| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Founded |
1830 (as LaGrange College; moved to Florence in 1855 and renamed UNA) |
|
Type |
Public University |
|
Location |
Florence, Alabama, USA |
|
Campus Size |
130 acres |
|
Enrollment |
Approximately 10,000 students (undergraduate and graduate) |
|
Mascot |
Leo III and Una (live lion mascots) |
|
Athletics |
NCAA Division I – UNA Lions |
|
Motto |
"Lux Veritas" (Light and Truth) |
UNA offers more than 80 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in various disciplines across four academic colleges:
1. College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Engineering Technology
Mathematics
Psychology
Sociology
Environmental Studies
2. College of Business and Technology
Accounting
Finance
Economics
Management
Marketing
Information Systems
Human Resource Management
MBA (online and on-campus options)
3. College of Education and Human Sciences
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
Health, Physical Education, and Recreation
Instructional Leadership
4. Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions
Nursing (BSN and MSN programs)
Health Administration
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Online RN-to-BSN
Accreditation:
UNA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Specific programs, like business and nursing, are accredited by specialized bodies such as AACSB and CCNE.
Online Programs:
UNA offers flexible online degree programs for undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies, making it ideal for working professionals.
Student-Faculty Ratio:
17:1, ensuring small class sizes and personalized attention.
Affordability:
UNA is one of the most affordable universities in the region, offering in-state tuition rates to many out-of-state students via scholarships.
International Students:
UNA is home to students from 50+ countries, offering English language programs, cultural events, and dedicated international student support.
Live Mascots:
UNA is famous for having live lion mascots, Leo III and Una, who reside in the on-campus George H. Carroll Lion Habitat.
Housing and Accommodation:
UNA offers several residence halls, such as Olive Hall, Rice Hall, and Mattielou Hall, with options for both traditional and suite-style living.
Cost: Ranges from $4,000 to $6,000 per year, depending on the housing option.
Clubs and Organizations:
Over 140 student organizations, including academic clubs, fraternities/sororities, honor societies, and cultural organizations.
Popular groups include the Student Government Association (SGA) and International Student Association.
Athletics:
UNA Lions compete in the ASUN Conference (Division I).
Sports include football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, soccer, and cross-country.
Recreation and Events:
The university hosts events such as Spring Concerts, Homecoming, and cultural festivals.
Outdoor activities include hiking and kayaking, as UNA is located near the Tennessee River.
Dining Options:
Multiple on-campus dining facilities offer meal plans with diverse food options, including vegetarian and vegan meals.
Undergraduate:
Application:
Submit an online application through UNA’s website or the Common Application.
Academic Requirements:
Official high school transcripts (minimum GPA: 2.25 on a 4.0 scale).
ACT/SAT scores (ACT: 18+, SAT: 960+) are optional.
English Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL: 61 (iBT)
IELTS: 5.5
Duolingo: 85
Graduate:
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (some programs may accept 2.75).
Specific programs may require GRE/GMAT scores or work experience.
English Proficiency:
TOEFL: 79 (iBT)
IELTS: 6.0
UNA offers scholarships for both domestic and international students:
Academic Scholarships:
Based on GPA and test scores.
Awards range from $1,000 to $10,000 per year.
Lion’s Promise Scholarship:
Covers up to full tuition for eligible students.
International Merit Scholarships:
Up to $6,000 per year for international students based on academic performance.
George Lindsey: Actor (known for his role on The Andy Griffith Show).
John Paul White: Grammy-winning musician from The Civil Wars.
William G. Smith Jr.: Former President and CEO of Royal Cup Coffee.
Florence, Alabama, is part of the Shoals region, which includes four cities (Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield).
Attractions near UNA:
Tennessee River for outdoor recreation.
Muscle Shoals Music Studio, famous for legendary recordings.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House.
Shopping, dining, and cultural events in the Shoals area.
UNA offers 80+ undergraduate majors and concentrations. These programs are available through the following colleges:
Biological Sciences (Biology, Environmental Biology, Marine Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology)
Chemistry (Professional Chemistry, Biochemistry)
Computer Science
Engineering Technology
Environmental Science
Geography
History
Mathematics
Physics
Political Science
Psychology
Social Work
Sociology
Criminal Justice
English
Foreign Languages (French, German, Spanish)
Film and Digital Media Production
Accounting
Economics
Finance
General Business
Human Resource Management
Information Systems
Management
Marketing
Hospitality and Event Management
Professional Management (Concentrations in General, Entrepreneurship, and Human Resources)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6)
Secondary Education (Grades 6-12) (Various subjects such as Mathematics, Biology, English, Social Science)
Special Education (Collaborative Teaching)
Health, Physical Education, and Recreation
Sport and Recreation Management
Human Development and Family Studies
Instructional Design and Technology
Fashion Merchandising
Interior Architecture and Design
Exercise Science
Nursing (BSN): Pre-licensure or RN-to-BSN
Health Administration
UNA offers 40+ graduate degree programs and certificates for students pursuing advanced education. Popular programs are listed below:
Master of Arts in English
Master of Arts in History
Master of Science in Geography
Specialization: GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
Master of Professional Studies (Concentration in Community Development or Higher Education Administration)
Master of Business Administration (MBA):
Concentrations: Accounting, Healthcare Management, Human Resources, Information Systems, International Business, Marketing
Available in on-campus, online, and hybrid formats
Master of Accountancy (MAcc)
Master of Science in Applied Manufacturing Engineering
Master of Science in Information Systems
Focus on IT Management or Enterprise Systems
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd):
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
Master of Science in Sport and Recreation Management
Master of Science in Instructional Leadership
Master of Science in Health and Human Performance
Master of Science in Family Studies
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN):
Concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nursing Leadership
Post-Master’s Certificate (FNP)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (Online)
UNA is well-known for its online degree programs, designed for flexibility and accessibility. These include:
Bachelor’s Degrees:
Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
Interdisciplinary Studies
Applied Health Science
Criminal Justice
Master’s Degrees:
MBA
MSN
MAEd
MS in Family Studies
Doctoral Programs:
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Management |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Human Resource Management |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Information Systems |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Engineering Technology |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Marine Biology |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Geography |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Social Work |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
English |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Film and Digital Media Production |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Foreign Languages (French, Spanish, German) |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Elementary Education (K-6) |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Secondary Education (6-12) |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Health Administration |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Interior Architecture and Design |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Fashion Merchandising |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Exercise Science |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Sport and Recreation Management |
4 years |
In-State: $10,500 - $12,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
MBA (Concentrations) |
1-2 years |
Same as MBA |
|
Master of Accountancy (MAcc) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Science in Information Systems |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Science in Applied Manufacturing Engineering |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
MAEd (Elementary Education, K-6) |
1-2 years |
Same as MAEd |
|
MAEd (Secondary Education, 6-12) |
1-2 years |
Same as MAEd |
|
MAEd (Special Education) |
1-2 years |
Same as MAEd |
|
MAEd (Instructional Leadership) |
1-2 years |
Same as MAEd |
|
Master of Arts in English |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Arts in History |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Science in Geography |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
MS in Geography (GIS Specialization) |
1-2 years |
Same as MS in Geography |
|
Master of Science in Family Studies |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Professional Studies (MPS) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
MPS (Community Development Concentration) |
1-2 years |
Same as MPS |
|
MPS (Higher Education Administration) |
1-2 years |
Same as MPS |
|
Master of Science in Health and Human Performance |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $10,000 - $12,000 |
|
MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner - FNP) |
2 years |
Same as MSN |
|
MSN (Nursing Leadership Concentration) |
1-2 years |
Same as MSN |
|
Post-Master’s Certificate (FNP) |
1 year |
Same as MSN |
|
Master of Science in Sport and Recreation Management |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Science in Criminal Justice |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Master of Social Work (MSW) |
1-2 years |
In-State: $8,850 - $10,500 |
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2-3 years |
In-State: $10,000 - $12,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2-3 years |
In-State: $10,000 - $12,000 |
|
Doctor of Education (EdD) (in Progress) |
N/A |
N/A |
Diverse Student Population:
UNA hosts students from over 50 countries, promoting a multicultural and inclusive campus environment.
Affordable Tuition:
UNA is known for being one of the most affordable universities in the United States, with merit-based scholarships available for international students.
Academic Excellence:
Offers 80+ undergraduate programs and 40+ graduate programs, including popular fields such as Business (MBA), Computer Science, Nursing, and Education.
Flexible Online Programs:
Many degree programs are available fully online, allowing international students to study remotely.
Campus Safety and Location:
Located in Florence, Alabama, UNA offers a safe and friendly environment with access to outdoor activities and nearby cities like Huntsville and Birmingham.
Complete the Application:
Apply online through the UNA Admissions Portal.
There is a non-refundable application fee (check their website for the latest amount).
Submit Official Transcripts:
Provide official high school transcripts or GED scores.
Your GPA will be evaluated to meet admission requirements.
Submit ACT/SAT Scores (Optional for Some Applicants):
UNA has a test-optional policy for undergraduate admissions. However, providing ACT or SAT scores may strengthen your application and help with scholarship eligibility.
Meet the Admission Requirements:
Minimum GPA: 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Test Scores (if applicable):
ACT composite score of at least 18 or SAT equivalent.
Submit Proof of Residency (if applicable):
For in-state tuition eligibility.
Additional Documents (if required):
Some students (e.g., home-schooled applicants) may need to submit additional documents.
Complete the Application:
Apply online via the Transfer Application Portal.
Submit Official Transcripts:
Provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
If you have fewer than 24 transferable credit hours, you will also need to submit high school transcripts and ACT/SAT scores.
Meet the Admission Requirements:
A minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale in college coursework.
Be in good standing at the last institution attended.
Complete the Graduate Application:
Apply through the UNA Graduate Admissions Portal.
Pay the Application Fee:
A non-refundable fee is required when submitting the application.
Submit Official Transcripts:
Provide transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required.
Meet Program-Specific Requirements:
Some programs require GRE, GMAT, or MAT scores.
Letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and/or a resume may also be required, depending on the program.
Check Deadlines:
Graduate program deadlines vary by department, so check the specific program for details.
Submit English Proficiency Scores:
Acceptable tests include:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 61 (internet-based).
IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5.
Duolingo: Minimum score of 90.
Provide Financial Documentation:
Submit proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses (bank statements, sponsor letters, etc.).
Submit Passport Copy:
A copy of your passport is required for visa processing.
Meet All Undergraduate/Graduate Admission Requirements:
Follow the steps listed above for undergraduate or graduate applicants.
I-20 Form:
Once accepted, UNA will issue the I-20 form for you to apply for an F-1 student visa.
High school students interested in earning college credits can apply for dual enrollment.
Students need to meet specific GPA and test score requirements and provide permission from their high school.
UNA has three main intakes throughout the year:
Fall Intake (August–December)
This is the primary intake with the most program availability and scholarship opportunities.
Application Deadline: Typically in July (for international students) or August (for domestic students).
Spring Intake (January–May)
Many programs are available, though fewer compared to the Fall intake.
Application Deadline: Typically in November (for international students) or December (for domestic students).
Summer Intake (May–August)
Limited programs are available (usually online courses and select programs).
Application Deadline: Typically in March or April.
Note: Deadlines may vary depending on the specific program or department, so it is recommended to check with the university for exact dates.
Eligibility criteria for first-time freshmen include:
Academic Requirements:
High School GPA:
Minimum GPA: 2.0 on a 4.0 scale (for general admission).
Test-Optional Policy:
ACT/SAT scores are optional but recommended for scholarship consideration.
If submitting test scores:
ACT: Minimum score of 18.
SAT: Equivalent score to ACT 18 (about 960).
English Language Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL: Minimum score of 61 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 90.
Exemptions: Students from English-speaking countries or those who have studied in English-medium institutions may be exempt.
Additional Requirements:
Official high school transcripts.
Proof of financial support (for international students).
Eligibility criteria for transfer students include:
Academic Requirements:
A minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale in previous college coursework.
Students with fewer than 24 transferable credit hours must also meet freshman requirements (high school transcripts and ACT/SAT scores, if applicable).
English Language Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL: Minimum score of 61 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 90.
Additional Documents:
Official transcripts from all previous institutions.
Course syllabi or descriptions may be required for credit transfer evaluation.
Eligibility criteria for graduate programs vary by program, but the general requirements include:
Academic Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale (depending on the program).
Test Scores:
GRE/GMAT scores may be required for some programs. Minimum scores vary by department.
Some programs may waive standardized test requirements based on professional experience or GPA.
English Language Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 100.
Additional Documents:
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Statement of Purpose (or Letter of Intent).
Letters of Recommendation (2–3, depending on the program).
Any program-specific requirements (e.g., portfolio for creative programs).
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academic Scholarships |
Based on ACT/SAT scores and GPA (automatic consideration). |
Up to $6,000/year |
Automatic upon admission |
|
International Excellence Scholarship |
International students with a strong academic record. |
$2,000–$8,000/year |
Automatic upon admission |
|
Leadership Scholarship |
Students with demonstrated leadership experience. |
Up to $3,000/year |
Separate application required |
|
Departmental Scholarships |
Students enrolled in specific departments (e.g., Business, Engineering, etc.). |
department |
Check with department for details |
|
Dual Enrollment Scholarship |
High school students participating in dual enrollment courses. |
Covers tuition for 1 course |
Separate application required |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship |
For transfer students who are Phi Theta Kappa members. |
Up to $3,000/year |
Automatic for eligible transfer students |
|
Foundation Scholarships |
Multiple scholarships based on financial need, merit, or specific majors. |
(typically $500–$2,000) |
FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship App |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Available for full-time graduate students who assist with teaching, research, or administrative duties. |
Tuition waiver + stipend |
Apply for graduate assistant roles |
|
International Graduate Scholarship |
International students enrolled in graduate programs with good academic standing. |
Up to $3,000/year |
Automatic upon admission |
|
Departmental Graduate Scholarships |
Based on the department and program-specific criteria. |
N/A |
Check with the program coordinator |
|
Foundation Scholarships |
Need- or merit-based scholarships for graduate students across all fields. |
(typically $500–$2,000) |
FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship App |
|
UNA Online MBA Scholarship |
For students enrolling in the UNA online MBA program. |
N/A |
Contact MBA office |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
International Excellence Scholarship |
High-achieving international students (GPA 3.0+). |
$2,000–$8,000/year |
Automatic upon admission |
|
International Diversity Scholarship |
International students demonstrating cultural diversity and leadership skills. |
N/A |
Separate application required |
|
International Financial Aid |
Need-based aid for international students with demonstrated financial hardship. |
(limited) |
Separate application with proof |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship |
For international transfer students who are Phi Theta Kappa members. |
Up to $3,000/year |
Automatic for eligible students |
Facility |
Description |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|
|
Academic Buildings |
Modern classrooms, labs, and libraries equipped with the latest technology. |
Specialized labs (e.g., science, business, engineering), study spaces, and tutoring services. |
|
Collier Library |
UNA’s main library with extensive resources and research materials. |
Digital resources, quiet study rooms, group study spaces, and printing facilities. |
|
Student Recreation Center |
A state-of-the-art fitness and wellness center. |
Gym, swimming pool, climbing wall, basketball courts, and fitness classes. |
|
Norton Auditorium |
A multipurpose venue for concerts, lectures, and events. |
Seats 1,600 people and hosts cultural events and student performances. |
|
Dining Facilities |
Multiple dining halls, cafes, and restaurants. |
Options include Towers Dining Hall, Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, and grab-and-go eateries. |
|
Residence Halls |
On-campus housing for students, providing a safe and convenient living experience. |
Fully furnished rooms, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and security. |
|
Lion’s Den Game Room |
A recreational space for students to relax and socialize. |
Pool tables, video gaming stations, and comfortable seating. |
|
Center for Student Engagement |
Hub for clubs, organizations, and campus involvement. |
Support for over 140 student organizations and events planning. |
|
Outdoor Spaces |
Green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities. |
Amphitheater, fountains, and scenic walking trails. |
|
Athletic Facilities |
Facilities for NCAA Division I sports teams and student athletes. |
Braly Stadium (football), Flowers Hall (basketball), tennis courts, and softball/baseball fields. |
Residence Hall Name |
Room Type |
Features |
Cost per Semester (2024) |
Cost per Academic Year (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Rivers Hall |
Double Occupancy |
Traditional-style, shared room, shared bathroom, central air conditioning. |
$1,895 |
$3,790 |
|
Mattielou Hall |
Suite-Style Double |
Shared room with semi-private bathroom, modern amenities, study lounges, and Wi-Fi. |
$2,530 |
$5,060 |
|
Olive Hall |
Suite-Style Single |
Private room with shared bathroom, study spaces, laundry facilities, and full Wi-Fi access. |
$3,220 |
$6,440 |
|
Hawthorne Hall |
Single Room |
Private room, shared community bathrooms, basic furnishings, and internet access. |
$2,120 |
$4,240 |
|
Covington Apartments |
Apartment-Style (2-Bedroom) |
Fully furnished apartments, private bedrooms, shared kitchen, and living space. |
$3,600 |
$7,200 |
|
Grandview Campus Apartments |
Apartment-Style (4-Bedroom) |
Private bedroom, shared living and kitchen area, ideal for upperclassmen. |
$3,300 |
$6,600 |
Meal Plan Name |
Description |
Cost per Semester (2024) |
Cost per Academic Year (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Unlimited Meal Plan |
Unlimited access to Towers Dining Hall and $100 Dining Dollars for on-campus eateries. |
$2,150 |
$4,300 |
|
14 Meals/Week + Dining Dollars |
14 meals per week at Towers Dining Hall + $250 Dining Dollars. |
$1,825 |
$3,650 |
|
10 Meals/Week + Dining Dollars |
10 meals per week at Towers Dining Hall + $300 Dining Dollars. |
$1,550 |
$3,100 |
|
5 Meals/Week + Dining Dollars |
5 meals per week at Towers Dining Hall + $400 Dining Dollars (ideal for apartment residents). |
$1,000 |
$2,000 |
1. Diverse and Inclusive Community
UNA prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive campus, hosting students from over 50 countries. The university fosters cultural exchange through events like International Education Week, Multicultural Fairs, and cultural student organizations.
2. Student Organizations and Clubs
With over 140 student organizations, UNA provides students with plenty of opportunities to pursue their passions and hobbies. Clubs are available for academic interests, cultural groups, community service, sports, and creative activities. Some popular organizations include:
Student Government Association (SGA): Representing student interests on campus.
Greek Life: UNA has a strong fraternity and sorority presence, promoting leadership, service, and social engagement.
Cultural and International Groups: Including the International Student Association and cultural clubs.
Special Interest Clubs: Such as gaming, photography, and performing arts groups.
3. Recreational Activities
Students have access to the Student Recreation Center, which offers:
A fully equipped gym, swimming pool, and indoor courts.
Outdoor adventures, including hiking trips, kayaking, and camping excursions.
Fitness classes such as yoga, Zumba, and strength training.
Intramural and club sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and flag football.
4. Events and Traditions
UNA hosts various events and traditions that bring the campus community together. Some notable ones include:
Step Sing: A campus tradition where student organizations perform choreographed songs and dances.
Lion Pride Preview Day: A day for students to celebrate UNA's culture and traditions.
Homecoming Week: Featuring a parade, pep rallies, and athletic events.
Concerts and Performances: Held at the Norton Auditorium and other venues.
5. Residential Life
Living on campus provides a vibrant student experience. Residence halls and apartments create a close-knit community where students can participate in events, study sessions, and social activities organized by Residential Advisors. Each hall has amenities like Wi-Fi, study lounges, and laundry facilities.
6. Dining Options
UNA offers a variety of dining options to meet diverse tastes and dietary needs. Students can enjoy:
Towers Dining Hall: A buffet-style dining hall with rotating menus.
On-campus chains like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks.
Grab-and-go options for students on the move.
Meal plans that provide flexibility and convenience.
7. Campus Safety and Support
UNA prioritizes student safety and well-being:
Campus Police: Available 24/7 to ensure security.
Lion Alert System: Provides emergency notifications.
Counseling Services: Free and confidential mental health counseling is available to all students.
Health Services: On-campus medical care for minor health concerns.
8. Academic Support
UNA provides a range of academic resources to help students succeed:
Collier Library and Learning Commons: A hub for research, study spaces, and academic workshops.
Tutoring Services: Free tutoring is available for various subjects.
Career Center: Helps students with resume writing, job searches, internships, and career counseling.
9. Campus Mascots and Spirit
The university's live mascots, Leo III and Una, are two lions housed in the George H. Carroll Lion Habitat on campus. They are central to the school’s identity and pride, fostering a sense of connection among students.
10. Florence, Alabama: A Great College Town
UNA is located in the historic city of Florence, offering students access to:
Local restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
Annual events like the W.C. Handy Music Festival and First Fridays (a downtown street fair).
Outdoor activities along the Tennessee River, including hiking, fishing, and paddleboarding.
Cultural landmarks like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House and the Muscle Shoals music studios.
11. Support for International Students
International students are supported by the Office of International Affairs, which offers:
Orientation programs.
Visa and immigration assistance.
Cultural adjustment support.
Social events like the International Friendship Program.
12. Athletics and School Spirit
UNA competes in NCAA Division I Athletics, offering students the chance to watch and participate in sports like football, basketball, soccer, and softball. The school spirit is strong, with students often attending games and cheering on the UNA Lions.
1. Career Center
The UNA Career Center is a hub for career-related resources and services. It assists students with:
Career Counseling: Guidance on choosing a career path and aligning it with personal interests and skills.
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Professional help in crafting resumes, CVs, and cover letters tailored to job applications.
Mock Interviews: Practice sessions to prepare students for real-world job interviews.
Job Search Support: Assistance with job searches, networking strategies, and application tracking.
Internship Placement: Helping students secure internships that align with their field of study.
2. Job Fairs and Networking Events
UNA organizes several events annually to connect students with potential employers:
Career Fairs: Employers from various industries visit the campus to recruit students for internships, part-time roles, and full-time positions.
Industry-Specific Events: Tailored events for students in business, healthcare, engineering, and other fields.
Networking Opportunities: Workshops and alumni panels allow students to connect with successful graduates and industry professionals.
3. LionJobs Portal
UNA offers a dedicated online platform called LionJobs, where students can:
Search for internships, co-ops, and job postings.
Access employer profiles.
Apply for on-campus jobs or graduate assistantships.
Hands-On Experience: Many UNA programs integrate internships or cooperative education opportunities into their curriculum. This allows students to gain valuable work experience before graduation.
Industry Partners: UNA has partnerships with companies in industries such as technology, business, healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Students have worked with well-known companies such as Lockheed Martin, Huntsville Hospital, Tennessee Valley Authority, and regional businesses in Alabama and beyond.
College of Business and Technology:
Graduates from UNA’s business programs, including the MBA, have high placement rates in industries like finance, accounting, marketing, and IT.
Companies such as Bank of America, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Amazon, and GE have hired UNA graduates.
UNA’s MBA program is nationally recognized and attracts students looking for leadership roles in top firms.
Nursing and Health Professions:
UNA's nursing graduates boast excellent placement rates, with most finding jobs within 3–6 months of graduation.
The university's strong connections with local healthcare providers, including Huntsville Hospital and North Alabama Medical Center, help students secure positions in hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers.
Computer Science and Information Technology:
Graduates in computer science and IT often secure roles in software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Partnerships with tech companies in Alabama’s tech hubs, such as Huntsville, provide internship and job opportunities.
Engineering Technology:
Engineering graduates benefit from UNA’s collaborations with regional industries. Placement rates are high, with many students working in automation, manufacturing, and design engineering.
Education:
Education majors from UNA are in demand in Alabama and across the U.S. due to the university’s excellent teacher preparation programs.
Graduates are often placed in public and private schools within the state.
Arts and Humanities:
Students in arts, media, and communication often secure jobs in creative industries, such as graphic design, journalism, and public relations.
Alumni work for companies like ABC News, Tennessee Valley Art Association, and local media outlets.
Employment Rate: Approximately 85–90% of UNA graduates find employment or pursue advanced studies within six months of graduation (varies by program).
Median Starting Salaries:
Business graduates: $50,000–$70,000/year.
Nursing graduates: $60,000–$80,000/year.
Computer Science/IT graduates: $65,000–$90,000/year.
Education graduates: $40,000–$50,000/year.
Engineering Technology graduates: $55,000–$75,000/year.
UNA provides additional career resources for international students:
Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT):
International students are supported in obtaining work authorization for internships and post-graduation jobs in the U.S.
Popular industries for international students include technology, healthcare, and business.
Career Workshops: Topics such as navigating the U.S. job market, improving LinkedIn profiles, and interview tips are covered.
Alumni Connections: UNA connects international students with alumni working in their home countries or abroad for guidance and job referrals.
Open and Inclusive Admission Policy:
UNA aims to provide opportunities for students from diverse academic backgrounds, including domestic and international applicants.
Test-Optional Policy:
For undergraduate applicants, ACT/SAT scores are optional for admission, which allows more students to qualify based on GPA and other criteria.
Academic Requirements:
The university has relatively straightforward requirements, including:
Undergraduate GPA: Minimum of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Graduate GPA: Varies by program, usually 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
International Students:
UNA is welcoming to international students, with flexible English proficiency requirements (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores).
Address:
University of North Alabama
1 Harrison Plaza, Florence, Alabama 35632, USA
Geography:
Florence is situated along the Tennessee River, offering scenic views and outdoor activities.
The city is known for its blend of southern charm, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural history.
Proximity to Major Cities:
Huntsville, AL: About 1 hour (70 miles/113 km) to the southeast.
Birmingham, AL: About 2 hours (120 miles/193 km) to the south.
Nashville, TN: About 2 hours (120 miles/193 km) to the north.
Transportation:
The campus is accessible by car and is located near major highways.
The closest airport is Northwest Alabama Regional Airport (MSL) in Muscle Shoals, which is about 15 minutes away. Larger airports, such as Huntsville International Airport (HSV) and Nashville International Airport (BNA), are within driving distance.