About Clayton State University
Clayton State University serves 4,390 students who want career-focused education without leaving metro Atlanta. The university built its reputation on practical programs in business, nursing, and health sciences that prepare graduates for immediate employment. With 97% of students coming from Georgia, this feels like a commuter school where local students can earn degrees close to home. The suburban Morrow campus sits in a large metropolitan area, giving students access to Atlanta's job market and internship opportunities.
Students pay an average net price of $10,145 after financial aid, making this one of Georgia's more affordable public options. More than half of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the university's role serving working-class families. Graduates earn a median of $49,179 ten years after starting college, though they carry $25,706 in debt. The employment rate hits 93.7%, suggesting strong job placement despite the modest salary figures. Monthly loan payments average $273, which represents a reasonable burden given typical graduate earnings.
Women make up 70% of the student body, and nearly 65% of students are Black, creating a distinct campus culture. The Lakers compete in NCAA Division II with 155 student-athletes across 10 sports. The 35% six-year graduation rate reflects the challenges many working students face completing degrees.
Students pay an average net price of $10,145 after financial aid, making this one of Georgia's more affordable public options. More than half of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the university's role serving working-class families. Graduates earn a median of $49,179 ten years after starting college, though they carry $25,706 in debt. The employment rate hits 93.7%, suggesting strong job placement despite the modest salary figures. Monthly loan payments average $273, which represents a reasonable burden given typical graduate earnings.
Women make up 70% of the student body, and nearly 65% of students are Black, creating a distinct campus culture. The Lakers compete in NCAA Division II with 155 student-athletes across 10 sports. The 35% six-year graduation rate reflects the challenges many working students face completing degrees.
Academics & Faculty
Clayton State builds careers through hands-on programs in business, nursing, and health sciences. The university's 17:1 student-faculty ratio provides decent access to professors, though the 35% six-year graduation rate suggests many students struggle to finish. Business programs emphasize practical skills and internships with Atlanta-area employers. The nursing program maintains strong clinical partnerships with regional hospitals. Health science degrees prepare students for growing medical fields. With 97% of students from Georgia, the university serves as an affordable pathway to middle-class careers for local residents. Faculty focus on applied learning rather than research, making this a teaching-centered institution.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 71.3%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 35.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 35.4%
- Retention Rate
- 73.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $49,179
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Medium)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $68,394 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $53,894 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Bachelor | $52,607 |
| Education, General. | Master | $50,856 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $47,260 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $45,696 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $41,937 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $40,492 |
| History. | Bachelor | $39,585 |
| Legal Support Services. | Certificate | $38,289 |
Campus Life
Clayton State serves 4,390 students on a suburban campus just 15 miles south of downtown Atlanta. The housing capacity accommodates 1,246 students, meaning about 28% can live on campus while most commute from the metro area. Georgia's mild climate means you'll need light jackets for winter but sunscreen becomes essential during the long, humid summers that stretch into September.
With 70% women and 65% Black students, Clayton State has developed a close-knit community feel despite being a commuter school. The 97% in-state enrollment creates strong regional connections. Students often head to nearby Southlake Mall or venture into Atlanta on weekends for internships, jobs, and entertainment. The Lakers compete in 10 NCAA Division II sports with 155 total athletes, though game attendance varies given the commuter nature. Study groups form naturally in the library and student center as many students balance classes with work. The semester system allows for winter and summer break jobs that help manage the $25,706 median debt load.
With 70% women and 65% Black students, Clayton State has developed a close-knit community feel despite being a commuter school. The 97% in-state enrollment creates strong regional connections. Students often head to nearby Southlake Mall or venture into Atlanta on weekends for internships, jobs, and entertainment. The Lakers compete in 10 NCAA Division II sports with 155 total athletes, though game attendance varies given the commuter nature. Study groups form naturally in the library and student center as many students balance classes with work. The semester system allows for winter and summer break jobs that help manage the $25,706 median debt load.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 1,246 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
Campus Safety (2023)
86 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dating Violence | 15 | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Stalking | 14 | 8 | 0 | 0 |
| Burglary | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Fondling | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 32°–52°F
- July Avg
- 70°–89°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 52.9"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.8"
Student Demographics
Nearly all students at Clayton State come from Georgia, reflecting its role as a reliable option for metro Atlanta residents seeking affordable four-year degrees. Women make up seven out of ten students, drawn largely to the university's strong nursing and health sciences programs. More than half of students receive Pell Grants, making this a pathway to middle-class careers for working families. The student body is predominantly Black, with Clayton State serving as an important access point for underrepresented students pursuing business and healthcare professions in the Atlanta area.
- Men
- 29.9%
- Women
- 70.1%
- White
- 9.6%
- Black
- 64.9%
- Hispanic
- 12.0%
- Asian
- 5.4%
- In-State Students
- 97.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 51.9%
Location
Morrow sits 15 miles south of downtown Atlanta, placing Clayton State in the heart of Georgia's largest metro area. The suburban setting gives students access to major city opportunities while maintaining a quieter campus environment. With 97% of students coming from in-state, the university draws heavily from Georgia's diverse population. The campus serves a predominantly female student body at 70%, reflecting strong enrollment in the university's signature nursing and health sciences programs. Atlanta's job market helps explain the 93.7% employment rate for graduates. The location offers internships and career connections throughout the metro region. Students considering colleges in Georgia may also compare Clayton State with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Morrow, Georgia 30260-0285
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $49,179
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $54,640
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $35,900
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 36.1%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $273/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $25,706
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Clayton State University?
Clayton State accepts 56% of applicants with an average SAT score of 990. The university serves as an accessible entry point for students in metro Atlanta seeking business, nursing, and health sciences programs.
How much does Clayton State University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $10,145 annually, with 52% receiving financial aid. The university keeps costs manageable for Georgia residents with in-state tuition at just $5,068.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Clayton State University?
Clayton State maintains a 17:1 student-faculty ratio among its 4,390 students. The university emphasizes career preparation through hands-on learning in business and health sciences programs.
What are the graduation rates at Clayton State University?
About 35% of students graduate within six years, with a 73% retention rate from freshman to sophomore year. Graduates earn a median salary of $49,179 after ten years, reflecting the university's focus on practical career training.
Where is Clayton State University located?
The campus sits in Morrow, Georgia, a large suburb of Atlanta with housing for 1,246 students. Nearly 97% of students come from Georgia, making it a local destination for metro Atlanta residents.
What is unique about the student demographics at Clayton State University?
Women make up 70% of the student body, with 65% of students identifying as Black. The university serves as an important pathway for diverse students pursuing careers in nursing and business in the Atlanta region.
