Detail |
Description |
---|---|
Founded |
1895 |
Type |
Public, Historically Black College/University (HBCU) |
Campus Location |
Fort Valley, Georgia, USA |
Campus Size |
1,365 acres (making it the largest campus in the state of Georgia by acreage) |
Affiliation |
University System of Georgia |
Mascot |
Wildcats |
Colors |
Royal Blue and Old Gold |
Student Population |
Approximately 2,300 students (as of recent enrollment data) |
Accreditation |
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
Fort Valley State University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its three colleges:
1. College of Agriculture, Family Sciences, and Technology
Agricultural Engineering Technology
Animal Science
Plant Science/Biotechnology
Veterinary Technology
Family and Consumer Sciences
Food and Nutrition
2. College of Arts and Sciences
Biology
Chemistry
Psychology
Mathematics and Computer Science
English and Mass Communications
Social Work
3. College of Education and Professional Studies
Early Childhood/Special Education
Middle Grades Education
Health and Physical Education
Organizational Leadership
Business Administration
Criminal Justice
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Biotechnology
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Master of Science in Education (M.Ed.)
Master of Animal Science
1. Land-Grant Institution
FVSU is one of Georgia's two land-grant universities (alongside the University of Georgia), meaning it receives federal funding to focus on agricultural education, research, and outreach. It plays a key role in advancing agricultural technologies and improving rural communities.
2. STEM and Agricultural Excellence
FVSU is renowned for its programs in agriculture, biotechnology, and veterinary technology. It provides hands-on learning opportunities through research labs, farm facilities, and partnerships with industry leaders.
3. Historically Black University (HBCU)
As an HBCU, FVSU has a long-standing tradition of empowering African American students while welcoming learners from all ethnicities and backgrounds.
4. Affordable Tuition
FVSU is recognized for its affordability and high return on investment. It provides quality education at lower costs compared to many other institutions.
5. Experiential Learning
Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities, including internships, cooperative education programs, and research projects.
6. Vibrant Campus Life
The university has numerous student organizations, athletic programs, and cultural events, creating a vibrant and engaging campus experience.
Campus Size:
The campus spans 1,365 acres, making it the largest in Georgia. It includes classrooms, research facilities, residential buildings, and recreational areas.
Notable Facilities:
Veterinary Technology Teaching Hospital
Agricultural Research Station
Anderson House Museum
Warner Robins Center (off-campus location for adult learners)
Residential Options:
FVSU offers on-campus housing, with residence halls designed to provide a comfortable and safe living environment for students.
Student Organizations:
Over 50 student organizations, including academic clubs, Greek life, service groups, and cultural organizations.
Athletics:
FVSU Wildcats compete in NCAA Division II sports as part of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC).
Sports include football, basketball, volleyball, softball, and track and field.
Cultural Events:
Annual events like Homecoming Week, Founders’ Day, and the Wildcat Welcome Festival celebrate FVSU’s history and community.
Community Engagement:
The university encourages volunteerism and community service through partnerships with local organizations.
FVSU provides more than 30 undergraduate degree programs across its three colleges.
College of Agriculture, Family Sciences, and Technology
Agricultural Engineering Technology (B.S.)
Agricultural Economics (B.S.)
Animal Science (B.S.)
Plant Science/Biotechnology (B.S.)
Food Science (B.S.)
Veterinary Technology (B.S.)
Family and Consumer Sciences (B.S.)
Concentrations: Child Development, Nutrition and Food Science, Fashion Merchandising
College of Arts and Sciences
Biology (B.S.)
Chemistry (B.S.)
Computer Science (B.S.)
Mathematics (B.S.)
Visual and Performing Arts (B.A.)
Concentration: Commercial Design
English and Literature (B.A.)
History (B.A.)
Mass Communications (B.A.)
Psychology (B.A.)
Social Work (B.S.W.)
Criminal Justice (B.A.)
College of Education and Professional Studies
Business Administration (B.B.A.)
Concentrations: Accounting, Marketing, Management, Supply Chain and Logistics Management
Organizational Leadership (B.S.)
Early Childhood/Special Education (B.S.)
Middle Grades Education (B.S.)
Health and Physical Education (B.S.)
Liberal Studies (B.A.)
Political Science (B.A.)
Fort Valley State University offers several master’s programs for students seeking advanced education.
College of Agriculture, Family Sciences, and Technology
Master of Science (M.S.) in Animal Science
Master of Public Health (MPH) - Concentration in Environmental Health
Master of Science (M.S.) in Biotechnology
College of Education and Professional Studies
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Concentrations: Early Childhood/Special Education, Middle Grades Education, School Counselor Education
Master of Science (M.S.) in School Counseling
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Prepares students for advanced generalist practice in social work.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Concentrations: General MBA, Supply Chain Management
FVSU offers specialized certificate programs to develop specific skills and enhance career opportunities:
Graduate Certificate in Supply Chain Management
Certificate in Computer Information Systems
Certificate in Veterinary Technology
Certificate in Food Safety and Quality
FVSU offers several pre-professional programs designed to prepare students for advanced studies in professional schools:
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Pre-Dental
Pre-Law
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Engineering
FVSU also provides online and hybrid programs to support flexible learning options:
Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership (Online)
Master of Public Health (MPH) (Hybrid)
Master of Business Administration (MBA) (Online)
Graduate Certificate in Supply Chain Management (Online)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
---|---|---|
Agricultural Engineering Technology (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Agricultural Economics (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Animal Science (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Plant Science/Biotechnology (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Veterinary Technology (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Food Science (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Family and Consumer Sciences (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Biology (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Chemistry (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Mathematics (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Computer Science (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Criminal Justice (B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Psychology (B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Mass Communications (B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Social Work (B.S.W.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
English and Literature (B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
History (B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Political Science (B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Visual and Performing Arts (B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Business Administration (B.B.A.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Organizational Leadership (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Early Childhood/Special Education (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Middle Grades Education (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Health and Physical Education (B.S.) |
4 years |
$16,554 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
---|---|---|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Biotechnology |
2 years |
$12,344 |
Master of Science (M.S.) in Animal Science |
2 years |
$12,344 |
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
$12,344 |
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1–2 years |
$12,344 |
Master of Education (M.Ed.) |
2 years |
$12,344 |
- Early Childhood/Special Education |
2 years |
$12,344 |
- Middle Grades Education |
2 years |
$12,344 |
- School Counselor Education |
2 years |
$12,344 |
Master of Science (M.S.) in School Counseling |
2 years |
$12,344 |
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) |
2 years |
$12,344 |
Affordable Tuition:
FVSU offers competitive tuition fees for international students, making it one of the most affordable options in the U.S.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
FVSU embraces students from different countries, cultures, and ethnicities, fostering a multicultural environment.
Accredited Programs:
FVSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and offers programs designed to meet global industry standards.
Small Class Sizes:
With a low student-to-faculty ratio, international students receive personalized attention and support from professors.
Hands-On Learning:
Programs such as Agricultural Sciences, Animal Science, and Biotechnology emphasize research, internships, and real-world experience.
Pathways to Career Opportunities:
FVSU helps international students gain access to internships, practical training, and job placement assistance through Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
FVSU offers a wide variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Popular programs for international students include:
Undergraduate Programs:
Agricultural Engineering Technology
Animal Science
Biotechnology
Veterinary Technology
Computer Science
Business Administration (B.B.A.)
Criminal Justice
Social Work
Psychology
Graduate Programs:
Master of Science (M.S.) in Biotechnology
Master of Science (M.S.) in Animal Science
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Steps |
Details |
---|---|
1. Choose Your Program |
- Review the available undergraduate programs offered by FVSU on the official website: FVSU Academics. |
2. Submit Online Application |
- Complete the online application through the FVSU Admissions Portal or Common App. |
3. Provide Official Transcripts |
- Submit your high school transcripts (or equivalent). Transcripts must be official and sent directly to FVSU. |
4. English Language Proficiency (International Students Only) |
- Submit English proficiency test scores (if applicable): |
5. SAT/ACT Test Scores (Optional) |
- SAT/ACT scores are optional for most programs but can strengthen your application. |
6. Submit Financial Documentation (International Students Only) |
- Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses (e.g., bank statements or sponsorship letters). |
7. Submit Additional Documents |
- Provide a copy of your passport (international students only). |
8. Track Your Application |
- Once all documents are submitted, track your application status through the Admissions Portal. |
9. Receive Admission Decision |
- Decisions are typically made within 2–4 weeks after the application and documents are received. |
10. Confirm Enrollment |
- After receiving an admission offer, confirm your enrollment by paying the enrollment deposit (if applicable). |
Steps |
Details |
---|---|
1. Choose Your Program |
- Explore the available graduate programs on the FVSU website: Graduate Programs. |
2. Submit Online Application |
- Complete the Graduate Application via the FVSU Graduate Admissions Portal. |
3. Provide Academic Records |
- Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. |
4. Submit Letters of Recommendation |
- Provide 2–3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees, depending on the program. |
5. English Language Proficiency (International Students Only) |
- Submit English proficiency test scores (if applicable): |
6. Provide Statement of Purpose |
- Submit a Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay outlining your academic and career goals, as required by the program. |
7. Provide Resume/CV |
- Some programs (e.g., MBA) require a Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting relevant work experience. |
8. Submit Financial Documentation (International Students Only) |
- Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses (e.g., bank statements or sponsorship letters). |
9. Track Your Application |
- Once all documents are submitted, track your application status through the Graduate Admissions Portal. |
10. Receive Admission Decision |
- Admission decisions are typically made within 4–6 weeks after all documents are received. |
11. Confirm Enrollment |
- Confirm your enrollment and pay the enrollment deposit if required by your program. |
FVSU has three main intakes for admissions:
Intake |
Application Deadline (Recommended) |
Programs Available |
---|---|---|
Fall Semester |
June 1 |
Most undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. |
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
Many undergraduate and graduate programs. |
Summer Semester |
April 1 |
Select undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs (e.g., MBA, Public Health). |
To be eligible for admission to undergraduate programs at FVSU, students must meet the following criteria:
Requirement |
Details |
---|---|
Academic Qualifications |
- High school diploma or equivalent. |
|
- Minimum GPA of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale. |
English Language Proficiency (International Students) |
- TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 61. |
Standardized Test Scores |
- SAT/ACT scores are optional for most programs but can strengthen the application. |
Financial Documentation (International Students) |
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses (e.g., bank statements or sponsorship letters). |
Additional Documents |
- Copy of passport (for international students). |
Eligibility criteria for graduate programs vary by program. Below are the general requirements:
Requirement |
Details |
---|---|
Academic Qualifications |
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. |
|
- Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (program-specific requirements may vary). |
English Language Proficiency (International Students) |
- TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 79. |
Additional Documents |
- Statement of Purpose: Outlining academic goals and reasons for choosing the program. |
Letters of Recommendation |
- 2–3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees, depending on the program. |
GRE/GMAT Scores (If Required) |
- Some programs, like the MBA, may require GRE or GMAT scores. Check program-specific requirements. |
Financial Documentation (International Students) |
- Proof of ability to pay for tuition and living expenses (e.g., bank statements or sponsorship letters). |
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Rank/Rating |
---|---|---|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top Regional Colleges (South) |
Ranked in Top Tier |
|
Best Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) |
Top 50 HBCUs |
|
Top Public Regional Universities (South) |
Top 30 |
Niche.com |
Best HBCUs in the U.S. |
Top 25% of HBCUs |
|
Best Colleges for Agricultural Sciences |
Recognized |
QS World University Rankings |
Global Ranking |
Not Ranked |
|
Regional or Subject-Specific Ranking |
Not Applicable |
College Consensus |
Best Colleges in Georgia |
Ranked |
|
Best Affordable Colleges in the U.S. |
Ranked |
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Recognized |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewable |
Details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Presidential Scholarship |
- High school GPA of 3.5 or higher. |
Up to Full Tuition + Fees |
Yes (with GPA ≥ 3.5) |
Covers tuition, fees, and may include room and board for outstanding students. |
Provost Scholarship |
- High school GPA of 3.25 or higher. |
Up to $5,000/year |
Yes (with GPA ≥ 3.25) |
For academically excellent students with strong test scores. |
Dean’s Scholarship |
- High school GPA of 3.0 or higher. |
Up to $3,000/year |
Yes (with GPA ≥ 3.0) |
Awarded to students with good academic records. |
International Student Scholarship |
- Must be an incoming international undergraduate student. |
$1,000–$5,000/year |
Yes (with GPA ≥ 2.5) |
Designed to help international students cover part of their tuition costs. |
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Undergraduate students with strong academic performance (GPA ≥ 3.0). |
$1,000–$5,000/year |
Yes (with GPA ≥ 3.0) |
Automatically awarded based on academic achievement upon admission. |
HBCU Scholarships |
- Open to students enrolled at HBCUs. |
(up to $10,000/year) |
Yes |
Offered to students at FVSU as part of its HBCU commitment. |
Need-Based Financial Aid |
- Based on demonstrated financial need (FAFSA required for domestic students). |
(up to $5,000) |
No |
Financial assistance for students with limited financial resources. |
STEM Innovators Scholarship |
- Enrolled in STEM-related programs (e.g., Biotechnology, Computer Science). |
$1,000–$3,000/year |
Yes |
For students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or math. |
Agriculture & Environmental Sciences Scholarship |
- Enrolled in agriculture-related programs (e.g., Animal Science, Ag Engineering). |
$1,000–$3,000/year |
Yes |
Specifically for students in FVSU's College of Agriculture programs. |
Graduate Assistantship (GA) |
- Graduate students providing research, teaching, or administrative support. |
Full/Partial Tuition + Stipend |
Yes |
Available to graduate students in exchange for part-time work on campus. |
HOPE Scholarship |
- For Georgia residents only. |
(Up to Full Tuition) |
Yes |
Funded by the state of Georgia for eligible in-state students. |
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Cost (USD/Academic Year) |
Occupancy Options |
---|---|---|---|
Wildcat Commons (Residence Halls) |
|
|
|
- Wildcat Commons I & II |
- Traditional dormitory-style housing. |
$9,000–$10,000 |
Double, Triple |
|
- Shared bedrooms with community bathrooms. |
|
|
|
- Includes Wi-Fi, basic furnishings (bed, desk, chair, wardrobe), and air-conditioning. |
|
|
- Wildcat Commons III & IV |
- Suite-style housing with 2–4 private bedrooms and shared bathrooms. |
$9,500–$11,000 |
Single, Double |
|
- Fully furnished, includes shared living space and kitchenettes. |
|
|
- Wildcat Commons V & VI |
- Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen with private bedrooms and shared kitchen. |
$10,000–$11,000 |
Single |
|
- Includes full kitchen, living area, washer/dryer, and private or semi-private bathrooms. |
|
|
Off-Campus Housing |
- Apartments and houses located near the campus (walking distance or short commute). |
$6,000–$9,000 (approx.) |
Single, Shared |
|
- Independent living with flexible options for meal preparation. |
|
|
Temporary/Short-Term Housing |
- Hotels and motels near campus for short stays (e.g., during move-in, breaks). |
$70–$150 per night |
Per night |
Aspect |
Details |
---|---|
1. Student Organizations |
- FVSU offers over 50+ student organizations ranging from academic clubs to cultural, social, and service groups. |
|
- Examples: International Students Association (ISA), Greek Life (Fraternities/Sororities), and honor societies. |
|
- Students can also join program-specific organizations like the Agriculture Club or the Biotechnology Club. |
2. Athletics and Recreation |
- FVSU Wildcats participate in NCAA Division II athletics as part of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). |
|
- Varsity Sports: Football, basketball, volleyball, softball, track and field, and cross country. |
|
- Intramural Sports: Soccer, flag football, basketball, and more for recreational athletes. |
|
- Modern recreation facilities with a gym, fitness classes, and open spaces for outdoor sports. |
3. Cultural and Social Events |
- Annual events like Homecoming Week, Founders’ Day, and the Wildcat Welcome Festival bring the campus community together. |
|
- Cultural programs include International Education Week, multicultural celebrations, and talent shows. |
4. Campus Housing and Community |
- On-campus housing creates a close-knit and supportive student community. |
|
- Residence halls are hubs for socializing, study sessions, and campus events. |
5. Dining Services |
- Dining options at the Wildcat Dining Center and campus cafes cater to diverse dietary preferences. |
|
- Meal plans provide flexibility and convenience for on-campus students. |
6. Leadership Development |
- Opportunities for leadership through the Student Government Association (SGA), student organizations, and mentorship programs. |
|
- Students can participate in campus governance, event planning, and advocacy initiatives. |
7. Career and Professional Development |
- FVSU’s Career Services Center offers resume workshops, mock interviews, job fairs, and career counseling. |
|
- Internship and co-op opportunities connect students with local, national, and global employers. |
8. Volunteerism and Community Service |
- Students participate in service projects through organizations like Rotaract Club and campus-wide volunteer initiatives. |
9. International Student Support |
- The International Students Association (ISA) promotes cultural exchange and organizes events to help global students adapt to campus life. |
|
- Dedicated support for international students, including visa guidance, English tutoring, and cultural integration. |
10. Faith and Spiritual Life |
- FVSU offers opportunities for students to explore and practice their faith through campus ministries and interfaith activities. |
Career Services Center:
FVSU’s Career Services Center is a key resource for students, offering:
Resume and cover letter workshops.
Job search assistance and career counseling.
Mock interviews to help students prepare for job interviews.
Professional development workshops, including networking and job etiquette training.
Access to job and internship opportunities through the Handshake platform, which connects students to local, regional, and national employers.
Internships and Co-op Opportunities:
FVSU places a strong emphasis on experiential learning by connecting students with internships and co-op programs. These opportunities allow students to gain hands-on experience in their fields of study. Popular industries for internships include:
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences.
Biotechnology and STEM-related fields.
Business, Finance, and Marketing.
Public Health and Social Work.
Partnerships with Employers:
The university partners with local, national, and global organizations to offer placement opportunities. Employers often recruit FVSU students for entry-level positions and internships. Examples of top employers include:
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Georgia Department of Education.
Fortune 500 companies like Amazon, Wells Fargo, and Lockheed Martin.
Local businesses, non-profits, and government agencies.
Special Focus on Agriculture and STEM:
As a land-grant institution, FVSU has a strong reputation in Agriculture, Animal Science, Biotechnology, and STEM disciplines. Many students in these fields secure internships and full-time positions at organizations such as:
USDA.
Monsanto/Bayer.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Private agribusiness companies.
Placement Rate:
FVSU has a high placement rate, particularly in programs with hands-on training like Agriculture, Business, Public Health, and Social Work. The university reports that over 90% of graduates find employment or pursue further studies within a year of graduation.
Career Fairs and Employer Networking:
The university hosts career fairs and networking events where students can connect directly with employers. Events like "Agriculture Career Day" and general career fairs attract recruiters from various industries.
Graduate Studies and Professional Paths:
Many FVSU graduates pursue advanced degrees or certifications. Programs like the Master of Science in Biotechnology and the Master of Public Health (MPH) have strong industry links, preparing graduates for leadership roles in their respective fields.
Agriculture and Veterinary Science: Graduates have secured roles at leading organizations like the USDA and private veterinary clinics, thanks to FVSU’s hands-on training and research facilities.
Biotechnology and STEM Fields: Alumni have moved into roles in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and technology companies such as Lockheed Martin and Pfizer.
Business Administration and Marketing: Graduates are employed in corporate roles at Wells Fargo, Amazon, and other Fortune 500 companies.
Social Work and Education: Alumni work in public schools, social service organizations, and non-profits, making significant community impacts.
International students at FVSU are eligible for work opportunities through:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Hands-on work experiences that are integral to academic programs.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Temporary work opportunities after graduation, allowing international students to gain industry experience in the U.S.
The average starting salaries for FVSU graduates vary by program. For example:
STEM and Biotechnology: $60,000–$75,000 per year.
Agriculture and Animal Science: $50,000–$65,000 per year.
Business Administration: $45,000–$60,000 per year.
Undergraduate Acceptance Rate:
Around 81% of undergraduate applicants are admitted.
FVSU evaluates applicants based on their high school GPA, academic performance, and other materials like transcripts and, for international students, English proficiency scores.
Graduate Acceptance Rate:
Graduate acceptance rates vary by program but generally range from 65% to 75%, depending on the competitiveness of the program and the number of applicants.
International Students:
FVSU is welcoming to international students, with a similar acceptance rate provided they meet academic and English language proficiency requirements.
Fort Valley State University
1005 State University Drive,
Fort Valley, GA 31030,
United States
Region: Central Georgia, United States
County: Peach County
Coordinates: 32.5336° N, 83.8873° W