Gordon State College
Acceptance rate
85.9%
2025
Out-of-state tuition
$10,948
In-state $3,628
Peer median $11,384
Undergraduates
3,179
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 19 : 1
Graduation rate
5.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 17.0%
Peer median 4.8%
“Peers” are all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Gordon State College, located in Barnesville, Georgia, is a prominent institution known for its dedication to providing quality education and fostering student success. Established in 1852, this college boasts a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence, with a focus on personalized learning experiences. The college's motto, "Excellence, Integrity, and Service," reflects its core values and guides the community in nurturing well-rounded individuals. With a diverse range of undergraduate programs, including liberal arts, business, and education, Gordon State College offers students the opportunity to pursue their passions while receiving a comprehensive education.
The campus environment at Gordon State College is vibrant and inclusive, promoting a strong sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. The college offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, which enrich the student experience and encourage personal growth. The state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, enhance the learning environment and support a well-rounded educational journey. Additionally, the college is strategically located near major metropolitan areas, providing students with access to a wealth of internship and employment opportunities, further ensuring their success after graduation. Gordon State College takes pride in its commitment to student development, making it a great choice for those seeking a supportive and enriching educational experience.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Gordon State College
Gordon State College, a public institution, has demonstrated noteworthy changes in several critical areas over the years. One of the most striking trends is in tuition costs, where in-state undergraduate tuition has increased from $3,408 in 2014 to $3,475 in 2023, reflecting a modest growth of approximately 1.96%. Conversely, out-of-state undergraduate tuition has risen from $9,695 to $10,381, indicating a more significant increase of around 7.06%. This disparity in tuition growth may impact the college's ability to attract and retain out-of-state students, who often face much higher costs.
Additionally, the student population has been on a downward trajectory, declining from 4,171 in 2013 to just 3,135 in 2023. This 25% reduction in enrollment is concerning, especially as it could lead to reduced funding and resources for the college. The decreasing number of students could also correlate with the institution's retention rates, which, although showing a slight uptick to 54.17% in 2023 from a low of 41.51% in 2019, still indicates challenges in keeping students engaged and enrolled.
The gender ratio among undergraduates has also shifted, with male students making up approximately 35.44% in 2023 compared to 33.13% in 2013. This gradual increase in male enrollment may reflect broader trends in higher education, where female students traditionally outnumber males.
Lastly, the graduation rates remain alarmingly low, particularly for on-time graduation, which was only 5.19% in 2023, while 150% graduation rates stood at 20.78%. These figures raise concerns about the effectiveness of academic programs and support services at the college, potentially impacting the institution's reputation and future enrollment.
In conclusion, while Gordon State College has made some strides in managing tuition costs, it faces significant challenges regarding enrollment, retention, and graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's long-term sustainability and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Atlanta, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 45 mi
- Also known as
- Gordon
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Donald Green (President)
- Phone
- 6783595555
- City
- Barnesville, Georgia
- Address
- 419 College Dr, Barnesville, GA 30204
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 80.2%, women 86.2%.
Data insights
Enrollment Trends at Gordon State College
The admission data from Gordon State College reveals interesting trends over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. In 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 61%, while females had a slightly lower rate at around 61%. Moving through the years, there was a notable decline in acceptance rates, reaching lows of 45.6% for males and 40.8% for females in 2013 and 2014. However, a significant turnaround occurred post-2017, with acceptance rates soaring to 93.8% for males and 92.9% for females by 2023.
The fluctuation in enrollment numbers also tells a compelling story. For instance, the college welcomed 1,341 students in 2009, with a peak of 1,576 students in 2011. However, the years following 2014 saw a decline in enrollment, which could be attributed to various factors such as changing demographics, economic conditions, or competition from other institutions. The sharp increase in enrollment in recent years suggests that Gordon State College has successfully enhanced its appeal, possibly by improving its academic offerings or campus facilities.
Moreover, the number of applicants who were denied admission fluctuated significantly, with the highest number of 2,269 denials reported in 2011. The college's ability to manage these dynamics is commendable, especially as it navigates the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the evolving landscape of higher education.
In conclusion, Gordon State College's admission and enrollment data reflect both the challenges and successes of the institution in attracting students amidst fluctuating acceptance rates. As the college moves forward, these trends will be crucial for shaping its future strategies and maintaining its competitiveness in the higher education sector.
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
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 · 14% submitted SAT, 6% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Gordon State College
The data from Gordon State College over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates for the SAT and ACT. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, reaching as high as 74% in 2014 and dropping to just 1% in 2023. This sharp decline in score submissions may indicate a broader trend in college admissions, where students increasingly opt for test-optional policies, reflecting a national conversation about the relevance and fairness of standardized testing.
Looking at the scores themselves, there has been a gradual improvement in SAT reading and math scores from 2012 onwards. For instance, while the SAT reading scores started around 390 and improved to 450 by 2023, SAT math scores have also shown a similar upward trajectory. These scores suggest that the quality of incoming students may be improving, despite the declining number of submissions.
On the ACT side, the comprehensive scores have remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations over the years. This stability could mean that while fewer students are submitting test scores, those that do are maintaining consistent performance levels.
Overall, these patterns suggest that Gordon State College is adapting to changing norms in higher education admissions. As the college continues to navigate these trends, it highlights the importance of considering multiple facets of student qualifications rather than relying solely on standardized test scores. This evolution reflects a growing acknowledgment of diverse student backgrounds and capabilities, aiming to foster a more inclusive educational environment.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,958 applicants in 2025, 85.9% admitted
1,682 admitted 276 not admitted Yield 36.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Gordon State College
The graduation data from Gordon State College for 2023 reveals significant trends in degree attainment across various fields. Notably, the healthcare-related programs stand out, with registered nursing producing the highest number of Bachelor's degrees, totaling 60 graduates. This reflects the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in a post-pandemic world where the emphasis on public health has escalated.
Business Administration and Management also showed a strong performance with 42 Bachelor's degrees awarded, indicating a steady interest in business education, likely driven by the evolving job market and the need for skilled managers in various sectors. Interestingly, the lack of international students graduating from these programs suggests that local students are primarily filling these roles, which could be a result of current visa challenges or changing global mobility trends.
The education sector, while crucial, saw only 35 Bachelor's degrees in Elementary Education, pointing to a potential shortage of qualified educators, particularly given the increasing focus on early childhood education. Additionally, the data indicates that many fields, such as Psychology, Computer Sciences, and the Arts, did not yield any graduates, which could highlight either a lack of interest or insufficient program support in these areas.
Overall, the data highlights the importance of tailoring educational offerings to meet workforce demands, particularly in healthcare and business, while also addressing the gaps in fields that are vital for a well-rounded society. As the job market evolves, colleges like Gordon State must adapt their programs to ensure that they are producing graduates who can fulfill the needs of the economy.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,993-$80,957 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $33,115-$43,839 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $41,695 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $41,695 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $28,196 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $21,796 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $31,666 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $33,417 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | ||
| Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
Students
3,179 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 32:68 · Freshman retention 51.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,675
- First-year undergraduates 499
- Transfers and others 1,005
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,179)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Gordon State College in 2023
The student population at Gordon State College for the year 2023 reveals significant trends in gender distribution and diversity among various classifications of students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 851, with a male representation of 47.2% and female representation of 52.8%. This slight female majority reflects a broader trend observed across many institutions, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males, particularly in undergraduate programs.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors show a more pronounced gender disparity, with only 29.5% males compared to 70.5% females among the 1550 students. This indicates a shift in demographics as students progress through their academic journeys, potentially influenced by academic interests and social factors impacting retention rates for different genders.
Furthermore, the data for undergraduate transfer students also shows a similar pattern, with 30.5% male and 69.5% female representation among 262 students. This consistency in gender ratios across both junior and transfer students could suggest that female students are more likely to persist and transfer within their educational pathways.
The data on diversity among student subgroups, particularly among white, Latino, and other ethnicities, is crucial for understanding the college's commitment to inclusivity. However, detailed statistics on these subgroups were not provided, leaving a gap in our ability to fully assess the college's demographic landscape.
Overall, these findings highlight the importance of ongoing efforts to understand and support gender and ethnic diversity within higher education institutions. As trends evolve, educational policies and support systems may need to adapt to the unique challenges and opportunities presented by these demographic shifts.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Gordon State College
The age composition of students at Gordon State College reveals notable trends that reflect broader educational patterns. The majority of the undergraduate students are concentrated in the younger age categories, particularly under 24 years old, with the largest group being those aged 18-19, accounting for approximately 43.47% of total undergraduates. This aligns with national trends showing that younger individuals are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school.
Interestingly, the data indicates a significant drop in enrollment as students age, particularly for those between 25 and 29 years, where only about 9.48% of the total undergraduate population resides. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including life responsibilities and career commitments that often deter older students from pursuing or continuing their education.
Moreover, the absence of graduate male students in the data raises questions about gender disparities in higher education. While female representation remains strong across all age groups, the lack of male graduate students may suggest a need for targeted programs to encourage male participation at the graduate level.
The overall gender distribution also highlights an interesting dynamic, with the total female student body significantly outnumbering males, particularly in the younger age groups. This trend may reflect ongoing societal changes where females are increasingly pursuing higher education, thus impacting the overall student demographic.
In summary, the age composition at Gordon State College mirrors current trends in higher education, while also presenting unique insights into gender representation and age-related enrollment patterns that may warrant further investigation.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
8 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Gordon State College
The data on international student enrollment at Gordon State College reveals a notable decline over the years. Starting in 2004 with 29 international students, the numbers peaked in 2010 with 17 students, after which there was a significant drop. By 2014, the international student count had dwindled to just 3, representing a mere 0.07% of the undergraduate population. This trend could reflect broader issues such as changing immigration policies, increased competition from other institutions, or shifts in global demographics.
From 2015 onwards, there appears to be a slight recovery, with numbers rising to 10 in 2023. However, the overall percentages remain low, indicating that international students constitute only a small fraction of the total student body. The peak percentage recorded was 0.85% in 2004, but this has not sustained over the years, demonstrating a declining trend in the institution's appeal to international students.
This decline might also be indicative of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education, as many students faced travel restrictions and uncertainties regarding studying abroad. As colleges adapt to a post-pandemic landscape, it is crucial for Gordon State College to explore strategies to attract a diverse international student body, such as enhancing support services, promoting its unique programs, and creating partnerships with educational institutions worldwide. The future of international enrollment will depend on how effectively the institution responds to these challenges and capitalizes on new opportunities in the global education market.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$21,392
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $10,948
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $3,628
- Room and board
- $10,444
Peer median tuition + room and board $23,440 · all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 8% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$36.7M
Expenses$38.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Soccer | - | 15 |
| Basketball | 12 | - |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Soccer | - | 16 |
| Basketball | 12 | - |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Soccer | - | 19 |
| Basketball | 15 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 32.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 50.6 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 50.7 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 50.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 52.1 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 52.4 mi
U.S. News #23
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 77.3 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 83.4 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 135.9 mi
U.S. News #80
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Gordon State College:
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Emory University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Emory University is a prestigious private research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Known commonly as Georgia Tech, this public research university is ranked 33rd in the 2024 US News rankings. It specializes in engineering and technology, offering innovative programs that prepare students for careers in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
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University of Georgia - With a ranking of 47th, the University of Georgia is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its strong research initiatives.
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Auburn University - Ranked 93rd, Auburn University is a public research university located in Auburn, Alabama. It is well-known for its engineering, business, and agriculture programs, fostering a vibrant campus community.
-
Florida State University - With a ranking of 53rd, Florida State University is a public research university in Tallahassee, Florida. It offers a diverse array of programs and is committed to research, academic excellence, and community engagement.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence in different fields.
Peer median 0.7 · all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges 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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Gordon State College
The crime statistics at Gordon State College over the years reveal a significant fluctuation in the number of reported incidents per 1,000 students. In 2013, the crime rate was alarmingly high at 7.77, which marked a concerning trend. However, there seems to be a gradual decline in crime rates, reaching a low of 0.99 in 2021, suggesting successful interventions or changes in campus safety measures.
Interestingly, the year 2020 saw a dramatic drop in crime rates, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activities and student presence. This trend continued into 2021 but saw a resurgence in 2023 with a rate of 7.02, indicating a potential return to pre-pandemic levels of campus activity and possibly an increase in reported incidents as students returned to normalcy.
Notably, the types of crimes recorded have also varied, with gun-related arrests consistently present, emphasizing an ongoing concern regarding firearm-related incidents on campus. The college's community must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these issues to maintain a safe environment for all students.
Overall, while there has been a notable reduction in crime rates from 2013 to 2021, the recent uptick in 2023 raises questions that warrant further investigation. Continuous monitoring, community engagement, and effective law enforcement collaborations will be essential in ensuring that safety remains a priority at Gordon State College. For more insights on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Gordon State College include Richard Russell Jr. (Governor of Georgia and U.S. Senator), William D. Pawley (U.S. ambassador and businessman linked to Flying Tigers) and Tino García (Nicaraguan-Puerto Rican comedy actor).
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Richard Russell Jr. 1897–1971
Governor of Georgia and U.S. Senator
-
William D. Pawley 1896–1977
U.S. ambassador and businessman linked to Flying Tigers
-
Tino García 1935–2015
Nicaraguan-Puerto Rican comedy actor
-
Samuel Jr. Sawaji 1990–
Japanese American professional basketball player
-
Bob Hanner 1945–2019
Businessman and politician
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.