
Montgomery, ALprivate nonprofitwww.faulkner.edu/
Faulkner University is a small, private Christian liberal arts college in Montgomery, Alabama, where faith and education intertwine with Southern hospitality. Known for its tight-knit community and emphasis on character development, Faulkner offers over 60 majors—with standout programs in business, criminal justice, and health sciences—while maintaining an accessible admissions policy. Though its graduation rates lag behind national averages, its graduates report strong early-career earnings.
Faulkner University is moderately selective, with Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. ranging from 26% to 82% depending on the source (reports vary widely). The university prioritizes applicants with an ACT composite score of 18+ or a high school GPA of 3.25+ for unconditional admission. Notably, half of admitted students submit ACT scores between 18–24, and the average admitted GPA is 3.5. Unlike many private colleges, Faulkner does not require SAT scores, though they are accepted. The admissions process emphasizes Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone., including high school transcripts and a small application fee.
Faulkner offers 60+ on-campus majors and 23 online programs, with a curriculum grounded in Christian values. Popular majors include:
The College of Health Sciences is a standout, preparing students for careers in high-demand fields like nursing and physician assistant roles. While Faulkner lacks the national reputation of Alabama’s flagship public universities, its small class sizes and "scholarly professors" foster close mentorship. The university also houses Faulkner Law, one of Alabama’s few law schools, though its undergraduate programs are the primary focus.
Life at Faulkner revolves around its tight-knit, faith-based community. A striking 96% of students report feeling "extremely safe" on campus, per Niche surveys. The university actively promotes a "caring, Christian community" through:
A 5-year plan aims to further transform campus culture, emphasizing "integrity of character" and engagement across its Montgomery campus and online programs. While Greek life is minimal, the university’s Facebook page highlights a lively calendar of activities, from worship nights to career workshops.
Faulkner’s 6-year graduation rate is 37%, below the national average, but its 4-year rate is just 20%, suggesting many students take longer to complete degrees. However, alumni report a median earnings of $36,427 one year post-graduation, competitive for the region. The university’s focus on practical fields like business and health sciences likely contributes to these outcomes. Retention rates hover around 50% for full-time students, indicating some challenges in student persistence.
Tuition at Faulkner is $35,515 annually, but the average net price drops to $19,908 after aid, with scholarships and grants covering significant costs. The university offers need-based and merit aid, and its Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator helps families estimate personalized costs. For context, the average aid package is $12,251, making Faulkner more affordable than its sticker price suggests—though still a substantial investment for many Alabama families.
Faulkner’s unapologetically Christian identity sets it apart—its mission is to "glorify God through the education of the whole person." Unlike larger secular schools, it offers small classes, a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, and a culture that prioritizes character development alongside academics. Its health sciences and business programs deliver strong ROI, while Montgomery’s low cost of living appeals to budget-conscious students. Though its graduation rates are a weak spot, Faulkner excels in creating a supportive, safe environment where students forge close bonds with peers and professors.