Georgia College & State University
Acceptance rate
78.2%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$29,512
In-state $9,186
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
6,006
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
51.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 62.4%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Georgia College & State University (GCSU), located in Milledgeville, Georgia, is a distinguished public liberal arts university that emphasizes a strong educational foundation and a commitment to student success. As Georgia's designated public liberal arts institution, GCSU offers a unique blend of academic rigor and personal attention, creating an environment where students can thrive both intellectually and personally. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "To create a community of learning," which reflects its dedication to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership among its students.
The campus is known for its vibrant student life, featuring a wide range of extracurricular activities, organizations, and events that enhance the overall college experience. GCSU boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational amenities, which support students' academic and personal pursuits. The university also places a strong emphasis on community engagement and service learning, encouraging students to participate in initiatives that benefit the local community. With a diverse array of programs and a focus on experiential learning, GCSU prepares its graduates for successful careers, with many students finding employment in their chosen fields shortly after graduation. Overall, Georgia College & State University stands out as an institution that fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and community involvement.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Georgia College & State University
Georgia College & State University has exhibited noteworthy trends in several key areas over recent years. One of the most striking aspects is the fluctuation in graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate saw a significant increase from approximately 35% in 2013 to nearly 50% in 2020, showcasing substantial improvements in student success and retention strategies. However, the rates have slightly declined in the subsequent years, reflecting potential challenges in maintaining this momentum. The consistency in achieving around 48% in 2023 indicates that while the university has made considerable progress, sustaining these improvements may require ongoing efforts.
Another area of concern is student retention, which has shown a declining trend, dropping from about 86% in 2013 to approximately 78% in 2022 before rebounding slightly to 80% in 2023. This decline might suggest growing challenges in student engagement or satisfaction, particularly as the university navigates post-pandemic adjustments. It is essential for the institution to identify the underlying causes of this trend to enhance student support systems and improve overall retention.
Moreover, tuition costs have steadily increased over the years, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from $8,790 in 2014 to $8,998 in 2024. This rise in tuition, paired with the cost of room and board, may contribute to financial strain for many students and could potentially impact enrollment figures if not addressed.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shifted, with female students constituting approximately 65% of the undergraduate population in 2023. This trend reflects broader societal changes in enrollment patterns and could have implications for campus culture and program development.
Overall, while Georgia College & State University has made commendable strides in certain areas, it faces ongoing challenges that warrant focused attention to ensure continued progress in student outcomes and institutional effectiveness.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Augusta, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- Georgia College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Cathy Cox, J.D. (President)
- Phone
- 8003420471
- City
- Milledgeville, Georgia
- Address
- 231 W Hancock Street, Milledgeville, GA 31061
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 78.4%, women 80.2%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Georgia College & State University
The admissions data for Georgia College & State University over the years reveals intriguing trends in enrollment and acceptance rates. Notably, the male acceptance rate has seen a significant increase over the years, climbing from approximately 59.5% in 2009 to around 80.2% in 2021, before slightly declining to 80.2% in 2023. Conversely, the female acceptance rate also rose, peaking at 89.8% in 2022, indicating the university's effort to attract a diverse student body.
The enrollment figures have fluctuated, with a noticeable peak of 1,507 new students in 2022, reflecting the university's growing popularity amid the competitive academic landscape. The data also shows a reduction in denial rates over the years, with a low of 571 denials in 2022, suggesting that the institution may be adopting more inclusive admission policies.
Moreover, the number of deferrals has been consistently high, peaking in 2021 with 2,517 students deferring their admission. This could imply that many students are considering taking gap years or are uncertain about their immediate educational paths, a trend that aligns with broader national discussions around mental health and the impacts of the pandemic on education.
The overall picture painted by these trends indicates a proactive approach by Georgia College & State University to enhance accessibility and maintain quality in their admissions process, which could positively influence its future rankings and reputation in the ever-evolving higher education 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—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Business School3 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 · 68% submitted SAT, 32% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Georgia College & State University
The data from Georgia College & State University reveals a notable trend in the SAT and ACT score submissions over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated significantly, peaking at 93% in 2007 and dipping to 23% in 2022 before rebounding to 73% in 2023. This variation suggests a possible shift in the admissions landscape, particularly in response to the growing trend of test-optional policies adopted by many institutions across the United States, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.
In terms of score performance, the range for the SAT reading and mathematics sections has shown some improvement in recent years, with the 25th percentile starting score in 2023 being 540 and the 75th percentile ending score at 630. This indicates a slight upward trajectory in the academic preparedness of admitted students, contrasted with earlier years where scores hovered lower. For instance, in 2011, the respective scores were 530 and 610.
Moreover, it is essential to highlight that while the quality of admitted students appears to be improving, the declining number of submissions in 2022 raises questions about accessibility and equity in admissions processes. As universities continue to navigate the balance between standardized testing and holistic review, ongoing monitoring of these trends will be crucial to understanding their long-term implications on student demographics and success rates. Overall, the data reflects a dynamic shift in how student capabilities are assessed and the evolving landscape of higher education admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
6,310 applicants in 2025, 78.2% admitted
4,936 admitted 1,374 not admitted Yield 36.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's77 (0% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's59 (0% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's48 (0% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's47 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's42 (2% international)
- Music Teacher Education · Master's33 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Georgia College & State University
The graduation data from Georgia College & State University in 2023 highlights several significant trends across various fields of study. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program stands out with 107 graduates, making it the most popular choice among students. This trend reflects the growing demand for business professionals in a dynamic economy, where skills in management and marketing are increasingly essential.
On the other hand, the Research and Experimental Psychology program follows closely, boasting 101 graduates. This indicates a strong interest in understanding human behavior, a field that is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced, information-driven world. The increasing focus on mental health and well-being likely contributes to this program's popularity.
Interestingly, despite the overall healthy graduation numbers, there were no recorded graduates in several medical health-related programs such as Nursing Administration and Art Therapy. This absence raises concerns about potential gaps in the healthcare workforce, especially considering the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals highlighted by recent public health challenges.
Moreover, the data shows no international students graduating from most programs, which could suggest a need for Georgia College & State University to enhance its outreach and support for international students. As global education becomes more competitive, attracting a diverse student body could enrich the academic environment and provide broader perspectives.
Overall, while certain programs thrive, others indicate areas that may require strategic development to meet both student interests and workforce needs effectively.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $58,772 | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $64,153 | |||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | $51,144 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $56,108 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | $56,108 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,525-$53,098 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $47,525-$53,098 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $47,525-$53,098 | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $47,525-$53,098 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $59,790 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $59,790 | |||
| School Librarian/School Library Media Specialist. | $59,790 | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other. | $59,790 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $97,546 | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $57,211-$86,530 | |||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $57,211-$86,530 | |||
| Accounting. | $61,998-$72,281 | |||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Information Resources Management. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $58,146 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | $52,014 | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Public Health, General. | $37,576 | |||
| Music Therapy/Therapist. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,201-$95,876 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $83,201-$95,876 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $32,303 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | $36,887 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Journalism. | $44,167 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $75,797 | |||
| Web/Multimedia Management and Webmaster. | $62,292 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $32,777 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $28,586 | |||
| Creative Writing. | - | |||
| Rhetoric and Composition. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $23,560 | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $42,911 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geography. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $30,012 | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | $43,391 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $30,723 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Science, General. | - |
Students
7,097 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 82.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,941
- First-year undergraduates 1,796
- Graduate students 1,091
- Transfers and others 269
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,006)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Georgia College & State University in 2023
In 2023, Georgia College & State University showcases a diverse student body across various categories. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 1,364 students, with a significant gender imbalance, as males make up 35.7% and females 64.3%. This trend continues within the undergraduate continuing students, where 3,633 individuals report a similar gender distribution, with males at 35.0% and females at 65.0%.
The undergraduate transfer students, though fewer in number at 188, have a slightly higher male representation at 37.2% compared to 62.8% female. Graduate students, numbering 1,050, present an even more pronounced gender disparity with only 29.8% being male and 70.2% female.
The ethnic composition further reflects the growing diversity in higher education. While specific breakdowns for the continuing and transfer students are not available, the new undergraduate cohort consists primarily of white students, who represent the largest demographic group. This is in line with national trends where universities are increasingly welcoming students from various backgrounds, including African American, Asian, Latinx, and international students.
Such demographic shifts highlight the ongoing evolution within academic institutions, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and representation. As society moves toward broader acceptance and understanding of diversity, educational establishments like Georgia College & State University are expected to continue adapting to these changes, fostering an environment where all students can thrive.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Georgia College & State University
The age demographics of students at Georgia College & State University reveal significant trends in the composition of the student body. The majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, where we observe 805 male undergraduates and 1,610 female undergraduates aged 18-19, alongside 729 male and 1,415 female undergraduates aged 20-21. This indicates a healthy influx of young students entering higher education, which is consistent with national trends of increasing enrollment among younger demographics in colleges across the United States.
Interestingly, the number of graduate students remains notably low in comparison, especially among the younger age groups, with only a handful of male and female graduate students under 21. This suggests that many students are opting to complete their undergraduate degrees before considering advanced studies, which aligns with reports of students prioritizing work experience and financial stability before pursuing graduate education.
Furthermore, the data showcases a gradual decline in enrollment as students age beyond their twenties, with only 98 male and female students aged 25-29, and even fewer in older age brackets. This pattern could reflect the challenges faced by older students in balancing education with work and family responsibilities, a trend observed nationally as adult learners often juggle multiple commitments.
Overall, the demographics at Georgia College & State University highlight the importance of supporting both traditional and non-traditional students, as educational institutions evolve to meet the diverse needs of their populations in an ever-changing job market.
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.
44 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 2.6% in 2016
Data insights
Declining Trends in International Enrollment at Georgia College & State University
The data regarding international student enrollment at Georgia College & State University reveals a concerning trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has sharply decreased from 97 to just 48, while the percentage of international students among undergraduates dropped from 2.08% to 0.91%. This significant decline raises questions about the university's appeal to international students, perhaps reflecting broader challenges faced by U.S. higher education institutions in attracting foreign talent.
Similarly, the graduate program shows a troubling pattern. The number of international graduate students fell from 30 in 2004 to only 10 in 2023, with the percentage plummeting from 2.90% to 0.95%. This drastic reduction may be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, global competition for international students, and potential shifts in the perception of the U.S. as a welcoming destination for education.
These trends are not isolated to Georgia College & State University. Across the U.S., many universities have reported dwindling international enrollment numbers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and in its aftermath, as travel restrictions and health concerns have deterred potential students. However, the situation also highlights the need for universities to adapt and innovate in their recruitment strategies to regain and sustain international student interest.
Overall, the decline in international students at Georgia College & State University underscores the need for urgent action to ensure that the institution remains competitive on a global scale and continues to foster a diverse educational environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$41,814
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $29,512
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,186
- Room and board
- $12,302
- Graduate tuition
- $27,530
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 7% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 6%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$183M
Expenses$173M
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, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 32 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 15 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Soccer | - | 34 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 10 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 13 | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Soccer | - | 35 |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 13 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 14 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 29.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 60.9 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 77.5 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 79.8 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 81.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 82.0 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 82.3 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 112.6 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 135.1 mi
Liberal Arts #57
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Georgia College & State University:
-
University of Georgia - Ranked 47th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Georgia is a comprehensive university known for its commitment to research and student success.
-
Emory University - With a rank of 24, Emory University is a prestigious comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its strong emphasis on research.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33rd, Georgia Tech is a top-tier comprehensive university recognized for its engineering and technology programs.
-
Clemson University - This comprehensive university is ranked 86th and is well-known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs.
-
Spelman College - With a ranking of 39, Spelman College is a historically black women’s college that is highly regarded for its liberal arts education.
These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are excellent choices for students considering higher education in Georgia.
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 Georgia College & State University
The data from Georgia College & State University reveals a concerning trend in crime rates over the years. From 2013 to 2017, the average number of recorded incidents per 1,000 students steadily increased, reaching a peak of 17.06 in 2017. This rise suggests a growing concern regarding safety on campus during this period, prompting potential investigations into the underlying causes, such as increased substance abuse or interpersonal violence.
Interestingly, the crime rate began to decline significantly in 2021, dropping to 6.31 per 1,000 students. This decrease could be attributed to several factors, including improved campus safety measures, community engagement initiatives, or even the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered the dynamics of college life and potentially reduced on-campus activities.
Notably, the data indicates instances of serious crimes, including domestic violence and assault, which are critical issues that universities must address to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their students. The fluctuating nature of crime rates highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive strategies by university administrations to enhance campus security.
As institutions of higher education strive to create a safe environment, it is essential to recognize that crime rates can be influenced by numerous factors, including societal trends and administrative policies. Maintaining transparency in reporting and addressing these issues head-on will be crucial for fostering a secure educational atmosphere.
For more information on calculating crime rates, you can visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Georgia College & State University include Newt Gingrich (50th Speaker of the US House of Representatives), Flannery O'Connor (Novelist and short story writer) and Sherrilyn Kenyon (Novelist of urban fantasy and paranormal romance).
-
Newt Gingrich 1943–
50th Speaker of the US House of Representatives
-
Flannery O'Connor 1925–1964
Novelist and short story writer
-
Sherrilyn Kenyon 1965–
Novelist of urban fantasy and paranormal romance
-
Brantley Gilbert 1985–
Country rock singer and songwriter
-
Tanvi Ganesh Lonkar 1995–
Indian actress in Slumdog Millionaire
-
Ruth Carter Stapleton 1929–1983
Christian evangelist and sister of Jimmy Carter
-
Sandra Deal 1942–2022
Teacher and former First Lady of Georgia
-
Jackson Pearce 1984–
Young adult fiction author
-
Colette Pierce Burnette 1957–
University president trained as an industrial engineer
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.