Parents

From skinned knees and macaroni art to young adults ready to take on the future—what an amazing journey you’ve guided your student through. And it’s led you both here, to the threshold of a brand new adventure that will be all your student’s own. We know how important it is that they start that adventure on the right foot at a university that cares as much about seeing them succeed as you do. We think you’ll find that Clayton State is that university.

We’ve been making dreams real since 1969 , when we first opened our doors, and every year since have striven to give our students a safe, family-like atmosphere in which to grow into the professionals and leaders of tomorrow. From our scenic campus to our award-winning staff and faculty to our many academic and campus-life resources, your student will find the support they need to thrive.

Interactive Campus Map

A Tradition of Excellence

Our accomplished, amazing students, who take what they’ve learned here into the world and live their dreams, are proof plenty of what a Clayton State education can provide. Over the years the word’s gotten out, and we’re proud to be recognized among the top universities not just in Georgia but in the South.

With experiential learning opportunities abound and great faculty to offer guidance, your student’s Clayton State degree will hold clout in the professional world and represent all that they have accomplished—and all that they will achieve.

Ranked among the nation’s top 140 universities in the South by U.S. News and World Report
1^st in Best Value in Georgia Higher Education by James Magazine

We’ve got nothing but love for our Laker Family. Learn about all of our pride points!

A Reputation for Affordability

We know college is a big investment, and we want to make sure that it’s one your student benefits from the rest of their life. Voted first for Best Value in Georgia Higher Education by James Magazine and fourth by AffordableCollegesOnline.org for return on investment, we think we’ve found the sweet spot, where academic rigor and affordability combine to create a truly enduring higher-education experience. Our financial aid office can help you and your student kick start that experience with information about types of financial aid, including scholarships and loans such as the Parent PLUS Loan, as well as how to begin the funding process and how to estimate tuition and fees.
A Safe Space

We think of all of our students as part of our big Laker family, so, just like you, we want to make sure they are living and learning in a safe environment. The trained professionals in our Department of Public Safety work 24/7 to make sure that happens, with educational programs, emergency phones across campus, safety escorts, and more. And they’re very good at what they do—we were ranked among the top schools with the best campus security by Best College Reviews.
A Supportive Living Environment

It can be tough when your student makes that first big move away from home—for you and for them. You can feel confident that when they make that move to Clayton State, they’ll find a secure, supportive, and community-minded home in our University Housing. Laker Hall, home to our undergraduates, has lots of convenient suite amenities, as well as knowledgeable resident assistants available to answer students’ questions and address concerns. And, to make sure our students are getting the balanced nutrition they need while they learn the ropes of being a college student, all Laker Hall residents are required to have a meal plan. With it, they have easy access to our on-campus dining locations, which serve delicious homemade meals every day.

A Way to Stay Involved

Family is important, and we want you to be part of ours. In addition to top academics and a safe, friendly campus for your student, we have the Parent and Family Association—your portal to staying connected and involved. Joining means having the chance to meet other Laker families, staying aware of family events, and learning about on-campus volunteer opportunities.
A Head Start for High Schoolers: Dual Enrollment

It’s never too early to start making a dream real. If you have a high school student who’s ready to start working on their college degree, we can help. Our Dual Enrollment program offers courses that simultaneously fulfill college-credit and high-school-graduation requirements.