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Georgia State University

Address: 33 Gilmer St SE, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
Phone: +1 404-413-2000
Email: admissions@gsu.edu
Website: www.gsu.edu


About Georgia State University

Georgia State University, founded in 1913, has a mission of excellence in teaching, research and service. Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this major research university has an enrollment of more than 27,000 undergraduate and graduate students in six colleges. Georgia State is the second largest university in the state, with students coming from every county in Georgia, every state in the nation and from over 145 countries.

Why Georgia State University

Georgia State University (GSU) is well-known for several key reasons that distinguish it in the landscape of higher education:

1. Commitment to Student Success and Access

  • GSU is nationally recognized for its innovative approaches to improving student retention and graduation rates, especially among underserved and first-generation students. Through initiatives like predictive analytics, proactive advising, and the Panther Retention Grants (small grants to help students overcome financial obstacles), GSU has significantly increased graduation rates, setting an example for universities across the country.

2. Diversity and Inclusivity

  • GSU is one of the most diverse universities in the U.S. and is ranked among the top institutions for graduating African American students and other minority groups. The university’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment that promotes success for all students has made it a model for urban public universities.

3. Research and Innovation

  • As a Carnegie R1 research institution, GSU conducts high-impact research in fields such as public health, biomedical sciences, urban studies, and public policy. The university receives significant funding for research, particularly in health sciences, and is involved in collaborative research projects that address pressing global issues.

4. Urban Location in Atlanta

  • Located in the heart of Atlanta, GSU provides students with access to a thriving metropolitan area rich in opportunities. Students benefit from internships, partnerships, and networking within Atlanta's business, government, healthcare, and media sectors. The city’s fast-growing industries in film, technology, and finance provide a variety of career pathways for GSU graduates.

5. Excellence in Public Policy and Law

  • The Andrew Young School of Policy Studies and College of Law are known for their work in public policy, urban planning, and criminal justice. The School of Policy Studies is highly regarded for research that informs public policy and tackles urban issues, while the College of Law emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement, making it a respected law school in the Southeast.

6. Impact on Public Health

  • GSU’s School of Public Health addresses complex public health challenges, particularly those affecting urban areas. The university's research initiatives in health equity, disease prevention, and environmental health are impactful, contributing to public health advancements and policies that benefit local and global communities.

7. Strong Arts and Media Programs

  • GSU’s programs in Film and Media Studies leverage Atlanta’s booming film industry, providing students with hands-on experiences in film production, screenwriting, and media. The College of the Arts connects students with Atlanta’s arts community and prepares them for careers in creative industries.

8. Entrepreneurial and Business Leadership

  • The J. Mack Robinson College of Business is one of the largest business schools in the country, with a strong reputation for finance, risk management, and real estate. Its Executive MBA and other business programs are highly ranked, and the college has developed strong ties with Atlanta’s business community, offering students a gateway to leadership roles in various industries.

9. Social Mobility

  • GSU is often ranked highly for social mobility, meaning it helps students from lower-income backgrounds move into higher income brackets after graduation. Its focus on removing barriers to success has made GSU a national leader in educational access and economic opportunity.

10. Notable Alumni

  • GSU alumni have made notable contributions in diverse fields such as business, politics, entertainment, and academia. They often return to support the university and provide mentorship, further strengthening GSU’s impact on the community.

Georgia State University (GSU) has specific English language requirements for international students and non-native English speakers to ensure they can succeed academically. Here’s an overview:

1. Undergraduate Admissions

  • English Proficiency Tests: International undergraduate applicants who did not complete secondary education in an English-speaking country are required to demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests:

    • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 69 on the Internet-based test (iBT).
    • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum score of 6.0 overall.
    • Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 95.

  • Exemptions: Students from English-speaking countries or those who have completed secondary education in English may be exempt from the English proficiency requirement.

2. Graduate Admissions

  • English Proficiency Tests: Graduate applicants must meet specific English proficiency requirements, which may vary by program, with minimum scores generally as follows:

    • TOEFL: Typically requires a minimum score of 80 on the iBT.
    • IELTS: Requires a minimum score of 6.5 overall.
    • Duolingo: Generally requires a minimum score of 115.

  • Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs, especially in fields such as health sciences and business, may have higher score requirements. Applicants should check with their specific program of interest.

3. Intensive English Program (IEP)

  • For students who do not meet GSU's language requirements, the university offers an Intensive English Program that provides intensive English language instruction. Completion of the IEP can fulfill the English proficiency requirement for degree programs.

4. Conditional Admission

  • Some departments may offer conditional admission to students who meet academic requirements but not English language proficiency requirements. These students may need to complete additional English language courses before beginning their degree program.

5. Additional Documentation

  • GSU may also request additional documentation, such as essays or interviews, to assess an applicant’s English proficiency.

Georgia State University (GSU) in Atlanta, Georgia, offers a wide range of academic programs with particular strengths in various fields. Here are some of GSU’s course specialties:

1. Business

  • J. Mack Robinson College of Business: Known for its programs in Finance, Risk Management and Insurance, Real Estate, and Accounting. GSU’s location in Atlanta provides students with ample internship and networking opportunities in a major financial hub.

2. Law

  • College of Law: GSU's law program is respected for specialties in Health Law, Intellectual Property Law, and Public Interest Law. The Health Law Partnership, a unique collaboration with medical and law professionals, is a highlight of the program.

3. Public Health

  • School of Public Health: Focuses on areas such as Epidemiology, Environmental Health, and Health Policy. The school emphasizes urban health issues and social determinants of health, taking advantage of GSU’s urban location to address community health needs.

4. Education and Human Development

  • College of Education and Human Development: Offers innovative programs in Urban Education, Counseling and Psychological Services, and Educational Policy Studies. The college is known for its focus on improving educational outcomes in urban environments.

5. Criminal Justice and Criminology

  • GSU’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies offers a well-regarded program in Criminal Justice and Criminology, with research focused on crime prevention, law enforcement, and public policy.

6. Arts and Media

  • College of the Arts: Offers programs in Film and Media, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts. GSU’s Film program is particularly strong, benefiting from Atlanta’s thriving film and media industry, which offers students hands-on experience in production and content creation.

7. Computer Science and Information Systems

  • Department of Computer Science and the Institute for Insight provide specialties in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Health Informatics. The interdisciplinary focus at GSU allows students to gain skills relevant to Atlanta’s tech sector.

8. Psychology

  • Psychology Department: Offers areas of focus in Clinical Psychology, Neuropsychology, and Community Psychology. The Clinical Psychology program is especially known for its emphasis on research and applied clinical training.

9. Social Work

  • School of Social Work: Specializes in Behavioral Health, Community Partnerships, and Youth Services, preparing students for roles in social advocacy and community engagement.

10. Political Science and Public Policy

  • The Andrew Young School of Policy Studies offers strengths in Public Policy, Urban and Regional Planning, and International Affairs. The college emphasizes practical experience in policymaking and public administration.

Georgia State University has a number of highly regarded professors across its various colleges and departments, known for their expertise, research, and contributions to both academia and their respective fields. Here are some notable professors:

1. Dr. Mark Becker

  • Position: Former President, currently a professor in Public Health
  • Field: Public Health and Education
  • Contributions: As GSU's former president, Dr. Becker was instrumental in GSU’s rise as a national leader in student success and research. He continues to contribute through research in public health, particularly in epidemiology and health policy.

2. Dr. Monica Swahn

  • Position: Professor of Public Health
  • Field: Public Health, Epidemiology, and Substance Abuse Prevention
  • Contributions: Dr. Swahn’s research focuses on substance abuse and violence prevention. She has led several international studies on youth risk behaviors and is widely published in public health journals.

3. Dr. Eric Wright

  • Position: Professor of Sociology and Public Health
  • Field: Sociology and Health Policy
  • Contributions: Dr. Wright is known for his work on health disparities, social determinants of health, and healthcare policy. His research has influenced policies on health services and community health in urban settings.

4. Dr. Richard Plemper

  • Position: Professor of Biomedical Sciences
  • Field: Virology and Infectious Diseases
  • Contributions: Dr. Plemper leads research on antiviral drug development, including work on treatments for respiratory diseases like influenza. His research was critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, gaining him recognition in virology.

5. Dr. Mary Beth Walker

  • Position: Professor of Economics and Associate Provost
  • Field: Economics and Urban Policy
  • Contributions: Dr. Walker is an expert in labor economics and urban policy. Her research on urban economic issues, including housing and education, is widely respected and influential in local policy decisions.

6. Dr. Robert L. Sherer

  • Position: Professor of Law
  • Field: Health Law, Bioethics, and Public Health Law
  • Contributions: Dr. Sherer is known for his work on health law and bioethics, specifically within the Health Law Partnership, where he collaborates on projects that address health care access and legal issues affecting public health.

7. Dr. Brennan Collins

  • Position: Associate Professor of English and Associate Director of GSU’s Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
  • Field: Digital Humanities and English
  • Contributions: Dr. Collins works on integrating technology in education and digital storytelling, focusing on innovative approaches to teaching and interdisciplinary studies.

8. Dr. Daniel Franklin

  • Position: Professor of Political Science
  • Field: Political Science, Public Policy
  • Contributions: Dr. Franklin is an expert in American politics and public policy. His research often explores the intersection of media, politics, and public opinion, making him a respected voice in political science.

9. Dr. Nicole Vincent

  • Position: Professor of Philosophy and Law
  • Field: Neuroethics and Philosophy of Law
  • Contributions: Dr. Vincent is known for her research in neuroethics, studying the legal and ethical implications of neuroscience advancements. Her interdisciplinary work has gained attention in both philosophy and legal fields.

10. Dr. Maurice J. Hobson

  • Position: Associate Professor of African American Studies
  • Field: African American Studies and Southern Studies
  • Contributions: Dr. Hobson’s research focuses on African American history, the American South, and race relations. His work provides a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical landscape of African American communities, particularly in Atlanta.

Georgia State University (GSU) does not currently have any faculty or alumni who have won the Nobel Prize. However, the university is known for impactful research and contributions across various fields, particularly in public health, social sciences, and law, which align with the principles celebrated by the Nobel Prizes.

Notable Contributions and Areas of Influence:

  1. Public Health: GSU’s School of Public Health addresses key issues such as urban health, infectious diseases, and health equity. Faculty research and community initiatives contribute to public health policies and practices that have broad social impact.

  2. Social Justice and Policy Research: The Andrew Young School of Policy Studies is named after civil rights leader Andrew Young and is known for research in criminal justice, public policy, and economic development. The school focuses on urban issues and social policy, which has a strong influence in Georgia and beyond.

  3. Innovative Research and Urban Development: GSU has a reputation for conducting research that directly benefits urban populations and addresses pressing societal issues. From environmental sciences to economics, faculty are involved in research with real-world applications that aim to improve lives, echoing the spirit of Nobel pursuits in peace and science.

  4. Law and Health Law Research: GSU’s College of Law is well-regarded for its contributions in health law and intellectual property. The Health Law Partnership (HeLP) is a prominent example where law, healthcare, and public interest intersect, producing legal research and community support that improves public access to health services.

  5. Civic Engagement: GSU emphasizes civic responsibility, social change, and service in urban settings, especially given its location in Atlanta. The university encourages student and faculty involvement in community projects, fostering leadership and collaboration in fields that align with Nobel ideals in peace and public welfare.