Atlanta, GA, September 23, 2025
News Summary
Clark Atlanta University (CAU) has been recognized as the No. 16 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, CAU ranks No. 52 in social mobility among National Universities, sharing this position with Princeton University. The rankings evaluate over 1,700 colleges based on academic quality and graduate success metrics. President George T. French, Jr. highlights the importance of social mobility in CAU’s mission. Established through the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College, CAU serves nearly 4,000 students.
Atlanta, GA – Clark Atlanta University (CAU) has been ranked No. 16 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for 2026 by U.S. News & World Report. Moreover, CAU has achieved a significant milestone, ranking No. 52 in social mobility among National Universities, sharing this prestigious spot with Princeton University, which is recognized as the No. 1 Best National University.
The rankings evaluate over 1,700 U.S. colleges and universities, utilizing up to 17 factors that focus on academic quality and graduate success. Key metrics include graduation rates, graduate indebtedness, and post-graduate earnings, with more than half of the factors dedicated to measuring student outcomes.
President George T. French, Jr., Ph.D., expressed pride in CAU’s upward trajectory in rankings, underscoring the importance of social mobility in the university’s mission. U.S. News publishes these rankings annually to assist prospective students and families in evaluating the merits of undergraduate programs.
CAU was formed through the consolidation of Atlanta University, established in 1865, and Clark College, founded in 1869. Atlanta University holds the distinction of being the first institution to award graduate degrees to African Americans, while Clark College was the first four-year liberal arts college serving primarily African Americans.
The university boasts nearly 4,000 students and is the largest institution within the Atlanta University Center Consortium. It also ranks as the largest among the 37-member United Negro College Fund (UNCF) institutions. CAU offers a diverse array of bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs in fields including business, education, public administration, social work, and innovative areas such as cyber-physical systems.
Notable alumni from CAU include influential figures such as James Weldon Johnson, Ralph David Abernathy Sr., Congressman Hank Johnson, Kenya Barris, Kenny Leon, and Jacque Reid.
On September 23, 2025, CAU and other HBCUs in Atlanta experienced a lockdown due to threats received, which were later deemed unsubstantiated. The FBI is actively investigating instances of hoax threats targeting HBCUs nationwide, highlighting the seriousness of these incidents.
Conclusion
The recognition achieved by Clark Atlanta University reflects its commitment to enhancing academic excellence and student outcomes, reinforcing its role as a beacon of education within the African American community.
FAQs
1. What rank does Clark Atlanta University hold among HBCUs for 2026?
Clark Atlanta University (CAU) has been ranked No. 16 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for 2026 by U.S. News & World Report.
2. How does CAU rank in social mobility among National Universities?
CAU has also been ranked No. 52 in social mobility among National Universities, sharing the spot with Princeton University, which is ranked as the No. 1 Best National University.
3. What factors are used to evaluate the rankings by U.S. News?
The rankings evaluate over 1,700 U.S. colleges and universities using up to 17 factors focused on academic quality and graduate success.
4. What is the size of CAU’s student population?
CAU has nearly 4,000 students and is the largest institution within the Atlanta University Center Consortium.
5. What are some notable alumni from CAU?
Notable alumni from CAU include James Weldon Johnson, Ralph David Abernathy Sr., Congressman Hank Johnson, Kenya Barris, Kenny Leon, and Jacque Reid.
Key Features of Clark Atlanta University Rankings
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking among HBCUs | No. 16 for 2026 |
| Social Mobility Ranking | No. 52 among National Universities (tied with Princeton) |
| Number of Institutions Evaluated | Over 1,700 |
| Factors for Evaluation | Up to 17 factors focusing on academic quality and graduate success |
| Student Population | Nearly 4,000 |
| Notable Alumni | James Weldon Johnson, Ralph David Abernathy Sr., Congressman Hank Johnson, Kenya Barris, Kenny Leon, Jacque Reid |
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Additional Resources
- U.S. News & World Report Ranks Clark Atlanta University
- Shelter-in-Place Issued at Clark Atlanta University
- Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University Under Shelter-in-Place Orders
- Police Presence Near Clark Atlanta University
- Spelman College Sheltering in Place After Threats
- Wikipedia: Clark Atlanta University
- Google Search: Clark Atlanta University
- Google Scholar: Clark Atlanta University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Clark Atlanta University
- Google News: Clark Atlanta University
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.
