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

Experience academic excellence and Laker pride amidst Atlanta's vibrant south metro, where dreams become real.

Clayton State University, a cornerstone of public education in Metro Atlanta, is where "Dreams. Made Real." isn't just a motto, but a way of life. Nestled on 192 acres of stunning wooded grounds featuring five picturesque lakes in Morrow, Georgia, this institution offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility. It's renowned for its vibrant campus life, including the nationally recognized Spivey Hall, a premier venue for jazz and classical music, and its fierce Laker spirit, exemplified by the women's basketball team's 2011 NCAA Division II national championship.

Founded in 1969 as Clayton Junior College, the university has a rich history of growth and transformation. It evolved into a four-year institution in 1986, becoming Clayton State College, and later embraced its current identity as Clayton State University in 2005. This journey reflects its commitment to expanding educational opportunities and serving the diverse needs of its community within the University System of Georgia.

Academically, Clayton State is a powerhouse, offering 40 baccalaureate majors and nine master's degree programs across its four colleges and School of Graduate Studies. Its College of Business stands out, holding the prestigious AACSB accreditation, a mark of excellence achieved by only the top 5% of business schools worldwide. The Clinical/Counseling Psychology master's program also boasts MPCAC accreditation, ensuring high-quality, professional training.

Beyond the classroom, students thrive in an environment that blends rigorous academics with a rich campus experience. Its location just twenty minutes from downtown Atlanta provides endless opportunities for internships, cultural exploration, and entertainment, while its multiple instructional sites in Fayette, Clayton, and Henry counties expand its reach. From cheering on the Lakers in NCAA Division II sports to enjoying world-class performances at Spivey Hall, Clayton State cultivates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere where students are inspired to achieve their fullest potential.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Part of the esteemed University System of Georgia, serving Metro Atlanta.
  • ✦Home to Spivey Hall, a nationally recognized venue for jazz and classical music, hosting over 400 performances annually.
  • ✦The Clayton State women's basketball team secured the NCAA Division II national championship in 2011.
  • ✦The College of Business holds AACSB accreditation, placing it among the top 5% of business schools globally.
  • ✦Offers 40 baccalaureate degree majors and nine master's degree programs.
  • ✦Located on a beautiful 192-acre wooded campus featuring five lakes, just 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
  • ✦In 2021, Dr. T. Ramon Stuart made history as the university's first African-American president.

Timeline

1969
Founded as Clayton Junior College.
1986
Became Clayton State College, transitioning to a four-year institution.
1991
Spivey Hall opened, quickly developing into a premier chamber music venue.
1996
Renamed Clayton College and State University by the Georgia Board of Regents.
2005
Adopted its current name, Clayton State University.
2011
The women's basketball team won the NCAA Division II national championship.
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 the university's four academic colleges.

💼

College of Business

Holds prestigious AACSB accreditation, placing it among the top 5% of business schools worldwide.

🏫

College of Health

One of the university's four academic colleges.

🔬

College of Information and Mathematical Sciences

One of the university's four academic colleges.

🎓

School of Graduate Studies

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

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