The institution was founded in 1969 and was originally known as Clayton Junior College. When the school became a four-year institution in 1986, the institute took on the name Clayton State College.
In 1996, the Georgia Board of Regents renamed many higher-ed institutions, with Clayton State becoming Clayton College & State University.
In 2005, the name was changed to Clayton State University.
In 2004, the go ahead for developing a masters program was given by the Board of Regents. Clayton State University currently offers eight masters degree programs and 40 baccalaureate degree majors.
