Clayton  State University logo

Clayton State University

Morrow, GA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

4,390
Total Students
$5K
Tuition (In-State)
$16K
Tuition (Out-State)
$10K
Avg Net Price
71%
Acceptance Rate
35%
Graduation Rate
6-year
73%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Clayton State University

Metro Atlanta's dynamic university fostering real dreams, from DII championships to premier arts.

Nestled in Morrow, Georgia, Clayton State University offers a vibrant and engaging educational experience within Metro Atlanta's energetic landscape. As a public university and a proud member of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State is renowned for its picturesque campus, featuring 192 acres of wooded grounds and five serene lakes, providing a beautiful backdrop for learning and student life.

From its origins as Clayton Junior College in 1969, the institution has steadily evolved, becoming a four-year college in 1986 and eventually Clayton State University in 2005. This journey reflects a commitment to expanding academic opportunities and serving the diverse needs of its community. A significant point of pride is Spivey Hall, which opened in 1991 and has since become one of Atlanta's premiere chamber music venues, hosting over 400 performances annually and frequently featured on Georgia Public Broadcasting, enriching the cultural fabric of the university and region.

Academically, Clayton State stands out with its four colleges and a School of Graduate Studies. The College of Business holds the prestigious AACSB accreditation, placing it among the top 5% of business schools worldwide. Similarly, its Clinical/Counseling Psychology master's degree program boasts MPCAC accreditation, underscoring its commitment to quality. The university offers nine master's degree programs and an impressive 40 baccalaureate degree majors, catering to a wide range of academic interests and career aspirations.

Beyond academics, students thrive in a spirited environment. The Clayton State Lakers compete in NCAA Division II as part of the Peach Belt Conference, with the women's basketball team achieving national championship glory in 2011. The campus also offers various instructional sites in Fayette, Clayton, and Henry counties, extending its reach and accessibility. With its blend of strong academics, a beautiful campus, vibrant arts, and competitive athletics, Clayton State University empowers students to make their "Dreams. Made Real."

Key Highlights

  • Public university serving Metro Atlanta, part of the University System of Georgia, established in 1969.
  • Campus spans 192 acres with five lakes, providing a scenic environment for learning and recreation.
  • Home to Spivey Hall, a premiere chamber music venue hosting over 400 performances annually.
  • The Laker women's basketball team won the NCAA Division II national championship in 2011.
  • College of Business holds AACSB accreditation, a distinction earned by only the top 5% of business schools globally.
  • Offers 9 master's degree programs and 40 baccalaureate degree majors, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
  • Total student enrollment reached 6,406 in fall 2025, with 5,726 undergraduates and 644 postgraduates.

Timeline

1969
Founded as Clayton Junior College
1986
Became a four-year institution and renamed Clayton State College
1991
Spivey Hall opened, becoming a premiere chamber music venue
1996
Renamed Clayton College and State University by the Georgia Board of Regents
2004
Approval given for developing master's programs
2005
Name changed to Clayton State University
2011
Women's basketball team won the NCAA Division II national championship
2016
Clinical/Counseling Psychology master's program gained MPCAC accreditation
2021
Dr. T. Ramon Stuart became Clayton State's first African-American president

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within Clayton State University

🎭

College of Arts and Sciences

One of four colleges offering a broad range of academic disciplines.

💼

College of Business

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by only the top 5% of business schools worldwide.

🏫

College of Health

One of four colleges, focused on health-related disciplines.

🔬

College of Information and Mathematical Sciences

One of four colleges, specializing in information technology and mathematical fields.

🎓

School of Graduate Studies

Oversees the university's nine master's degree programs.

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