Clayton State University
Acceptance rate
68.4%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$16,532
In-state $5,180
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
5,551
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
17.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 34.8%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Clayton State University, located in Morrow, Georgia, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to student success and community engagement. Established in 1969, the university has grown to offer a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health sciences, and the arts. One of its standout features is the university's emphasis on experiential learning, which provides students with hands-on opportunities that enhance their educational journey and prepare them for the workforce. The university's motto, "Education for Life," reflects its dedication to equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for their careers and lifelong learning.
The campus is home to a vibrant student life, with numerous organizations and clubs that foster a sense of community and belonging among students. The university encourages involvement in extracurricular activities, which enhances personal development and leadership skills. Moreover, Clayton State University boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers that support both academic and athletic pursuits. The athletics program is particularly robust, with various sports teams that compete at the NCAA Division II level, promoting a spirit of teamwork and healthy competition. Overall, Clayton State University stands out as an institution that prioritizes academic excellence, community involvement, and personal growth, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded education.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Clayton State University
Clayton State University has exhibited notable trends in several key performance indicators over the last decade. One significant area of concern is the graduation rates among undergraduate students. In 2013, the on-time graduation rate stood at approximately 7.5%, which has seen fluctuations over the years, peaking at around 14% in 2018 before settling at about 11.6% in 2023. This inconsistency raises questions about student support and engagement strategies, especially given that low graduation rates can impact both institutional reputation and funding.
Another critical metric is student retention rates. In 2013, the retention rate was approximately 68%, and while there was an upward trend peaking at over 72% in 2014, it has since declined to around 60% in 2023. This downward trajectory could suggest challenges in maintaining student satisfaction or academic support, which are essential for keeping students enrolled.
The tuition rates also tell an interesting story. While in-state tuition for undergraduate students has slightly increased from about $5,153 in 2014 to $5,068 in 2024, the out-of-state tuition has experienced more volatility, peaking at over $16,290 in 2021 before slightly decreasing. This relative stability in in-state tuition, contrasted with fluctuating out-of-state rates, may reflect the university's efforts to remain accessible to local students amidst rising educational costs nationwide.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, although it showed a drop from 18:1 in 2022 to 16:1 in 2023. This change could indicate a shift in faculty hiring practices, potentially aimed at enhancing the educational experience through smaller class sizes and more personalized attention for students.
These metrics highlight both challenges and areas for improvement at Clayton State University, particularly in student retention and graduation rates, which are crucial for the overall success of the institution.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Atlanta, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 6 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Georj Lewis (President)
- Phone
- 6784664000
- Address
- 2000 Clayton State Boulevard, Morrow, GA 30260-0285
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 53.9%, women 49.7%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Clayton State University
The data from Clayton State University reveals noticeable trends in admission rates and enrollment over the years. The admission rates for both male and female applicants show a fluctuating pattern from 2009 to 2023. Notably, in 2010, the male admission rate peaked at approximately 62.68%, while the female rate reached around 61.62%. These high rates coincide with a significant increase in enrollments, suggesting that the university effectively attracted a larger pool of students during that period.
However, the years following 2010 indicate a downturn in admission rates, particularly in 2011, where the male rate dropped to about 38.98% and the female rate to approximately 36.11%. This sharp decline may reflect a more competitive admissions process or a decrease in applicant quality, leading to lower enrollment figures.
Interestingly, a resurgence in admission rates is observed in 2021, where the male rate soared to around 65.97% and the female rate to approximately 69.91%. This could be attributed to various factors, including changes in recruitment strategies or an increased focus on diversity and inclusion, which could have made the university more appealing to prospective students.
Despite the fluctuations, the overall trend suggests a commitment to maintaining a balanced and diverse student body, as evidenced by the relatively stable enrollment figures despite varying admission rates. The data indicates that Clayton State University continues to adapt its admission strategies to meet the evolving demands of higher education, reflecting broader trends in the university landscape.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 43% submitted SAT, 13% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Clayton State University
The admissions data from Clayton State University over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions and scores. Notably, from 2007 to 2023, there has been a fluctuating number of students submitting SAT scores, with a peak of 571 submissions in 2007, which decreased to 284 by 2023. This decline in submission rates may reflect broader educational trends, including increasing test-optional policies at many universities.
In terms of scores, while the 25th percentile SAT reading scores hovered around 440-460, with the upper quartile reaching between 500 and 570 in recent years, there appears to be a relatively stable performance among admitted students. The ACT scores show similar patterns, with consistent performance levels, though specific figures weren't provided.
Interestingly, the percentage of students submitting scores has varied, with a notable peak of 85% in 2008, which lowered significantly to 49% in 2023. This decline raises questions about the reliance on standardized testing in college admissions and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted many institutions to re-evaluate their testing requirements.
Overall, the data reflects a shift in how Clayton State University approaches admissions, potentially moving towards a more holistic review process as fewer students submit standardized test scores. This trend aligns with national conversations about equity in education and access to college opportunities, suggesting that the university is adapting to changing norms in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
1,870 applicants in 2025, 68.4% admitted
1,280 admitted 590 not admitted Yield 40.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's103 (8% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's48 (0% international)
- Public Administration · Master's17 (0% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's16 (0% international)
- Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management · Master's12 (8% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's12 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Clayton State University
The graduation data from Clayton State University in 2023 reveals interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the fields of Health Services and Business Administration have a significant number of graduates, indicating a strong alignment with current job market needs. For instance, Health Sciences produced 117 bachelor's graduates, showcasing the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in a post-pandemic world where healthcare services are more critical than ever.
Moreover, the data highlights the absence of international students in several programs, particularly in the undergraduate level of Health Services and Psychology. This could point to a need for universities to enhance their international outreach and support systems, especially in fields that typically attract global students. Conversely, some business programs did see participation from international students, suggesting that global economic ties remain strong in business education.
Additionally, the performance of programs such as Computer Science and Criminal Justice, which have relatively lower graduation rates, may warrant further investigation. These findings suggest a potential gap in interest or accessibility within these fields, possibly requiring universities to adapt curricula or provide additional resources to encourage student enrollment and success.
Overall, this data provides insight into educational trends at Clayton State University, reflecting broader societal demands while also highlighting areas for improvement in international student engagement and program offerings.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $46,395 | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,975-$70,110 | |||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $46,975-$70,110 | |||
| Office Management and Supervision. | $46,975-$70,110 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $46,975-$70,110 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $46,975-$70,110 | |||
| Accounting. | $57,572 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $45,355 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $34,910 | |||
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $61,737 | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $41,223-$55,033 | |||
| Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management. | $41,223-$55,033 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $86,653-$107,085 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychology. | $34,526 | |||
| Community Psychology. | $34,526 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $42,636 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | $53,054 | |||
| Information Science/Studies. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | $34,605 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | $43,706-$47,740 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | $26,025 | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,737 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | $59,252 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $41,637 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $48,914 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Preservation and Conservation, General. | - | |||
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $33,726 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $30,676 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
6,163 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 31:69 · Freshman retention 70.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,296
- First-year undergraduates 439
- Graduate students 612
- Transfers and others 1,816
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,551)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Clayton State University for 2023
The student population at Clayton State University reflects a diverse and inclusive environment, particularly in terms of gender representation and ethnic diversity. In 2023, the number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 579, with a notable gender distribution of 38.5% male and 61.5% female. This trend continues among other student categories, where upperclassmen exhibit a similar female majority at 70.4%, and transfer students also show a predominance of females at 75.4%.
At the graduate level, the male-to-female ratio is slightly more balanced but still favors female students, with 28.7% male and 71.3% female enrollment. This consistent trend across all categories suggests that female students are increasingly pursuing higher education, which aligns with broader national trends indicating a growing female presence in college and university settings.
Furthermore, the data indicates a commitment to diversity concerning ethnic representation, although specific details on the breakdown are not fully available. The presence of various racial and ethnic groups is essential in fostering an enriching educational experience, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and preparing students for a global workforce.
Overall, the demographics at Clayton State University in 2023 highlight the institution's efforts towards creating a balanced and equitable environment for all students while emphasizing the importance of diversity in higher education. As conversations around diversity and inclusion continue to evolve, institutions like Clayton State University are vital in shaping future generations.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Clayton State University
The age distribution of students at Clayton State University reveals interesting trends within its undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the largest cohort of students falls within the traditional college age range of 18 to 24 years. Specifically, students aged 18-19 and 20-21 comprise a substantial percentage of the total student body, with nearly 22% and 21% respectively. This is indicative of the university's appeal to younger students, aligning with national trends where many individuals pursue higher education immediately after high school.
As the age increases, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students, particularly among those in their late twenties and early thirties. The age group of 25-29 years, for example, accounts for approximately 15% of the total student body, while those aged 30-34 represent about 10%. This trend may reflect the challenges faced by older students returning to education, such as balancing work and family responsibilities.
Interestingly, the gender distribution shows a higher enrollment of females across most age categories, particularly in the younger age groups. For instance, in the 22-24 age bracket, there are nearly double the number of female students compared to male students. This trend is consistent with broader educational statistics that indicate women are increasingly pursuing higher education.
Furthermore, the presence of students aged 50 and above, while smaller, suggests that lifelong learning and continued education are becoming more common. This demographic shift highlights the university's role in accommodating diverse age groups and fostering a culture of continuous education. Overall, the data illustrates a dynamic and varied student population, reflecting both traditional and non-traditional paths to higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
62 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
26 in 2025 · 8.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Clayton State University
Over the years, Clayton State University has witnessed a noticeable trend in its international student enrollment, particularly at the undergraduate level. The data indicates that from 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a peak of 153 students in 2007 and a gradual decline towards 2023, where only 73 international undergraduates were recorded. The share of international undergraduates compared to the total undergraduate population has generally remained low, peaking at 2.52% in 2007 and showing a slight rebound to 1.38% in 2023.
In contrast, the graduate student enrollment figures tell a different story. The number of international graduate students has shown some variation, with the highest representation occurring in 2014, when 9.24% of graduate students were international. However, this percentage has seen a decline in recent years, with only 3.19% reported in 2023. This decline could be reflective of broader national trends, including stricter immigration policies and competition from other institutions, which may impact international students' choices.
The overall enrollment numbers suggest that while Clayton State University has made strides in attracting international students, challenges remain. Universities across the United States are navigating a complex landscape of global mobility, and the data indicates that there is a need for institutions like Clayton State to enhance their international recruitment strategies. Strengthening support services and fostering a welcoming environment for international students could be crucial in reversing the declining trends and maintaining a diverse campus culture.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$28,758
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $16,532
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,180
- Room and board
- $12,226
- Graduate tuition
- $12,779
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 6% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$91.5M
Expenses$93.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Peach Belt Conference
Peach Belt Conference: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 35 | 32 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 30 | 29 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 30 | 29 |
| Basketball | 18 | 18 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 10 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 35 | 23 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 23 |
| Soccer | 33 | 24 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 8 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 37 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 38 | 19 |
| Soccer | 26 | 20 |
| Basketball | 13 | 17 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 10 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 11.5 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 11.5 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 12.2 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 12.9 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 13.6 mi
U.S. News #23
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 60.2 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 65.8 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 96.1 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 113.6 mi
U.S. News #80
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Clayton State University:
-
Emory University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Emory University is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in the fields of medicine, law, and business.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - With a rank of 33, Georgia Tech is a leading public research university that specializes in engineering and technology. It is known for its innovative approach to education and strong emphasis on research.
-
University of Georgia - Ranked 47th, the University of Georgia is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its vibrant campus life and strong athletic programs.
-
Spelman College - This historically black women's college ranks 39th and is known for its commitment to academic excellence and leadership development for women of African descent.
-
Clemson University - With a rank of 86, Clemson is known for its strong engineering and business programs, as well as its beautiful campus located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape surrounding Clayton State University.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Clayton State University
The crime statistics at Clayton State University present a concerning trend over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, the average crime rate per 1,000 students has seen a marked increase, culminating in a significant spike in 2022, where the rate reached approximately 9.83 incidents per 1,000 students. This figure indicates a rising trend in campus safety issues, particularly in violent and substance-related offenses.
In 2020, the university recorded its highest number of reported incidents, highlighting the challenges faced by educational institutions in maintaining safety during tumultuous times. The increase in violent offenses, such as domestic violence and assault, signals a need for enhanced security measures and support services for students. Notably, the rate of drug and alcohol-related arrests has also climbed, reflecting broader societal issues that can affect campus environments.
As universities navigate the complexities of campus safety, it's crucial to implement proactive strategies that address the root causes of crime. This could include educational programs on substance abuse, increased mental health services, and community engagement initiatives.
The ongoing rise in crime rates calls for a collective effort from university administration, law enforcement, and the student body to foster a safer learning environment. It's imperative to stay informed about these statistics to understand the broader implications for student safety and well-being. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Clayton State University include Gary Anthony Williams (Actor and comedian, voice of Uncle Ruckus), Nkiru Okosieme (Former captain of Nigeria women's national football team) and Shazia Syed (Unilever Global EVP, former Unilever Pakistan CEO).
-
Gary Anthony Williams 1966–
Actor and comedian, voice of Uncle Ruckus
-
Nkiru Okosieme 1972–
Former captain of Nigeria women's national football team
-
Shazia Syed
Unilever Global EVP, former Unilever Pakistan CEO
-
Chris Klute 1990–
Former American soccer defender
-
Siobhan Wilson 1994–
Jamaica women's international footballer
-
Janny Rivera 1988–
Colombian footballer
-
Will Wilcox 1986–
Professional golfer on the PGA Tour
-
Tamika Galanis
Bahamian multimedia artist and documentarian
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.