University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama is a public university located in Mobile, Alabama, with an enrollment of approximately 8,879 students. The university admits a broad range of applicants — its 71% acceptance rate means that roughly seven in ten people who apply are offered admission. About 38% of enrolled students receive Pell Grants, indicating a substantial share of students with demonstrated financial need.

In-state tuition is $10,116 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $19,092 per year. The average annual net price — the total estimated cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, after grant and scholarship aid is applied — is $17,648. Because this figure reflects total cost of attendance rather than tuition alone, it can exceed published tuition rates even after aid is factored in. Among students who completed a program and borrowed federal loans, the median debt at graduation was $24,929. About 47.3% of all enrolled students took out federal student loans. Of those borrowers, 47% were actively reducing their loan balance within three years of leaving the school, meaning the remaining 53% were not making progress on repayment during that period.

The university offers programs in fields including data science, AI and machine learning, information security, database administration, DevOps, financial analysis, marketing management, and occupational therapy, among others.

The university's graduation rate is 52.7%, meaning roughly half of entering students complete a credential within the measured timeframe. The retention rate — the share of first-year students who return for a second year — is 75.7%. Median earnings of $49,379 are measured 10 years after initial enrollment and reflect outcomes across all federally-aided students who enrolled, including those who did not complete a credential. This figure is not limited to graduates and may understate what completers typically earn.

Prospective students considering the University of South Alabama should weigh the total cost of attendance against expected earnings and loan obligations for their intended field. Completion rates, repayment rates, and program-specific outcomes can vary significantly, so reviewing data for a specific program of interest is advisable before enrolling.