The University of Alabama (UA) is a flagship public research institution located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.Founded in 1831, It is the oldest and largest public university in the state, UA has earned a strong national and international reputation for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and a dynamic campus culture. With a commitment to fostering leadership, innovation, and inclusivity, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across multiple disciplines.
Over the years, UA has adapted to the evolving demands of modern education by offering robust online learning opportunities through its innovative platform, Bama By Distance, now part of The University of Alabama Online. These programs are designed to provide the flexibility and academic rigor that working professionals, non-traditional learners, and international students seek in a digital learning environment. Whether you’re aiming to advance your career, pivot to a new field, or complete your education remotely, UA’s online offerings provide an accessible, high-quality pathway to achieving your goals—without the need to relocate.
List of Available Online Degree Programs
The University of Alabama offers a diverse catalog of fully accredited online degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and certificate levels. These programs are delivered through the same academic departments and taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus.
Here is a categorized list of available degree programs:
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees)
- Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Business Administration (General Business)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN Mobility Track)
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Information Sciences (Communication Studies)
- Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences (Food and Nutrition, Consumer Sciences, Early Childhood Education)
Graduate Programs (Master’s Degrees)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Arts in Communication Studies
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Master of Library and Information Studies
- Master of Science in Human Environmental Sciences (with various concentrations such as Health Studies, Interactive Technology, and Nutrition)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Multiple Specializations
- Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics
- Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling
Doctoral Programs
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Instructional Leadership
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics
Certificates and Endorsements
- Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution
- Instructional Technology Certificate
- Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Education
- Health Promotion and Wellness Certificate
Full-Time and Part-Time Options for International Students
The University of Alabama Online caters to a wide demographic, including international students seeking flexibility and world-class education. Both full-time and part-time enrollment options are available for nearly all programs, making it easy for students to tailor their academic load according to personal or professional commitments.
Full-Time Enrollment
- Typical Load: 9+ credit hours per semester (graduate); 12+ credit hours (undergraduate)
- Best For: Students who wish to complete their degrees faster or have more time to dedicate to studies.
- Advantages: Accelerated learning path, quicker degree completion, access to full student services.
Part-Time Enrollment
- Typical Load: 3-6 credit hours per semester
- Best For: Working professionals, parents, or those with other time constraints.
- Advantages: Flexibility, balance between work and study, manageable coursework load.
International students enrolled in fully online programs are not required to obtain a U.S. student visa unless they attend in-person classes on campus. This makes UA Online an attractive option for students who wish to study remotely from their home countries.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
The University of Alabama has streamlined the application process for its online programs. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Choose a Program
- Visit the UA Online website to explore degree options.
- Ensure the program meets your career goals and academic interests.
Step 2: Review Admission Requirements
- Requirements vary by program but typically include:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for international students)
- Letters of recommendation (for graduate programs)
- Resume/CV
- Statement of purpose
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Apply via UA’s application portal or through the Common App (undergraduate only).
- Pay the non-refundable application fee:
- $40 for U.S. students
- $60 for international students
Step 4: Track Application Status
- Log into your application portal to monitor progress.
- Contact admissions counselors if additional documentation is requested.
Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students
While many traditional scholarships are geared toward on-campus students, the University of Alabama offers several scholarships and financial aid packages specifically for online learners, including:
1. Bama By Distance Scholarships
- Eligibility: New or returning online students with a strong academic record.
- Award: Varies by department and financial need.
- Deadline: Typically aligned with application deadlines.
2. UA Online Tuition Grant
- Offered to online learners based on merit and need.
- Does not require separate application—students are automatically considered after admission.
3. Graduate Assistantships
- Some online graduate programs offer limited remote assistantships.
- May include tuition remission and stipend.
- Online students are encouraged to apply for third-party scholarships such as:
- Fastweb
- International Education Financial Aid (IEFA)
- The Fulbright Program (for non-U.S. citizens)
Note for International Students: It is important to verify whether external scholarships permit funds to be used for distance learning programs.
Tuition and Fees
The University of Alabama offers competitive tuition rates for online programs, with costs differing by program and residency status.
Undergraduate Tuition (Online)
- $385 per credit hour
- Typical annual cost (full-time): ~$9,240 (based on 24 credits/year)
Graduate Tuition (Online)
- $440–$630 per credit hour (varies by program)
- Typical annual cost (full-time): ~$12,000–$18,000
Additional Fees
- Application Fee: $40–$60
- Technology Fee: $120–$160 per semester
- Books and Materials: ~$600–$1,000 annually
The tuition structure is the same for in-state and out-of-state students enrolled in online programs, a key benefit for international students who often face higher tuition rates at other U.S. institutions.
Support Services for Online Students
UA ensures that its online students receive the same support services as on-campus learners, including:
- 24/7 Tech Support
- Virtual Career Services
- Academic Advising
- Online Writing Center
- Library Access
- Mental Health Resources
International students are also paired with a dedicated advisor to help navigate time zones, language barriers, and other unique challenges.
Why Choose the University of Alabama Online?
Here are a few reasons UA Online stands out:
- Accredited Excellence: Degrees are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
- Affordability: Competitive tuition with flat rates for all online students.
- Flexibility: Multiple start dates per year and asynchronous course formats.
- Global Access: No need for visas or relocation—study from anywhere in the world.
- Strong Alumni Network: Join a community of over 300,000 alumni worldwide.
- Career-Ready Curriculum: Courses designed with industry demands in mind.
For more information, visit https://online.ua.edu and begin your journey with The University of Alabama Online today.
