Private Four-Year Universities in Georgia
Agnes Scott College
Overview
Agnes Scott College is a private liberal arts women’s college located in Decatur, Georgia. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to empowering women, Agnes Scott offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1889 by Presbyterian minister Frank Henry Gaines, Agnes Scott College was established to provide a high-quality education for women. The college has a long tradition of academic excellence and leadership development.
Academic Offerings
Agnes Scott College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Psychology
- English
- Political Science
- Economics
- Public Health
The college also offers interdisciplinary majors and minors, emphasizing critical thinking and global perspectives.
Student Life
Agnes Scott provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and leadership opportunities. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Women’s Leadership: Strong focus on leadership development and empowerment for women.
- Global Learning: Opportunities for study abroad and global internships.
- Beautiful Campus: Historic campus with modern facilities in a suburban setting.
- Diverse Community: Inclusive and supportive environment with a diverse student body.
Admissions
Agnes Scott College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are intellectually curious and committed to making a positive impact.
Alumni
Agnes Scott alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Katherine L. Adams: General Counsel and Senior Vice President at Apple Inc.
- Nse Ikpe-Etim: Nigerian actress.
- Jennifer Nettles: Grammy-winning singer and songwriter.
Berry College
Overview
Berry College is a private liberal arts college located in Mount Berry, Georgia. Known for its expansive campus and commitment to experiential learning, Berry offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1902 by Martha Berry, Berry College began as a school for rural boys and has grown into a comprehensive liberal arts college. The college emphasizes a work-study program and hands-on learning experiences.
Academic Offerings
Berry College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Animal Science
- Business Administration
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- History
- Creative Writing
The college also offers pre-professional programs in law, medicine, and veterinary science.
Student Life
Berry College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, athletic programs, and outdoor activities. The college’s location on a 27,000-acre campus offers unique opportunities for recreation and experiential learning.
Unique Features
- Expansive Campus: Largest contiguous college campus in the world, offering extensive outdoor and recreational opportunities.
- Work Experience: Comprehensive work-study program that integrates practical experience with academic learning.
- Strong Academics: Emphasis on rigorous academics and personalized education.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for community service and leadership development.
Admissions
Berry College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Berry College alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Robert F. Maddox: Former U.S. Ambassador to Angola.
- Joel Osteen: Senior pastor of Lakewood Church.
- Martha McSally: Former U.S. Representative and U.S. Air Force Colonel.
Emory University
Overview
Emory University is a private research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. Known for its strong programs in medicine, business, and law, Emory offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1836 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, Emory University has grown to become one of the leading research universities in the United States. The university emphasizes academic excellence, research, and community service.
Academic Offerings
Emory University offers programs across various schools, including:
- Emory College of Arts and Sciences
- Goizueta Business School
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
- Rollins School of Public Health
- School of Law
- School of Medicine
Popular majors include Biology, Business Administration, Political Science, Psychology, and Nursing.
Student Life
Emory University provides a dynamic campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes experiential learning and global engagement.
Unique Features
- Research Excellence: Strong emphasis on research and innovation.
- Healthcare Programs: Renowned programs in medicine, nursing, and public health.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in a historic area of Atlanta with modern facilities.
- Global Perspective: Diverse student body and numerous study abroad opportunities.
Admissions
Emory University’s admissions process is highly selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership. The university seeks students who are intellectually curious and committed to making a positive impact.
Alumni
Emory alumni are leaders in various fields, including healthcare, business, law, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Newt Gingrich: Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.
- Robert W. Woodruff: Former president of The Coca-Cola Company.
- Allyson Felix: Olympic gold medalist in track and field.
Mercer University
Overview
Mercer University is a private university located in Macon, Georgia, with additional campuses in Atlanta and Savannah. Known for its strong programs in health sciences, business, and law, Mercer offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1833 by the Georgia Baptist Convention, Mercer University has a long history of academic excellence and community service. The university emphasizes a liberal arts education combined with professional preparation.
Academic Offerings
Mercer University offers programs across various colleges, including:
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Stetson-Hatcher School of Business
- School of Law
- School of Medicine
- College of Pharmacy
- School of Engineering
Popular majors include Business Administration, Engineering, Biology, Nursing, and Psychology.
Student Life
Mercer University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Healthcare Focus: Strong programs in medicine, pharmacy, and nursing.
- Research Opportunities: Numerous opportunities for undergraduate and graduate research.
- Beautiful Campuses: Historic Macon campus with additional modern facilities in Atlanta and Savannah.
- Community Engagement: Emphasis on volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Mercer University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about their chosen field of study and community service.
Alumni
Mercer alumni are leaders in various fields, including healthcare, law, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Nathan Deal: Former Governor of Georgia.
- Nancy Grace: Legal commentator and television host.
- Griffin Bell: Former U.S. Attorney General.
Morehouse College
Overview
Morehouse College is a private historically black men’s liberal arts college located in Atlanta, Georgia. Known for its strong emphasis on leadership and service, Morehouse offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1867 as the Augusta Institute, Morehouse College has a long history of producing leaders and activists. The college is one of only three remaining historically black men’s colleges in the United States.
Academic Offerings
Morehouse College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Political Science
- English
- Psychology
- Economics
The college also offers interdisciplinary majors and minors, emphasizing critical thinking and social justice.
Student Life
Morehouse College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and leadership opportunities. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Leadership Focus: Strong emphasis on leadership development and community service.
- Historically Black College: Commitment to empowering African American men.
- Location: Situated in the heart of Atlanta, offering access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Diverse Community: Inclusive and supportive environment with a focus on brotherhood and solidarity.
Admissions
Morehouse College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are intellectually curious and committed to making a positive impact.
Alumni
Morehouse alumni are leaders in various fields, including civil rights, politics, business, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil rights leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
- Spike Lee: Film director and producer.
- Samuel L. Jackson: Actor.
Oglethorpe University
Overview
Oglethorpe University is a private liberal arts college located in Atlanta, Georgia. Known for its rigorous academics and strong community, Oglethorpe offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1835, Oglethorpe University has a long history of academic excellence and innovation. The university emphasizes a liberal arts education that fosters critical thinking and creativity.
Academic Offerings
Oglethorpe University offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Psychology
- English
- History
- Theatre
The university also offers pre-professional programs in law, medicine, and education.
Student Life
Oglethorpe University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Liberal Arts Focus: Strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary learning.
- Historic Campus: Beautiful campus with historic and modern facilities.
- Atlanta Location: Situated in the heart of Atlanta, offering access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for community service and leadership development.
Admissions
Oglethorpe University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Oglethorpe alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Sidney Lanier: Poet and musician.
- Jay Sekulow: Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice.
- John Knott: Environmentalist and urban planner.
Piedmont University
Overview
Piedmont University is a private university located in Demorest, Georgia, with an additional campus in Athens, Georgia. Known for its strong programs in education, business, and health sciences, Piedmont offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1897 as the J.S. Green Collegiate Institute, Piedmont University has grown to become a comprehensive university with a focus on liberal arts and professional preparation. The university emphasizes a student-centered approach to education.
Academic Offerings
Piedmont University offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences
Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Nursing, Psychology, and Criminal Justice.
Student Life
Piedmont University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement.
Unique Features
- Student-Centered Education: Emphasis on personalized education and student success.
- Healthcare Focus: Strong programs in nursing and health sciences.
- Beautiful Campuses: Historic Demorest campus with additional modern facilities in Athens.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Piedmont University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about their chosen field of study and community service.
Alumni
Piedmont alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, healthcare, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Billy Napier: Head football coach at the University of Florida.
- Steve Gooch: Georgia State Senator.
- Keith McDaniel: Film director and producer.
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Overview
The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is a private university with campuses in Savannah and Atlanta, Georgia, as well as online programs. Known for its strong emphasis on the arts and design, SCAD offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1978 by Paula Wallace, SCAD has grown to become one of the leading art and design universities in the United States. The university emphasizes creativity, innovation, and professional preparation.
Academic Offerings
SCAD offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Building Arts
- School of Communication Arts
- School of Design
- School of Fashion
- School of Fine Arts
- School of Digital Media
Popular majors include Animation, Graphic Design, Fashion, Film and Television, Interior Design, and Photography.
Student Life
SCAD provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and creative opportunities. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and professional development.
Unique Features
- Creative Focus: Strong emphasis on the arts, design, and creative industries.
- Global Perspective: Campuses in Savannah, Atlanta, and international locations, as well as online programs.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern facilities and resources for creative and professional development.
- Professional Preparation: Numerous opportunities for internships, industry partnerships, and career development.
Admissions
SCAD’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, portfolio review, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about their chosen field of study and creative expression.
Alumni
SCAD alumni are leaders in various creative fields, including art, design, film, fashion, and digital media. Notable alumni include:
- Kourtney Kardashian: Television personality and entrepreneur.
- Margaret Russell: Former Editor-in-Chief of Architectural Digest.
- India.Arie: Grammy-winning singer and songwriter.
Spelman College
Overview
Spelman College is a private historically black women’s liberal arts college located in Atlanta, Georgia. Known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and leadership, Spelman offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1881 as the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary, Spelman College has a long history of producing leaders and activists. The college is one of the leading historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States.
Academic Offerings
Spelman College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Economics
- English
- Health Sciences
The college also offers interdisciplinary majors and minors, emphasizing critical thinking and social justice.
Student Life
Spelman College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and leadership opportunities. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Leadership Focus: Strong emphasis on leadership development and community service.
- Historically Black College: Commitment to empowering African American women.
- Location: Situated in the heart of Atlanta, offering access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Diverse Community: Inclusive and supportive environment with a focus on sisterhood and solidarity.
Admissions
Spelman College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are intellectually curious and committed to making a positive impact.
Alumni
Spelman alumni are leaders in various fields, including civil rights, politics, business, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Alice Walker: Pulitzer Prize-winning author.
- Stacey Abrams: Politician and voting rights activist.
- Marian Wright Edelman: Founder and president of the Children’s Defense Fund.
Wesleyan College
Overview
Wesleyan College is a private women’s liberal arts college located in Macon, Georgia. Known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and leadership, Wesleyan offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1836, Wesleyan College is the first college in the world chartered to grant degrees to women. The college has a long history of producing leaders and activists.
Academic Offerings
Wesleyan College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Psychology
- English
- Political Science
- Theatre
The college also offers pre-professional programs in law, medicine, and education.
Student Life
Wesleyan College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and leadership opportunities. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Leadership Focus: Strong emphasis on leadership development and community service.
- Historic Campus: Beautiful campus with historic and modern facilities.
- Location: Situated in Macon, offering access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Diverse Community: Inclusive and supportive environment with a focus on sisterhood and solidarity.
Admissions
Wesleyan College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Wesleyan alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Mary McLeod Bethune: Educator and civil rights leader.
- Dorothy Height: Civil rights and women’s rights activist.
- Pearl Cleage: Author and playwright.
Young Harris College
Overview
Young Harris College is a private liberal arts college located in Young Harris, Georgia. Known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and personal growth, Young Harris offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1886 as McTyeire Institute, Young Harris College has a long history of academic excellence and community engagement. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education that fosters critical thinking and creativity.
Academic Offerings
Young Harris College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Psychology
- English
- Theatre
- Music
The college also offers pre-professional programs in law, medicine, and education.
Student Life
Young Harris College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Liberal Arts Focus: Strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Situated in the scenic North Georgia mountains with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
- Personalized Education: Emphasis on personalized education and student success.
Admissions
Young Harris College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Young Harris alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Zell Miller: Former Governor of Georgia and U.S. Senator.
- Ronnie Milsap: Grammy-winning country music singer and musician.
- Trisha Yearwood: Grammy-winning country music singer.