Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University stands as a beacon of Black excellence, born from the historic merger of two influential institutions: Atlanta University and Clark College. This esteemed Historically Black College and University (HBCU) offers a rich, engaging environment for students seeking to make a profound impact on the world. Its unique heritage, deeply rooted in the post-Civil War era, laid foundational groundwork for generations of African American scholars and leaders.

The university's roots trace back to September 1865 with the founding of Atlanta University, which was among the first HBCUs in the South. Remarkably, it holds the distinction of being the nation's first graduate institution to award degrees to African Americans and the first to award bachelor's degrees to African Americans in the Southern United States. Simultaneously, Clark College, established in 1869, pioneered as the nation's first four-year liberal arts college exclusively serving African-American students. These two powerhouses consolidated in 1988 to form the comprehensive institution known today as Clark Atlanta University, inheriting a legacy of groundbreaking achievements.

Academically, Clark Atlanta University is a vibrant center for learning, especially as a key member of the Atlanta University Center. It expanded its graduate offerings significantly, establishing schools in Library Science, Education, Business Administration, and integrating the Atlanta School of Social Work. The university has attracted and fostered brilliant minds, notably W. E. B. Du Bois, whose foundational work in sociology and civil rights deeply influenced the institution and the broader academic landscape. For prospective students and families, Clark Atlanta offers not just an education, but an immersive experience within a community dedicated to academic rigor, social responsibility, and cultural heritage, preparing graduates to excel and lead in diverse fields.