About UM

In October of 1896, the Alabama Girls’ Industrial School opened its doors to some 150 young women from all parts of the state. They had come to participate in a great experiment, in an innovation in education for Alabama. They had come to be trained as teachers, bookkeepers, artists, musicians, dressmakers, telegraphers and milliners. In other words, at last, there was a school in Alabama whose purpose was to educate women to be self-supporting; at last, here was an opportunity to escape from the drudgery of field work, mill work, or from the ignominy of depending on a father or brother for lifelong support if there was no husband. At last, here was an opportunity for young women to expand their minds and dreams in a state, poverty-stricken by economic circumstances, that could provide little public education for its citizens.

All Education programs that result in state licensure are also approved by the Alabama State Board of Education.

The University of Montevallo holds fast to the principles that we were founded upon and the mission that we have always upheld. We take pride in knowing that our curriculum is both challenging and affordable.

The University of Montevallo is home to a number of iconic landmarks and lasting traditions that unite graduates through the years and across generations. While we continue to work toward innovative teaching and curriculum, it is important to us that we preserve our rich traditions which have historically defined what it means to be a part of Montevallo.