Founded in 1969, Clayton State University. is a college. Located in Georgia, which is a city setting in Georgia, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 6,555 full time undergraduate students, and 441 full time graduate students.
The Clayton State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 19:1. There are 215 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Clayton State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
40%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
40
SAT Range
ACT Range
Admissions at CSU are considered More Selective, with ,14% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 25 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
69% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 40% were in the top quarter, and 12% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Clayton State University.
3%
“We”re apathetic”
31%
“We know about current events and vote”
66%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
0%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
11%
“We save it for the classroom”
17%
“Sometimes, but not often”
63%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
9%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
6%
“I only go out in groups”
51%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
43%
“I feel extremely safe”
5%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
30%
“We bought the gear”
65%
“We live for the big game”
20%
“It”s not really our thing”
31%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
31%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
17%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
6%
“Available in class”
63%
“They keep regular office hours”
26%
“They”re always available”
9%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
57%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
34%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
53 Students rated on-campus housing 3.8 stars. 34 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
41 Students rated off-campus housing 3.7 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
65 Students rated campus food 3.5 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
66 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 48 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
66 Students rated class size 4.5 stars. 59 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
67 Students rated school activities 3.5 stars. 21 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
67 Students rated local services 3.9 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
67 Students rated academics 4.2 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
Clayton State University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Clayton State University?
46 Students rated Clayton State University
S
Prospective04/02/2025
"Clayton State University holds a strong appeal as my second choice institution, primarily due to the positive impression I gained during my research and virtual tour. The university's commitment to providing a supportive and engaging learning environment is evident, and I am drawn to its focus on student success. The diverse academic programs offered, particularly in [Mention a specific program that interests you, e.g., business administration, nursing, or a general area like the sciences], align with my academic goals and career aspirations. I appreciate the emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, which I believe will prepare me effectively for the professional world.
While Morehouse College remains my first choice due to its unique legacy and emphasis on developing leaders within a specific cultural context, Clayton State offers distinct advantages. For instance, Clayton State's location [If you know of any location-based advantages, mention them, e.g., proximity to Atlanta, access to specific industries] provides valuable opportunities for internships and networking. Additionally, the smaller class sizes at Clayton State, compared to larger universities, promise a more personalized learning experience and greater interaction with faculty.
To elevate Clayton State to my first choice, I believe further emphasis on [Mention specific improvements or additions, e.g., expanding research opportunities, enhancing student life activities, increasing diversity initiatives, adding more specialized programs] would be beneficial. For example, increased funding for undergraduate research could provide students with invaluable experience and make the university more competitive. Expanding the range of extracurricular activities, particularly those focused on [Mention a specific interest, e.g., entrepreneurship, community service, or a specific cultural club], would further enrich the student experience and foster a stronger sense of community.
Ayreon
It’s pretty ok, I’m virtual but I’ve seen and toured a bit of the campus. I gave my best shot based on what I’ve seen, but it’s pretty ok? Maybe it’s better during the summer than the other months since that’s when I got a view of the campus and its attributes.
Dwight Lauryn
I love CSU! It's in my hometown and right down the street from my house! I love everything about it! Especially the music department with Dr. Chang and Dr. Bell! They've helped me and my high school orchestra so much during our concerts and there's so many opportunities for pursing music!
Deion
My Perspective on Clayton State University
When it comes to Clayton State University, I have a positive opinion based on its strong commitment to academic excellence, student support, and community engagement. The university offers a wide range of academic programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of its students, with dedicated faculty members who are focused on providing top-notch education and mentorship.
What stands out about Clayton State University is its emphasis on supporting student success through various services such as tutoring, career counseling, and extracurricular activities. These initiatives are designed to enhance the overall student experience and ensure that students have the necessary resources to thrive both academically and personally.
Furthermore, the university actively collaborates with the local community through service-learning projects, internships, and industry partnerships, providing students with valuable real-world experiences while making a positive impact on the surrounding area.
In summary, my perspective on Clayton State University is favorable, as it appears to be a vibrant institution that prioritizes student growth, academic achievement, and community involvement. Its dedication to excellence and inclusivity makes it a valuable asset in the realm of higher education.
Miles
While I am only attending Clayton State University as a Dual-Enrollment student, I have experienced a lot of Clayton State's culture and lifestyle. As a place of learning, Clayton State is a solid option with many different campuses for both full-time, part-time, and Dual-enrollment students. The professors are very helpful and involved, but the classes offered are pretty lackluster and low-level.
Jennifer
I think Clayton State University has a lot of potential to be a great institution, but there are certainly areas that could use some improvement. While the campus is beautiful and the faculty is knowledgeable, the administration could benefit from being more organized and communicative. Additionally, the campus could use more resources for student activities and events. Overall, there is definitely room for growth at Clayton State, but with some effort and attention, it could become an even better place for students to learn and thrive.
Natasha
Clayton State University is a great university. The professors and instructors in the history department were very hands-on and there for all the students. Throughout my academic career at Clayton State, I learned a great deal about the history field and was able to navigate the direction I wanted my future career to go. Networking in the history department is something that I enjoyed the most at Clayton State because this really has helped me out in my career thus far. The campus is mid-size with large classes. It was easy to navigate classes and meet people on campus. The campus is in Morrow, Ga and 15 miles from downtown Atlanta, which is a great location because you are surrounded by so many different places and there is always something to do. Since the campus is mid-size, you do not have to worry about feeling lost as you would at a larger university. The interaction between student and staff is close and it is easy to get a problem solved if one does arise. When I attended Clayton State, their nursing program was always talked about and I have a few friends and relatives that graduated from that program and are doing great things. So, if you are interested in nursing, Clayton State is the place for you. Clayton State was where I found my love for archives and public history. I would recommend Clayton State University to everyone!
Alexa
I think that Clayton State University is a fantastic school. Throughout my college career I have been to many schools, but this is the first school that I have found that is not only great academically, but also a great 4 year university that is extremely affordable (which is always a wonderful thing).
Erick
good school
Michelle
This by far is one of the worst school known to man! The financial aid office lies to the students about disbursements. I have been lied to several times! Not to mention today is first day of class and none of my fees have been paid! I have no money for books because they haven't disbursed any of the students loans! They havent told the students anything! And they don’t return emails, phone calls, or voicemails. I tried calling today to speak with some one and they are rerouting the calls to someone who doesn’t even work in the financial aid office and they are only taking names and phone numbers to for someone to give you a call back! Yea right like you will really get a call back. They don’t want you to drop those classes because then they can’t get your loans so they are stalling so that drop add will pass and you will be stuck paying for those classes with no freaking money for books! I’m smarter than that I dropped all classes and sent emails to cancel all loans ASAP. I will applying to Georgia State in the fall semester! DO NOT GO TO THIS SCHOOL! Look at the negative reviews they mostly centered around the financial aid office! Never again!
Khara
It’s a good school in my opinion, I would love to go there and check out everything it has to offer it seems like my dream school such a lovely environment. The take academics to a whole level they want everyone to be successful at the school.They take pride in learning.
Kristina
My overall opinion is that Clayton State is a great school! Since the campus is smaller, the community is more close knit than bigger schools! Everyone is looking out for each other. Of course, there are some issues like with financial aid but at the end of the day, it gets done!
Shannon
I love the atmosphere and the opportunities they provide. There are always lunch and learn going on throughout campus. There are trips out of the country that are amazing. The sorority and fraternity life is the best of the best. The professor want to see you be successful. And they encourage you to seek opportunities.
Danila
I would say it’s a nice calm school. Everything seems pretty simple and the fact that the school offers dental hygiene for a bachelors is wonderful. The faculty seem responsible and and willing to help when needed. The campus is clean as well and the rooms are simple.
Kiara
I love this school. They have very nice dorms and the advisors here are great. I believe that given the opportunity to have a football team we would be able to get more students to enroll here. The professors are very courteous and understanding about people having lives outside of class. I honestly feel at home at this school and look forward to becoming a CSU alumni in 2022.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Clayton State University is 40%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition I would give myself the advice of don't hold back and build lasting friendships that would last a life time. I would tell myself to not be afraid to go out and get in certain clubs or try out for different activites. I would tell myself make friends, real friends, and hold on to them and build relationships and bonds that are unbreakable because during that time is when you need them the most and definitley after graduation.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
It's not an extremely 'well--known' school in that students tend to see it as a fall-back option. It's a very cost-effective option and offers a good education.
I have not met many yet since I do not transfer there until January. What I have noticed so far is that the population is very culturally diverse with varying age groups. Meaning not everyone is 17-20, there are more of us older students enrolled.
A student who is serious about education. Clayton State offers a variety of majors to accommodate everyone. Also a person interested in philanthropy. Every student club on campus is involved in some type of charity and most often throw events to raise money. The staff also from time to time participates in charity walks and functions. The school sets an excellent standard for giving back to the community.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I would have had an idea of what I wanted to do with my career. I have spent a lot of time and money on classes that I later changed my mind on and are now worthless. I would have explored different careers and use the tools that were availible to me such as career fairs, or seminars, to narrow my interests, instead of making mistakes & learning the hard way what I did Not want to do.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
The biggest thing I brag about is the prices. You get a four star education at a fraction of the price of most private schools. I also love the fact that the school has a evening program set up for the non traditional student. They just don't cater to the tradional non-working student. Most other schools that cater to the adults are very costly and cause you to go into loads of debt. This is a huge advantage due to this recession.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
The unique aspect about Clayton State University is the availability of diverse learning platforms for non-traditional students like myself. I am a working professional completing my degree; CSU has made it easy for me to continue to work. The University has managed to maintain a challenging online environment to ensure that students still receive a quality education.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
The school is a medium size community and students dont feel overwhelmed by large classes. There are traditional and non-traditional student which makes everyone feel comfortable. The professors are easy to access and willing to help with material.
Clayton state is a large university close to the city, however the location provides it some privacy. The campus has lakes and trees. Also the science department offers a minor in chemistry and low student to teacher ratio. This college is affordable and very up to date with technology.
If you are looking are a traditonal college experince then Clayton State shouldn't be your first pick. We have only had dorms on campus for 2 years so we are still in the transition process from a non traditional school to a traditional. It feels like high school a bit. People still hang out in clicks and are afraid to go outside of their comfort zones. It's a work in progress that is going to take years( ie 20) to get to where it could be.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
The Gay Straight Alliance on campus is by far the most active student group on campus. Our greek life on campus is too close minded. People don't understand the conecpt of Social greeks vs. service greeks vs. honor greeks. At our school if you have more than one set of letters then you are a fake. Morrow isn't a college town and our campus is super small so there is barley anything to do. Sutdents tend to themselves alot and are afraid to go there. One time me and my friends were playing frisbee outside and people were amazed. Everyone just sits on their laptops all the time. We sometimes have events where people come out to that offer free stuff but other then that there is nothing to do on campus. After thursday our campus is dead. It's so quiet. We have so few dining options. Our school isn't meant for your traditional college student. There is nothing to do on a saturday night. Our school has neglected the fact that some students live too far away to go home on the weekends. The dorms are a rip off in their price and so is our meal plan.
All my professors know my name due to our average sized classes but there isn't much interaction. Classes tend to be boring and uninteresting. I must say my favorite classes have been Theatre and Art. Those professors taught me life skills and were very down to earth. Academically it feels like high school again, there is no challenge for us to explore our environments and to learn on our own. My major is Communication and Media Studies and the program at Clayton is ok. We have awesome professors but no tv or radio station or a student run magazine to work on. It's hard for us to experience what life is like in our field.
Describe the best and worst parts of the social scene on campus.
Although everyone on campus is very friendly, with only one or two negative people, I find you have to be a very outgoing and socialize a lot more here. The students that have already met their friends and people they socialize with tend to only socialize with each other and stay within their groups.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
96% of students attending Clayton State University receive some sort of financial aid.
74% were awarded federal grants.70%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.