Niche Ranks Montevallo No. 1 Best College for Theatre, No. 2 for Art in Alabama

November 14, 2025

The University of Montevallo has earned top statewide honors in Niche’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings. UM’s theatre program has been named No. 1 in Alabama, while the art program achieved an impressive No. 2 statewide ranking, underscoring the University’s commitment to excellence in arts education.

Niche is a leading college and school review platform that analyzes data from the U.S. Department of Education, student and alumni reviews, and other sources to produce annual rankings for academic programs, student life, value and more. This year’s ranking results show UM’s College of Fine Arts’ growing reputation as a top destination for aspiring artists, performers and scholars.

“The fine arts are a critical part of what makes the liberal arts experience special at Montevallo,” said Dr. Sean Atkinson, dean of the College of Fine Arts. “Students study with faculty that are nationally renowned for their work in the arts, but we are equally dedicated to teaching as a top priority. These rankings reflect our commitment to arts education at the highest levels.”

Montevallo’s theatre program is a student-centered training program that prepares students for careers in the performing arts. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre and built on a strong liberal arts foundation, it emphasizes collaboration and the interdisciplinary nature of theatre, giving students a broad understanding of performance and production.

The art program fosters a creative and inclusive environment supported by practicing artists, designers and historians. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, it offers a diverse curriculum, values a wide range of perspectives and connects students to the community through internships, volunteer work and leadership opportunities.

With small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and abundant performance and exhibition opportunities, Montevallo continues to strengthen its standing as a leading liberal arts institution for the fine arts. To learn more about UM’s fine arts programs, visit montevallo.edu/fine-arts.