University of Georgia

The University of Georgia (UGA) is a public research university located in Athens, Georgia, United States. Founded in 1785, it is one of the oldest public universities in the country and serves as the flagship institution of the University System of Georgia. UGA is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity," reflecting its strong emphasis on research and academic excellence.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across 17 schools and colleges, including the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, the Terry College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the School of Law. UGA is known for its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and commitment to innovation and public service.

The campus, spanning over 760 acres, features historic buildings, modern research facilities, and extensive green spaces. The university is home to the Georgia Museum of Art, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, and the UGA Libraries, which house extensive collections supporting research and scholarship.

UGA has a strong tradition of athletics, competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) as the Georgia Bulldogs. The university's football team, in particular, has a storied history and a passionate fan base. The Sanford Stadium, with a capacity of over 92,000, is one of the largest college football stadiums in the country.

Beyond academics and athletics, UGA emphasizes student engagement and leadership development. The university offers numerous student organizations, study abroad programs, and community service opportunities. The Honors Program provides an enriched academic experience for high-achieving students, while initiatives like the Innovation Gateway support entrepreneurship and research commercialization.

UGA is also recognized for its contributions to agriculture, business, public health, and environmental sustainability. The university's Cooperative Extension Service provides valuable resources to communities across Georgia, supporting economic development and education.

With a commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service, the University of Georgia continues to be a leader in higher education, preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world.

• College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

  The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is one of 18 schools and colleges that make up the University of Georgia. Small, upper-level classes allow students to connect easily with professors. Students can study plants, animals, business, communication, teaching, food science and the environment. The college focuses on providing a safe food supply, clean environment and a better life for everyone. CAES has classrooms, laboratories and facilities on UGA campuses in Athens, Griffin and Tifton, Georgia.

• Franklin College of Arts and Sciences

  The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is the oldest, largest and most academically diverse college at the University of Georgia. In many ways, it is at the heart of UGA, the nation’s first state-chartered institution of higher education.

  The first classes were taught in 1801 in a forest clearing on what is now the University’s historic North Campus. In 1806, the first permanent brick building was constructed on campus and named Franklin College in honor of Benjamin Franklin. The building, which was later renamed Old College, is the oldest structure in Athens and houses the administrative offices of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences as well as classroom space.

  Franklin College and University of Georgia were often used interchangeably to describe the fledgling institution until 1859, when the College of Law became the second college on a campus that now boasts 16 schools and colleges.

• Terry College of Business

  As the first business school in the South, the Terry College of Business is steeped in a tradition of providing cutting-edge business education to its students. Our challenging curriculum, exceptional faculty, and close-knit alumni network ensure that Terry students are prepared to become the next generation of leaders.

  As a Top 20 public business school, we believe that hard work creates a culture of success wherein students learn to be leaders. That leadership, in turn, results in more successful careers for our students, more successful businesses in our state and in our country, and greater economic development in our communities.

  We support our faculty in their teaching and research activities. We believe in recognizing faculty for producing high quality scholarship which improves business processes and fuels firm performance. We also encourage faculty to incorporate innovative pedagogy into their courses so that our students’ curriculum is rigorous, engaging, and prepares our graduates for success when they enter the work force.

  Terry has a vast network of alumni, over 65,000 strong, who donate their time and resources to this great institution. Our alumni interact with our current students through speaking to classes, working with student clubs, serving as mentors, and providing job search assistance. Their most notable commitment to Terry can be seen in our new Learning Community and its first building, Correll Hall, which has been built exclusively with private donations.

  Our teaching, our research, and our service all reflect the core values of the Terry College of Business. Come join our future!

• Odum School of Ecology

  The Odum School’s roots date to the 1940s when namesake Eugene P. Odum came to the University of Georgia as a faculty member in zoology. In 1953 Odum published the first textbook in the field, Fundamentals of Ecology, helping to establish ecology as its own scientific discipline. In the 1950s Odum also initiated two major research programs, the Georgia Marine Biological Laboratory (later the UGA Marine Institute) on Sapelo Island and the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory near Aiken, South Carolina. The Institute of Ecology, formally established in 1967, grew out of these programs. In 2007, the Institute became the Odum School, the first standalone college of ecology in the world.

  The Odum School offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, including the bachelor of science in ecology, bachelor of arts in ecology, doctorate in ecology (including the new Infectious Disease Ecology Across Scales interdisciplinary program in disease ecology), doctorate in integrative conservation and ecology, master of science in ecology, and master of science in conservation ecology and sustainable development. In addition, undergraduates may minor in ecology and graduate students may receive a certificate in conservation ecology.
  The ecology program at UGA is known for its rigorous coursework, interdisciplinary approach, service-learning courses and meaningful opportunities for field experience, independent research and studies abroad. Odum School graduates have gone on to successful careers in academia, government agencies, non-profit organizations, business, and many other fields.

• College of Education

  As the first chartered state university in the country in 1785, the University of Georgia has a long and distinguished history in the development and dissemination of the nation's intellectual, cultural and environmental heritage.

  The College of Education, founded in 1908, is an integral part of today's University. Perennially ranked among the nation's top research-intensive institutes, the College continues to be a center for innovative research, teaching and service projects of local, national and international interest.

  One of the largest and most diverse institutions of its kind in the nation, the College offers more than a dozen undergraduate majors and approximately 90 graduate programs leading to careers as educators, counselors, psychologists, administrators, researchers, educational and health-related specialists.

• College of Engineering

  The College of Engineering is one of the fastest growing programs at UGA and one of the fastest growing public colleges of engineering in the nation. Since our founding in 2012, enrollment has tripled to nearly 1,700 students. Students and faculty alike are attracted to our setting in a comprehensive, land-grant, research institution that’s consistently ranked among the 20 best public universities in the nation.

  Built around a model that transcends traditional academic boundaries, the College offers eight undergraduate and seven graduate degree programs. Our research is centered in three Innovation and Discovery Clusters that bring together faculty and students from a wide variety of disciplines. Experiential learning – co-ops, internships, study abroad and undergraduate research – means graduates aren’t simply prepared for the workplace, they’re prepared to lead.

• College of Environment and Design

  Landscape Architecture has been taught at UGA since 1928. The former School of Environmental Design transitioned to become the College of Environment and Design in 2001. It was the first new college at UGA since 1969. The CED provides nationally-accredited, inventive, and demanding programs in landscape architecture, historic preservation, environmental planning & design, and environmental ethics. At CED, our students cultivate not only the skills they need to work as professional designers and practitioners, but the individual passions they have to make a difference in their world.

  Students are challenged to explore their unique, individual interests and creatively problem-solve contemporary issues, working with faculty to solve community issues in design charrettes. They also interact with clients, community organizations, and planning agencies. We aim to connect our students with a large and accomplished alumni network as much as possible. Visiting professors, professionals, and lecturers provide frequent opportunities for students to network with and learn from renowned designers in a broad range of career options.

• College of Family and Consumer Sciences

  Our mission is to advance the well-being of individuals and families over their life span and strengthen communities through the generation and dissemination of knowledge, education of professionals, and provision of research-based programs.

  Guided by the signature motto “Knowledge for Real Life,” our faculty and students are responding to some of the most challenging issues facing us today. We are studying and applying the principles of design and business, the sciences and technologies to develop healthier people and thriving communities through more effective educators and a high-tech global workforce.

  The College of Family and Consumer Sciences embraces a commitment to diversity by modeling for the state and nation a community of individuals and programs which seek to reduce prejudice, disparities, and discrimination and build a supportive environment for all.

• Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources

  Founded in 1906 as the Peabody School of Forestry, the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources is committed to providing teaching, research and outreach activities related to the conservation and management of our natural resources. With 64 faculty and 100 support staff members focused in four primary areas of expertise, including fisheries and wildlife, forestry, natural resources recreation and tourism, and soil and water resources, our programs emphasize the understanding of managed ecosystems throughout Georgia and the world.

  Warnell offers a variety of degrees including a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Master of Forest Resources, Master of Natural Resources and Doctor of Philosophy. With 328 undergraduates and 191 graduate students, we provide training for those interested in careers in natural resources management.

• Graduate School

  The Graduate School coordinates the graduate programs of all schools and colleges of the University. Matters of policy and procedure are determined by the graduate faculty through the graduate council. The graduate faculty consists of faculty members appointed by the President on the basis of productive research, effective teaching, and other creative activities. The policies adopted by the graduate council are administered by the dean of the Graduate School.

  The Graduate School administers all graduate programs of the University. It offers the Master of Arts in 35 disciplines, the Master of Science in 51 disciplines and the Doctor of Philosophy in 79 disciplines. Professional master’s degrees are available in 32 areas, and professional doctoral degrees are offered in education, music, and public health. The University also awards the Master of Education in 19 areas, the Specialist in Education in 19 areas and the Doctor of Education in 12 areas.

• Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication

  Established in 1915, the Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication is named after legendary Atlanta journalist and University of Georgia alum, Henry Woodfin Grady (1850-1889). A child of the Civil War, Grady served as editor for the Atlanta Constitution, building the newspaper into the one of the most influential publications in the nation, using the pages to urge readers to embrace a "New South" during Reconstruction. Grady often spoke and wrote about the need for the region to shift from an agricultural economy rooted in slavery to an industrial economy rooted in education.

  The Grady College offers undergraduate degrees in advertising, entertainment and media studies, journalism and public relations, along with certificates in new media, public affairs communications and sports communication. Grady also offers several graduate master’s and doctoral degrees including MFAs in narrative fiction writing and screen writing, and a certificate in media industry research. Accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications, Grady is a leader in journalism research and education. The College is home to several prominent centers and institutes, including the Peabody Awards, recognized as the most prestigious award in electronic journalism, and the National Press Photographers Association. Grady’s faculty includes internationally known researchers and respected industry professionals. Alumni include Pulitzer Prize winning journalists, Emmy Award winning producers and reporters and company CEOs.

• School of Law

• College of Pharmacy

  The University of Georgia College of Pharmacy offers the Doctor of Pharmacy professional degree. Based in Athens, Georgia and affiliated with the Georgia Health Sciences University (formerly Medical College of Georgia) in Augusta, the college admits about 145 students a year. The four-year professional program integrates classroom, laboratory and experiential training in a curriculum organized around both human physiology and disease states.

  The college also offers graduate studies in disciplines associated with pharmacotherapeutic research, clinical work, and administration.

• College of Public Health

  At the College of Public Health, we are promoting health in human populations through innovative research, exemplary education, and engaged service dedicated to preventing disease and injury within the state and around the world. Founded in 2005, the College was awarded full accreditation in June 2009 and became one of only 41 accredited colleges of public health in the nation and the only accredited college of public health in the University System of Georgia.

  The need for public health education in Georgia is great, the average age of public health workers in the state is near 50, and there are insufficient numbers of students in the pipeline to replace these workers as they enter retirement. As an accredited College of Public Health we are helping to ensure that a well-trained workforce will be available to protect our state and that ground breaking research can be conducted to prevent and better control the costs of issues such as high rates of premature death, infant mortality, infectious disease, heart disease and substance abuse.

  The College is home to four academic departments, two institutes and one center: the Department of Environmental Health Science, the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, the Department of Health Policy and Management, the Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, the Institute for Disaster Management, the Institute of Gerontology and the Center for Global Health. By bringing together many of UGA’s research, teaching and outreach programs in the areas of health and medicine, the College of Public Health allows UGA to better address the serious disease and health problems that affect populations around the state, country and world.

  Through our Doctor of Public Health (Dr.P.H.) and Master of Public Health (M.P.H) programs, we are fulfilling UGA’s mission as the state’s land-grant university to train future leaders responsible for the public health and well-being of Georgians. The Dr.P.H. is a professional degree designed to train leaders in public health with the comprehensive vision and philosophy needed to address a broad spectrum of public health needs, solutions, and programs.

• School of Public and International Affairs

  Inaugurated in 2001 as the University of Georgia’s fourteenth college, the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) was formed from the existing Department of Political Science in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. Emerging at a critical time in US history, SPIA’s existence since 2001 has coincided with public policy challenges and threats to democratic governance.

  Now, more than ever, the nation and the world require scholars and students to focus their attention on the pressing policy and governance issues of the day. SPIA prepares undergraduate and graduate students for good citizenship and careers in public life and trains future generations of teachers and scholars in the fields of international affairs, political science, and public administration and policy.

• School of Social Work

  The School provides a great combination of academic excellence and commitment to social justice within a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. U.S. News & World Report ranks the school’s master’s degree program 38th among 217 advanced social work degree programs in the country. College Factual ranks the school’s baccalaureate program No. 13 out of 335 BSW programs nationwide.

  The school offers four degrees: Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work, Master of Arts in Nonprofit Organizations and Doctor of Philosophy. The School also offers master’s level dual degrees in law, public health and divinity. The School’s funded research and study opportunities inform public policy both regionally and nationally. The doctoral program prepares social work professionals for careers in academic research settings and for practice in program evaluation and other forms of scientific research in the public and private sectors.

  The School counts among its recent successes a stellar reaccreditation by the Council on Social Work Education for the BSW and MSW programs through 2019, a high percentage of MSW graduates who score well above the national average on social work licensure exams and BSW graduates who complete their degrees with Latin honors, the endowment of two professorships as well as a School endowment that has more than tripled over the last decade, and creation of the interdisciplinary Center for Social Justice, Human and Civil Rights.

• College of Veterinary Medicine

  The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people.The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.

The University of Georgia (UGA) is the oldest public university in the United States, founded on January 27, 1785. Located in Athens, Georgia, UGA was established when the Georgia General Assembly granted a charter, making it the first state-chartered university in the nation. The university's founder, Abraham Baldwin, played a crucial role in shaping its early development and later became a signer of the U.S. Constitution.

In its early years, UGA focused on providing education in classical studies, law, and agriculture. The first classes were held in 1801, and the first graduating class completed their studies in 1804. Over time, the university expanded its academic offerings and campus facilities. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, UGA had incorporated programs in science, engineering, and business.

During the Civil War, the university temporarily closed as many students and faculty joined the Confederate Army. It reopened in 1866 and gradually rebuilt its academic programs. In the early 20th century, UGA saw significant growth, including the admission of women in 1918 and the establishment of the College of Education and the School of Forestry.

The university played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1961, Charlayne Hunter and Hamilton Holmes became the first African American students to enroll at UGA, marking a significant step toward desegregation in higher education.

Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, UGA continued to expand, adding new colleges, research centers, and athletic programs. Today, it is a leading public research university with a strong reputation in fields such as business, law, agriculture, and the sciences. UGA is also known for its vibrant student life, historic campus, and commitment to public service.

With a student population exceeding 40,000, UGA remains a cornerstone of higher education in Georgia and the United States. Its contributions to research, innovation, and community engagement continue to shape the future of education and society.

The University of Georgia (UGA) is a highly regarded public research university located in Athens, Georgia. Admission to UGA is competitive, and applicants must meet specific academic and extracurricular requirements.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

For first-year students, UGA considers several factors in the admissions process. The primary components include:

• High School GPA: A strong academic record is essential. UGA evaluates students based on their core academic GPA, which includes coursework in English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language.
• Standardized Test Scores: UGA requires either SAT or ACT scores. Competitive applicants typically have high scores, though the university may offer test-optional policies in certain years.
• Course Rigor: The admissions committee looks at the difficulty of high school coursework, including Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and honors classes.
• Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, community service, and involvement in clubs or sports can strengthen an application.
• Personal Statement and Essays: UGA requires applicants to submit essays that provide insight into their personality, goals, and experiences.
• Letters of Recommendation: While not always required, strong letters from teachers or counselors can enhance an application.

Application Process

Students must submit their applications through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. The deadlines for admission are:

• Early Action: Typically in October
• Regular Decision: Usually in January

Applicants must also pay an application fee or request a fee waiver if eligible.

Graduate Admission Requirements

For graduate programs, admission requirements vary by department. However, general requirements include:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A competitive GPA (often 3.0 or higher)
• GRE, GMAT, or other standardized test scores (depending on the program)
• Letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose
• A resume or CV

Some programs may also require an interview or portfolio submission.

International Students

International applicants must meet additional requirements, including:

• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores)
• Financial documentation to demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living expenses
• Visa application process after receiving an admission offer

Conclusion

UGA seeks well-rounded students with strong academic backgrounds and extracurricular involvement. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as the process is highly competitive. Prospective students should carefully review the university’s official website for the most up-to-date information.

The University of Georgia (UGA) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master's, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. SACSCOC is the regional accrediting body for institutions of higher education in the Southern states of the U.S., ensuring that universities meet rigorous academic and institutional standards. Accreditation by SACSCOC signifies that UGA maintains high-quality education, financial stability, and institutional effectiveness.

In addition to institutional accreditation, many of UGA’s individual programs hold specialized accreditations from professional organizations. For example, the Terry College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is a prestigious accreditation for business schools worldwide. The College of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that its teacher preparation programs meet national standards. The School of Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), which is essential for graduates who wish to practice law in the United States.

The College of Pharmacy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), ensuring that its programs meet the highest standards for pharmacy education. The College of Veterinary Medicine is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education, which is necessary for graduates to become licensed veterinarians. The School of Public and International Affairs holds accreditation from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), which is a mark of excellence in public administration education.

UGA undergoes periodic reviews by SACSCOC to maintain its accreditation status. This process includes self-assessment, peer review, and compliance with accreditation standards. Accreditation is crucial for students because it affects the transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the overall reputation of the university. Employers and graduate schools often consider accreditation when evaluating degrees from an institution.

Overall, the University of Georgia’s accreditation ensures that it provides a high-quality education that meets national and regional standards. This accreditation affirms UGA’s commitment to academic excellence, continuous improvement, and student success.

The University of Georgia (UGA) offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for academic, social, and personal growth. Located in Athens, Georgia, UGA provides students with a dynamic campus environment that blends tradition with modern experiences.

One of the key aspects of student life at UGA is its strong sense of community. With over 800 student organizations, students can find clubs and activities that match their interests, whether in academics, sports, arts, or social causes. The university also has a thriving Greek life, with many fraternities and sororities that contribute to campus culture through philanthropy, leadership, and social events.

Athletics play a significant role in student life at UGA. The Georgia Bulldogs, the university’s athletic teams, compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and football games at Sanford Stadium are a major highlight. Thousands of students gather to support their team, creating an exciting and spirited atmosphere.

UGA also offers excellent academic resources, including libraries, study spaces, and career services. The university encourages students to engage in research, internships, and study abroad programs to enhance their learning experience.

The city of Athens further enriches student life with its vibrant music scene, restaurants, and cultural events. Students can explore local attractions, attend concerts, and enjoy outdoor activities.

Overall, student life at the University of Georgia is diverse and engaging, providing students with numerous opportunities to grow academically, socially, and professionally.

The University of Georgia (UGA) offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students beyond lectures and seminars. These resources are designed to enhance academic success, personal well-being, and overall student experience.

One of the key facilities available to students is the University Libraries, including the Main Library and the Science Library, which provide access to extensive research materials, study spaces, and technology resources. The Miller Learning Center is another essential academic facility, offering collaborative study spaces, computer labs, and tutoring services.

For health and wellness, UGA provides the University Health Center, which offers medical services, mental health counseling, and wellness programs. The Ramsey Student Center for Physical Activities is a state-of-the-art recreation facility that includes swimming pools, fitness centers, basketball courts, and group fitness classes.

Students can also benefit from career development services through the Career Center, which provides resume workshops, job search assistance, and internship opportunities. The Tate Student Center serves as a hub for student activities, housing dining options, meeting rooms, and student organization offices.

Housing and dining services are also available, with multiple residence halls and dining facilities across campus. The UGA Transit System ensures convenient transportation for students, offering free bus services around campus.

Additionally, UGA supports students through various cultural and academic organizations, leadership programs, and community engagement initiatives. These resources contribute to a well-rounded university experience, helping students succeed both academically and personally.

The University of Georgia (UGA) is one of the top public research universities in the United States, offering a rich academic experience, a vibrant campus life, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Founded in 1785, UGA is the first state-chartered university in the U.S., with a long tradition of academic excellence and innovation.

One of the key reasons students choose UGA is its strong academic programs. The university offers more than 140 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate and professional programs. UGA is particularly well known for its business, journalism, public affairs, and agricultural sciences programs. The Terry College of Business and the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication are highly ranked nationally, providing students with excellent career prospects.

Another special aspect of UGA is its commitment to research and innovation. As a top-tier research institution, UGA provides students with opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research across various disciplines. The university is home to state-of-the-art research facilities and receives significant funding for scientific and technological advancements.

UGA also boasts a beautiful and historic campus in Athens, Georgia, a city known for its vibrant music scene, cultural attractions, and welcoming community. The university offers a strong sense of school spirit, with students actively participating in traditions such as the Arch Walk, the ringing of the Chapel Bell, and the Georgia Bulldogs' athletic events. The football team, part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), has a passionate fan base and a history of success.

Additionally, UGA emphasizes leadership development and community engagement. The university offers numerous student organizations, leadership programs, and service-learning opportunities that help students develop essential skills for their future careers. The Honors Program at UGA provides academically talented students with unique learning experiences, smaller class sizes, and research opportunities.

With a strong alumni network, excellent career services, and a commitment to student success, the University of Georgia provides an outstanding educational experience that prepares students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society.