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.
The 87th oldest institution of higher learning in the United States, Samford University is a globally engaged teaching and research university rooted firmly in its vibrant Christian mission.
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
Dawn McCormack Becomes First Female Dean of Samford’s Howard College of Arts and Sciences
Having led teams in Egypt and on college campuses, Dawn McCormack becomes the first female dean of Samford University's Howard College of Arts and Sciences, effective July 1, 2023.
Samford Celebrates Groundbreaking of State-of-the-art Campus Recreation, Wellness and Athletic Complex
The complex will be made up of four separate buildings totaling 165,000 square feet. The $65 million venture is the largest capital project in the university’s history.