University of North Alabama Sees 75% Increase in Graduates Over 10 Years

The University of North Alabama (UNA) has reached a new milestone, reporting a 75 percent increase in the number of graduates over the past decade. According to data from the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, the number of students graduating from UNA rose from 1,269 in 2015 to 2,227 in 2024, one of the most significant increases among all universities in the state.

This surge is particularly meaningful for Alabama, as most UNA graduates are in-state residents who remain in the region to begin their careers. The university’s strong focus on workforce development ensures that students leave with job-ready skills, contributing directly to the state’s economic growth and enhancing the quality of life in communities across Alabama.

The rise in graduates reflects UNA’s broader institutional momentum, including increases in enrollment, strong academic programs, and record-high retention rates. The university has prioritized student success, emphasizing experiential learning and support systems that keep students on track to complete their degrees.

In recognition of its efforts, UNA was recently named to the highest tier of Opportunity Colleges and Universities by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education (ACE). This designation acknowledges institutions that deliver a high return on investment, promote accessibility, and foster upward mobility and strong post-graduate earnings.

The combination of rising graduation rates and national recognition positions UNA as a leading force in higher education across Alabama, advancing both the professional futures of its students and the vitality of the state’s workforce.