Over a Century of Graduate Excellence – and We’re Just Getting Started
Since 1865, Clark Atlanta University has prepared graduate students to lead with purpose, impact and an Afrocentric perspective. As the nation's first HBCU to offer graduate degrees, CAU continues its legacy of academic excellence through the schools of Arts & Sciences, Business, Education and Social Work, empowering diverse scholars to advance research, drive innovation and create lasting change.
For more than a century, Clark Atlanta University has prepared ambitious graduate students to lead with purpose, impact and an Afrocentric perspective. That legacy continues in our MBA programs, where academic rigor meets real-world experience. Guided by expert faculty and supported by the resources of a top-tier research institution, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to shape what’s next in business and beyond.
For more than a century, Clark Atlanta University has prepared graduate students to lead with purpose, impact and an Afrocentric perspective. That tradition continues in our Master of Social Work (MSW) program, where compassion meets action. Guided by expert faculty and rooted in cultural competence, advocacy and research, the program equips future clinical social workers to create meaningful change and empower diverse communities across the globe.
CAU by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #3In Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #4Among HBCUs Nationally by U.S. News & World Report
- #8In the Nation Among the Top HBCUs Recognized by LinkedIn for Preparing Students for Long-Term Career Success
CAU’s MBA Program by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- 1stPlace in the 2023 National Black MBA Association Case Competition
- #4Among HBCUs Nationally by U.S. News & World Report
- #9Best MBA Programs in Georgia
CAU by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #3In Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- 59Semester Credit Hours
- Top 100Of the Best Social Work Grad Schools by U.S. News & World Report
I have received endless support from the faculty, staff and my peers here at Clark Atlanta University. Through their guidance and encouragement, I continue to be inspired to succeed both academically and professionally.
Shimika Felder
Orlando, Florida
Program: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CAU has given me the platform and foundation to become the person I was always destined to be.
Brandon Moise
Full-Time MBA Graduate - Marketing
2023-2024 Hennessy Fellow
My experience on this doctoral journey at CAU is enlightening and has affirmed my voice and research matter. I have had the opportunity to expand my knowledge, network, and create lasting relationships.
Cardia M. Swift, MSW, LCSW
Atlanta, GA
Program: Social Work Policy, Planning, and Administration, and Social Sciences
I credit Clark Atlanta University for my achievements; its distinguished professors drew me back a second time, and the lasting bonds I formed with my colleagues continue to enrich my life beyond measure.
Odette Edwards
Jamaica to Atlanta
Program: Higher Education Administration (EdD)
CAU has produced so many great leaders, and I can see why. The culture, the administration, and the professors come together to create the perfect atmosphere for success!
Mya Pierce
Full-Time MBA Student, Marketing
CAU by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #3In Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #4Among HBCUs Nationally by U.S. News & World Report
- #8In the Nation Among the Top HBCUs Recognized by LinkedIn for Preparing Students for Long-Term Career Success
CAU’s MBA Program by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- 1stPlace in the 2023 National Black MBA Association Case Competition
- #4Among HBCUs Nationally by U.S. News & World Report
- #9Best MBA Programs in Georgia
CAU by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #3In Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- 59Semester Credit Hours
- Top 100Of the Best Social Work Grad Schools by U.S. News & World Report
I have received endless support from the faculty, staff and my peers here at Clark Atlanta University. Through their guidance and encouragement, I continue to be inspired to succeed both academically and professionally.
Shimika Felder
Orlando, Florida
Program: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CAU has given me the platform and foundation to become the person I was always destined to be.
Brandon Moise
Full-Time MBA Graduate - Marketing
2023-2024 Hennessy Fellow
My experience on this doctoral journey at CAU is enlightening and has affirmed my voice and research matter. I have had the opportunity to expand my knowledge, network, and create lasting relationships.
Cardia M. Swift, MSW, LCSW
Atlanta, GA
Program: Social Work Policy, Planning, and Administration, and Social Sciences
I credit Clark Atlanta University for my achievements; its distinguished professors drew me back a second time, and the lasting bonds I formed with my colleagues continue to enrich my life beyond measure.
Odette Edwards
Jamaica to Atlanta
Program: Higher Education Administration (EdD)
CAU has produced so many great leaders, and I can see why. The culture, the administration, and the professors come together to create the perfect atmosphere for success!
Mya Pierce
Full-Time MBA Student, Marketing
Choose the MBA Program That Works Best for You
Gain essential business skills through innovative and flexible programs that evolve with industry trends. At Clark Atlanta University, you’ll apply your knowledge in real-world settings and develop the leadership mindset needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape. Join a diverse community dedicated to empowering tomorrow’s leaders.
Full-Time MBA
The Full-Time MBA is a 45-hour program designed to be completed in 24 months. Students can specialize in Entrepreneurship Management, Finance, Marketing, Sports & Entertainment Management, or Supply Chain Management. With sequential coursework and immersive learning experiences, this program prepares you for leadership challenges and success across industries in both the public and private sectors.
Working Professionals MBA
The Working Professional MBA offers a 36-hour curriculum that can be completed in 18 months. Designed for busy professionals, the program features Saturday in-person and online courses that balance work, family and education. Flexible and affordable, it allows you to gain advanced business expertise while continuing to grow your career in real time.
CAU by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #3In Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #4Among HBCUs Nationally by U.S. News & World Report
- #8In the Nation Among the Top HBCUs Recognized by LinkedIn for Preparing Students for Long-Term Career Success
CAU’s MBA Program by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- 1stPlace in the 2023 National Black MBA Association Case Competition
- #4Among HBCUs Nationally by U.S. News & World Report
- #9Best MBA Programs in Georgia
CAU by the Numbers
- #1Among HBCU Graduate Schools of Education in Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- #3In Georgia by U.S. News & World Report
- 59Semester Credit Hours
- Top 100Of the Best Social Work Grad Schools by U.S. News & World Report
Lead Change Through Compassion and Competence
At the Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work, students are empowered to lead with purpose, integrity and a commitment to social justice. The Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares graduates to serve diverse communities and address disparities locally and globally through advocacy, policy analysis and clinical practice.
Program Goals
The MSW program prepares advanced clinical social work practitioners to lead with empathy, cultural competence and integrity. Students apply diverse theoretical frameworks to address complex social issues and serve communities ethically and effectively. Grounded in an Afrocentric Perspective, the program fosters leadership, research and advocacy for social and economic justice.
Three Plans of Study
The Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work offers three paths to earning the MSW degree, allowing students to choose the option that best fits their goals and schedules. The Two-Year and Three-Year Plans of Study each require 59 credit hours, while the Advanced Standing Plan provides an accelerated 38-hour option. Every path delivers rigorous, values-driven preparation for leadership in social work practice.
Empowering Generations of Leaders Through Innovation and Tradition
Born from the historic consolidation of Atlanta University (est. 1865) and Clark College (est. 1869), Clark Atlanta University stands as a cornerstone of African American higher education. As one of 13 HBCUs with an R2 research designation, CAU celebrates a legacy of scholarly distinction and innovation that continues to shape the future. The University’s four schools uphold a tradition of academic rigor, leadership development and social responsibility, empowering more than 4,000 students to thrive as leaders of change within their professions and communities.
Support for Every Scholar
At CAU, every graduate student is seen, supported and empowered to succeed. Our faculty bring real-world experience and academic excellence to guide you as you grow into a confident scholar and leader. From mentoring to research resources, we surround you with a community dedicated to your academic journey.
Student Resources
The Dr. Bettye M. Clark Graduate Resource Center provides writing support, research assistance and professional development workshops tailored to graduate students. With access to study spaces, Mac and PC labs, and mentoring opportunities, you’ll have everything you need to excel academically and professionally.
Equal Support, However You Learn
Whether studying on campus or online, CAU ensures every learner receives the same level of support and connection. Online students enjoy dedicated orientations and full access to campus resources and proudly receive the CAU Pin, symbolizing belonging and achievement in the Panther community.
Welcome to Clark Atlanta University!
Located in the heart of the Atlanta University Center, Clark Atlanta University builds on more than 150 years of excellence and purpose. Founded in 1988 through the historic merger of Atlanta University (1865) and Clark College (1869), CAU honors its rich African American heritage while driving innovation, transformation and global impact.
Apply to Clark Atlanta University Today!
Clark Atlanta University offers graduate programs that empower you to lead with confidence, serve with compassion and drive meaningful change in your community. By submitting your application, you’ll benefit from:
- An application fee waiver
- Waived GMAT and GRE test scores
- Automatic scholarship consideration
- Multiple start dates
Have Questions?
If you have questions about our programs, need help with the admission process or want to know more about CAU, we would love to hear from you. Call or email anytime.