Georgia State University (GSU) is a public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. GSU is one of the largest universities in the state, with an undergraduate enrollment of over 50,000 students and a total enrollment of over 64,000 students. GSU is classified as a Research Extensive institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions.
Georgia State has a well-established athletics program, with teams competing at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I level in several sports. However, there has been some confusion about GSU’s status as a Division I school. In this article, we will explore the history of Georgia State’s athletics program and its current status within the NCAA.
History of Georgia State Athletics
Georgia State’s athletics program has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 1900s. In 1927, GSU joined the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA) as an independent member, and in 1937, it became a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). However, due to financial difficulties, GSU left the SEC in 1946 and reorganized as an independent institution.
In 1952, GSU joined the NCAA, competing at the Division III level. In 1971, GSU was reclassified as a Division II school, and it remained there until 1980. In 1983, GSU was reclassified as a Division I-A school (now known as Division I), which required it to meet certain academic and athletic standards set by the NCAA.
Georgia State has had several successful sports programs over the years, including football, basketball, and baseball. In 2014, GSU’s football team won the Sun Belt Conference Championship and was invited to participate in the New Orleans Bowl. The men’s basketball team has also made several NCAA tournament appearances, including a trip to the Sweet Sixteen in 2010.
Current Status of Georgia State Athletics
Today, Georgia State is classified as a Division I school by the NCAA. GSU competes in 16 sports at the Division I level, with teams in football, basketball, baseball, and other popular sports. The university has also recently expanded its athletics program to include new sports such as lacrosse and beach volleyball.
In conclusion, Georgia State is a Division I school that has a rich history of athletic success. While there may have been some confusion about GSU’s status in the past, it is now classified as a Division I institution by the NCAA and continues to compete at the highest level in several sports.
