Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is a private, nonprofit research university and a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Atlanta. It brings together the histories of Atlanta University, founded in 1865, and Clark College, founded in 1869; the institutions consolidated as CAU in 1988. Today the university pairs that legacy with graduate research and professional study. It is part of the Atlanta University Center community, and its four academic schools span the arts and sciences, business, education and social work, with a separate School of Communications, Media & the Arts also represented in its current academic structure.

Programs across undergraduate and graduate study

CAU’s academic directory lists more than 50 undergraduate majors and minors and more than 10 graduate program areas. Students can explore business and economics, biology and other sciences, computer science, mathematics, mass media arts, humanities, education, social work, public administration and related professional fields. The four core schools support broad liberal arts study alongside career-oriented preparation, and the university highlights research in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and cancer treatment. Its graduate education includes master’s and doctoral opportunities for students pursuing advanced work in research, teaching, public service and professional practice.

Some notable paths include accounting, business administration and economics in the School of Business Administration; biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics and media programs in Arts and Sciences; teacher preparation and education; and social work at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Students interested in a more specialized route should compare the exact degree and concentration, since course availability, research opportunities and admission standards differ by program. Start with the academic program directory, then ask the department how internships, labs, practicum placements or faculty research fit into the required course sequence.

Research, campus life and the Atlanta University Center

CAU is classified as a Carnegie R2 doctoral university with high research activity. Its location in the Atlanta University Center connects it with neighboring institutions and the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library, creating opportunities for shared academic and cultural resources. The university’s historic identity and community are part of the student experience, alongside leadership programs, student organizations, athletics and professional networks. Ask Admissions what facilities and consortium resources are open to your program and whether any shared courses require advance registration or travel between campuses.

2026–27 tuition and fees

For full-time undergraduates taking 12–18 hours, CAU’s 2026–27 schedule lists tuition of $13,981 per semester. The published annual total is $31,540 without student insurance, including mandatory assessments, technology, health, activity and sustainability fees, and a $940 annual IncludED book fee. The university lists student insurance at $1,318 for the year, bringing the published total to $32,858 if insurance is charged. Housing, meals and personal expenses are not included in that figure, so add the residence and meal plan that fits your situation before estimating the full cost of attendance.

For graduate students attending on campus in Fall 2026–Spring 2027, tuition is listed at $1,111 per credit hour, plus $1,319 in listed fees per semester. The actual bill depends on credits, program, housing, meal plan and insurance status. Review the university’s 2026–27 tuition and fee schedule and use its net price calculator before deciding whether an aid offer closes the gap between tuition and living costs.

Financial aid and scholarship eligibility

Start with the FAFSA using CAU’s school code 00155900; the Financial Aid Office lists February 1 as its financial-aid deadline. Eligible undergraduates may be considered for Pell Grants, federal loans and Federal Work-Study, while parents and graduate or professional students may explore PLUS loans. The university also offers competitive first-year merit scholarships: applicants are automatically considered when they submit an undergraduate application, and the published minimum GPA is 3.3. Meeting the threshold does not guarantee an award.

Continuing undergraduate students may be considered for the Undergraduate Studies Scholarship Program if they have not exceeded eight semesters at CAU, complete the FAFSA by February 1, maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 and earn at least 30 CAU semester hours in the academic year; Pell-eligible students receive priority, and funding varies. Scholarship amounts and renewal rules depend on the individual offer. Check the latest financial-aid instructions and 2026–27 forms and scholarship requirements, then ask the Financial Aid Office to explain how grants, scholarships, work-study and loans appear on your award letter.

What student comments point applicants toward

Student accounts often describe cultural pride, community, faculty mentorship and opportunities to become involved. Some also raise practical concerns about housing conditions and the difficulty of getting clear, timely answers from administrative or financial-aid offices. These reports vary by student and term; they are useful prompts for questions, not a prediction of every person’s experience. Before committing, ask who handles your aid file, how to confirm that required documents arrived, when housing maintenance requests are answered, and where to escalate a billing or registration issue. Browse a range of student reviews of Clark Atlanta and, during a visit, speak with students in your intended school.

Apply and visit the Atlanta campus

CAU’s current undergraduate application information says Spring 2027 applicants should submit a complete file by November 1, 2026. For Fall 2027, the Early Action deadline is November 1, 2026, the first-year final deadline is March 1, 2027, and the transfer deadline is June 1, 2027. The application fee is $35. Requirements differ for graduate, transfer and international applicants, so confirm the deadline and materials for the program you intend to enter. You can review current admissions requirements and apply, or use the university’s visit page to book a campus tour or attend an information session.

The main campus is at 223 James P. Brawley Drive SW, Atlanta, GA 30314. The general university phone is (404) 880-8000; Undergraduate Admissions lists (404) 880-6605 and admissions@cau.edu. Google’s campus listing shows administrative hours Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and closed on weekends; check with the office you plan to visit because service hours can differ. For students looking for an HBCU with graduate research, professional schools and deep ties to Atlanta’s higher-education community, CAU merits a close comparison of academic fit, housing and the net cost after aid.