University of Alabama at Birmingham

Discover the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), a dynamic public research university that stands as a beacon of innovation and opportunity in the heart of Alabama. As an R1 institution, UAB is recognized for its very high research activity, pushing the boundaries of discovery and contributing significantly to global knowledge. More than just an academic center, UAB is a vital economic engine, proudly holding the title of the state's largest employer, generating over 53,000 jobs and fueling regional prosperity.

UAB's remarkable journey began in 1936 as the Birmingham Extension Center, a response to the burgeoning metropolitan area's need for higher education. What started with 116 students in an old downtown house steadily blossomed. The integration of the School of Medicine in 1945 and the continuous expansion of facilities and programs laid the groundwork for its independence. By 1969, UAB officially became one of three four-year institutions within the newly formed University of Alabama System, marking its transformation into a comprehensive university in its own right.

Today, UAB offers an impressive array of 140 programs of study across 12 academic divisions, leading to bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional degrees. This diverse academic environment attracts a vibrant student body of over 20,905 individuals from more than 110 countries, creating a rich, global community. Beyond the classroom, life at UAB is energized by the Blazers, the university's NCAA Division I athletic teams, who compete in 18 varsity sports and proudly wear the official colors of green and gold. The expansive UAB Health System, one of the nation's largest academic medical centers, further underscores the university's commitment to cutting-edge research, patient care, and hands-on learning opportunities.