University of West Georgia
University of West Georgia is a public university in Carrollton, GA ranked #986 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 7,485 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 49.4%. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing.
Day to day, students benefit from a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, 76.0% first-year retention, and 42.7% six-year graduation. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
Families typically invest $15,450, about $1,548 less than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -33.7%, roughly 119.0 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $41,000. That's about $2,688 below national results. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is University of West Georgia Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
University of West Georgia graduates 42.7% of students within six years and keeps 76.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use University of West Georgia'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 | $5,971 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,275 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $11,642 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,752 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $23,504 |
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 41.8% of University of West Georgia students receive Pell Grants — 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 $12,779 to $19,101 depending on family income. Use University of West Georgia's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $18,909/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $19,101/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $41,000
- 10-Year Median Earnings $41,000
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $15,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 43.4%
- Employment Rate 88.1%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for University of West Georgia 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.
University of West Georgia vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how University of West Georgia's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes University of West Georgia's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While University of West Georgia graduates earn $41,000 median, the -33.7% 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 480-580
- SAT Math 450-550
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 17-23
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 7,485
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 76.0%
- Graduation Rate 42.7%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 16:1
How to Get Into University of West Georgia
1. Meet Academic Requirements: University of West Georgia 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 49.4%, University of West Georgia is moderately selective. 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: University of West Georgia accepts 49.4% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 930 and 1130 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among University of West Georgia undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Psychology, General, and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 9.1%
- Psychology, General 8.9%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 7.6%
- Criminology 7.2%
- Journalism 6.7%
- Biology, General 6.1%
See more majors
- Marketing 5.7%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 5.6%
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. Computer and Information Sciences, General $98,657
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $92,868
- 3. Finance and Financial Management Services $70,940
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Accounting and Related Services $67,825
- 5. Management Information Systems and Services $64,877
- 6. Economics $58,939
- 7. Marketing $58,070
- 8. Business Administration, Management and Operations $56,902
- 9. Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management $53,752
- 10. Special Education and Teaching $52,216
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $104,649
- 2. Education, Other (Doctoral Degree) $98,348
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $95,558
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $93,501
- 5. Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree) $71,784
- 6. Educational/Instructional Media Design (Master's Degree) $71,372
- 7. Public Administration (Master's Degree) $64,461
- 8. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $62,011
- 9. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $61,849
- 10. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $60,514
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $98,657—89% more than Special Education and Teaching ($52,216). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $104,649 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for University of West Georgia. 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
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree, 206 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 176 graduates)
- Journalism (Bachelor's Degree, 131 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 120 graduates)
- Marketing (Bachelor's Degree, 112 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 (32 programs)â–¼
- Psychology, General
- Journalism
- Biology, General
- Marketing
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Fine and Studio Arts
- English Language and Literature, General
- History
- Chemistry
- Anthropology
- Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Geography and Cartography
- Mathematics
- Behavioral Sciences
- Real Estate
- Music
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Special Education and Teaching
- Physics
- Philosophy
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
Online Master's Degrees (11 programs)â–¼
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Psychology, General
- History
- Sociology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Biology, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Mathematics
- Educational Administration and Supervision
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (6 programs)â–¼
- Museology/Museum Studies
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Community Organization and Advocacy
- Public Administration
- Social Sciences, General
- History
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 7,485
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 36.3%
- Female Students 63.7%
- Caucasian 49.6%
- Asian 1.1%
- Hispanic 9.4%
- Black 32.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients 41.8%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects University of West Georgia's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of University of West Georgia's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of West Georgia 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 University of West Georgia, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: University of West Georgia has a diverse student body, with 49.6% identifying as White. Women make up 63.7% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of West Georgia 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 University of West Georgia, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
University of West Georgia serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #986 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $15,450 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $41,000 median earnings. The 42.7% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 76.0% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: University of West Georgia's Strengths
Ranked #986 with a B grade, University of West Georgia prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like University of West Georgia excel at providing affordable education ($15,450 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: University of West Georgia's 76.0% retention and 42.7% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($41,000 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, University of West Georgia and $15,450 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 42.7% six-year graduation rate sits 19.8 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 76.0% first-year retention is 0.8 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -33.7% return on investment is 119.0 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $41,000 run about 6% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $15,450 is roughly $1,668 lower than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 16:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 76.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 88.1% employment rate within three years sits 19.9 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
Located in Carrollton, GA, University of West Georgia operates as a public university and receives a B from EDsmart. It is currently ranked #986 nationally Completion earns B-, Support B-, Career Outcomes B, and Affordability B+.
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.
About 76.0% of first-year students return, and roughly 42.7% finish within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -33.7%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
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 $15,450 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $23,504.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $8,054 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $15,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 41.8% 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 $41,000 six years after enrollment. That sits about 6% below the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 88.1% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -33.7%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
49.4% 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 University of West Georgia 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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Contact Information
- Address Carrollton, GA 30118-0001
- Website www.westga.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$36.4M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate33.1%