Auburn University: Student Population And Campus Life

Auburn University is a public land-grant research university in Auburn, Alabama. It was founded in 1856 as East Alabama Male College, a private liberal arts college. The university has since expanded to include over 150 majors and more than 600 clubs and organizations for students to choose from. As of 2023, Auburn University had a total enrollment of over 33,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate students. The undergraduate population alone was over 26,000, making Auburn the second-largest university in Alabama.

Auburn University has over 33,000 students

Auburn University is a public land-grant research university in Auburn, Alabama. It was founded in 1856 as East Alabama Male College, a private liberal arts college. The university has since expanded its academic offerings and curriculum, and now offers over 150 majors for its students to choose from.

The undergraduate enrollment at Auburn University is over 26,000, with 26,874 students enrolled as of Fall 2023. The university also has over 6,000 post-graduate students, with 6,100 graduate and professional students enrolled as part of its total enrollment of more than 34,000 students.

With its large student body, Auburn University is the second-largest university in Alabama. The university is committed to serving a diverse range of students and providing transformational educational experiences. To accommodate the growing number of students, Auburn University has added 110 new faculty members, with a net gain of 20 new educators.

26,800+ of these are undergraduates

Auburn University's undergraduate population is substantial, with over 26,800 students pursuing their bachelor's degrees. This accounts for the majority of the student body, and the number has remained relatively consistent over the years.

The undergraduate population at Auburn University is diverse and varied. In terms of demographics, Auburn University has a fairly balanced gender distribution, with male students accounting for 49% and female students making up 51% of the undergraduate population. This slight majority of female students contributes to the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere on campus.

The undergraduate experience at Auburn University is enriched by a range of extracurricular activities and organizations. With over 500 student clubs and organizations, there is something for everyone. Additionally, the Greek system at Auburn is prominent, with about 6,000 students involved. This provides opportunities for social connections, leadership development, and community building.

The academic offerings for undergraduates at Auburn University are extensive. The university offers more than 150 majors across various disciplines, ensuring that students can explore their interests and pursue their passions. The undergraduate programs are well-regarded, with the university ranked #105 in National Universities and #51 in Top Public Schools by US News and World Report in 2025.

The undergraduate enrollment at Auburn University also contributes to the economic and social fabric of the surrounding community. With a significant number of students choosing to live off-campus, the town of Auburn benefits from the influx of young adults seeking housing, dining, and entertainment options. This integration of students into the town creates a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that has led to Auburn, Alabama, being ranked as one of the best places to live.

The undergraduate population at Auburn University is a driving force behind the university's reputation and impact. With a large and diverse student body, a wide range of academic programs, and a rich extracurricular landscape, Auburn University offers a well-rounded and engaging undergraduate experience that attracts students from across Alabama and beyond.

The student body is 51% female

Auburn University's student body is predominantly female, with women making up 51% of the total student population. This gender distribution is reflected across the different levels of study, with female students accounting for 51% of undergraduate and 49% of graduate students.

The university's commitment to providing equal opportunities for women is evident from its history. Auburn University was established in 1856 as the East Alabama Male College. However, this changed in 1892 when it became the first four-year coeducational school in Alabama. This shift towards inclusivity was further emphasised in 1899 when the institution was renamed the Alabama Polytechnic Institute, moving away from its initially exclusive focus on male students.

Today, Auburn University has a total enrollment of over 33,000 students, with a significant proportion being female. This gender balance contributes to a diverse and inclusive learning environment, fostering a culture that values and embraces gender equality.

The university's dedication to promoting female representation is also reflected in its faculty composition. While the overall faculty comprises 41% female members, this varies across departments, with some having a higher proportion of women than others. This variation indicates that certain subject areas may attract more female faculty members, offering role models and mentors for female students in specific fields.

Auburn University's female student body is actively involved in various aspects of campus life. With over 500 student organisations on campus, female students have numerous opportunities to pursue their interests, develop leadership skills, and build community. Additionally, the university's Greek system, which includes sororities, provides a platform for female students to connect and support each other throughout their academic journey.

The university also offers resources specifically tailored to female students, such as women's health services at the on-campus medical clinic. This dedicated support ensures that female students can access the care they need during their time at Auburn.

Overall, the 51% female student population at Auburn University contributes to a diverse and inclusive learning environment. The university's history of promoting gender equality, combined with its current initiatives, fosters a culture that empowers and supports women in their academic pursuits.

The student-faculty ratio is 20:1

Auburn University's student-faculty ratio of 20:1 means that for every 20 students, there is one faculty member. This works out to be a ratio of 5% faculty to students. With a total of 1,435 faculty members, this equates to each faculty member being responsible for 20 students.

The student-faculty ratio is an important metric for prospective students to consider when choosing a university. A lower ratio is often desirable, as it indicates that class sizes may be smaller, and students may receive more individual attention and support from faculty members. It can also indicate that there are more resources available per student, such as mentorship opportunities, research positions, and academic advising.

A lower student-faculty ratio can also suggest that the university has a higher level of faculty engagement and accessibility. Students may find it easier to build relationships with their professors and receive guidance in their academic and professional pursuits. Additionally, lower ratios can foster a greater sense of community and collaboration between students and faculty, creating a more intimate and supportive learning environment.

Auburn University's student-faculty ratio of 20:1 is comparable to other large public universities in the United States. It is essential to note that the student-faculty ratio can vary across different departments and programs within the university. Some specialized programs, such as graduate research programs, may have a lower student-faculty ratio due to smaller class sizes and more individualized attention.

The student-faculty ratio also does not account for the support staff and teaching assistants who may also play a role in student education and support. Nonetheless, Auburn University's student-faculty ratio provides a snapshot of the overall faculty resources available to support the educational experience of its students.

The university has 12,335 employees

Auburn University has a large community of employees, with a total of 12,335 staff members as of the 2023-2024 academic year. This includes 1,435 faculty members, with a student-faculty ratio of 20:1. The university's employee count reflects its status as a prominent educational institution with a broad curriculum and diverse academic programs.

The university's employee base is comprised of various roles, encompassing both academic and non-academic positions. The faculty members, numbering 1,435, represent the core of the university's academic functions. They are responsible for teaching, research, and mentoring students across the wide range of programs and majors offered by the university. This diverse and dedicated group of educators plays a pivotal role in shaping the academic experience and outcomes of Auburn University students.

In addition to the faculty, the remaining employees fulfil a multitude of essential functions that contribute to the smooth operation of the university. These roles include administrative, managerial, clerical, technical, and support staff positions. Each of these employees contributes to the overall functioning of the university, ensuring that students have the necessary resources, services, and infrastructure to pursue their academic goals effectively.

The size of the employee community at Auburn University underscores its commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience. With over 12,000 staff members, the university is able to offer a rich and diverse learning environment, foster innovation, and cater to the varied needs of its substantial student body. This includes offering a wide range of courses and providing ample opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, with over 600 clubs and organizations to choose from.

The university's employee count also speaks to its dedication to maintaining a well-rounded and supportive campus community. Beyond academics, Auburn University prioritizes the overall well-being and development of its students. The extensive employee community helps facilitate this by providing a network of resources and support services that enhance the student experience, ensuring that students can thrive in all aspects of their university life.

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