University of Alabama at Birmingham vs Samford University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Alabama at Birmingham has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $74,996 in 12.2 years versus 12.9 years at Samford University, on median earnings of $54,501 vs $58,469 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Alabama at Birmingham | Samford University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,749 | $32,622 |
| Total net cost | $74,996 | $130,488 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $54,501 | $58,469 |
| Median debt | $22,300 | $19,500 |
| Payback | 12.2 yrs | 12.9 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $47,824 | $71,692 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Alabama at Birmingham vs Samford University: frequently asked questions
Is University of Alabama at Birmingham or Samford University a better value?
University of Alabama at Birmingham. It clears its $74,996 net cost in about 12.2 years versus 12.9 years at Samford University, on median earnings of $54,501 vs $58,469 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Alabama at Birmingham or Samford University?
University of Alabama at Birmingham: $18,749/yr net price after aid versus $32,622/yr at Samford University — a difference of $13,873 a year, or about $55,492 over four years.
Do University of Alabama at Birmingham or Samford University graduates earn more?
Samford University graduates earn a median $58,469 ten years after entry, versus $54,501 at University of Alabama at Birmingham — a $3,968 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.