Atlanta is one of the South’s biggest hubs for higher education. Whether you live in the city, are planning a move, or are visiting to tour campuses, there are many types of colleges in Atlanta: large research universities, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), faith-based schools, art and design colleges, and technical and community options.
This guide walks through the major colleges in Atlanta, what they’re known for, and practical tips for choosing and visiting them.
These are the large, well-known universities that attract students from across the country and around the world.
Georgia State University (GSU) is a large public research university located in downtown Atlanta, integrated into the city’s business and government district.
Highlights:
Main Atlanta campus area:
Around 33 Gilmer St SE, Atlanta, GA 30303 (downtown area)
This is a good option if you want an urban campus with easy access to jobs, internships, and public transportation.
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) is a public research university in Midtown Atlanta, focused on engineering, computing, and technology-related fields.
Highlights:
Main campus area:
Near North Avenue NW & Techwood Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30332
Georgia Tech is a strong fit if you’re interested in STEM, innovation, and research, and want to be near tech companies and corporate offices.
Emory University is a private research university in the Druid Hills neighborhood, slightly northeast of downtown but still within the Atlanta area.
Highlights:
Main campus area:
Around 201 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30322
This is a good choice if you want a private university environment with strong health, research, and liberal arts programs near but not directly in downtown.
Atlanta is home to the Atlanta University Center (AUC), the largest contiguous consortium of private HBCUs in the nation. These colleges share some resources and are located near each other in southwest Atlanta, just west of downtown.
Spelman College is a historically Black women’s college known for its focus on academic excellence and leadership.
Highlights:
Campus area:
Near 350 Spelman Ln SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Morehouse College is a historically Black men’s college with a long legacy of leadership and civic engagement.
Highlights:
Campus area:
Around 830 Westview Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is a private HBCU formed by the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College.
Highlights:
Campus area:
Near 223 James P Brawley Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
The Interdenominational Theological Center is a Christian graduate-level institution within the AUC, focused on religious and theological education.
Campus area:
Around 700 Martin Luther King Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Beyond the major universities and HBCUs, Atlanta includes specialized colleges with focused missions.
SCAD Atlanta is the Atlanta campus of the Savannah College of Art and Design, offering programs in art, design, media, and creative fields.
Highlights:
Campus area:
Around 1600 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Atlanta Metropolitan State College is a public institution in southwest Atlanta offering associate and some bachelor’s degrees.
Highlights:
Campus area:
Near 1630 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30310
The Morehouse School of Medicine is a separate institution from Morehouse College, focused on medical and health professions education.
Highlights:
Campus area:
Around 720 Westview Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30310
Atlanta Technical College offers technical diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees for career-focused training.
Highlights:
Campus area:
Near 1560 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30310
These colleges are not always inside Atlanta city limits but are part of the greater Atlanta metro area and often grouped with “Atlanta colleges,” especially for commuting or relocation.
| College (Metro Atlanta) | Typical Area Description | Noted For (General) |
|---|---|---|
| Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw & Marietta (northwest) | Large public university, many majors |
| Oglethorpe University | Brookhaven (north Atlanta) | Small private liberal arts college |
| Clayton State University | Morrow (south of Atlanta) | Public university, business & health focus |
| Georgia Gwinnett College | Lawrenceville (northeast) | Public college, commuter-friendly |
If you’re living in Atlanta, these schools might be reachable by car or regional transit, depending on where you are in the city.
When you’re comparing Atlanta colleges, consider both academic fit and daily life in the city.
Atlanta traffic can be heavy, so think about:
Examples:
Atlanta offers a wide range:
In Atlanta, it’s helpful to match your major with local industries:
Think about the type of campus that fits you:
Visiting campuses can make the differences very clear.
If you’re touring schools or attending open houses, it helps to plan around Atlanta’s layout and traffic.
Most schools offer online registration for campus tours and information sessions. Before you go:
If you live in or near Atlanta and are just beginning your college search:
List your priorities
Look at nearby options first
Talk to counselors and advisors
Visit at least two different “types” of campuses
Atlanta offers a wide spectrum of higher education choices, from large research universities to intimate HBCU campuses and technical colleges. By focusing on location, type of institution, academic programs, and daily life in the city, you can narrow down which Atlanta college best fits your goals and situation.
