Stillman College Ranking Profile

Stillman College, founded in 1876, is a historically significant liberal arts college located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The college offers a wide range of academic programs aimed at preparing students for successful careers while fostering personal growth and social responsibility. Stillman has earned recognition for its academic rigor and commitment to student success, consistently ranking in various categories in national and regional surveys. While the college is relatively small, its impact on students and its broader community is profound, especially with its dedication to providing a high-quality education to students from diverse backgrounds.

One of the defining features of Stillman College is its academic diversity. The institution offers undergraduate degrees through its core divisions: Arts & Sciences, Business, and Education. The liberal arts foundation at Stillman ensures that students not only gain specialized knowledge in their field of study but also develop a well-rounded education that encourages critical thinking, communication skills, and ethical reflection. The college’s curriculum emphasizes both traditional academic disciplines and specialized career preparation.

In the Arts & Sciences division, Stillman offers programs that prepare students for careers in fields ranging from public speaking, law, and education to mass media and communication. Students in the English department receive a comprehensive education in literature and language, providing a strong foundation for careers in communication, journalism, law, and various forms of writing. Similarly, the Department of Religion and Philosophy offers majors and minors that encourage students to explore and develop personal faith while critically analyzing religious and philosophical traditions. This division also includes the Department of Fine Arts, which provides students with the opportunity to earn baccalaureate degrees or minors in music and visual arts, allowing them to hone their creative talents and pursue careers in the arts.

The Department of Natural Sciences offers a challenging curriculum in biology that leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. Students interested in pursuing careers in research, healthcare, environmental science, or education can benefit from this department's rigorous approach to scientific inquiry. In addition, the Social Sciences department offers a major in history and minors in political science, sociology, and a pre-law program, which is designed to prepare students for advanced studies or careers in law and public policy. Stillman’s pre-law program, in particular, is notable for its guaranteed outcomes for qualified students, giving them a clear pathway to law school.

Stillman College is also committed to providing students with a high-quality education in business and technology. The Department of Business offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with concentrations in accounting, general management, and marketing. This program is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), which ensures that the business curriculum meets high academic standards. Stillman’s business program equips students with practical knowledge and skills that will serve them well in the competitive business world.

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offers degrees in mathematics and computer science, providing students with essential skills for the modern workforce. Graduates of this department are prepared for careers in data science, programming, finance, and other technology-driven industries. Additionally, Stillman’s Department of Health and Physical Education prepares students for careers as educators and professionals in physical education, health, and wellness.

One of the standout aspects of Stillman College is its commitment to making higher education accessible. The college was one of the first liberal arts colleges in the country to eliminate the need for loans in financial aid packages, which has made a significant impact on the financial burden of attending college. This move underscores Stillman’s dedication to ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent students from receiving a quality education. The college continues to focus on financial aid solutions that help students from all economic backgrounds achieve their academic and professional goals.

Stillman College’s commitment to academic excellence is also reflected in its numerous accreditations. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), which allows it to confer both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. Additionally, the college has earned professional accreditations for specific programs, such as the IACBE accreditation for its business programs, the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) accreditation for its music programs, and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) accreditation for its teacher education programs. These accreditations ensure that Stillman’s students receive an education that is both academically rigorous and professionally relevant.

In terms of rankings, Stillman College is consistently recognized in various national and regional surveys. In the U.S. News & World Report (2010), the college was ranked in Tier 1 and placed 44th among Baccalaureate Colleges in the South, underscoring its strong academic reputation in the region. In 2007, U.S. News & World Report also ranked Stillman among the top private colleges in the nation, reflecting its quality as a liberal arts institution. The college was also recognized for its performance in providing value to students, ranking 25th in the Best Southern Comprehensive Colleges category in 2006-2007. These rankings reflect Stillman’s ongoing commitment to providing an exceptional education in the liberal arts and preparing students for success in their future careers.

Overall, Stillman College offers a rich academic environment where students can thrive intellectually, personally, and professionally. With its range of degree programs, strong accreditations, and commitment to accessibility, Stillman continues to make a significant impact on the educational landscape. For students seeking a well-rounded, liberal arts education in a supportive environment, Stillman College offers the tools and resources necessary for success. Whether pursuing a career in business, the sciences, the arts, or education, Stillman College prepares its students to contribute meaningfully to society and succeed in their chosen professions.