Clark Atlanta University: A Legacy of Education and Opportunity

Clark Atlanta University (CAU) stands as a private, Methodist, historically black research university in Atlanta, Georgia. With a rich history dating back to 1865, CAU has played a pivotal role in providing educational opportunities to African Americans and fostering intellectual growth. The university's motto, "I'll Find a Way or Make One" (Atlanta University) and "Culture for Service" (Clark College), encapsulates its commitment to perseverance and community engagement.

A Historical Overview

The story of Clark Atlanta University is one of resilience and determination. In 1862, amidst the Civil War, two formerly enslaved African Americans, James Tate and Grandison B. Daniels, established the first school for African American children in Atlanta. This school, located in a Baptist church building, laid the foundation for what would become Atlanta University.

The Founding of Atlanta University

Atlanta University was officially founded on September 19, 1865, by James Tate and Grandison Daniels. The American Missionary Association (AMA) played a crucial role in the university's early development. In 1867, Atlanta University was chartered with assistance from Oliver Otis Howard of the Freedmen's Bureau, and William J. White was appointed as the educational agent. The university offered its first instruction at the postsecondary level in 1869.

Clark College's Establishment

Clark College, another integral part of CAU's history, was founded in 1869 by the Methodist Episcopal Church. It was the nation's first four-year liberal arts college dedicated to serving the African-American student population. Named after Bishop Davis Wasgatt Clark, the college was chartered in 1877 and offered its first postsecondary instruction in 1879.

Consolidation and the Atlanta University Center

In 1929, the Atlanta University Affiliation was formed, marking a significant shift in the landscape of Black higher education in Atlanta. Atlanta University transitioned into a graduate school, with Morehouse and Spelman Colleges serving as undergraduate institutions. The Atlanta University campus was relocated to its current site, giving rise to the Atlanta University Center, which later included Clark College, Morris Brown College, and the Interdenominational Theological Center. In 1988, Atlanta University consolidated with Clark College to create Clark Atlanta University.

Academic Programs and Opportunities

Clark Atlanta University offers a wide array of degree programs across various disciplines, catering to diverse academic interests and career aspirations.

Dual Degree Programs

CAU provides accelerated dual degree programs that allow students to earn both a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Master of Science (M.S.) in a condensed timeframe. These programs include:

Computer Science, B.S./M.S.: This program enables motivated undergraduate students to complete both degrees in a five-year period.
Mathematics, B.S./M.S.: This program prepares students with high levels of proficiency in mathematics, positioning them for further studies at the Ph.D. level.

Master's Degree Programs

CAU offers a range of Master's degree programs designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen fields. These programs include:

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice: This program focuses on the study of crime and the administration of criminal justice systems.
Master of Arts in African American Studies
Master of Arts in Africana Women's Studies
Master of Science in Applied Mathematics
Master of Science in Chemistry: This program is designed for students seeking to advance their careers in chemistry and prepare for non-entry-level positions.

Bachelor's Degree Programs

CAU's Bachelor's degree programs provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen disciplines, preparing them for future careers or graduate studies. These programs include:

Bachelor of Arts in Art with General Studio Concentration: This curriculum encourages intellectual development and the acquisition of marketable skills for careers in art and arts-related fields.
Bachelor of Arts in Art History

Other Academic Opportunities

Minor in Art: Non-art majors can explore artistic media, techniques, and basic art concepts through this minor.
Integrated MBA Curricula: CAU's MBA program helps students understand the complexities of organizational challenges and how different components fit together.

Campus and Facilities

Clark Atlanta University's campus has evolved significantly throughout its history. The original Atlanta University campus was located on West Mitchell Street. North Hall (now Gaines Hall) was the first female dormitory on a co-ed campus in the U.S. South Hall opened a year later for boys. Stone Hall, built in 1882, served as the main building, housing the chapel, lecture halls, laboratories, and administrative offices.

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Fountain Hall

Fountain Hall, originally Stone Hall, is a historic landmark on the Morris Brown College campus. Built in 1882, it served as the administration building for Atlanta University until 1929. It is an example of High Victorian architecture.

Robert H. Clark Atlanta University

The university also houses the Robert H. Clark Atlanta University.

Student Life and Athletics

Clark Atlanta University provides a vibrant campus life with various activities and organizations for students to engage in. The university's athletic teams, known as the Panthers, compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Division II. All nine of the National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations have established chapters at CAU.

Demographics and Financial Aid

Clark Atlanta University attracts students from diverse backgrounds. Annually, a significant percentage of students are Georgia residents, while others come from outside the state. The student body is predominantly female, with approximately 75% female and 25% male students. A large percentage of students identify as African-American/Black, with smaller percentages identifying as other/unknown and international. A significant number of first-year students receive need-based financial aid.

Rankings and Recognition

Clark Atlanta University has been recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to providing quality education.

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