Overview
An innovative model for higher education, Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) is the first public, four-year, liberal arts college to be founded in the United States in the 21st century according to the American Council on Education. The diverse student population of about 12,000 students represents most U.S. states and more than 110 nations. Of those, over 75 percent are from Gwinnett County. An average class size of 20, coupled with strong faculty engagement and mentoring, creates a dynamic learning community where students experience high levels of success. These factors are key to GGC’s high retention rates and its ability to accelerate students’ development into global leaders.
GGC has developed a targeted approach to increase the number of students completing college and moving into the workforce or on to graduate degree programs nationwide. The college offers 21 degree programs specifically designed to meet the needs of Gwinnett County, the region and the state. They include biology, business administration, chemistry, cinema and media arts production, criminal justice/criminology, elementary education, English, environmental science, exercise science, health science, history, human services, information technology, integrative studies, management information systems, mathematics, middle grades education, nursing, political science, psychology and special education. Nearly 50 areas of concentration and an Honors Program provide students flexibility within their degree programs.
GGC is the number 14 top public school in the Southern region, according to the U.S. News & World Report (USNWR) 2024 college rankings. USNWR also ranked GGC the most ethnically diverse Southern regional college, both public and private, consecutively from 2015 to 2024. Additionally, GGC’s Bronze 2022-2023 Military Friendly® School designation indicates support of military students with dedicated resources to ensure success in the classroom and after graduation.
According to annual USG economic impact studies, GGC has generated more than $5.8 billion in cumulative economic impact to the economy of Gwinnett County and the Atlanta metropolitan area, and created almost 4,000 jobs.
Mission
Georgia Gwinnett College provides access to targeted baccalaureate and associate level degrees that meet the economic development needs of the growing and diverse population of the northeast Atlanta metropolitan region. It emphasizes the innovative use of technology and active-learning environments to provide students enhanced learning experiences, practical opportunities to apply knowledge, increased scheduling flexibility, and a variety of course delivery options. Georgia Gwinnett’s outstanding faculty and staff actively engage students in various learning environments, serve as mentors and advisors, and assist students through programs designed to enhance their academic, social, and personal development. GGC produces contributing citizens and future leaders for Georgia and the nation. Its graduates are inspired to contribute to the local, state, national, and international communities and are prepared to anticipate and respond effectively to an uncertain and changing world.
