University of North Georgia
Acceptance rate
67.9%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$16,956
In-state $5,444
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
18,322
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
33.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 51.8%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of North Georgia (UNG) is a prominent public university located in the picturesque northern region of Georgia, USA. Established in 2013 through the consolidation of several institutions, UNG offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing both academic excellence and practical experience. One of the university's standout features is its strong commitment to leadership development, reflected in its motto: "To Lead, To Serve." This philosophy encourages students to engage in community service and leadership initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and civic engagement among its graduates.
UNG boasts a vibrant campus culture enriched by its active student life and numerous extracurricular activities. With a student body that embraces diversity, the university offers many clubs, organizations, and sports teams that cater to various interests and backgrounds. The campus facilities are well-equipped, featuring modern classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and recreational amenities, including athletic fields and fitness centers. The university's emphasis on outdoor activities and sports, particularly through its championship-winning athletic teams, enhances the overall student experience. Additionally, UNG's strategic location provides students with access to both urban and natural attractions, making it an ideal place for study and leisure. Overall, the University of North Georgia fosters an environment that nurtures academic growth, personal development, and a sense of community.
Analysis of Key Metrics at the University of North Georgia
The University of North Georgia has displayed notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention.
Tuition costs have seen a steady increase from 2014 to 2023, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from $4,458 to $5,182, while out-of-state tuition increased from $12,923 to $15,861. This upward trend in tuition can significantly impact accessibility for potential students, especially those from lower-income families. The cost of education remains a crucial factor in college choice and long-term student debt.
Additionally, the graduation rates reflect a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students increased from 28.12% in 2014 to 30.55% in 2023. This improvement indicates that more students are completing their degrees within the standard timeframe, which is essential for reducing overall student debt and promoting employability upon graduation.
Retention rates, which measure the percentage of first-year students who continue at the institution, also show a decline. Starting at 79.64% in 2014, the retention rate dipped to approximately 72.24% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about student satisfaction and support systems within the university. Maintaining higher retention rates is critical for institutions, as it reflects the effectiveness of academic and social integration strategies.
Overall, while the University of North Georgia has made strides in improving graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and declining retention rates pose challenges that need to be addressed to ensure sustainable growth and student success in the future.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Atlanta, about 60 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 70 mi
- Also known as
- UNG
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Michael Shannon (President)
- Phone
- 7068641400
- Address
- 82 College Circle, Dahlonega, GA 30597
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 81.9%, women 81.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data at the University of North Georgia
The admission data for the University of North Georgia reveals interesting trends over the years. The overall acceptance rates for males and females have shown fluctuations, with male acceptance rates peaking at approximately 94.67% in 2016, while female acceptance rates reached about 97.22% the same year. This indicates a highly competitive environment during that period, likely influenced by the university's growing reputation.
In terms of enrollment, there was a significant increase in the number of students admitted over the years, reaching a peak of 4,464 in 2019. However, this was accompanied by a notable rise in the number of students being denied admission, particularly in 2023, where 3,620 applicants were rejected. This suggests that while the university is attracting more applications, it is becoming increasingly selective in its admissions process, which is a common trend among institutions aiming to enhance their academic profile.
Moreover, the number of students deferring their admission has also increased, peaking at 4,777 in 2021. This could reflect broader societal trends, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading many students to reconsider their immediate educational paths.
Overall, the data suggests that the University of North Georgia is navigating a complex landscape of increasing applications and selectivity, a trend that is mirrored across many universities in the United States. This may indicate a strategic shift towards maintaining academic excellence and institutional prestige as competition continues to rise 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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School8 programs—
Health Specialty1 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 · 38% submitted SAT, 17% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at the University of North Georgia
The admissions data from the University of North Georgia reveals several interesting trends over the years. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting their SAT scores has fluctuated significantly. In 2014, for instance, 81% of applicants submitted their SAT scores, which is markedly higher compared to just 29% in 2022. This decline may suggest a shift in applicant behavior or a broader trend toward test-optional admissions policies across many universities, which have gained traction in recent years.
Looking at the standardized test scores, there appears to be an overall increase in the range of scores over the years. For example, the 25th percentile SAT reading and math scores ranged from 460 to 570 in 2014, while in 2022, they increased to a range of 530 to 623. This upward trend indicates that the quality of admitted students has improved, reflecting a more competitive admissions landscape.
Furthermore, the data shows that the number of applicants submitting scores has generally increased in recent years, with 2023 seeing 69% of applicants submitting their SAT scores. This could indicate a re-emphasis on standardized testing in the admissions process, possibly in response to changing evaluation criteria during and after the pandemic.
In conclusion, the admissions data from the University of North Georgia not only highlights the evolving nature of applicant behaviors concerning standardized testing but also reflects broader trends in higher education admissions practices. As institutions continue to adapt to these changes, the implications for future admissions strategies are significant.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
13,298 applicants in 2025, 67.9% admitted
9,035 admitted 4,263 not admitted Yield 47.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's44 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's37 (0% international)
- Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral34 (15% international)
- Early Childhood Education and Teaching · Master's23 (0% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's21 (0% international)
- Computer Science · Master's20 (45% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at the University of North Georgia
The graduation data from the University of North Georgia shows a notable trend in the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields of study. Business Administration and Management leads the chart with 191 bachelor's degrees conferred, implying a strong interest in business-related disciplines among students. This trend aligns with the national focus on business education, which is often seen as a pathway to lucrative career opportunities.
The data also reveals a significant representation of international students, particularly in the Bachelor's programs, with 7 graduates in Business Administration and 3 in Computer and Information Sciences. This indicates that the university is becoming an attractive destination for international students in these fields, reflecting a broader global trend of increasing international student enrollment in U.S. universities.
Interestingly, the fields of healthcare, particularly nursing and physical therapy, show a growing number of graduates, especially at the master’s and doctorate levels, highlighting the increasing demand for healthcare professionals. With 39 doctorate degrees awarded in Physical Therapy and 10 in Nursing, it is evident that the university is playing a crucial role in preparing graduates for critical roles in healthcare.
Furthermore, there is a clear absence of associate degrees awarded, which may indicate a focused push towards bachelor's and higher degrees, potentially aligning with workforce demands for specialized skills. As education continues to evolve, institutions like the University of North Georgia must adapt their programs to meet the changing needs of the job market and student interests, particularly in high-demand fields like business and healthcare.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $95,228 | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $51,828 | ||||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $51,828 | ||||
| Accounting. | $58,293-$70,317 | ||||
| Finance, General. | $52,177 | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $46,227 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $35,004-$41,155 | ||||
| General Studies. | $35,004-$41,155 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $60,679 | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $49,086-$58,311 | ||||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $49,086-$58,311 | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $49,086-$58,311 | ||||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $49,086-$58,311 | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $49,086-$58,311 | ||||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - | ||||
| Social Science Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator. | - | ||||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | - | ||||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $74,492 | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,462-$94,867 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $83,462-$94,867 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $62,852 | ||||
| Information Science/Studies. | $55,678 | ||||
| Computer Science. | - | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $55,255 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other. | $40,117-$54,896 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | $34,009 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,158 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $45,537 | ||||
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $45,537 | ||||
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | $45,537 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $42,808 | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $35,301 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial and Advertising Art. | - | ||||
| Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology. | - | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $29,462 | ||||
| Music, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Relations and Affairs. | $47,707 | ||||
| National Security Policy Studies. | $47,707 | ||||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $45,340 | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $40,985 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $37,048 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $40,997 | ||||
| Public Administration. | $53,898 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $48,865 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | $38,192 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Asian Studies. | - |
Students
19,291 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 73.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 10,953
- First-year undergraduates 4,024
- Graduate students 969
- Transfers and others 3,345
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (18,322)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at the University of North Georgia in 2023
The student demographics at the University of North Georgia for the year 2023 reveal a vibrant and diverse academic community. With a total of 19,024 students enrolled, the breakdown shows a significant representation of undergraduate freshmen, upperclassmen, transfer students, and graduate students. Notably, undergraduate freshmen comprise 20.3% of the student population, while upperclassmen make up 59.1%, indicating a robust retention rate and a thriving undergraduate environment.
In terms of gender distribution, the data showcases a higher percentage of female students across all categories. For instance, while 53% of undergraduate freshmen are female, this percentage increases to 56.7% for upperclassmen. Graduate students also display a notable gender disparity, with 72.1% being female. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards higher female participation in higher education, particularly in graduate studies.
Racial and ethnic diversity, while not fully detailed in all categories, indicates that white students are the largest demographic group among undergraduates. However, the presence of minorities and international students continues to enrich the university's cultural fabric. As institutions increasingly focus on inclusivity and representation, the University of North Georgia seems to align with these goals by fostering a diverse educational environment.
Overall, these statistics suggest a healthy and dynamic student body, with ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and support for all students, particularly underrepresented groups. The gender dynamics and the increasing enrollment of female students may also reflect societal trends that encourage young women to pursue higher education and leadership roles.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at the University of North Georgia
The age distribution of students at the University of North Georgia reveals a predominance of younger individuals, with the majority falling within the 18-21 age range. Specifically, students aged 18-19 account for approximately 29% of the total student population, while those aged 20-21 represent about 24%. This trend is indicative of traditional undergraduate enrollment patterns, where younger students typically transition directly from high school to college.
Interestingly, the numbers show a stark decline in enrollment as age increases. For instance, students aged 22-24 make up roughly 15% of the total, while those aged 25-29 drop to about 9%. Beyond the age of 30, the numbers continue to dwindle, with students aged 30-34 representing only about 3% of the total population. This could reflect a combination of factors, including the life commitments that come with age, such as work and family responsibilities, which may deter older individuals from pursuing higher education.
Moreover, gender distribution is notable across various age categories. In the younger age brackets, female students outnumber male students significantly, with the 18-19 category showing a female-to-male ratio of approximately 1.26. However, this trend appears to balance out in the older categories, suggesting that as students age and potentially pursue graduate studies or professional advancement, the gender gap narrows.
Overall, the data highlights the university's role in catering to a youthful demographic, while also indicating potential areas for outreach to older students who might benefit from flexible learning opportunities, especially given the ongoing discussions around adult education and workforce development in today's dynamic 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.
214 in 2025 · 1.6% in 2016
29 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of North Georgia
The data on international student enrollment at the University of North Georgia over the past decade presents an interesting overview of trends in higher education. It is evident that while the total number of undergraduate students has generally increased, the proportion of international students remains relatively low. For instance, in 2023, international students comprised only 1.23% of the undergraduate population, a figure that has seen slight fluctuations but has not shown significant growth over the years.
In contrast, the graduate student population reflects a slightly higher percentage of international students, reaching 1.39% in 2023. However, this is still modest compared to many other universities in the United States, where international student representation often exceeds 10%. The fluctuation in numbers, particularly noticeable in the graduate student data where some values are missing, suggests potential challenges in attracting international graduate students consistently.
The global landscape of higher education has been shifting, especially in light of recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and changing immigration policies. These factors may impact international student mobility and choice of institutions. As universities, including the University of North Georgia, strive to enhance their global footprint, it becomes essential to develop robust support systems and marketing strategies aimed at attracting a diverse international student body.
In conclusion, while the University of North Georgia has made some strides in increasing its international enrollment, particularly at the graduate level, there remains significant room for improvement. As competition among institutions intensifies, focusing on enhancing the international student experience could be key to fostering a more diverse academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$29,726
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $16,956
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,444
- Room and board
- $12,770
- Graduate tuition
- $18,484
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$277M
Expenses$279M
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 43 | 27 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 16 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 25 |
| Golf | 15 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 10 | 8 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 36 | 29 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 26 |
| Golf | 16 | 10 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 28 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 28 |
| Basketball | 13 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Golf | 14 | 7 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Rifle | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 52.9 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 54.7 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 55.5 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 57.3 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 58.4 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 59.5 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 66.2 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 91.9 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 98.3 mi
U.S. News #109
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of North Georgia:
-
University of Georgia - Ranked 47th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Emory University - With a rank of 24, Emory University is a prestigious comprehensive institution that excels in various fields, including medicine and law.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33rd, Georgia Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs, attracting students from around the globe.
-
Clemson University - This comprehensive university is ranked 86th and is well-known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
-
Mercer University - Ranked 170th, Mercer offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its commitment to service and leadership.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are excellent choices for students seeking quality education in the region.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at the University of North Georgia
The crime statistics at the University of North Georgia over the years present a fluctuating trend that raises concerns regarding campus safety. In 2013, the recorded incidents were notably high at 63.4 per 1,000 students. However, a significant drop occurred in the following years, reaching a low of 1.73 in 2014. This decline could reflect improved safety measures or effective crime prevention strategies.
Yet, from 2017 onwards, there was a worrying surge in crime rates, with 2018 recording a rate of 2.39 and escalating to 6.98 in 2020. The peak in 2020, which coincides with the global pandemic, could suggest potential correlations between external circumstances and increased campus crime. The increase in arrests related to gun possession and drug-related offenses during these years indicates a growing concern for substance-related issues among students.
Interestingly, 2021 showed a slight decrease to 5.08, only to rise again in 2022 and 2023, indicating that the university continues to grapple with safety challenges. The prevalence of offenses such as domestic violence, assault, and theft highlights the need for ongoing dialogue about safety protocols and student well-being initiatives.
Overall, while there have been periods of improvement, the rising trends in crime rates suggest that the university community must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these issues. Continuous evaluation of safety policies and support systems is essential for fostering a secure educational environment. For more detailed information on calculating crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of North Georgia include Doug Collins (12th US Secretary of Veterans Affairs), John Stephens Wood (Georgia attorney and U.S. representative) and James Jarrard (Retired US Army lieutenant general).
-
Doug Collins 1966–
12th US Secretary of Veterans Affairs
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John Stephens Wood 1885–1968
Georgia attorney and U.S. representative
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James Jarrard 1966–
Retired US Army lieutenant general
-
Galina Dimitrova 1978–
Former Bulgarian professional tennis player
-
Farish Carter Tate 1856–1922
US representative from Georgia
-
Janisse Ray 1962–
Writer, naturalist and environmental activist
-
Matt Gurtler 1988–
Former Georgia state representative
Recent News at University of North Georgia
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
The University of North Georgia officially renamed its College of Health Sciences & Professions to the College of Health & Wellness, reflecting a strategic focus on prevention and holistic wellness.
Source: ung.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.