Overview
Clark Atlanta University was formed in 1988 through the consolidation of Clark College (founded 1869) and Atlanta University (founded 1865), the nation's oldest graduate institution serving African Americans. As part of the Atlanta University Center consortium alongside Morehouse and Spelman Colleges, CAU carries a legacy deeply tied to Black educational advancement post-Emancipation and remains one of the most prominent HBCUs in the country. It is especially known for its strong programs in business, mass communications, and the social sciences, as well as its historic ties to influential scholars like W.E.B. Du Bois, who taught at Atlanta University.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Founded | 1988 |
| Total students | 3,800 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 17:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 55% |
| Graduation rate | 45% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $24,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $24,000 |
| Room & board | $13,000 |
| Average financial aid | $18,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 870-1050 |
| ACT range | 16-20 |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | May 1 |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Mass Media Arts
- Psychology
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.