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Albany State University

Albany, GA | Public | University

Albany State University has annual tuition of $5,656, average net price of $11,898, and a national rank of #825 (Grade B), with a 31.1% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 5,956 undergraduates, and median earnings of $54,096 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

Albany State University is a public university in Albany, GA. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions.

Academically, students benefit from a 21:1 student-faculty ratio, and 78.6% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 90.0%, roughly 40.1 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

B
Ranking
#825 of 1,947
How We Rank Schools Lower tuitionPublic school option
At a Glance
Ranking
#825 of 1,947 (Top 42.4%)
Tuition
$5,656
Net Price
$11,898
4-Year Tuition
$22,624
Acceptance Rate
Not reported
Transfer Rate
37.2%
Student Population
5,956
Student-Faculty
21:1
Grad Rate (150% time)
31.1%
Grad Rate (8-year)
33.7%
Retention Rate
78.6%
4-Yr Earnings
$54,096
ROI
90.0%

Who is Albany State University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Families tracking affordability closely
First-gen or Pell-eligible support

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#825 of 1,947
Top 42.4% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
57.7 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
2.88 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
C+
#1,515 of 1,947
Affordability
A
#115 of 1,947
Support
C+
#1,497 of 1,947
Career Outcomes
B
#1,114 of 1,947

Albany State University graduates 31.1% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 33.7% and keeps 78.6% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$10,693-$17,324 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Challenging
31.1% graduate within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings). The College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 33.7%. 14.7% complete in four years (IPEDS 100% time).
What are job outcomes?
Highly likely
87.6% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings four years after graduation are $54,096. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use Albany 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

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$77,332
$19,333 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$60,115
$11,898 × 5.1 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 5.1 years | 4-Year Rate: 14.7% | 6-Year Rate: 31.1% | 8-Year Rate: 33.7%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 14.7% and six-year completion is 31.1%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$19,333
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$11,898
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

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 $5,656
Books and Supplies $2,934
On-Campus Room and Board $11,899
On-Campus Other Expenses $4,040
Total On-Campus Cost $19,333

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

Pell Grant
69.3%
Federal Loan
0.0%

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 69.3% of Albany 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.

$0 - $30,000
$10,693
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$11,147
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$13,785
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$16,419
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$17,324
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $10,693 to $17,324 depending on family income. Use Albany State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$48,118
$30K-$48K families
~$50,162
$48K-$75K families
~$62,032
$75K-$110K families
~$73,886
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $16,419/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $17,324/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
90.0%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $54,096
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $40,674
  • Average Years to Graduate 5.1 years
  • Average Student Debt $25,024
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 20.6%
  • Employment Rate 87.6%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for Albany 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.

Graduates earn a median of $54,096 four years after graduation — roughly 10% below the national median.
Payback Period
1.11 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

Albany State University vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Albany State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Albany State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: Albany State University graduates earn $54,096 median four years after graduation, -10% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
Not reported
Extremely Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
  • SAT Math Not reported
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite Not reported
  • SAT & ACTNot required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 5,956
  • Full-Time Students 74.3%
  • Part-Time Students 25.7%
  • Retention Rate 78.6%
  • Grad Rate (150% time) 31.1%
  • Grad Rate (8-year) 33.7%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 21:1

How to Get Into Albany State University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: Albany 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 Not reported, Albany State University is 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.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Albany State University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Education, Other draw the most students.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 15.2%
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 12.8%
  • Education, Other 11.6%
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections 10.3%
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 9.9%
  • Biology, General 9.7%
See more majors
  • Psychology, General 7.9%
  • Social Work 3.7%

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 $108,162
  • 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $70,644
  • 3. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions $57,291
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $51,075
  • 5. Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions $50,815
  • 6. Marketing $48,399
  • 7. Biology, General $47,427
  • 8. Business Administration, Management and Operations $46,195
  • 9. Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services $46,061
  • 10. Sociology $44,916

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $122,722
  • 2. Educational Administration and Supervision (First Professional Degree) $85,277
  • 3. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $65,004
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $53,816
  • 5. Social Work (Master's Degree) $50,195
  • 6. Criminal Justice and Corrections (Master's Degree) $47,656
  • 7. Public Administration (Master's Degree) $45,893

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $108,162—141% more than Sociology ($44,916). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $122,722 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Albany 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

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degree, 211 graduates)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 77 graduates)
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 65 graduates)
  • Education, Other (Bachelor's Degree, 59 graduates)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 50 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 (18 programs)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Education, Other
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Biology, General
  • Social Work
  • Visual and Performing Arts, General
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Marketing
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Chemistry
  • Sociology
  • Political Science and Government
  • Mathematics
  • History
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General
Online Master's Degrees (3 programs)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Public Administration
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (4 programs)
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
  • Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 5,956
  • Full-Time Students 74.3%
  • Part-Time Students 25.7%
  • Male Students 26.6%
  • Female Students 73.4%
  • Caucasian 5.9%
  • Asian 0.3%
  • Hispanic 3.7%
  • Black 84.1%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 69.3%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Albany State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of Albany State University's undergraduate population. Women make up 73.4% of the student body, while men represent 26.6%.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Albany State University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
30.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
30.2%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
0.4 pts
excellent equity

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 Albany State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: Albany State University has a diverse student body, with 5.9% identifying as White. Women make up 73.4% of undergraduates. 69.3% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Albany State University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
30.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
30.2%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
0.4 pts
excellent equity

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 Albany State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

Albany State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #825 nationally with a 90.0% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.

At $11,898 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $54,096 median earnings. The 31.1% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 78.6% retention suggests adequate student support.

University Value: Albany State University's Strengths

Ranked #825 with a B grade, Albany State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.

Primary Strengths: Universitys like Albany State University excel at providing affordable education ($11,898 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: Albany State University's 78.6% retention and 31.1% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($54,096 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.

Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Albany State University's 90.0% ROI and $11,898 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.

Key Takeaways

  • 31.1% graduation rate sits 31.4 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 78.6% first-year retention is 1.8 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • 90.0% return on investment is 40.1 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $54,096 run about 10% lower than national outcomes four years after graduation.
  • Average net price of $11,898 is roughly $8,181 lower than the national median of $20,079.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 21:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 78.6% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 87.6% employment rate within three years sits 19.4 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • 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

Albany State University is a public university based in Albany, GA and earns a B overall grade. It appears at #825 in EDsmart's national list Category results include 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.

78.6% of learners come back after year one while 31.1% graduate within 150% of normal time (33.7% within eight years). Return on investment currently measures 90.0% 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 $11,898 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $19,333.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $7,435 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $25,024 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 69.3% 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

Six years in, alumni earn roughly $54,096 at the median. That sits about 10% below the national median.

The three-year employment rate is close to 87.6%.

The ROI comes in near 90.0%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

This institution has not reported a current acceptance rate.

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 Albany 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.

EDsmart Verdict
2.88 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

Run the Net Price Calculator
Get your personalized cost estimate
Compare with similar schools
See how Albany State University stacks up to alternatives
Check your major's earnings
See ROI for your specific field of study
Visit the campus
Schedule a campus tour or virtual visit
Visit Albany State University Website →

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Nearby Schools

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Other Georgia campuses you might consider

Valdosta State University
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University of West Georgia
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Georgia College & State University
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B #752 of 1,947
Augusta University
Augusta, GA
B #751 of 1,947

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Albany State University cost?

At Albany State University, listed tuition and fees are $5,656 per year, and the average net price after aid is $11,898. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is Albany State University's ranking?

Albany State University ranks #825 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is Albany State University's graduation rate?

At Albany State University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 31.1% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 33.7%, and first-year retention is 78.6%.

What are Albany State University's job outcomes?

Graduates of Albany State University report median earnings of $54,096 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is Albany State University's student population?

Albany State University enrolls about 5,956 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
  • Endowment$4.5M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate37.2%

Data Source & Methodology