Clayton State University
Clayton State University is a public university in Morrow, GA ranked #1021 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 4,348 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 68.5%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Computer and Information Sciences.
Day to day, students benefit from a 20:1 student-faculty ratio, 70.9% first-year retention, and 39.9% six-year graduation. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
Families typically invest $8,365, about $8,633 less than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at 24.4%, roughly 60.9 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $41,633. That's about $2,055 below national results. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Clayton State University has an acceptance rate of 68.5%, annual tuition of $5,180, average net price of $8,365, and a national rank of #1021 (Grade B), with a 39.9% six-year graduation rate, about 4,348 undergraduates, and median earnings of $41,633 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Clayton State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Clayton State University graduates 39.9% of students within six years and keeps 70.9% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Clayton State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $5,180 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,250 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $12,226 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,934 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $17,415 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 52.2% of Clayton State University students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $7,405 to $14,161 depending on family income. Use Clayton State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $12,095/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $14,161/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $41,633
- 10-Year Median Earnings $41,633
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $16,750
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 36.1%
- Employment Rate 83.8%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Clayton State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Clayton State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Clayton State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Clayton State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Clayton State University graduates earn $41,633 median, the 24.4% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 450-558
- SAT Math 410-520
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 15-19
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 4,348
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 70.9%
- Graduation Rate 39.9%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 20:1
How to Get Into Clayton State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Clayton State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 68.5%, Clayton State University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 68.5% acceptance rate, Clayton State University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 860 and 1078 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Clayton State University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 17.7%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 10.3%
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen 9.7%
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 9.5%
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology 9.4%
- Health and Medical Administrative Services 5.6%
See more majors
- Accounting and Related Services 3.9%
- Biology, General 3.3%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $93,169
- 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General $74,126
- 3. Dental Support Services and Allied Professions $60,588
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Computer Science $56,328
- 5. Marketing $56,312
- 6. Accounting and Related Services $54,723
- 7. Business Administration, Management and Operations $54,637
- 8. Health and Medical Administrative Services $53,206
- 9. Legal Support Services $53,124
- 10. Business/Commerce, General $52,452
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $117,223
- 2. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $70,117
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $69,693
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $93,169—78% more than Business/Commerce, General ($52,452). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $117,223 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Clayton State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 92 graduates)
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degree, 66 graduates)
- Health and Medical Administrative Services (Bachelor's Degree, 53 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 31 graduates)
- Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree, 31 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (20 programs)â–¼
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Biology, General
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Communication and Media Studies
- Legal Support Services
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Music
- Information Science/Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Philosophy
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Online Master's Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Education, General
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (1 program)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (1 program)â–¼
- Legal Support Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 4,348
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 30.1%
- Female Students 69.9%
- Caucasian 8.5%
- Asian 5.0%
- Hispanic 12.3%
- Black 65.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients 52.2%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Clayton State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Clayton State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Clayton State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Clayton State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Clayton State University has a diverse student body, with 8.5% identifying as White. Women make up 69.9% of undergraduates. 52.2% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Clayton State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Clayton State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Clayton State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1021 nationally with a 24.4% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $8,365 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $41,633 median earnings. The 39.9% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 70.9% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Clayton State University's Strengths
Ranked #1021 with a B grade, Clayton State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Clayton State University excel at providing affordable education ($8,365 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Clayton State University's 70.9% retention and 39.9% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($41,633 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Clayton State University's 24.4% ROI and $8,365 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 39.9% six-year graduation rate sits 22.6 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 70.9% first-year retention is 5.9 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- 24.4% return on investment is 60.9 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $41,633 run about 5% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $8,365 is roughly $9,032 lower than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 20:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 70.9% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 83.8% employment rate within three years sits 15.6 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Clayton State University, a public university in Morrow, GA, secures a B grade in our latest review. It holds a #1021 national ranking Grades by category break down as Completion C+, Support C+, Career Outcomes B-, and Affordability A.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 70.9% retention and 39.9% six-year graduation. Return on investment currently measures 24.4% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $8,365 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $17,415.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $9,050 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $16,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 52.2% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $41,633 six years after enrollment. This is roughly 5% below typical U.S. college outcomes.
The three-year employment rate is close to 83.8%.
Plan around an ROI of about 24.4% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
68.5% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Clayton State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Clayton State University's acceptance rate?
Clayton State University's acceptance rate is 68.5%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Clayton State University cost?
At Clayton State University, listed tuition and fees are $5,180 per year, and the average net price after aid is $8,365. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Clayton State University's ranking?
Clayton State University ranks #1021 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Clayton State University's graduation rate?
At Clayton State University, the six-year graduation rate is 39.9%, and first-year retention is 70.9%.
What are Clayton State University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Clayton State University report median earnings of $41,633 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Clayton State University's student population?
Clayton State University enrolls about 4,348 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Morrow, GA 30260-0285
- Website www.clayton.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$19.6M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate28.6%