Trends in Georgia Higher Education

African American students in Georgia have always looked forward to attending a historically black college or university in the University System of Georgia.  Many have enrolled as first-generation college students or followed a path set by their parents.  However, due to a recent phenomenon in higher education in the State, this may no longer be the case.

Historically black State institutions of higher learning in Georgia may be required to combine with predominantly white public colleges and universities to streamline services if the Board of Regents has its way. It could spell the end of one endangered HBCU's motto of "education on a personal level."

Only Albany State University, one of three State-supported HBCUs in Georgia, has seen its mission altered thus far since it merged with Darton State College in 2015, a predominantly white institution located on the city's Westside, with ASU serving as its flagship campus. It has expanded course offerings in nursing,  biology, and education, making it a force to be reckoned with in Southwest Georgia.  The two campuses recently combined their athletic teams to serve a student body of nearly 8,000 men and women.  It should translate into jobs in an economically strapped area.

Savannah State University,  another of Georgia's three State-funded HBCUs, is being considered for a merger with Armstrong State, a public university also in Savannah.  With the consolidation of several other institutions already finalized by the  Board of Regents, Savannah and Armstrong State may not escape their fate despite being located on Georgia's booming coast. However, unlike Albany and other places where downsizing has become the new normal on the college level,  Savannah boasts old money capable of fighting it all the way to the State capital.  If not, it could lead to an educational powerhouse in the State's oldest city, with better opportunities for those in the area. 

Lastly, historically black Fort Valley State University, the state's only other public HBCU, may be spared for obvious reasons. There is no compatible institution within proximity that hasn't already lost its independence, such as Macon State College or Middle Georgia State College in nearby Cochran.  In addition,  African Americans in Georgia will insist that at least one state-sponsored HBCU remain intact to welcome students from challenging backgrounds.

The reaction around the state has been mostly positive, which could bolster post-secondary education in the state.