GSW graduates rank #3 in earnings one year after graduation

AMERICUS, Ga. (March 19, 2026) — Graduates of Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) rank third in median earnings among institutions in the University System of Georgia (USG) one year after graduation, according to data compiled by the USG for alumni employed within the state.

The Georgia Institute of Technology and Augusta University ranked first and second, respectively. Both institutions are designated research universities with extensive doctoral programs, while GSW offers bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees.

“This ranking demonstrates the value of a Georgia Southwestern degree,” said GSW President Michelle Johnston, Ph.D. “Our graduates compete with those from the largest institutions in the USG. Our faculty and staff are committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills and real-world experiences they need to succeed after graduation. At an institution of our size, we take pride in delivering personalized academic experiences that translate into strong career outcomes.”

A couple of key factors may be contributing to GSW’s strong performance in early career earnings. Approximately 80% of graduates remain in Georgia after completing their degrees, positioning them within the state’s workforce and aligning their employment outcomes directly with USG reporting metrics. Additionally, GSW’s graduate programs have experienced 13.2 percent enrollment growth over the past year.

GSW offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for high-demand careers across Georgia and beyond. Through internships, clinical experiences, undergraduate research and strong partnerships with regional employers, students gain hands-on experience that supports a smooth transition into the workforce.

The data referenced in this release is based on a 2022 study available through the USG Strategic Plan dashboard. To view the data, visit the USG website, navigate to “Student Success,” select “Median Earnings for Graduates 2022,” and sort the median earnings column from highest to lowest.