University of South Alabama vs Marshall University

In the realm of higher education, University of South Alabama (USA) and Marshall University (MU) stand out as two distinct institutions with unique offerings. While both universities share a commitment to academic excellence, they differ in several key aspects. USA boasts a higher acceptance rate, making it a more accessible option for prospective students. MU, on the other hand, has a slightly higher graduation rate, indicating a strong focus on student success. When it comes to popular majors, USA excels in the fields of nursing, business, and education, while MU shines in engineering, health professions, and social sciences. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to delve deeper into the differences between these two esteemed universities and make an informed decision that aligns with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Marshall University logo

Marshall University

University of South Alabama logo

University of South Alabama

Overview

Location Huntington, West Virginia Mobile, Alabama
Campus setting City: Small City: Midsize
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 71.0% 71.0%
Common app member Yes No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 97.8% 70.8%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $40

Graduate: $40
Undergraduate: $35

Graduate: $35
SAT range 930 - 1150 985 - 1215
ACT range 19 - 25 19 - 26
Students submitting SAT score 56.0% 7.0%
Students submitting ACT score 70.0% 86.0%
Total number of applicants 5,602 11,817
Total number of admissions given out 5,479 8,364
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,596 1,778
Yield rate 29.1% 21.3%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $22,993

Out of state: $34,047
In state: $23,838

Out of state: $32,094
Average net price $8,730 $14,984
Tuition
In state: $7,190

Out of state: $18,244
In state: $8,256

Out of state: $16,512
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $5,724

Meal plan: $4,330
Room/dormitory: $4,260

Meal plan: $3,890
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Prepaid tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

91.0%
Average amount $10,973
92.0%
Average amount $7,774
Students receiving federal student loan 46.0%
Average amount $5,033
49.0%
Average amount $10,354
Students taking out private loans 4.0%
Average amount $10,103
4.0%
Average amount $12,311

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 8,008
Men 41.4% Women 58.6%
8,833
Men 38.7% Women 61.3%
Graduate students 3,015
Men 34.4% Women 65.6%
5,159
Men 20.2% Women 79.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Very Low
Low
Out-of-state students 21.6% 24.3%
International students 1.6% 1.5%
Campus local/setting City: Small City: Midsize
Dormitory capacity 2,339 3,331
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from West Virginia Ohio District of Columbia Virginia Alabama Mississippi Florida Illinois Louisiana

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Liberal Arts
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Engineering
  • Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio 17:1 17:1
Institutional accreditation Higher Learning Commission Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 52.2% 47.4%
Dropout rate 18.9% 19.5%
Transferred out 26.2% 29.5%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $178,140
  • Year 2: $185,138
  • Year 3: $194,626
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $110,434
  • Year 2: $121,632
  • Year 3: $123,370
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,290
  • Year 2: $87,183
  • Year 3: $92,283
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $71,586
  • Year 2: $73,635
  • Year 3: $78,893
Engineering, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,929
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $63,850
Medicine (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,233
  • Year 2: $57,087
  • Year 3: $63,436
Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,991
  • Year 2: $55,512
  • Year 3: $59,064
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,473
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $57,835
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,506
  • Year 2: $58,823
  • Year 3: $57,647
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,675
  • Year 2: $52,107
  • Year 3: $57,619
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $116,286
  • Year 2: $109,763
  • Year 3: $117,239
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $110,918
  • Year 2: $115,711
  • Year 3: $112,240
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $101,131
  • Year 2: $102,706
  • Year 3: $111,122
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,584
  • Year 2: $96,954
  • Year 3: $102,546
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $60,839
  • Year 3: $80,009
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $72,655
  • Year 2: $72,214
  • Year 3: $79,002
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $61,253
  • Year 2: $66,240
  • Year 3: $76,272
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,913
  • Year 2: $68,219
  • Year 3: $75,983
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,168
  • Year 2: $61,516
  • Year 3: $74,579
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,562
  • Year 2: $71,015
  • Year 3: $72,349

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between the University of South Alabama and Marshall University?

    The University of South Alabama (USA) is located in Mobile, Alabama, offering a coastal city experience, while Marshall University is situated in Huntington, West Virginia, providing a more traditional college town atmosphere. USA is generally larger in terms of student population. Academically, both offer a wide range of programs, but USA has a stronger emphasis on health sciences due to its medical center. Marshall is known for its forensic science and journalism programs. Consider your preferred location, campus size, and specific academic interests when deciding.

  • Which university is larger, the University of South Alabama or Marshall University?

    The University of South Alabama generally has a larger student body compared to Marshall University. This can influence class sizes and the overall campus environment. A larger university like USA might offer a wider variety of clubs and organizations, while a smaller university like Marshall might foster a more close-knit community.

  • Where are the University of South Alabama and Marshall University located?

    The University of South Alabama is located in Mobile, Alabama, a coastal city with a rich history and access to the Gulf Coast. Marshall University is located in Huntington, West Virginia, a city nestled in the Appalachian foothills, offering a more traditional college town experience.

  • How do the academic programs at the University of South Alabama and Marshall University compare?

    Both universities offer a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The University of South Alabama is particularly strong in health sciences, with a well-regarded medical center. Marshall University is known for its programs in forensic science, journalism, and engineering. Review the specific programs you're interested in at each university to see which aligns best with your career goals.

  • What is the campus culture like at the University of South Alabama versus Marshall University?

    The University of South Alabama, being in a larger city, offers a more diverse range of social and cultural activities both on and off campus. Marshall University, in a smaller college town, tends to have a stronger sense of community and school spirit. Consider whether you prefer a vibrant city environment or a more focused campus atmosphere.

  • What are the tuition costs and financial aid opportunities at the University of South Alabama and Marshall University?

    Tuition costs vary depending on residency and program. It's best to check the official websites of both the University of South Alabama and Marshall University for the most up-to-date tuition rates. Both universities offer a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Explore the financial aid resources available on their websites and contact their financial aid offices for personalized guidance.

  • What are the athletic programs like at the University of South Alabama and Marshall University?

    Both the University of South Alabama and Marshall University have strong athletic programs. Marshall University competes in Conference USA, while the University of South Alabama competes in the Sun Belt Conference. Both offer a variety of sports for students to participate in and support. Consider which sports are important to you and research the success and fan base of those programs at each university.

  • What kind of student support services are available at the University of South Alabama and Marshall University?

    Both universities offer a comprehensive range of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, disability services, and mental health resources. These services are designed to help students succeed academically, personally, and professionally. Check each university's website for a detailed list of available services.

  • How do the career services and internship opportunities compare between the University of South Alabama and Marshall University?

    Both universities offer career services to help students find internships and jobs after graduation. The University of South Alabama, located in a larger city, may offer more diverse internship opportunities in various industries. Marshall University, with its strong connections to local businesses and organizations, provides valuable internship experiences within the region. Research the specific industries you're interested in and see which university has stronger connections in those areas.

  • What are the housing options like at the University of South Alabama and Marshall University?

    Both universities offer a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls, apartments, and suite-style living. The availability and cost of housing may vary. Explore the housing options on each university's website and consider factors such as location, amenities, and cost when making your decision. Off-campus housing is also available near both universities.

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