Albany State University's Student Population: How Many Attend?

Albany State University (ASU), a public, historically black university in Albany, Georgia, has experienced fluctuations in its student population over the years. The university was expected to have an enrollment of around 9,000 students after the consolidation of Darton State College and Albany State University in 2017. However, the combined enrollment saw a significant decrease, with Fall 2017 enrollments totalling 6,615 students, representing a 27% decline over the previous four years. More recently, ASU has seen positive growth in its student numbers. Spring Enrollment for the 2023/2024 academic year increased by 3.3% compared to the previous year, and the university also experienced a notable summer enrollment increase in 2023, with over 3,200 students, an improvement on the 2,896 students enrolled the previous summer. While specific figures for total enrollment are not readily available, it appears that ASU's student population is on an upward trajectory, with the university attracting and retaining an increasing number of students.

Albany State University's student population

Albany State University (ASU) is a public, historically black university in Albany, Georgia. It was founded in 1903 as the Albany Bible and Manual Training Institute by Joseph Winthrop Holley, who was inspired by W.E.B. Du Bois to start a school for the education of local Black people. The institution was turned over to the state of Georgia in 1917 and, after several name changes, became Albany State University in 1996.

Today, ASU has two campuses in Albany (East and West) and a satellite campus in Cordele. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate liberal arts and professional degree programs. According to a 2023 estimate, ASU's total student population is around 6,500, with an acceptance rate of 100%. The student body consists of both traditional and non-traditional students, with an average age of 24. In terms of demographics, the student population is predominantly female, with a significant majority identifying as Black/African American.

ASU has experienced fluctuations in its enrollment numbers over the years. In 2017, following the consolidation of Darton State College and Albany State University, the combined enrollment decreased by 27% compared to the individual enrollment numbers of the previous year. However, more recently, ASU has seen an upward trend in enrollment. In 2023, the university reported an increase of over 3,200 students during the summer term compared to the previous summer. This growth is attributed to the university's commitment to student success and the implementation of programs that support students' academic experiences.

ASU's retention rates have also improved significantly. According to reports, the university achieved a 14.9% increase in overall retention numbers from 2022 to 2023, with a notable rise in the retention of first-time, full-time freshmen. This positive trend reflects the effectiveness of ASU's initiatives and programs aimed at fostering student success and academic excellence.

The university's enrolment growth

The University's Enrollment Growth

Albany State University (ASU) has experienced fluctuations in its student enrollment since its establishment, with several factors influencing its growth trajectory.

In 1943, the transition from a two-year agricultural and teacher-training institution to a four-year college significantly boosted enrollment numbers. This change marked a pivotal moment in the institution's history, setting the stage for its evolution into a university.

However, in 2017, ASU witnessed a notable decrease in enrollment following its consolidation with Darton State College. The combined enrollment of both institutions decreased by 27% from 2013 to 2017, falling to 6,615 students. This decline was an unexpected outcome of the merger, which had anticipated a higher combined enrollment.

Despite this setback, ASU demonstrated its resilience by achieving consistent enrollment growth in subsequent years. In 2023, the university recorded a notable increase in summer enrollment, surpassing 3,200 students. This growth represented a significant jump from the previous summer's enrollment of 2,896 students. The university attributed this success to the dedicated efforts of its faculty, staff, and students, along with the implementation of programs such as the Summer Success Academy and University College, which enhance the overall student experience.

The positive trend continued into the 2023-2024 academic year, with a 3.3% increase in spring enrollment compared to the previous year. This growth translated to an additional 192 students joining the ASU community. The university's retention rates also improved significantly, with a 14.9% overall retention increase from 2022 to 2023 for full and part-time Bachelor's degree-seeking students. The retention rate for first-time, full-time freshmen pursuing Bachelor's degrees stood at 78.4%, reflecting a commitment to student success and academic excellence.

ASU's recent enrollment growth and retention achievements can be attributed to the university's focus on providing a dynamic and diverse learning environment, along with comprehensive transition programs that facilitate a seamless adaptation to university life. The university's commitment to fostering student success and academic excellence has been a key driver in attracting and retaining students, positioning ASU as a thriving and attractive educational institution.

Student demographics

Albany State University (ASU) is a public, historically black university in Albany, Georgia. The university has experienced fluctuations in its student population over the years, with a significant decrease following the consolidation of Darton State College and Albany State University in 2017. As of Fall 2023, the university's student body consists of nearly 6,500 students, a mix of traditional and non-traditional learners, with an average age of 24. The gender distribution is uneven, with 74.5% female students and 25.5% male students.

In terms of ethnic and racial composition, the student population is predominantly Black/African American (80.9%), with smaller proportions of White (7.6%), Hispanic/Latino (4.2%), Asian (0.5%), and American Indian or Alaska Native (0.2%) students. The university attracts students primarily from Atlanta and Southwest and Central Georgia.

ASU has a diverse student body, offering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. The university's acceptance rate is 100%, making it accessible to a wide range of students. The student-faculty ratio is 15:1, allowing for more personalised attention and support. Additionally, 42% of the classes have fewer than 20 students, creating a more intimate and engaging learning environment.

The university has seen positive trends in both enrollment and retention rates, with a 3.3% increase in spring enrollment for the 2023/2024 academic year compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to the dedicated efforts of the faculty, staff, and students, as well as the implementation of successful programs that support student success and academic excellence.

ASU offers a range of academic programs, with popular majors including health professions, homeland security, law enforcement, business, management, psychology, and education. The university provides a well-rounded experience, with a balance of academic rigor and a vibrant campus life, including varsity sports and Greek life. The retention rate for first-time, full-time freshmen pursuing Bachelor's degrees is impressive, with 78.4% returning to continue their studies.

Student life and activities

Albany State University (ASU) is a public, historically black university in Georgia with two campuses in Albany and a satellite campus in Cordele. The university offers a vibrant student life with various activities and opportunities for its diverse student body.

ASU provides a holistic and engaging student experience through various initiatives and programs. The Office of Student Engagement plays a crucial role in enhancing student learning and development. It assists with student retention, fosters personal growth, promotes cultural diversity, and improves the overall educational journey. The office supports various programs, including Student Programming, Community Service Projects, Intramural Sports and Recreation, Greek Life, and Student Leadership Development Programs.

ASU offers over 60 clubs and organizations, catering to a range of interests. These include bands, choirs, religious groups, honor societies, Greek fraternities and sororities, and ROTC. The university also has a Student Government Association (SGA), which serves as the advocate for the student body, working towards their betterment and encouraging cooperation within the university community.

The Student Activities Advisory Board (SAAB) is another vital organization that enliven the campus with events and programs. The Student Centers serve as gathering places, fostering a sense of community and providing a range of services and facilities for students, including recreational centers, a bookstore, laundry services, and dining options.

ASU also prioritizes academic excellence and student success. The Summer Success Academy is a notable example of their commitment, offering a 6-week residential program for incoming freshmen to ease their transition and provide learning opportunities. The university also offers academic support, financial aid guidance, and career services to ensure students' success.

Athletics and extracurricular activities are an essential part of ASU. The university participates in NCAA Division II sports, including football, basketball, baseball, golf, cheerleading, volleyball, and track and field. The university's women's soccer team competes in the Peach Belt Conference. ASU also has a rich history in the Civil Rights Movement, with students actively involved in creating the Albany Movement, bringing prominent civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. to the town.

With a diverse student population, ASU creates an inclusive and supportive environment, promoting cultural diversity and student engagement. The average student age is 24, and about 40% live in on-campus housing. The university welcomes students from various backgrounds, with a significant number coming from Atlanta and Southwest and Central Georgia.

ASU provides a well-rounded and enriching student experience, ensuring that students have the resources and support to succeed academically and personally. The university fosters a sense of community and encourages students to get involved, leave their mark, and build a successful future.

Academic programs and rankings

Albany State University (ASU) is a public, historically black university in Albany, Georgia. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 6,018 students as of Fall 2023 and offers a wide array of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate liberal arts and professional degree programs. The university has two primary campuses in Albany (East and West Campus) and a satellite campus in Cordele (Cordele Center), as well as online learning options.

ASU is made up of three colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, Education, and Professional Studies, and the Darton College of Health Professions. Together, these colleges offer over 35 undergraduate certificate, associate, and bachelor degree programs. The university also offers more than 10 graduate degree programs and over 20 online programs.

The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, and education specialist degrees. Additionally, many academic programs have attained accreditation from or membership in national professional organizations.

In the 2025 edition of Best Colleges, ASU was ranked #97 in Regional Universities South and #40 in Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The university was also ranked #49 in Top Public Schools. According to U.S. News & World Report, ASU was ranked 40th among HBCUs in 2019 and 107th-141st on the Regional Universities (South) list. The university's most popular majors include health professions, homeland security, law enforcement, business, management, psychology, and education.

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