Clayton State University Improves Its Social Mobility Ranking Three Years in a Row

(October 9, 2025) - Clayton State University recently received its annual evaluation from the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings. 

According to the U.S. News & World Report, Clayton State officially ranks #21 in Social Mobility – Regional Universities South – a notable 5-spot gain from the institution’s 2025 ranking, where CSU ranked #26. Currently Clayton State is second in the state of Georgia in this category of Regional Universities South behind Fort Valley State University from Fort Valley, Georgia. 

“For the third consecutive year, our rise in the U.S. News & World Report Social Mobility rankings affirms that Clayton State University is delivering on its promise to transform lives,” said Dr. Georj Lewis, President of CSU. “Our strategic plan centers on holistic student success—from enrollment to career readiness—and we continue to invest in high-impact academic programs with strong returns that are currently in demand in Georgia, such as nursing and healthcare management, while also exploring emerging fields that meet future workforce demands, including expanded offerings in cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI).” 

Additionally, U.S. News & World Report also ranked Clayton State University at #39 Top Public Universities, Regional Universities South; and #80 in Regional Universities (South).  

US News & World Report finds Clayton State University tuition costs are lower than the national average.  Clayton State University's tuition is $6,224 for in-state students and $20,414 for out-of-state students. Compared to the national average cost of in-state tuition of $12,422, Clayton State University is more affordable. For students coming from out of state, the tuition is lower than the national average cost of out-of-state tuition, which is $29,909.