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Gordon State College

Barnesville, GA

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Quick Facts

2,605
Total Students
$3K
Tuition (In-State)
$10K
Tuition (Out-State)
$9K
Avg Net Price
87%
Acceptance Rate
17%
Graduation Rate
6-year
48%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges
Classification

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

About Gordon State College

From a 19th-century seminary to a modern state college, Gordon State offers a rich heritage and a vibrant future.

Gordon State College stands as a testament to educational evolution, tracing its roots back to 1852 as the Male and Female Seminary. What began as a private institution fostering both boys and girls through various historical shifts, including a significant period as a military college, has transformed into a dynamic four-year state college within the University System of Georgia.

Throughout its extensive history, Gordon State has adapted to meet the changing needs of its community and students. After a storied past that saw it embrace a military curriculum, honor General John B. Gordon, and become a pivotal part of Barnesville, the institution made a crucial transition in 1972, joining the University System of Georgia. This move marked a new era, focusing purely on higher education and shedding its secondary school and cadet corps.

Today, Gordon State College is known for providing accessible baccalaureate programs, a designation it proudly received in 2006. Its journey from a private seminary, through its time as Gordon Military College, to its current identity as Gordon State College, reflects a persistent commitment to student success. Prospective students will find a college with deep historical roots, a supportive learning environment, and a forward-looking approach to education, preparing them for diverse careers and continued academic pursuits.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in 1852 as the Male and Female Seminary, offering higher education to both boys and girls.
  • ✦Operated as Gordon Military College for decades, even becoming a junior military unit recognized by the U.S. Department of War in 1916.
  • ✦Joined the prestigious University System of Georgia in 1972, transitioning from a military institution to an associate-level college.
  • ✦Designated a four-year state college in 2006, expanding its offerings to include baccalaureate degree programs.
  • ✦Renamed Gordon State College in 2012, reflecting its comprehensive mission and growth.
  • ✦Served as a vital educational hub for the city of Barnesville, integrating public schools for White students during the mid-20th century.

Timeline

1852
Founded as the Male and Female Seminary, a private school for higher education.
1872
Renamed Gordon Institute to honor John B. Gordon, extending its scope to elementary grades.
1890
A military program was started by J.C. Woodward.
1907
Name changed to Gordon College.
1916
Named a junior military unit by the U.S. Department of War.
1928
Added the first two years of college to its program.
1972
Became part of the University System of Georgia as Gordon Junior College.
1986
The word "junior" was dropped from the school's name.
2006
Designated a four-year state college, offering baccalaureate programs.
2012
Board of Regents approved the change of the name to Gordon State College.

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