University of North Alabama (UNA) vs Stillman College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between the University of North Alabama (UNA) and Stillman College?

  UNA is a larger, public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its strong business, nursing, and education programs. Stillman College is a smaller, private, historically Black college (HBCU) with a focus on liberal arts and preparing students for leadership roles. UNA offers a broader range of extracurricular activities and a more diverse student body in terms of ethnicity and background, while Stillman provides a close-knit community and a strong emphasis on African American culture and heritage.

• Which college is more affordable: UNA or Stillman?

  Generally, UNA is more affordable for in-state students due to its public university status. However, Stillman College offers various financial aid packages and scholarships specifically for its students, which could potentially make it comparable in cost, especially for out-of-state students. It's best to compare the net cost (tuition minus financial aid) after applying to both institutions and receiving financial aid offers.

• What academic programs are UNA and Stillman known for?

  UNA is well-regarded for its business programs (particularly accounting and finance), nursing, education, and music programs. Stillman College is known for its liberal arts programs, including business administration, criminal justice, and psychology, with a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking and leadership skills within a historical context.

• What is the campus environment like at UNA versus Stillman?

  UNA has a larger, more traditional university campus with a wider variety of facilities and activities. The campus environment is more diverse and offers a broader range of social and extracurricular opportunities. Stillman College offers a smaller, more intimate campus environment with a strong sense of community and a focus on African American culture and heritage. Students often describe Stillman as having a family-like atmosphere.

• What are the admission requirements for UNA and Stillman College?

  UNA typically requires a high school diploma or GED, standardized test scores (ACT or SAT), and a minimum GPA. Stillman College also requires a high school diploma or GED and may consider standardized test scores, but places a greater emphasis on a holistic review of the applicant, including essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. Stillman often looks for students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to service.

• What kind of student life and extracurricular activities are available at each college?

  UNA offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, sports teams (NCAA Division I athletics), and Greek life. There are numerous opportunities for students to get involved and participate in campus events. Stillman College offers a more focused range of extracurricular activities, including student government, clubs, organizations, and athletic teams (NAIA). There is a strong emphasis on community service and leadership development within these activities.

• What are the career services and job placement rates like at UNA and Stillman?

  Both UNA and Stillman College offer career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career planning. UNA, being a larger institution, may have a broader network of alumni and employer connections. Stillman College leverages its alumni network and partnerships with organizations committed to supporting HBCU graduates to provide career opportunities. Specific job placement rates vary by program and year, so it's best to check with each college's career services department for the most up-to-date information.

• Where are UNA and Stillman College located?

  The University of North Alabama is located in Florence, Alabama, a mid-sized city in the northwestern part of the state. Stillman College is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, home to the University of Alabama, offering a vibrant college-town atmosphere.

• What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each institution?

  UNA generally has a student-to-faculty ratio around 20:1, while Stillman College typically has a lower student-to-faculty ratio, often around 15:1 or lower. This means students at Stillman may have more opportunities for personalized attention from professors.

• Does either college have a strong focus on research?

  UNA has a growing emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities across various disciplines. Stillman College, while primarily focused on undergraduate education, also supports faculty and student research projects, often with a focus on issues relevant to the African American community.