Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University is a public university located in Valdosta, Georgia, and is part of the University System of Georgia. Founded in 1906, the institution serves as a comprehensive regional university offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Valdosta State University includes colleges focused on arts and sciences, business administration, education and human services, and nursing and health sciences. The university draws students primarily from south Georgia and neighboring states, as well as military-affiliated students from nearby Moody Air Force Base. Known for its broad academic offerings and community engagement, Valdosta State University provides programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, social work, and the liberal arts.

Valdosta State University was founded in 1906 when Georgia legislators approved the creation of South Georgia State Normal College to train teachers in the region. Although established in 1906, the institution opened in January 1913 in Valdosta, Georgia, under its first president, Richard Holmes Powell. In 1922, it became Georgia State Woman’s College and expanded to a four-year institution. The school transitioned to coeducation in 1950 and was renamed Valdosta State College, broadening its academic programs beyond teacher preparation to include business and the sciences. During the late twentieth century, enrollment grew and graduate programs expanded. In 1993, Valdosta State College was officially designated Valdosta State University. Since then, Valdosta State University has continued to develop new degree programs, expand campus facilities, and serve as a regional comprehensive university for south Georgia.