Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Normal, AL & Florence, AL
When students choose between Alabama A & M University and University of North Alabama, the graduation statistics reveal a stark reality. Both are public universities in Alabama serving medium-sized student populations, but Alabama A&M graduates fewer than 3 in 10 students while UNA graduates more than half.
This completion gap — 25 percentage points — fundamentally changes the value equation for families investing in higher education.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$31,000
federal loans
$22,077
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$19,266
borrowed by parents
$18,000
borrowed by parents
Alabama A&M is business-focused, with 16% of graduates earning degrees in business fields alongside 16% in engineering. The largest programs include Biology (75 graduates annually), Business Administration (57), and Mechanical Engineering (41).
UNA also emphasizes business at 23% of graduates, plus 9% in education and 6% in arts. UNA's largest programs include Registered Nursing (146 graduates), Teacher Education (112), and Business Administration (98).
Both schools offer similar program breadth, making completion rates the key differentiator.
For students prioritizing degree completion and financial outcomes, University of North Alabama delivers higher graduation rates, lower costs, and better earnings at the median. Alabama A&M serves a more challenging student population with 64% Pell recipients and demonstrates strong access for low-income students — making it valuable for students who need maximum accessibility.
The data points to UNA as the stronger financial value, but Alabama A&M fills a critical access role in Alabama higher education. If degree completion is your primary concern, UNA offers significantly better odds of success with lower financial risk.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
