Georgia is the proud home of ten historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), eight of which offer undergraduate degrees in various disciplines. In fact, Georgia is in the top five states with the most HBCUs, tying with Texas and trailing only behind Alabama and North Carolina.
Many students researching colleges in Georgia might first discover the University of Georgia, popular for good reason. Public or private school students often choose it for its prestige. But don’t overlook the state’s many acclaimed HBCUs, which offer benefits that can’t be found elsewhere.
An HBCU is classified as any accredited historically Black school founded before 1964 with a mission to educate Black students. Currently, there are 105 of these institutions in the country. The eight HBCU colleges in Georgia that offer undergraduate degrees are:
- Fort Valley State University
- Albany State University
- Savannah State University
- Morehouse College
- Spelman College
- Clark Atlanta University
- Morris Brown College
- Paine College
There are a million reasons why so many students aim to attend a historically Black college or university, but every student has their own personal reasons. No matter your motivation, you’ll benefit greatly from the unrivaled support systems and strong alumni networks these colleges and universities offer.
If you’re hoping to attend one of the HBCU colleges in Georgia, it’s important that you strive for good grades, a solid GPA, and high test scores in high school. You’ll want to begin to prepare for college well in advance, too.
When you’re considering colleges in Georgia, don’t let your search begin and end with the University of Georgia; public or private HBCUs might turn out to be just what you’re looking for.
HBCU in Georgia
To decide which HBCU in Georgia is right for you, you must learn some of the unique offerings each one delivers to its students. While they all share many commonalities, they are also each unique in their own ways.
Fort Valley State University (FVSU)
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
| $4,064 | $14,786 | $4,344 | $16,128 | 73% | 72% | 3,079 | Public |
Video: Fort Valley State University (FVSU)
Located in the heart of Fort Valley, GA, FVSU offers students the second-largest college campus in the state, spanning 1,365 acres. Recognized for its commitment to social mobility, FVSU ranks highly in providing students from diverse backgrounds with strong economic outcomes, partly due to its affordability and support programs.
The university’s curriculum emphasizes STEM and agriculture, with exclusive offerings like the state’s only veterinary technology program. Students here also enjoy an active campus life, engaging in Greek life, athletics, music, and various clubs.
Albany State University (ASU)
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
| $4,064 | $14,786 | $3,438 | $13,716 | 74% | 73% | 6,509 | Public |
Video: Albany State University: Excellence is the Standard
Founded in 1903, Albany State University is known for its strong liberal arts foundation and serves around 6,000 undergraduates. With a commitment to “Potential Realized,” ASU excels in areas like nursing and social mobility. Students can enjoy a dynamic campus environment with prominent extracurriculars, including Greek life, the arts, and athletics.
The renowned Marching Rams Show Band and competitive sports teams reflect the school’s rich cultural and athletic traditions. Two satellite campuses in Albany and Cordele add to its accessibility and reach.
Albany State University is ranked #49 in the nation in Social Mobility, #49 in HBCUs, and #49 in Top Public Schools, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. Its student-faculty ratio is 20:1, and ASU offers a strong nursing program.
Savannah State University (SSU)
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,064 | $14,786 | $3,588 | $13,068 | 69% | 46% | 3,488 | Public |
Video: Savannah State University (SSU) Video
Established in 1890, Savannah State University is Georgia’s oldest public HBCU. Situated in the picturesque city of Savannah, SSU gives students the unique advantage of engaging in coastal and marine research, including hands-on learning experiences aboard two research vessels.
With three colleges—Liberal Arts, Business Administration, and Sciences and Technology—SSU fosters interdisciplinary study, especially in marine biology and environmental sciences. The vibrant campus also offers athletic opportunities, Greek life, and student organizations, making it a well-rounded choice for students seeking a blend of academics and social life.
Morehouse College
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
| $27,038 | $27,038 | N/A | N/A | 86% | 77% | 2,152 | Private |
Located in downtown Atlanta, Morehouse College stands out as a historic liberal arts college with a legacy of producing notable leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As a men's college, Morehouse emphasizes leadership, social justice, and academic excellence.
The college has one of the highest rates of producing Rhodes Scholars, and it offers cross-registration within the Atlanta University Center Consortium, including Spelman and Clark Atlanta. Its 14:1 student-faculty ratio and proximity to Atlanta’s startup hub offer students networking and growth opportunities across fields.
Spelman College
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
| $25,942 | $25,942 | N/A | N/A | 89% | 53% | 2,207 | Private |
Situated in Atlanta, Spelman College is one of the highest-ranking liberal arts colleges for women, celebrated for its focus on environmentalism, social change, and community service. Spelman produces a high number of Gilman Scholars and offers numerous study abroad and research opportunities, supported by strong partnerships with universities worldwide.
The college’s small class sizes, with a 9:1 student-faculty ratio, contribute to a high graduation rate and academic excellence across disciplines.
Clark Atlanta University (CAU)
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
| $21,948 | $21,948 | $21,948 | $21,948 | 71% | 56% | 4,000 | Private |
Clark Atlanta University, formed by the 1988 merger of Clark College and Atlanta University, offers over 40 study areas, with strengths in business, arts, and sciences. As a member of the AUC Consortium, CAU allows students to take classes at neighboring Morehouse and Spelman.
Its Center for Undergraduate Research and Creativity promotes student innovation, while the vibrant campus life includes residential facilities, an art museum, and a renowned arts scene.
Morris Brown College
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
| $9,558 | $9,558 | N/A | N/A | 33% | 100% | 253 | Private |
This coeducational private HBCU in Georgia is located in Atlanta. It supports students who might otherwise not have the opportunity to attend college. Morris Brown has recently been accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), and students now have access to financial aid.
Morris Brown College, founded in 1881, holds a historical legacy as a college founded by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Recently reaccredited, Morris Brown provides unique support to students who may face barriers to traditional college access.
Known for its small, supportive environment, the college offers degrees in psychology, music, management, and leadership, serving as a launchpad for community-minded leaders.
Paine College
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduate In-State Tuition | Graduate Out-of-State Tuition | Retention Rate | Acceptance Rate | Students Enrolled | Institution Type |
| $13,596 | $13,596 | N/A | N/A | 50% | 75% | 200 | Private |
Paine College, located in Augusta, GA, offers an intimate, faith-centered campus environment with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Students at Paine can engage in a variety of campus organizations, including the prestigious Concert Choir, and participate in service activities.
Known for its Christian values, Paine College fosters close-knit community experiences and personal growth, attracting students interested in liberal arts education with a spiritual foundation.
Students participate in many community service projects, parties, fundraisers, and retreats throughout the year. Paine College was ranked as one of the best Christian Colleges in Georgia in 2020 and 2021 by EDsmart, and the school is TRACS-accredited.
Why Choose an HBCU in Georgia?
The benefits of attending an HBCU in Georgia are exciting, impressive, and ripe with opportunity! Some of the most frequently cited benefits include:
- Smaller, more personalized college experience
- Reduced costs of attending
- Better value
- Intimate settings
- Close-knit communities
- Challenging academic environments
- First-hand education about the African diaspora
If you plan to apply to more than one HBCU in Georgia, consider filling out the Common Black College Application. It makes it easy to apply to up to 67 HBCU colleges in Georgia and the entire country, with a one-time process and fee of just $20.
Find the Best HBCU in Georgia for You
Georgia offers more educational opportunities than just the University of Georgia; public or private HBCUs might provide the exact environment you need to launch the rest of your life. Make sure the schools you choose to apply to will support your academic goals. Learning more about the eight HBCUs in Georgia is a great place to start!
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FAQ’s
What is the most affordable HBCU in Georgia?
For affordability, Fort Valley State University stands out. With in-state tuition around $4,064, it offers quality education at a reasonable cost.
What is the No. 1 HBCU in Georgia?
Spelman College, located in Atlanta, is often recognized as the top HBCU in Georgia. It's renowned for its academic excellence and leadership in women's education.
What is the largest HBCU in Georgia?
When it comes to size, Albany State University is the largest HBCU in Georgia, enrolling approximately 6,000 undergraduate students.
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