWA have?
UWA fields 16 varsity teams including football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, rodeo, and more, competing primarily in NCAA Division II.

What is UWA’s athletic affiliation?
UWA competes in the NCAA Division II and is a member of the Gulf South Conference. The rodeo teams are part of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.

Are there any notable alumni from UWA?
Yes, notable alumni include NFL players Malcolm Butler and Tyreek Hill, jazz musician Erskine Hawkins, and NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson.

Does UWA have an honors program?
Yes, UWA offers an Honors Program for high-achieving students seeking academic enrichment.

Are there opportunities for dual enrollment?
Yes, high school students can participate in dual enrollment programs at UWA.

Does UWA offer study abroad programs?
UWA offers select study abroad and exchange opportunities.

Is there housing available on campus?
Yes, UWA offers various housing options for students living on campus.

How diverse is the student body at UWA?
As of 2023, the student body was approximately 53.6% White, 33.3% Black or African American, with other ethnicities comprising the rest.

What are the major research areas at UWA?
UWA is recognized for research in liberal arts, environmental science, biology, and computer science.

What is the university’s global ranking?
According to EduRank 2025, UWA ranks 3,931st globally.

What is the university’s U.S. ranking?
UWA is ranked 1,027th out of 2,496 institutions in the United States by EduRank.

How does UWA rank in Alabama?
Within Alabama, UWA ranks 18th out of 33 higher education institutions.

What facilities are available on campus?
Campus facilities include academic buildings, residence halls, fitness and recreation centers, sports stadiums, a cinema, and outdoor trails and lakes.

Does UWA accept international students?
Yes, international students are welcome, and estimated total annual costs for them are around $30,100 for undergraduates.

What is the university’s mascot?
UWA’s mascot is the Tiger, and its teams are known as the West Alabama Tigers.

What is the official website for UWA?
The official website is www.uwa.edu.