Huntingdon College

Based on the provided data, Huntingdon College has a negative ROI score (-57), indicating that graduates typically do not earn enough to offset their debt and educational costs within 10 years.

The graduation rate at Huntingdon College is 47.4%.

The median debt at graduation is $27,000, and median 10-year earnings are $49,601, resulting in a negative return on investment.

With an admission rate of 69.5%, Huntingdon College is not highly selective.

Huntingdon College offers a small campus environment, which can foster a close-knit community for its 879 students.

Huntingdon College has an acceptance rate of approximately 69.5%, indicating that it is moderately selective. While not highly competitive, admission is not guaranteed, and applicants should present a solid academic profile. To increase your chances of admission, focus on maintaining a strong GPA, particularly in core academic subjects. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) may be considered, though policies can vary, so it's advisable to check the most current requirements. Crafting a compelling personal essay can also help showcase your personality, goals, and why you are a good fit for Huntingdon's community. Engaging in extracurricular activities demonstrates well-roundedness and commitment. Ensure all application materials are submitted by the deadlines, and consider visiting the campus to show genuine interest. While the acceptance rate suggests accessibility, a thoughtful and complete application is key to a successful outcome.

The financial value of Huntingdon College is questionable based on available data. The in-state tuition is $29,070 annually, leading to a significant investment over four years. With a median 10-year earning potential of $49,601 and median debt of $27,000, graduates face a long road to financial recovery. If we consider a four-year degree costing roughly $116,280 (tuition only), and a graduate earns $49,601 annually, it takes over two years of salary just to cover tuition, before accounting for living expenses, interest on debt, and other costs. The negative ROI score of -57 further underscores this concern. While Huntingdon offers a private liberal arts experience, the financial outcomes suggest that for many, the cost may outweigh the immediate economic benefits. Students should carefully weigh the potential for higher earnings in specific fields or the intangible benefits of a liberal arts education against the substantial financial commitment.

While specific 'best' majors can be subjective and depend on individual career goals, Huntingdon College's strengths often lie in programs that align with regional employment needs and its liberal arts foundation. Majors such as Business Administration, Education, and Political Science are likely strong choices, given Montgomery's role as the state capital and its economic landscape. The Business program can prepare students for roles in management, marketing, and finance within local and regional companies. The Education department is crucial for supplying teachers to Alabama's school systems. Political Science and Pre-Law programs can leverage the proximity to state government for internships and future careers in public service or law school. For students interested in healthcare, majors like Biology or Psychology can serve as excellent springboards for graduate studies in nursing, physical therapy, or other allied health professions. It's advisable for prospective students to research specific program outcomes and faculty expertise within these areas.

Student life at Huntingdon College is characterized by its small size and private, liberal arts setting, fostering a close-knit and engaged community. As a predominantly residential campus, students can expect a traditional college experience with opportunities for involvement in various campus organizations, including academic clubs, honor societies, religious groups, and intramural sports. The college emphasizes a holistic development, encouraging participation in chapel services and community service initiatives. Social events are often organized by student government and various campus groups, providing avenues for interaction and fun. Given its location in Montgomery, students may also engage with the local community through volunteer work or by exploring historical sites and cultural attractions. The atmosphere is generally described as friendly and supportive, with a strong emphasis on personal relationships between students and faculty. It's an environment suited for those who appreciate a more intimate campus setting and a focus on character development alongside academics.

Huntingdon College is committed to making education accessible through various forms of financial aid. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance, which typically includes a combination of merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. Merit scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement, such as GPA and standardized test scores, while need-based aid is determined by a student's financial circumstances as assessed through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Federal aid programs, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, are also available. The college may also offer specific scholarships tied to particular majors, talents (like athletics or music), or affiliations. To understand the full scope of aid available, prospective students should complete the FAFSA as early as possible and consult Huntingdon's financial aid office directly. They can provide personalized guidance on available grants, scholarships, and loan options to help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses.

The median salary for Huntingdon College graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported as $49,601. This figure represents an average across all majors and career paths. Actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen field of study, geographic location of employment, and individual career progression. For instance, graduates entering fields like education or social work in the Montgomery area might expect starting salaries in the $40,000-$50,000 range, potentially increasing with experience and further certifications. Those who pursue graduate degrees in fields like law or specialized healthcare professions could command higher salaries, though this requires additional investment in education. Conversely, entry-level positions in some non-profit sectors or administrative roles might offer lower starting pay. It's crucial for prospective students to research salary expectations for their specific intended major and to consider how their career choices might impact their earning potential post-graduation. Networking and internships can also play a vital role in securing higher-paying positions.

Huntingdon College provides a range of on-campus housing options designed to support student life and academic success. The residence halls are typically traditional dormitory-style accommodations, offering a communal living experience. Students can expect shared rooms, common lounges for socializing and studying, and shared bathroom facilities. Specific residence halls may cater to different student groups, such as first-year students or upperclassmen, and some may have specific themes or living-learning communities. The college generally requires freshmen and sophomores to live on campus, ensuring a robust residential community. Dorms are usually furnished with basic necessities like beds, desks, and closets. Amenities often include Wi-Fi access, laundry facilities, and common areas for relaxation and group activities. The focus is on creating a safe, supportive, and convenient environment that facilitates student engagement and academic focus. Information on specific hall names, room configurations, and available amenities can be found on the college's housing website or by contacting the residential life office.

Huntingdon College, as a liberal arts institution, offers opportunities for undergraduate research, though perhaps not on the scale of large research universities. The emphasis is typically on faculty-mentored research, where students can work closely with professors on projects within their specific disciplines. This can be particularly valuable in fields like biology, chemistry, psychology, and history, where hands-on research experience can deepen understanding and prepare students for graduate studies. Students might have opportunities to assist faculty with ongoing research, conduct independent study projects, or participate in undergraduate research symposia. While Huntingdon may not have extensive research facilities or large-scale grant funding for student research compared to larger institutions, the personalized attention from faculty can provide a rich and meaningful research experience. Students interested in research should proactively engage with professors whose work aligns with their interests to explore available opportunities.

Huntingdon College is a private liberal arts college in Montgomery, AL, with a small student body (under 900) and a moderate acceptance rate (69.5%). It competes with other small private colleges and regional public universities in Alabama and surrounding states. Peers like Troy University and Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) are larger public institutions offering a broader range of programs and potentially more resources, but often with larger class sizes. Spring Hill College, a Jesuit institution in Mobile, AL, is a closer private peer, also focusing on liberal arts and a smaller student body, though with a different institutional mission. Belhaven University, a private Christian university in Mississippi, shares similarities in size and private status. Huntingdon's advantages over these peers often lie in its intimate campus environment, personalized faculty attention, and a strong sense of community. However, disadvantages can include a more limited selection of majors, fewer internship and career opportunities compared to larger universities, and potentially lower median graduate earnings, as reflected in its ROI score. Public institutions like Troy and AUM might offer more robust career services and a wider alumni network, while Spring Hill offers a distinct Jesuit educational philosophy.

Employer perception of a degree from Huntingdon College is likely influenced by its status as a small, private liberal arts institution. Employers in the immediate Montgomery area and within Alabama are generally familiar with Huntingdon and may value graduates who demonstrate strong communication skills, a solid work ethic, and a commitment to community, traits often cultivated in a liberal arts environment. For roles in state government, education, and local businesses, a Huntingdon degree is likely well-regarded. However, outside of its regional sphere of influence, the brand recognition of Huntingdon College may be less pronounced compared to larger, more widely known universities. Employers in highly competitive national markets, particularly in fields like technology or finance, might place more emphasis on the specific skills acquired and the reputation of the program rather than the institution's name alone. The college's career services likely work to bridge this gap by emphasizing internship experiences and transferable skills to potential employers, ensuring graduates are competitive in their chosen fields.