Gordon State College logo

Gordon State College

Barnesville, GA

publicbachelors

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 military academy to a comprehensive state college, Gordon State offers a rich academic journey.

Gordon State College, with its roots stretching back to 1852, offers a unique and compelling narrative of evolution and resilience in higher education. Originally established as the Male and Female Seminary, it quickly adapted to the changing times, even developing a robust military program for its male students while continuing to educate young women. This distinctive history as Gordon Institute and later Gordon Military College, where it once housed a corps of cadets and attracted students from across the globe, laid the foundation for the diverse institution it is today.

In the 20th century, Gordon State College underwent a significant transformation, transitioning from a private military college to a vital part of the University System of Georgia. This pivotal shift in 1972 saw it embrace a new identity as an associate-level college, broadening its reach and ensuring accessible higher education for a wider student body. Over the subsequent decades, the college continued to grow, eventually shedding its "junior" designation and, in 2006, achieving the status of a four-year state college.

Today, Gordon State College stands as a proud institution offering baccalaureate programs within the USG's state college sector. Its journey from a private seminary with military ties to a comprehensive public college highlights its enduring commitment to academic excellence and community service. Prospective students will find a college with a rich past, a dynamic present, and a clear vision for the future, fostering an environment where growth and learning thrive.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1852 as the Male and Female Seminary, offering higher education to both boys and girls.
  • ✦Operated as a military college for decades, known for its corps of cadets and attracting students from various backgrounds, including Latin America.
  • ✦Renamed Gordon Institute in 1872 to honor Georgia governor and Confederate General John B. Gordon.
  • ✦Became part of the University System of Georgia in 1972, transitioning from a military college to an associate-level public institution.
  • ✦Achieved the status of a four-year state college in 2006, authorized to offer baccalaureate programs.
  • ✦Officially renamed Gordon State College in 2012, marking its full transformation into a comprehensive state college.

Timeline

1852
Founded as the Male and Female Seminary
1872
Renamed Gordon Institute to honor John B. Gordon
1890
Military program initiated
1907
Name changed to Gordon College
1916
Designated 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, disbanding the cadet corps
1986
The word "junior" was dropped from the school's name
2006
Designated a four-year state college to offer baccalaureate programs
2012
Name officially changed to Gordon State College

Find Scholarships at Gordon State College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search