Atlanta, Georgia, October 16, 2025
News Summary
The University System of Georgia has achieved significant milestones with record-breaking enrollment and graduation rates. Over 82,000 degrees were conferred this past year, marking a 7.9% increase from the previous year, while enrollment is set to exceed 380,000 students, reflecting a 4.6% increase. This growth underscores the commitment to education and the success of new initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility. Key programs in high-demand sectors are thriving, contributing to an overall rise in degree attainment and preparation for the job market.
Exciting Times in Georgia: Record Enrollment and Graduation Rates at USG
Atlanta, Georgia—The University System of Georgia (USG) has hit some remarkable milestones, achieving record-breaking enrollment and graduation rates in fiscal year 2025. As the academic year wrapped up in June, it’s clear that both students and the institutions they attend are on an upward trajectory.
Soaring Degrees Conferred
This past year, USG conferred more than 82,000 degrees, which is a staggering 7.9% increase from the previous year. This has been noted as the largest year-over-year jump in the last decade and an all-time high for the 26 public universities within the system. This surge in degrees not only highlights the dedication to student success but also emphasizes the value these achievements bring to the state and its economy.
Enrollment Breaks New Ground
Not only have graduation rates increased, but enrollment is also looking better than ever. Preliminary data suggests that the USG is on track to reach over 380,000 students, reflecting a 4.6% increase from last year’s record of 364,725 students. This upward trend is evident across all USG institutions, with comprehensive universities like Georgia Southern University and Kennesaw State University seeing the largest rise of 7.2%.
Research Universities Shine
Additionally, research universities within the USG, including Augusta University, Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and The University of Georgia, have seen record enrollment figures. For instance, Georgia Tech has not only exceeded 56,700 students but has welcomed nearly 4,100 freshmen, setting a new record for the institution.
Strategies to Expand
One of the successful strategies contributing to this growth includes an emphasis on expanding online graduate programs, making education more accessible. USG anticipates reporting an all-time high in fall freshman enrollment, even in light of a projected “demographic cliff” due to declining birth rates.
Graduation Rates on the Rise
The total number of degrees conferred includes a remarkable 15.2% increase in graduate and professional degrees and a 4.3% rise in undergraduate degrees. The number of master’s degrees awarded has surged 40% since 2021, showcasing a growing interest in advanced education. Additionally, interest in undergraduate certificates has risen from approximately 1,700 to nearly 2,500 over the same period.
Focus on Career-Oriented Programs
USG has continually emphasized preparing graduates for high-demand job markets aligned with state economic needs. Programs in key sectors like education, health care, data science, finance technology, and entertainment have all shown significant growth. The system reported a noteworthy 2,400 increase in education degrees awarded—49% more compared to 2021.
Educational Initiatives and Support
Since 2011, the enrollment across the USG has grown by 12.8%, while degrees awarded have increased by 50.6%. This growth has coincided with the system’s participation in the Complete College America program. A range of initiatives has been implemented to sustain and enhance this progress, including the introduction of the Georgia Degrees Pay website to inform families about college costs and success rates. The Georgia Momentum Approach also plays a crucial role, utilizing predictive analytics to better advise students during their transition to college.
Graduation Rates: A Closer Look
The four-year graduation rates vary across institutions. The overall rate for the 2020 freshman cohort stands at 35.6%, while Georgia Tech and The University of Georgia boast impressive rates of 69.3% and 77.4%, respectively. On the flip side, some institutions like Fort Valley State University and Georgia Gwinnett College report lower graduation rates of 15.9% and 10.2%.
High School Graduation Rates in Georgia
It’s worth mentioning that Georgia’s high school graduation rate also reached an all-time high of 87.2% in 2025, with 134 school districts achieving rates of 90% or above. This collective effort from schools and districts aims to ensure all students graduate prepared for either postsecondary education or employment.
FAQ Section
How many degrees did the University System of Georgia confer in fiscal year 2025?
The University System of Georgia conferred more than 82,000 degrees in fiscal year 2025.
What was the increase in enrollment at the University System of Georgia?
Enrollment at the University System of Georgia is expected to reach over 380,000 students, representing a 4.6% increase from the previous year’s record of 364,725 students.
What strategies has USG implemented to expand enrollment?
Strategies for growth in enrollment include expanding online graduate programs.
What initiatives does USG have to support student success?
USG’s initiatives include introducing the Georgia Degrees Pay website and the Georgia Momentum Approach, which uses predictive analytics for advising students.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Kennesaw Reports $2.3 Billion Economic Impact
Kennesaw State University Shines with Record Economic Impact
Georgia Colleges Consider Merger for Stronger Education
Additional Resources
- AJC: Georgia’s Public Universities Hit Record High for Graduates
- Google Search: Georgia Education
- Savannah Now: Enrollment and Graduation Rates Rise at Georgia Colleges
- Wikipedia: Public University System of Georgia
- Valdosta Today: Valdosta Students Graduate from Georgia Tech
- Google Scholar: Georgia Public Universities Graduation Rates
- WSB Radio: Georgia Students Outperform National Average ACT
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education
- Grice Connect: Georgia Graduation Rate Climbs to Historic High
- Google News: Georgia Graduation Rates
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.
