Strong academic programs, a nurturing atmosphere, convenient class schedules and an affordable price tag help make Atlanta Metropolitan College (AMC) a great place to start a college education.
A two-year college in the Georgia University System since 1974, the liberal arts institution offers 46 academic programs that lead to associate of arts (A.A.) or associate of science (A.S.) degrees. Most students transfer to four-year colleges or universities to earn bachelor’s degrees.
The college, which is in south Atlanta, is growing in size and reputation. Last spring, the state upgraded its status to a state college, allowing the school to offer limited bachelor’s degrees. It will offer its first B.S. in biological sciences in late 2012.
“We began with that one because we have tremendous science, math and health sciences departments,” said Gary A. McGaha, president of Atlanta Metropolitan College. “We’ve had a number of post-baccalaureate students take our science classes to get their scores up to apply to medical, dentistry and pharmacy programs, so we knew that we could be a direct pipeline for students wanting to go into those fields.”
It also fits with metro Atlanta’s need for more graduates of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) disciplines.
“Our mission is to train the leaders that Atlanta, Ga., and the country needs for tomorrow. We’ll continue to embrace that mission, but we’re raising the bar and planning for tremendous growth,” McGaha said.
Although the school has toughened its admission standards, AMC admitted its largest class ever (850 freshman students) this semester. The school also serves a diverse population.
McGaha uses the words “impact” and “opportunity” to describe his institution. “Our students come from this community and they take their skills and talents back to the community.”
AMC graduates go on to Georgia State, Emory, Georgia Tech and other universities around the country.
“When they leave here, they are prepared to do well. Many didn’t start out with the HOPE scholarship, but they earn it here and they keep it when they transfer,” he said.
McGaha believes the college’s holistic approach to education makes a difference.
“Our goal is to build an educational community,” he said. “We have a strong faculty who not only teach, but who help students learn how to navigate the college system, because they care. Do our students get more face-time with faculty? Absolutely.”
Older and first-generation college students benefit from AMC’s comprehensive academic advisement, student orientation and student support services. Working students like the convenience of daytime, evening, weekend and online classes.
“The reputation of our programs is making us a first choice for more high school students,” McGaha said. “More than 50 percent of our student population falls in the 18 to 21 age range.
“When they hear they can take high-quality microbiology classes at $1,700 a semester, they come here. We’re a great educational bargain, and we’re excited about what we’re doing.”
For more information about Atlanta Metropolitan College, go to www.atlm.edu or call 404-756-4000.
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