When the University of Alabama’s Birmingham-based extension program was officially renamed the College of General Studies in September 1966 — three years before UAB became an autonomous university — there were 4,600 students enrolled in business, education, engineering, humanities, natural sciences and social sciences courses.
In the five decades since, UAB’s enrollment has skyrocketed — 21,923 students were enrolled in fall 2018, an increase of more than 1,000 students from 2017’s record high of 20,902.
UAB is focused on more than enrollment numbers; it also is dedicated to making campus the best it can be for its students. For the second year in a row, UAB has been ranked No. 1 in the United States — and No. 12 worldwide — in the Times Higher Education 2019 Young University Rankings, which are among the world’s most comprehensive, balanced and trusted.
INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine also recognizes UAB as a role model that sets the standard for U.S. campuses striving for inclusive excellence. The oldest and unyielding largest publication in higher education today presented its top honor — Diversity Champion — to UAB for its commitment to diversity and inclusion throughout campus communities, across academic programs and at the highest administrative levels.
Plus, according to organizations BestColleges and Campus Pride, UAB is the best college for LGBTQ students in Alabama because it provides both a quality academic experience and a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ students.
During the 1996 Olympic Games, Legion Field was a host site for soccer games, which more than 431,000 people attended. UAB also was home to a practice site for Olympians.
