About
Clayton State University is a public university in Morrow, Georgia. It is a senior unit of the University System of Georgia and serves the metro Atlanta area. The university was founded in 1969 as Clayton Junior College and became a four-year institution in 1986. 1996 the name was changed to Clayton State College and State University. The current name, Clayton State University, was adopted in 2005.
The university has a main campus of 192 acres (0.78 km2) of wooded grounds featuring five lakes and a park-like atmosphere. The campus is located in the north-central part of Clayton County in suburban south metro Atlanta, about a 15-minute drive from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and about 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Clayton State University offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and technology. The university also offers several online and hybrid courses.
The university has a student body of over 10,000 students, with a majority of students coming from Georgia. The university also has a large international student population, with students from over 50 countries. Clayton State University is ranked #103-135 in the Regional Universities South category by U.S. News & World Report. The university is also ranked #49-58 in Top Public Schools and #32 in Top Performers on Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report.
The acceptance rate for international students at Clayton State University is 51%. International students at Clayton State University are charged non-resident tuition. The tuition and fees for international students for the 2023-2024 academic year are as follows:
- Undergraduate: $18,838 per year
- Graduate: $20,568 per year
In addition to tuition and fees, international students are also required to pay several other expenses, such as:
- Housing: $7,000-$10,000 per year
- Food: $4,000-$5,000 per year
- Books and supplies: $1,000-$2,000 per year
- Transportation: $1,000-$2,000 per year
- Personal expenses: $1,000-$2,000 per year
The total cost of attendance for international students at Clayton State University can range from $27,000 to $35,000 per year.
Top Reasons to Study in the Clayton State University
- Affordable tuition: Clayton State University is a public university, so tuition is relatively affordable. In-state tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is $5,568. This is significantly lower than the average tuition for other public universities in Georgia.
- Small class sizes: Clayton State University has a student body of over 10,000 students, but the average class size is 25 students. This allows students to get to know their professors and classmates well and to receive more individualised attention.
- Excellent faculty: Clayton State University has a faculty of over 500 full-time professors. These professors are experts in their fields and are committed to helping students succeed.
- Academic solid programs: Clayton State University offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and technology. Leading national organisations accredit the university's programs, and students can be confident that they receive a high-quality education.
- Vibrant campus life: Clayton State University has a vibrant campus life with various student organisations, clubs, and activities. Students can get involved in everything from intramural sports to Greek life to student government.
- Convenient location: Clayton State University is in Morrow, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta. This makes it easy for students to commute to and from campus and gives them access to all the cultural and economic opportunities of Atlanta.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
62%
Application Fee
$50
How to Apply at Clayton State University
The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.
Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Online Application from their official website.
- The application fee is $40 (Non-refundable) for international students.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of teacher recommendation
- Financial Aid Statement of Intent
Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Online Application on their official website.
- The application fee is $40 (Non-refundable) for international students.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS
- Personal statement/essay writing
- Transfer Report Form
- Letter of recommendation
- Financial documentation
Documents Required to Apply to Clayton State University
Undergraduate Students
- Complete the Online Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
- SAT/ACT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS English Test scores.
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of recommendation
- Financial documentation
- Resume
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students
- Complete the Online Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous from your high school or college attended
- GRE/GMAT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS English Test scores.
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume (Relevant work experience)
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
All documents must be in English or have an official English translation
Exams Accepted By Clayton State University
Undergraduate Students
- Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS English Test scores.
Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students
- Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS English Test scores.
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
- Public transportation: MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) provides bus service to Clayton State University. The MARTA bus stop is near Jonesboro Road, just outside the Clayton State University main entrance. The Clayton State University stop is on Route 193.
- Car: Free parking is available on campus for students, faculty, and staff. However, parking can be limited, so it is essential to arrive early.
- Ride-sharing: There are a number of ride-sharing services available in the City of Clayton State University, such as Uber and Lyft. These services can be a convenient way to get to and from campus, especially if you are traveling with a group of people.
- Bicycle: Clayton State University has a bike share program that allows students to rent bicycles for free. This can be a great way to get around campus and explore the surrounding area.
Services offered by the university
- Academic support: Clayton State University offers various services, such as tutoring, a writing centre, and a math lab. These services are available to all students, regardless of their academic level.
- Career services: Clayton State University offers career services to help students find jobs and internships. These services include resume writing, interview skills training, and job search assistance.
- Financial aid: Clayton State University offers financial aid to help students pay for their education. This aid can come through grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
- Student health services: Clayton State University offers student health services to provide students with preventive and treatment care. These services include a health clinic, a pharmacy, and a counselling centre.
- Student activities: Clayton State University offers a variety of student activities, such as clubs, organisations, and sports. These activities provide students with opportunities to get involved on campus and to meet new people.
Student life at Clayton State University
- Intramural sports: Clayton State University offers a variety of intramural sports, including basketball, flag football, soccer, and volleyball. These sports are a great way to get exercise, meet new people, and have some fun.
- Greek life: Clayton State University has several Greek organisations, including fraternities and sororities. Greek life is a great way to get involved on campus, make friends, and build leadership skills.
- Student government: Clayton State University has a student government comprising students elected by the student body. Student government is a great way to get involved on campus and make a difference in the lives of your fellow students.
- Clubs and Organisations: Clayton State University has over 100 clubs and organisations, so there is something for everyone. Students can join clubs and organisations related to their academic interests, hobbies, and passions.
- Performing arts: Clayton State University has a vibrant performing arts program that includes theatre, dance, and music departments. Students can get involved in productions, recitals, and concerts.
- Recreation and Wellness: Clayton State University has a recreation and wellness centre that offers a variety of facilities and programs, including a fitness centre, a swimming pool, and a basketball court. These facilities are a great way to stay healthy and active.
On campus accomodation at Clayton State University
Undergraduates, primarily first-year students, live in Laker Hall. It has incredible amenities like private bedrooms, wireless internet, and onsite laundry facilities, as well as a welcoming neighborhood.
- Many upperclassmen and graduate students live in Laker Village. Full furnishings, a private washing and dryer, picnic spots, and a pool on the grounds are among the attractions. The Village offers the independence of apartment living with the convenience of living on campus, near to your classes.
- Clayton State Dining Services is dedicated to keeping its facilities clean and safe. Lakeside Dining Hall, The Grind, Sub Stand, and Lakeside Wild Wings provide students with dining services within the campus.
- The Lock Shop makes buying textbooks, course materials and supplies easy and is available right on campus
- On average, Clayton State University students pay 1,537 USD (1,18,279 INR) per year for rent.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
- Number of faculty: Clayton State University has 500 full-time faculty members.
- Gender: 52% of the faculty are female, and 48% are male.
- Tenure: 70% of the faculty are tenured or tenure-track.
- Education: 80% of the faculty have a PhD or other terminal degree.
- Experience: The average faculty member has 15 years of experience teaching at the college level.
Career Opportunities
Internship opportunities at Clayton State University
- Internships: Clayton State University has a robust internship program that connects students with businesses and organisations in the community. Students can intern in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and technology.
- Part-time jobs: Clayton State University offers a variety of part-time jobs for students, such as student workers, research assistants, and tutors. These jobs are a great way to earn money and gain experience in your field.
- Student Organisations: Clayton State University has over 100 student organisations that offer a variety of opportunities for students to get involved. These organisations often have volunteer opportunities and part-time jobs available.
- External partners: Clayton State University partners with various businesses and organisations in the community to offer students internship and part-time job opportunities. These opportunities are a great way to gain field experience and network with professionals.
Placement of Clayton State University
Job Placement
According to Clayton State University's Career Outcomes Report, 93% of graduates are employed within six months of graduation.
Top Hiring Industries
- Education: 20% of graduates work in education, including teachers, administrators, and counsellors.
- Business: 18% of graduates work in business, including as accountants, marketing professionals, and human resources professionals.
- Healthcare: 15% of graduates work in healthcare, including nurses, doctors, and therapists.
- Government: 9% of graduates work in government, including as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and social workers.
- Technology: 7% of graduates work in technology, including as software developers, engineers, and data analysts.
Top Hiring Companies
- Atlanta Public Schools: Atlanta Public Schools is the largest school district in Georgia and employs over 5,000 teachers and administrators.
- WellStar Health System: WellStar Health System is an extensive healthcare system in Georgia that employs over 20,000 people.
- Georgia Department of Labor: The Georgia Department of Labor is responsible for workforce development in Georgia and employs over 3,000 people.
- State Farm Insurance: State Farm Insurance is a large company that employs over 10,000 people in Georgia.
- Home Depot: Home Depot is a large home improvement retailer that employs over 5,000 people in Georgia.
Salaries
The average salary for Clayton State University graduates is $47,700.
Photo Gallery
Last updated August 14, 2026