Alabama is home to a number of large schools, but the largest by far is the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). UAB is a public research university with over 22,000 students. It is the largest university in Alabama and the 11th-largest public university in the United States.

UAB by the Numbers
- Enrollment: 22,351 (fall 2022)
- Faculty: 1,413
- Staff: 4,705
- Budget: $1.2 billion
- Campuses: Four campuses in Birmingham, Alabama
Academics
UAB offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The university is particularly known for its strong programs in medicine, nursing, and engineering.
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Colleges and Schools:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business
- College of Community Health Sciences
- College of Dentistry
- College of Education
- College of Engineering
- College of Health Professions
- College of Nursing
- School of Medicine
- School of Optometry
- School of Public Health
Research
UAB is a major research university, with over $600 million in research funding in 2022. The university’s research strengths include:
- Biomedical sciences
- Engineering
- Public health
- Social sciences
Student Life
UAB has a vibrant student life, with over 400 student organizations and clubs. The university also has a strong athletic program, with teams competing in NCAA Division I.
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Student Organizations:
- Student Government Association
- Greek life
- Honor societies
- Service organizations
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Athletics:
- UAB Blazers (NCAA Division I)
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cross country
- Football
- Golf
- Soccer
- Softball
- Swimming and diving
- Tennis
- Track and field
- Volleyball
Location
UAB is located in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama. Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama, with a population of over 210,000. The city is a major center for industry, finance, and culture.
Notable Alumni
UAB has a number of notable alumni, including:
- Dr. Donald Berwick: Former Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson: Astrophysicist and author
- Dr. Ruth Westheimer: Sex therapist and author
- Dr. James Watson: Nobel Prize winner and co-discoverer of the structure of DNA
- Dr. Samuel Zelman: Former President of the American Medical Association
Conclusion
UAB is the largest and most comprehensive university in Alabama. It offers a wide range of academic programs, a strong research program, a vibrant student life, and a convenient location. UAB is a great choice for students who want to pursue a high-quality education in a major metropolitan area.