News

Dalton State is an institution on the move

03/07/24

Dalton State College opened its doors in 1967 to 524 students enrolled at then-Dalton Junior College. Fast-forward to fall 2023, and Dalton State’s student body has grown to nearly 5,000 students. While 91 percent of students are from Northwest Georgia, the college also attracts students from 27 states and 35 nations .

“We are an institution on the move,” President John Fuchko said. “We offer seven associate and 24 bachelor’s degree programs in high demand career fields that are responsive to regional workforce needs. Businesses and the population along these corridors are growing quickly, and our programs and enrollment are poised to grow as well. Early indicators for this spring’s enrollment show 10 percent growth over last year, following an eight percent enrollment growth in the fall semester over the previous year."

Dalton State was ranked number one in the nation for Student Experience in The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2024 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, based on student and alumni survey data. The Student Experience ranking is based on three categories – campus facilities, community and social life, and diversity on campus.

 “This ranking carries a special significance because it is based almost entirely on how our students and recent graduates view their experiences at Dalton State,” Fuchko said. “It tells us that our work and dedication is having an impact, and we will continue working to provide our students with a transformational college experience on a campus they can call home.”

Dalton State’s campus has grown significantly over the years and now includes 12 academic buildings/campus facilities. Following the completion of two planned renovations this year, nearly all buildings and facilities on campus will have been renovated or newly constructed within the past decade.

“Not only does Dalton State commit to providing a quality student experience, but the institution also continually improves the campus through new renovations and constructions to ensure students are consistently getting what they need,” Mackenzie Manley, Student Government Association president, said. “Without a doubt, Dalton State has continued and will continue to strive to improve and maintain these levels of satisfaction for students. Because of this, I have complete confidence in myself and my peers as we transition to alumni, and I know we will make a mark wherever we settle down, the same way Dalton State has made a mark on us.”

Quality Programs and Hands-on learning

Dalton State’s academic programs prepare graduates to enter the workforce career-ready. Students can select from 24 bachelor’s degrees and seven associate degrees in a range of disciplines, including business, education, health professions, STEM and liberal arts fields.

Online and flexible programs are available through Dalton State and the University System of Georgia’s eMajor online degree program. Online students have access to all academic and student support services available at Dalton State, including one-on-one advising, tutoring, and career and professional development. eMajor options include bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and organizational leadership.

In addition, Dalton State offers more than 1,800 experiential learning opportunities with organizations and businesses each year to help students develop resume-building skills and abilities beyond the classroom.

“We are producing nearly 750 graduates each year, and the majority are employed before or upon graduation,” Fuchko said. “It is important that we produce graduates who can think across all dimensions of an issue to develop solutions; they are thoughtful, competent leaders you want running local organizations and serving in your community.”

Affordability and Financial Support

Dalton State students receive a high-quality education and robust student experience at an affordable price. Full-time, in-state students pay less than $4,000 in tuition and fees each academic year. The U.S. Department of Education ranked Dalton State among the top 10% most affordable public four-year or above institutions in the nation.

Students can access several financial support options, including academic and financial-based scholarships and grants. The Dalton State Foundation awards more than 150 student scholarships each year thanks to donor support, and 83 percent of students graduate without student loans.

The return on investment is high, with graduates of University System of Georgia institutions earning an average of more than $1 million over their lifetime than those without a four-year degree, according to a study conducted on behalf of the USG.