Tuscaloosa is the home to the flagship liberal arts institution for the State of Alabama. Nestled at the very edge of the Appalachian foothills, and defined by the very old, very deep Black Warrior River, the city as a whole has entered a renaissance, and that arrives by way of the University.
The University of Alabama has experienced phenomenal growth over these past 15 years, almost doubling in enrollment, largely from out of state students. Its greatly improved academic profile, comparative affordability, scenic location, laid back lifestyle, and athletic success have made UA a destination school rather than what it once was: a sleepy haven for in-state kids.