Samford University is Alabama's top-ranked private university. Located in suburban Birmingham, Samford has more than 5,700 students studying in 31 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Samford is a leading nationally ranked Christian university renowned for excellence, small enough to foster intentional connections, big enough to offer robust opportunities and committed to cultivating students’ foundational faith.
All prospective undergraduate students must first apply for admission to the university. Note that a few undergraduate programs require additional applications, auditions or interviews. Graduate program application processes vary by school. Visit the individual program pages to learn about them.
Samford University has been a pillar for educating with strength and purpose since 1841. We encourage you to take the next step and tell us about yourself. We look forward to providing you with more information about Samford and our outstanding programs.
The best way to experience the Samford spirit is to meet our people and walk our campus. Students interested in our undergraduate programs can choose from a variety of opportunities just for them. Graduate programs often host open houses with ample opportunities to ask questions. Explore their program pages for details.
Samford alumni include more than 60 members of the U.S. Congress, 8 state governors, 2 U.S. Supreme Court justices, a Secretary of State, 4 Rhodes Scholars, multiple Emmy and Grammy award-winning artists, 2 national championship football coaches, and recipients of the Pulitzer and Nobel Peace prizes.
Athletics
The university fields 17 NCAA Division I varsity sports—eight men’s and nine women’s—that compete in the historic Southern Conference. Ranked first in Alabama, Samford’s athletic teams earned a 98% Graduation Success Rate (GSR) by the NCAA.
University News
Samford University Celebrates 16th Consecutive Year of Enrollment Growth
Fueled by another record-breaking class of first-year students and a historic student retention rate, Samford University announced its largest-ever total enrollment with 6,101 students for fall semester 2024.
Samford University Garners 3 Top 10 National Rankings in The Wall Street Journal’s 2025 List of Best Colleges
Samford’s academic reputation continues to flourish, with a No. 2 national ranking in character development and a No. 8 ranking for career preparation in the new rankings.
Samford Streamlines Path for Gadsden State CC Transfers
President Beck A. Taylor heralds agreement that reflects Samford's commitment to educational excellence for students who begin their journey in the two-year college system.