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Public, 4-year

Clayton State University

Morrow, Georgia · www.clayton.edu

中文

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
Morrow, Georgia
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Georj Lewis (President)
Phone
6784664000
City
Morrow, Georgia
Address
2000 Clayton State Boulevard, Morrow, GA 30260-0285

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
68.6%
Women
68.4%

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

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

SAT total860–1078Peer median 1080
ACT composite15–19
SAT Reading
450–558
600700800
SAT Math
410–520
600700800
ACT composite
15–19
253036

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)

Associate431 international (2.3%)
Bachelor's65511 international (1.7%)
Master's25115 international (6.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Community Psychology
89
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
72
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
57
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
49
Business/Commerce, General
43
Computer Science
32
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist
31
Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
27
Business Administration and Management, General
25
Legal Assistant/Paralegal
19

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

Businesshas 272 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
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
Health professionshas 187 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
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
Psychology has 105 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Clinical Psychology.$34,526
Community Psychology.$34,526
Liberal arts has 84 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$42,636
Computer and information sciencehas 73 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Information Technology.$53,054
Information Science/Studies.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Homeland security has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice and Corrections, General.$34,605
Legal professionshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.$43,706-$47,740
Visual and Performing artshas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.$26,025
Music, General.-
Social sciencehas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Biologyhas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$35,737
Public administrationhas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Public Administration.$59,252
History has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Communication has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$41,637
Educationhas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$48,914
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Historic Preservation and Conservation, General.-
Data Science, General.-
English has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$33,726
Physical scienceshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$30,676
Foreign languages has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
French Language and Literature.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-

Students

6,163 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 31:69 · Freshman retention 70.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,551)

Black
3,378 · 60.9%
Hispanic
683 · 12.3%
White
577 · 10.4%
Asian
361 · 6.5%
Unknown
256 · 4.6%
Two or more races
217 · 3.9%
International
62 · 1.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
19.9%
18–19
14.8%
20–21
17.5%
22–24
17.9%
25 and over
30.0%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.5%
22–24
16.0%
25–29
24.5%
30–34
16.7%
35 and over
42.3%

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.

Undergraduates1.1%

62 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.1%2017: 1.2%2018: 1.3%2019: 1.4%2020: 1.6%2021: 1.4%2022: 1.3%2023: 1.4%2024: 1.1%2025: 1.1%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students4.2%

26 in 2025 · 8.7% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 8.7%2017: 13.4%2018: 9.6%2019: 5.0%2020: 2.9%2021: 1.6%2022: 2.1%2023: 3.2%2024: 4.1%2025: 4.2%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

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
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

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

Government grants and contracts
$57.4M62.7%
Tuition and fees
$17.3M18.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$11.4M12.5%
Sales and services of educational activities
$1.6M1.8%
Gifts and private grants
$1.2M1.3%
Investment return
$743K0.8%
Other
$1.8M2.0%

Expenses$93.0M

Instruction
$35.6M38.3%
Institutional support
$12.9M13.9%
Academic support
$11.5M12.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$11.4M12.3%
Student services
$9.5M10.3%
Scholarships
$8.5M9.2%
Research
$1.0M1.1%
Public service
$208K0.2%
Other
$2.2M2.3%

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.

All faculty
$78,041peers $80,690
Professor
$87,848peers $98,841
Associate professor
$79,118peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$72,058peers $74,446
Instructor
$70,184peers $58,934
Lecturer
$60,866peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Peach Belt Conference

Peach Belt Conference: basketball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3532
Track and Field (Indoor)3029
Track and Field (Outdoor)3029
Basketball1818
Cross Country1110
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Indoor)3523
Track and Field (Outdoor)3523
Soccer3324
Basketball1715
Cross Country108
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Indoor)3722
Track and Field (Outdoor)3819
Soccer2620
Basketball1317
Cross Country1410
Golf9-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Clayton State University:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Stalking
55
Dating violence
48
Liquor referrals
17
Burglary
14
Rape
13
Domestic violence
13

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).

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.