Academics
Albany State University in Georgia offers more than 25 bachelor’s degrees, as well as several associate degrees and two transfer associate degree options for students who are preparing to “transfer into” a bachelor’s degree after completion of the initial degree. Core requirements at Albany State are determined by the University System of Georgia (USG) to ensure breadth of education, and students must complete courses that develop essential skills like communication, show an understanding of global cultures and perspectives, and impart critical thinking skills as applied to the humanities and fine arts. The Center for Academic Success offers advising, peer tutoring, ESOL services, and access to writing and math centers on both main campuses; students can also receive tutoring on-demand via an online portal, available each weekday. The school pays close attention to the development of students, and all take part in the required 8-week First Year Experience course, designed to help new students understand the balance of academics, activities, lifestyle, and homework they will need to achieve success. The Center for Undergraduate Research helps students to find on- and off-campus opportunities that align with their skills and interests, and Albany State also offers a variety of distance learning options to accommodate students maintaining careers, professional responsibilities, and families. For bright, highly motivated students, The Velma Fudge Grant Honors Program is meant to provide opportunities for scholarships, access to special extracurricular programs, and the chance to pursue independent projects and research interests. Turning an eye toward continued growth, the university’s strategic plan looks to increase enrollment and strengthen academic offerings, as well as develop relationships with community organizations to assist with entrepreneurship and service opportunities.
Career
The Office of Student Engagement helps students achieve the full Golden Ram experience by connecting them with activities and events throughout the year, including Spring Bling Week, Screen on the Green, and the highly anticipated Annual Student Leadership Conference. Buck Back Week takes place in August as students return to campus, giving them the chance to learn about and get involved with the more than fifty student organizations. Homecoming always provides a sense of togetherness and Ram pride, as do the school’s NCAA Division II teams, which feature men’s football; baseball, basketball, and track and field for both men and women, along with a few other sports. Organizations such as Men Advocates for Leadership, Excellence, and Success (MALES) and the Leadership for Women Program promote engagement and inclusivity among all students via mentorship, dialogue, and cocurricular activities. The Mister and Miss Albany State University and their Royal Court act as representatives for the university and inspire positive connections between students and the community, as do the school’s numerous nationally recognized fraternities and sororities. Student Wellness at Albany State recognizes the importance of mental and physical health, providing resources and counseling to students, whether guiding them through campus processes or offering support during a crisis.
Culture
Albany State’s Career Services Office offers skills assessments, career events, résumé writing workshops, seminars, employer visits, mock interviews, and Career Talks so that students (and alumni) can take advantage of every professional opportunity. New students partake in a Focus 2 Career assessment prior to arriving on campus, to help Career Services staff better understand a student’s interests and provide tailored guidance and resources. Notable Albany State alumni include civil rights advocate Shirley Sherrod, actress Jo Marie Payton, and Shaun R. Harper, the founder and former Executive Director of the Center for the Study of Race and Equality in Education, University of Pennsylvania.
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