UWG Reports One of Georgia’s Lowest Campus Crime RatesShare this page
Newly released campus safety data place UWG among the state’s safest public universities, with reported violent-crime rates far below major university peers and state and national benchmarks.
The University of West Georgia continues to distinguish itself as one of Georgia’s safest public universities, according to newly released campus security data that show exceptionally low levels of reported crime.
According to UWG’s 2026 Annual Security Report, the university recorded just three incidents in 2025 while serving more than 16,000 students, resulting in a reported rate of 1.87 offenses per 10,000 students. That places UWG among the lowest in the University System of Georgia and below the major comprehensive and research universities examined, including the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State, Augusta University, Georgia Southern, Kennesaw State and Valdosta State.
A Safety Record That Stands Out
UWG’s reported violent-crime rate compares favorably not only with other major Georgia universities but also with broader state and national benchmarks. At 1.87 reported offenses per 10,000 students, UWG's rate was substantially lower than reported violent-crime rates for both Georgia (30.13) and the United States (32.93).
The comparison underscores the university’s exceptionally low level of reported violent crime and reflects UWG’s continued commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors.
UWG’s 2026 Annual Security Report also recorded no robberies, motor vehicle thefts, arsons, hate crimes or hazing incidents during 2025.
Among the major public universities examined, UWG recorded the lowest reported violent-crime rate, ahead of Valdosta State University, Georgia Tech, Kennesaw State University, the University of Georgia, Georgia State University and Augusta University.
“Safety is not measured by statistics alone,” said Dr. Ned Watson, chief of the UWG Police Department (UPD). “It is measured by preparedness, partnerships and the trust our community places in us every day. We are proud of these results, but our focus remains on continuously strengthening the services, training and resources that help keep our campus safe.”
More Than Statistics: A Commitment to Campus Safety
UPD provides law enforcement and emergency response services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Its responsibilities include campus patrols, emergency communications, crime prevention education, emergency notifications and preparedness initiatives designed to support students, faculty, staff and visitors. The department also works closely with students through programs such as the annual Campus Safety Walk.
Students, faculty and staff are invited to participate in the annual Campus Safety Walk, hosted by the Student Government Association in partnership with UPD, on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Participants will have the opportunity to identify and discuss opportunities for improvement related to lighting, visibility, traffic flow, walkways and other campus safety considerations.
The walk will begin at 6 p.m. on the Campus Center Back Patio.
“When students choose UWG, they are choosing a university where they can focus on learning, growing and building community,” said Dr. Michael Johnson, UWG’s president. “While any crime is one too many, these results reflect the collective efforts of our campus community and our shared commitment to creating an environment where students feel safe and supported. That commitment is foundational to everything we do.”
UWG publishes its Annual Security Report each year in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. Previous reports are available online.