Statesboro, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Georgia Southern University (GSU) has been ranked as one of the top 10 most popular universities in the nation for the second consecutive year. Notably, GSU shares the seventh place with Yale University, the only southern university in the top 10. The university has a remarkable enrollment rate and is known for several top-notch academic programs. GSU has made the Wall Street Journal’s Best U.S. Colleges List, reflecting its commitment to student outcomes and creating opportunities for graduates. The university aims to achieve Carnegie R1 status in the near future.
Georgia Southern University Shines Bright in National Rankings
In the bustling city of Statesboro, Georgia Southern University (GSU) has made quite a splash recently by being recognized as one of the top 10 most popular universities in the nation for the second consecutive year. According to a respected ranking, GSU shares the seventh spot with none other than Yale University! This exciting news places GSU right alongside esteemed institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and Brigham Young University.
Impressive Enrollment Numbers
What makes this ranking even more impressive is that Georgia Southern is the only university from the southern United States to earn a place in the top 10. This recognition is determined by the number of students who are accepted and choose to enroll, and GSU has recorded a remarkable enrollment rate of 65.9 percent for the fall 2010 semester. This speaks volumes about the university’s appeal to prospective students.
Top-Notch Academic Programs
Beyond its popularity, GSU is also garnering attention for its academic programs. The Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program stands proudly among the top 20 nationally, making it the highest-ranked program in this category for both public and private institutions in Georgia. GSU’s commitment to high-quality education is evident as it features several renowned programs that match up with those at places like Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, Columbia, and Johns Hopkins.
Moreover, GSU’s online graduate programs in business, education, information technology, and nursing have received accolades in the inaugural Top Online Education Program rankings. This recognition gives an edge to students looking for flexible learning options while still receiving top-quality education.
Recognitions of Distinction
Georgia Southern wasn’t just resting on its laurels, as it also made the Wall Street Journal’s 2025 Best U.S. Colleges List. This ranking utilizes a unique statistical approach that focuses primarily on student outcomes, learning environment, and diversity. GSU, with a ranking of 347 out of 500 U.S. colleges, has shown that it is committed to career readiness and creating opportunities beyond the classroom.
The Financial Benefits of a GSU Degree
Graduates of Georgia Southern are seeing lifelong benefits, with reports indicating that those holding a bachelor’s degree from GSU earn $1.4 million more over their lifetimes compared to individuals without a degree. That’s quite an impressive statistic, and it goes to show the value of an education from this university!
Aiming to Become Carnegie R1
Looking ahead, GSU has ambitious goals. The university is aiming to become the next Carnegie R1 institution in Georgia within the next four years, which would further solidify its standing as a top educational institution.
With approximately 155 degree programs offered to over 26,100 students across three campuses and online, Georgia Southern is undoubtedly a hub of learning and innovation. This recognition is expected to boost visibility for prospective students and showcase the achievements of its graduates to potential employers.
Summary of Rankings
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Overall Popularity | 7th (Tied with Yale) |
| Master of Science in Nursing | Top 20 Nationally |
| Online MBA Programs | 100th |
| Best Colleges by Wall Street Journal | 347th |
| Online Master’s in Education | 85th |
FAQs
What is the significance of Georgia Southern University being ranked among the top 10 universities?
This recognition highlights GSU’s popularity among prospective students and reflects the quality of education offered at the university.
How was the ranking determined?
The ranking is based on the percentage of students accepted who choose to enroll at the university.
What are some notable programs at GSU?
GSU’s Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program and its online graduate programs in business and education are among its most recognized offerings.
What are the future goals for Georgia Southern University?
GSU aims to achieve Carnegie R1 status in Georgia within the next four years, significantly enhancing its research profile.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Ranked as One of America’s Best Cities
Georgia Ranks 7th Best State for Business
Georgia State University Secures Grant for Career Readiness
Additional Resources
- Statesboro Herald: GSU One of Most Popular Colleges in US
- The George-Anne: Georgia Southern Soars on the Wall Street Journal’s Best Colleges 2025 List
- Georgia Southern Athletics: Men’s Tennis Enters ITA National Team Rankings at No. 75
- Online Athens: Best Colleges in Georgia
- Money: Best Colleges
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.


