| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
Southern Polytechnic State University (SPSU) was a public university in Marietta, Georgia, USA. It was originally established in 1948 as the Technical Institute in Chamblee, Georgia, before moving to Marietta in 1961. The university specialized in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
Location: Marietta, Georgia
Founded: 1948
Type: Public University
Focus Areas: Engineering, Technology, Computer Science, Business, and Architecture
Mascot: Sting the Hornet
Colors: Green and White
In 2015, SPSU merged with Kennesaw State University (KSU), making it part of KSU’s Marietta Campus. This merger was part of a broader initiative by the University System of Georgia to consolidate institutions for efficiency and improved academic offerings.
SPSU was known for its strong engineering and technology programs.
Many of its degree programs, especially in computer science, engineering, and construction management, continue under KSU.
The Marietta Campus of KSU retains much of SPSU’s technical focus and facilities.
SPSU provided STEM-focused programs in the following schools:
1. Engineering & Engineering Technology
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering
Systems Engineering
Computer Engineering Technology
Electrical Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology
2. Computer Science & IT
Computer Science
Information Technology (IT)
Software Engineering
Game Design & Development
3. Business & Management
Business Administration
Accounting
Construction Management
Industrial Engineering Technology
4. Architecture & Design
Architecture
Construction Management
Technical Communication
5. Sciences & Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Mathematics
Physics
SPSU also offered several Master’s degree programs in technology and engineering disciplines, including:
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science
MS in Software Engineering
MS in Information Technology
MS in Construction Management
MS in Systems Engineering
MS in Electrical Engineering
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Before 2015) |
|---|---|---|
|
Engineering & Engineering Technology |
|
|
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Mechatronics Engineering |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Systems Engineering |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Computer Engineering Technology |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Electrical Engineering Technology |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Mechanical Engineering Technology |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Computer Science & IT |
|
|
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Information Technology (IT) |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Software Engineering |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Game Design & Development |
4 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Business & Management |
|
|
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Construction Management |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Industrial Engineering Technology |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Architecture & Design |
|
|
|
Architecture |
5 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $5,000 (in-state) |
|
Technical Communication |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Sciences & Mathematics |
|
|
|
Biology |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$14,000 (out-of-state), $4,000 (in-state) |
Course Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Before 2015) |
|---|---|---|
|
Engineering & Technology |
|
|
|
M.S. in Civil Engineering |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Mechanical Engineering |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Systems Engineering |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Mechatronics Engineering |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Engineering Technology Management |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
Computer Science & IT |
|
|
|
M.S. in Computer Science |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Information Technology (IT) |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Software Engineering |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
M.S. in Cybersecurity |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,000 (in-state) |
|
Business & Management |
|
|
|
M.S. in Construction Management |
2 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $5,500 (in-state) |
|
MBA (Master of Business Administration) |
2 years |
$16,000 (out-of-state), $5,500 (in-state) |
|
Architecture & Design |
|
|
|
M.S. in Architecture |
2 years |
$18,000 (out-of-state), $6,500 (in-state) |
Course Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Ph.D. in Computer Science |
4-5 years |
$25,000 (out-of-state), $8,000 (in-state) |
|
Ph.D. in Data Science and Analytics |
4-5 years |
$25,000 (out-of-state), $8,000 (in-state) |
|
Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Engineering |
4-5 years |
$25,000 (out-of-state), $8,000 (in-state) |
|
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) |
3-4 years |
$30,000 (out-of-state), $12,000 (in-state) |
International students were primarily enrolled in SPSU’s STEM and business programs, including:
Engineering: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering
Computer Science & IT: Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity
Business & Management: MBA, Construction Management
Architecture & Design: Architecture
Before the merger, SPSU required:
Academic Records: Equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma or bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs)
English Proficiency: TOEFL (Minimum 79 iBT) or IELTS (Minimum 6.5)
Standardized Tests (if required): SAT/ACT for undergraduates, GRE/GMAT for graduate students
Financial Proof: Evidence of funding for tuition and living expenses
Now, international admissions are handled by Kennesaw State University (KSU).
International and domestic students had to meet the following requirements:
Completed Application Form (Online or Paper-based)
Application Fee ($40 non-refundable)
High School Transcripts – Equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma
GPA Requirement – Minimum 2.5 GPA (out of 4.0)
Standardized Test Scores (for Freshmen)
SAT: Minimum 480 (Critical Reading) & 440 (Math)
ACT: Minimum 17 (English) & 18 (Math)
English Proficiency (for international students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
B. Additional Requirements (For Transfer Students)
College Transcripts from previously attended institutions
Minimum 2.0 GPA for transfer eligibility
Applicants for Master’s degrees needed to meet the following requirements:
Completed Graduate Application
Application Fee ($50 non-refundable)
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0 (some programs accepted 2.75)
Standardized Tests (if required):
GRE: Varies by program (e.g., MS in Computer Science required GRE)
GMAT: Required for MBA applicants
English Proficiency (for international students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Statement of Purpose (for some graduate programs)
Letters of Recommendation (2-3 for some programs)
Resume/CV (for MBA and technical programs)
Semester |
Undergraduate Deadline |
Graduate Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August) |
July 1 |
June 1 |
|
Spring (January) |
November 1 |
October 1 |
|
Summer (May) |
April 1 |
March 1 |
For international students, additional steps included:
Financial Documents – Proof of funds for tuition and living expenses
I-20 Form Issuance – Required for F-1 Student Visa
SEVIS Fee Payment – Before visa interview
U.S. Embassy Visa Interview
SPSU accepted students in three intake periods:
Semester |
Application Deadline (Undergraduate) |
Application Deadline (Graduate) |
Semester Start |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August) |
July 1 |
June 1 |
Mid-August |
|
Spring (January) |
November 1 |
October 1 |
Early January |
|
Summer (May) |
April 1 |
March 1 |
Mid-May |
Note: These intake schedules are now part of Kennesaw State University’s admissions system.
To be eligible for a bachelor’s degree program, students had to meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualification: Equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma
Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
Standardized Test Scores (for Freshmen):
SAT: Minimum 480 (Reading) & 440 (Math)
ACT: Minimum 17 (English) & 18 (Math)
English Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Transfer Students: Minimum 2.0 GPA from a previous college/university
To be eligible for a master’s degree program, students needed:
Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0 GPA (some programs accepted 2.75)
Standardized Tests (if required by program):
GRE: Required for most engineering and computing programs
GMAT: Required for MBA programs
English Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Additional Requirements:
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – For some programs
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – 2-3 for graduate programs
Resume/CV – For business and engineering applicants
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
KSU Foundation Scholarships |
Varies (Merit-based, Need-based, Major-specific) |
N/A |
March 1 |
|
President’s Emerging Global Scholars |
High-achieving first-year students, leadership potential |
N/A |
December 1 |
|
Honors College Scholarships |
Honors students with high academic achievement |
$1,000 – $5,000 |
N/A |
|
HOPE Scholarship (Georgia Residents) |
3.0 GPA, Georgia residency, enrolled in an eligible program |
Covers partial tuition |
Rolling |
|
Zell Miller Scholarship (Georgia Residents) |
3.7 GPA, 1200 SAT/26 ACT, Georgia residency |
Covers full tuition |
Rolling |
|
Need-Based Grants & Scholarships |
FAFSA required, demonstrated financial need |
N/A |
N/A |
|
STEM Scholarships |
For students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Transfer Student Scholarships |
Based on GPA and prior academic performance |
N/A |
N/A |
Facility/Accommodation |
Details |
Estimated Cost (Per Semester) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Marietta, Georgia, part of Kennesaw State University |
N/A |
|
Academic Facilities |
Engineering labs, architecture studios, computing centers, and research spaces |
N/A |
|
Library |
Lawrence V. Johnson Library with digital and print resources |
N/A |
|
Student Center |
Dining areas, study spaces, game rooms, and event venues |
N/A |
|
Recreation & Fitness |
Gym, sports courts, fitness classes, outdoor fields |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing Options |
Four residence halls available for students |
Varies |
|
Hornet Village Suites |
Suite-style housing, 2-4 students per unit, furnished |
~$3,800 - $4,600 |
|
Howell Hall |
Traditional dorm-style, shared rooms, budget-friendly |
~$3,000 - $3,800 |
|
University Commons |
Apartment-style housing, private rooms, full kitchen |
~$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
University Courtyard |
Apartment-style housing, more spacious, premium amenities |
~$4,800 - $5,800 |
|
Meal Plans (Optional) |
Various meal plans available for on-campus dining |
~$2,000 - $2,500 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Private apartments near campus, costs vary |
~$600 - $1,200 per month |
The Marietta Campus has a close-knit and diverse community, with a strong focus on STEM fields. Students here often work on hands-on projects, research, and group collaborations. The atmosphere is a mix of academic rigor and social engagement, with plenty of opportunities to connect with peers.
On-campus housing includes suite-style and apartment-style residences, providing students with comfortable living spaces. Each residence hall has common areas for studying and socializing, creating a welcoming environment for students to interact.
There are over 300 student organizations at KSU, with many specific to the Marietta Campus. Some popular groups include:
Robotics Club – Compete in engineering and programming challenges.
Society of Women Engineers (SWE) – Supports women in STEM fields.
Game Design & Development Club – A hub for gaming enthusiasts and developers.
Hackathon Teams – Participate in coding and cybersecurity competitions.
Greek Life – Fraternities and sororities provide leadership and social opportunities.
Students have access to a modern gym, basketball courts, outdoor fields, and a swimming pool. There are also intramural sports teams, including soccer, basketball, and esports. KSU's main campus offers NCAA Division I athletics, and Marietta Campus students can participate as well.
The campus offers cafeterias, fast food chains, and coffee shops, with meal plans available for students. KSU Dining Services ensures a variety of food options, including vegetarian and international cuisine.
Since the Marietta Campus is known for its technology and engineering programs, students often find internships and co-op programs with major companies like Lockheed Martin, Coca-Cola, and Georgia Tech Research Institute. Career fairs and networking events are regularly held on campus.
Throughout the year, students enjoy events like:
STEM Career Fairs – Connect with potential employers.
TechFest – Celebrates innovation and technology.
Homecoming & Spirit Days – Social events and pep rallies.
Movie Nights & Concerts – Hosted in student lounges and outdoor areas.
The campus is located near Atlanta, GA, providing students access to museums, concerts, sporting events, and entertainment districts. Many students explore the city on weekends for food, shopping, and social activities.
Average Placement Rate: ~90% of graduates secure jobs or pursue further education within six months of graduation.
Top Hiring Industries: Engineering, IT, Cybersecurity, Architecture, Construction, Manufacturing, Business Analytics.
Internship Opportunities: Many students secure internships and co-op programs with industry-leading companies before graduation.
Salary Expectations: Starting salaries range from $55,000 – $85,000 per year, depending on the field of study and job role.
Graduates from the Marietta Campus have been recruited by major companies, including:
Engineering & Technology: Lockheed Martin, Siemens, Boeing, General Electric, Gulfstream Aerospace.
IT & Software Development: Google, Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, NCR, Infosys.
Cybersecurity: Homeland Security, Cisco, Raytheon, Deloitte.
Architecture & Construction: Gensler, Turner Construction, Skanska, Jacobs Engineering.
Automotive & Manufacturing: Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Honda.
Kennesaw State University provides strong career support through its Department of Career Planning and Development. Services include:
Career Fairs & Employer Networking Events – Over 300 companies participate annually.
On-Campus Recruitment – Companies visit campus to hire students directly.
Resume & Interview Workshops – Helps students prepare for job applications.
Internship & Co-op Programs – Work experience opportunities with top firms.
Alumni Network & Mentorship Programs – Connects students with successful graduates.
Many students participate in internships before graduation, with major employers offering paid internships in engineering, IT, cybersecurity, and business fields. Some students receive full-time job offers from their internship companies.
Overall Acceptance Rate: ~83%
Average GPA for Admission: 3.2 – 3.8 (on a 4.0 scale)
SAT Score Range: 1030 – 1230 (combined Math and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing)
ACT Score Range: 19 – 26
KSU has a moderately selective admission process, meaning that most students with a solid academic background and meeting the minimum requirements have a good chance of being accepted.
High School GPA: Minimum 2.5 (for freshmen)
Standardized Test Scores: SAT/ACT scores (optional for some programs)
Application Fee: $40
English Proficiency (For International Students): TOEFL (minimum 79), IELTS (minimum 6.5), or equivalent
Marietta Campus, Kennesaw State University
Address: 1100 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta, Georgia, 30060, USA
The Marietta Campus is about 20 miles northwest of Atlanta, Georgia, and serves as the hub for engineering, technology, computing, and architecture programs at KSU.
