About Fort Valley State University
Fort Valley State University builds on a legacy of agricultural excellence and HBCU tradition in central Georgia's farming heartland. The university serves 2,541 students in a town-fringe setting that connects rural heritage with modern opportunities. Known for strong agriculture programs, Fort Valley has trained generations of farmers, veterinarians, and agricultural scientists. The campus maintains deep ties to Georgia's farming communities while expanding into business, education, and health sciences.
Students pay an average net price of $11,609 after financial aid, with 72% receiving Pell Grants. Graduates earn a median of $36,666 ten years after graduation, though they typically carry $31,000 in debt. The financial picture reflects the university's mission to serve first-generation college students and rural communities. Monthly loan payments average $329, making the degree accessible for working-class families.
Women make up 65% of the student body, and 92% of students are Black, creating a supportive environment for African American success. The Wildcats compete in NCAA Division II with 279 student-athletes across 12 sports. Fort Valley's 72% retention rate shows students find community here, though the 45% graduation rate suggests academic support could be stronger. Campus housing accommodates 1,400 students in a close-knit agricultural setting.
Students pay an average net price of $11,609 after financial aid, with 72% receiving Pell Grants. Graduates earn a median of $36,666 ten years after graduation, though they typically carry $31,000 in debt. The financial picture reflects the university's mission to serve first-generation college students and rural communities. Monthly loan payments average $329, making the degree accessible for working-class families.
Women make up 65% of the student body, and 92% of students are Black, creating a supportive environment for African American success. The Wildcats compete in NCAA Division II with 279 student-athletes across 12 sports. Fort Valley's 72% retention rate shows students find community here, though the 45% graduation rate suggests academic support could be stronger. Campus housing accommodates 1,400 students in a close-knit agricultural setting.
Academics & Faculty
Fort Valley State University built its academic reputation around agriculture and veterinary programs, earning recognition as one of the leading agricultural institutions among HBCUs. The university operates extensive research facilities and working farms that give students hands-on experience in animal science, plant science, and agricultural technology. With an 18:1 student-faculty ratio, professors can provide individualized attention in both classroom and field settings. The 45% graduation rate reflects the challenging nature of science-heavy programs, but students who persist benefit from strong industry connections. Beyond agriculture, the university offers solid programs in education, business, and nursing, all designed to serve Georgia's rural communities and agricultural economy.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 18:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 71.3%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 45.4%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 45.2%
- Retention Rate
- 72.6%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $36,666
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Small)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $48,432 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $41,007 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $36,608 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Master | $35,060 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Bachelor | $33,281 |
| Public Health. | Master | $32,925 |
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $30,771 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $30,554 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $29,685 |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Bachelor | $28,598 |
Campus Life
Fort Valley sits about 100 miles south of Atlanta in Georgia's rural heartland. With housing for 1,400 students and total enrollment of 2,541, roughly half the campus lives in dorms. The humid subtropical climate means you'll need sunscreen more than heavy coats, though light jackets work for mild winters.
The 92.44% Black student body creates a tight-knit HBCU community where agriculture programs dominate campus conversations. Students often gather around the school's working farm and veterinary facilities. Weekend activities center on the Wildcats' 12 NCAA Division II sports teams, particularly football games that draw the whole town. With 279 total athletes on campus, sports culture runs deep. The small-town setting means most social life happens on campus rather than venturing into Fort Valley itself. Greek life provides another social anchor, along with agriculture clubs that reflect the university's farming heritage. Students describe a family atmosphere where the 18:1 student-faculty ratio creates personal connections with professors who know your name.
The 92.44% Black student body creates a tight-knit HBCU community where agriculture programs dominate campus conversations. Students often gather around the school's working farm and veterinary facilities. Weekend activities center on the Wildcats' 12 NCAA Division II sports teams, particularly football games that draw the whole town. With 279 total athletes on campus, sports culture runs deep. The small-town setting means most social life happens on campus rather than venturing into Fort Valley itself. Greek life provides another social anchor, along with agriculture clubs that reflect the university's farming heritage. Students describe a family atmosphere where the 18:1 student-faculty ratio creates personal connections with professors who know your name.
- Setting
- Town-Fringe
- Housing Capacity
- 1,400 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1939
Campus Safety (2023)
1 total reported incident. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rape | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 36°–57°F
- July Avg
- 72°–91°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 51.8"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
Fort Valley State draws students from across Georgia who see opportunity in its agricultural programs and HBCU legacy. About two-thirds of students come from in-state, reflecting the university's strong reputation within Georgia's Black communities. Nearly three-quarters receive Pell Grants, making this an access point for first-generation college students. Women make up about 65% of enrollment, drawn particularly to the school's veterinary science and nursing programs. The student body is 92% Black, creating a supportive environment where students can thrive academically while connecting to their cultural heritage.
- Men
- 34.5%
- Women
- 65.5%
- White
- 1.6%
- Black
- 92.4%
- Hispanic
- 2.4%
- Asian
- 0.2%
- In-State Students
- 68.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 72.0%
Location
Fort Valley sits in central Georgia, roughly 30 miles south of Macon and 100 miles southeast of Atlanta. The campus serves 2,541 students in a classic small college town environment surrounded by Georgia's agricultural heartland. Fort Valley's peach orchards and farmland reflect the university's strong agricultural heritage and programs. The town-fringe setting offers a close-knit community feel while maintaining access to larger cities. About 68% of students come from within Georgia, drawn to the affordable in-state tuition of $5,392. The rural Georgia location provides a peaceful academic environment away from urban distractions. Students considering colleges in Georgia may also compare Fort Valley State University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Fort Valley, Georgia 31030-4313
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $36,666
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $43,997
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $25,500
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 19.2%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $329/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $31,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Fort Valley State University?
Fort Valley State University accepts 43.09% of applicants with an average SAT score of 880. As a historically black public university, FVSU provides accessible higher education opportunities while maintaining academic standards.
How much does Fort Valley State University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $11,609 after financial aid, with 71.95% receiving financial assistance. In-state tuition starts at just $5,392, making this HBCU one of Georgia's most affordable university options.
What is Fort Valley State University known for academically?
Fort Valley State University has built its reputation on strong agriculture programs since its founding in 1939. With a student-faculty ratio of 18:1, the university provides hands-on learning experiences in agricultural sciences and other fields.
What are the graduation rates at Fort Valley State University?
Fort Valley State University has a 6-year graduation rate of 45.20% and retains 72.56% of students after their first year. Graduates earn a median salary of $36,666 ten years after graduation, with strong employment prospects in agriculture and related fields.
Where is Fort Valley State University located and what is campus life like?
Fort Valley State University sits in the small town of Fort Valley, Georgia, with housing capacity for 1,400 students. The campus serves 2,541 students who are predominantly women (65.49%) and African American (92.44%), creating a close-knit HBCU community.
Does Fort Valley State University have strong athletic programs?
Fort Valley State University competes as the Wildcats in NCAA Division II with 12 varsity sports and 279 total athletes. The university awards $404,209 in athletic scholarships annually, supporting student-athletes in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
