University of North Georgia (UNG)

Introduction

The University of North Georgia (UNG) is a distinguished public senior military college in the United States, offering a comprehensive range of academic programs and fostering a vibrant campus life. Established in 2013 through the consolidation of North Georgia College & State University and Gainesville State College, UNG has evolved into a prominent institution within the University System of Georgia. The university provides diverse academic opportunities while maintaining a commitment to student development, leadership, and community engagement.

Overview

UNG operates across five campuses in Georgia: Dahlonega, Gainesville, Oconee, Blue Ridge, and Cumming. The Dahlonega campus, situated in the scenic North Georgia mountains, serves as the main hub, encompassing the majority of academic programs and student services. The university enrolls approximately 20,000 students, making it the sixth-largest public university in Georgia.

The university offers over 100 programs of study, including bachelor’s and associate degrees, as well as master’s and doctoral programs. UNG is recognized as one of the six senior military colleges in the United States and holds the designation of “The Military College of Georgia.” This status underscores its commitment to leadership development and military education.

University of North Georgia Academics and Majors

UNG provides a diverse array of academic programs across various disciplines. 

• College of Arts & Letters: The College of Arts & Letters at the University of North Georgia offers a range of programs in the humanities and social sciences, preparing students for careers in education, politics, history, and more. Students can pursue degrees in English, History, and Political Science, where they develop strong analytical, communication, and research skills. These programs aim to foster critical thinking while understanding societal, cultural, and historical perspectives.
• College of Education: The College of Education offers specialized programs that prepare students for impactful careers in teaching and education. Programs like Early Childhood Education, Special Education, and Physical Education help shape future educators who are equipped with practical knowledge and a commitment to providing inclusive and equitable education to diverse student populations.
• College of Health Sciences & Professions: The College of Health Sciences & Professions focuses on preparing students for health-related careers. Students can earn degrees in Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Exercise Science, learning the skills necessary to serve in a variety of clinical and healthcare settings. These programs are designed to meet the needs of the growing healthcare industry and equip students to make significant contributions to community health.
• College of Science & Mathematics: The College of Science & Mathematics provides students with a solid foundation in scientific principles and practices. Students can choose programs in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics, gaining a deep understanding of the natural world and developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Graduates of this college are well-prepared for careers in research, industry, or further academic studies in science.
• Mike Cottrell College of Business: The Mike Cottrell College of Business offers degrees in Accounting, Management, and Marketing, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in modern business environments. Programs focus on practical business applications, strategic management, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for leadership roles in the global business landscape.

Campus Life at University of North Georgia: Sports, Clubs, and Activities

UNG boasts a dynamic campus life, enriched by a variety of sports, clubs, and extracurricular activities that cater to diverse student interests.

Athletics

The University of North Georgia’s athletic teams, known as the Nighthawks, compete at the NCAA Division II level within the Peach Belt Conference, offering a wide range of intercollegiate sports. Among the sports available are Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Tennis, Golf, Cross Country, and Track and Field. Additionally, the university boasts a Rifle team that competes at the NCAA Division I level in the Southern Conference. These programs provide students with opportunities to develop their athletic skills while representing the university in collegiate competition.

Clubs and Organizations

At the University of North Georgia (UNG), students have access to a wide range of clubs and organizations that enhance leadership abilities, promote community involvement, and foster personal growth. These organizations encompass various interests, including academic honor societies that celebrate academic excellence, cultural clubs that promote diversity and inclusivity, and professional associations that connect students with career opportunities. In addition, special interest groups offer activities that align with students’ passions, such as music, politics, or volunteering. By participating in these organizations, students can develop transferable skills in teamwork, leadership, and communication, while also networking with peers and professionals in their fields. These clubs and organizations also encourage active involvement in the university community, allowing students to contribute meaningfully to campus life and leave a lasting impact. Through these opportunities, UNG supports the holistic development of students, equipping them for success in both their academic and professional journeys.

Campus Activities

UNG offers an array of exciting campus activities throughout the academic year to foster student engagement and enhance the college experience. These activities include guest lectures by renowned scholars, cultural performances showcasing local and international talent, and community service projects that promote social responsibility and unity. The university strives to create a vibrant campus environment where students can engage with different perspectives, enrich their cultural understanding, and give back to the community. Such activities are integral to developing well-rounded individuals, providing students with meaningful ways to connect with each other, learn beyond the classroom, and grow in various aspects of their personal and professional lives.

University of North Georgia Admissions: What It Takes to Get In

Admission to UNG is competitive, with the university considering various factors to assess applicants.

Undergraduate Admissions

• Application Submission: Prospective undergraduate students must submit a completed application, which can typically be done online.
• High School Transcripts: Applicants must provide official high school transcripts that detail academic performance.
• Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are required for most programs. Some programs may have additional testing requirements or may be test-optional.
• College Transcripts: If applicable, students must submit official transcripts from any college or university attended previously.

Graduate Admissions

• Application Submission: Graduate applicants must submit a completed application, typically via an online portal for the specific graduate program.
• Official Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended are required for graduate admissions, providing a clear academic history.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation, usually from faculty, employers, or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s potential for graduate studies.
• Standardized Test Scores: Some programs may require standardized test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT), though many programs may waive this requirement or may not require tests at all.
• Program-Specific Requirements: Each graduate program may have its own additional requirements, such as a statement of purpose, interviews, portfolio submissions (for certain fields like art or design), or specific work experience. Applicants should carefully review the specific program’s criteria before applying.

University of North Georgia Tuition, Scholarships, and Financial Aid

UNG is committed to making higher education accessible and offers a range of financial assistance options to support students.

Tuition and Fees

• Undergraduate Tuition: The undergraduate tuition fees at the University of North Georgia (UNG) are $5,730 per semester for in-state students, $20,730 for out-of-state students, and $21,150 for international students.
• Graduate Tuition: For graduate tuition, in-state students pay $5,646 per semester, while out-of-state students are charged $23,066 and international students pay $23,506.

Financial Aid

The University of North Georgia provides a range of financial aid options to assist students in funding their education. These options include federal and state grants, student loans, work-study programs, and private scholarships.

• Federal and State Grants: The University of North Georgia offers federal and state grants to help cover educational costs. The Pell Grant supports undergraduates with financial need, while the university participates in the Georgia HOPE Program, offering the Hope Scholarship for students with a 3.0 GPA and the Hope Grant for those pursuing a certificate or associate degree. Additionally, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) aids students with exceptional financial need, based on FAFSA results.
• Loans: The University of North Georgia offers Federal Direct Loans through the federal government, providing students with the option to borrow funds for education at low fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options. Additionally, private loans from external lenders are accepted to help cover any additional educational costs not addressed by federal loans.

• Work-Study Programs: UNG offers a federal work-study program, which allows students to earn wages while working part-time on campus. Work-study positions provide students with the opportunity to gain work experience while receiving financial compensation, helping offset their tuition costs. Work-study is awarded based on need and is limited to eligible students.

Scholarships

UNG offers several merit-based and need-based scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students. Some of the key scholarships include:

1. University of North Georgia Scholarship: This competitive scholarship is awarded to incoming students based on academic merit. The award amounts vary but can significantly reduce tuition costs.
2. HOPE Scholarship: As part of the state of Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship program, this award is available for Georgia residents based on their high school GPA and SAT or ACT scores.
3. HOPE Grant: This award is available to Georgia residents who pursue a certificate or associate degree and are eligible based on a combination of financial need and academic criteria.
4. Military Scholarships: UNG, being a senior military college, offers special scholarships for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families, as part of its commitment to military education. These include various incentives through both the Army ROTC and other military partnerships.
5. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UNG offer scholarships to students based on academic performance in specific fields of study. These scholarships are typically awarded on a competitive basis and require students to apply through the relevant department.
6. Athletic Scholarships: Students participating in athletics may be eligible for sports scholarships. UNG’s athletic teams offer both merit-based and need-based scholarships for talented athletes, particularly those involved in NCAA Division II sports.

Conclusion

The University of North Georgia offers a well-rounded educational experience, blending a diverse academic curriculum with a range of campus activities and support services. As the state’s military college, UNG also emphasizes leadership, discipline, and character development through its senior military college program.

With its focus on accessibility and affordability, UNG makes higher education attainable for a wide range of students, offering several financial aid and scholarship opportunities. The university’s welcoming community and commitment to developing students as responsible, resourceful, and engaged citizens of the world contribute significantly to both academic success and personal growth.

Contact Information and Location:

For more information about the University of North Georgia:

Location: 82 College Cir, Dahlonega, GA 30597, United States

Contact: +1 706-864-1400

Website:https://ung.edu/