Many of the best colleges in Georgia charge the same tuition rate for all online learners, regardless of residency. This usually makes online programs more affordable than on-campus programs for out-of-state students.
Georgia Online Schools & Colleges in 2021
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Online Colleges in Georgia
Businesses in many industries employ graduates of Georgia online colleges. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the fields with the highest levels of employment in the state include office and administrative support, sales, and production.
Attending a school in the state can help students make connections with Georgia employers. However, learners who intend to relocate to Georgia after graduation often pursue online degrees from the state’s institutions. This guide explores the best colleges in Georgia for distance learners.
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The best online colleges in Georgia offer a quality education at affordable prices. Our ranking of the top online colleges in the Peach State considers factors such as tuition costs, student-to-teacher ratios, and graduation rates. Availability of financial support, career counseling services, and job placement support also affect rankings. These factors contribute to the program’s overall accessibility and value.
See Our Rankings MethodologyTop 10 Online Colleges in Georgia
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This represents the average net price of attendance for full-time students as gathered by the National Center for Education Statistics. Individual costs may vary. Costs per credit hour may also vary by program or degree.
| Rank | School | Avg Net Price ? This represents the average net price of attendance for full-time students as gathered by the National Center for Education Statistics. Individual costs may vary. Costs per credit hour may also vary by program or degree. |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Savannah College of Art and Design | $ |
| 2 | University of West Georgia | $15392 |
| 3 | Kennesaw State University | $17618 |
| 4 | Clayton State University | $10326 |
| 5 | Mercer University | $ |
| 6 | Columbus State University | $11316 |
| 7 | Dalton State College | $6484 |
| 8 | Valdosta State University | $13630 |
| 9 | Augusta University | $13112 |
| 10 | Shorter University | $ |
Answers to Your Questions About Online Colleges in Georgia
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Do online credits cost more or less in Georgia?
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What is the most affordable college in Georgia?
Tuition rates vary by school, but state-funded colleges such as Gainesville State College and Macon State College offer some of the most affordable tuition rates in the state. Community colleges also provide affordable programs.
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How long do you have to live in Georgia to get in-state tuition?
Learners must live in Georgia for at least 12 months prior to enrollment to qualify for in-state tuition rates. Some schools require students to submit proof that they or their guardian paid Georgia’s income tax.
Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2021
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Savannah College of Art and DesignLocation
Savannah, GA
Graduation Rate68%
A creative college based in the heart of Savannah, SCAD eLearning offers students both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Bachelor's options include programs in the business of beauty and fragrance, fashion marketing and management, interactive design and game development, and photography. Graduate students can choose programs in preservation design, writing, interior design, or luxury and fashion management.
SCAD accepts applications on a rolling basis. Undergraduate applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores (waived through fall 2021). Undergraduate students can transfer up to 90 eligible undergraduate credits toward their degree. Several departments require a portfolio as part of the admissions process. Both graduate and undergraduate students should check with their chosen departments to verify individual admissions requirements.
SCAD is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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University of West GeorgiaLocation
Carrollton, GA
Graduation Rate42%
Based in Carrollton, UWG Online allows students to take core courses online and offers hybrid and online degree tracks in undergraduate, graduate, and specialist options.
Full online bachelor's choices include sociology, political science, criminology, and a registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing program. Partially online bachelor's degrees include economics, finance, and real estate. Graduate programs include master's options in education, business, and nursing, as well as several doctoral and specialist degrees in education.
UWG partners with the University System of Georgia to allow enrolled students to take all state core courses online, whether they transition to an online degree track or not. Undergraduate applicants must possess a minimum GPA of 2.6 and submit SAT or ACT scores to apply. Graduate students must adhere to the admissions requirements for their specific program, but many require GRE or GMAT scores and prior work experience.
UWG is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Kennesaw State UniversityLocation
Kennesaw, GA
Graduation Rate43%
Located just outside of Atlanta in the city of Kennesaw, KSU Online offers a variety of degree choices for students in both undergraduate and graduate degree tracks.
Bachelor's programs include concentrations in business, education, and technology. Notable programs include a bachelor of science in industrial engineering technology and a bachelor of science in integrative studies. Master's-level students can choose from several programs in education, technology, and business.
The school also offers two doctoral degrees online: a doctor of education in instructional technology and a doctor of education in teacher leadership. Students can also pursue online certificate programs and minors.
First-year applicants must possess a minimum GPA of 2.6 to apply without ACT or SAT scores. Students submitting text scores must possess a minimum GPA of 2.5. Students need a minimum ACT score of 18 (reading and math) or SAT score of 500 in reading and 490 in math. Graduate applicants must follow the admissions requirements of their chosen department. Many require students to submit GRE or GMAT scores.
KSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Clayton State UniversityLocation
Morrow, GA
Graduation Rate30%
Located in Morrow, CSU Online offers students the chance to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees in a variety of fields. Students receive coaching and support online and can take advantage of career services to help plan future career goals.
Students can choose fully online bachelor's programs in fields such as accounting, history, homeland security, or political science. Master's options include programs in public administration, supply chain analytics, archival studies, and business administration. Nursing students may complete their registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing online, as well as move on to a master of nursing degree.
First-year applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores (waived through fall 2021). Graduate applicants must check first with their chosen department to learn specific admissions criteria, but many require students to submit GRE or GMAT scores (waived through fall 2021).
CSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Associate of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Mercer UniversityLocation
Macon, GA
Graduation Rate66%
Based out of the Macon campus, Mercer Online offers students undergraduate and graduate degree paths as well as certificates to further career goals and customize degree tracks.
Students can begin with bachelor's programs in fields such as criminal justice leadership, family and human services, accounting, or information technology. Master's options include programs in education, technology, and business. Nursing students may complete degrees all the way to the doctoral level online. The school also offers two online graduate certificate programs in health informatics and technical communication.
Mercer does not require standardized test scores, but students choosing to send scores must send all scores. Mercer participates in the super score method. Adult students do not need to submit test scores to apply. Graduate applicants must follow the individual admissions criteria of their chosen department.
Mercer is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Columbus State UniversityLocation
Columbus, GA
Graduation Rate37%
Located in Columbus, CSU Online offers students several undergraduate and graduate programs from which to choose. Students can take courses on their own schedule and can complete certificates or endorsements online.
Notable bachelor's options include programs in business, political science, and management information systems, as well as a registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing track. Master's options include programs in applied computer science in cybersecurity or software development, as well as programs in business administration and teaching. Students can also pursue an education specialist degree in higher education administration.
First-year applicants must possess a minimum high school GPA of 2.5. Students must also submit ACT or SAT scores (waived through fall 2021 for students meeting GPA requirements). Graduate applicants must follow the admissions requirements of their chosen department.
CSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Dalton State CollegeLocation
Dalton, GA
Graduation Rate22%
Based in Dalton, Dalton State Online offers undergraduate and certificate programs online and allows students to take all of the core classes online for any degree program.
Associate degree options include programs in computer networking and technology, criminal justice, and general studies. Bachelor's options include history, biology, interdisciplinary studies, and business. Students can also pursue several minors and certificates online.
First-year applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores (waived through fall 2021). Transfer students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify for admission.
Dalton State is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Valdosta State UniversityLocation
Valdosta, GA
Graduation Rate42%
Based in Valdosta, VSU Online offers several undergraduate and graduate programs for students seeking a flexible education.
Bachelor's options include programs in French or Spanish, criminal justice, management, or workforce education and development. Master's choices include several education programs, including adult and career education, elementary education, and teaching English to speakers of other languages. Other master's options include programs in business, healthcare administration, and public administration.
Motivated students can also choose from several doctoral degrees, including a doctor of education in leadership and a doctor of public administration. Students can also pursue several specialist degree programs online, including educational leadership, school counseling, and special education. Online certifications allow students to gain additional professional training.
The school accepts applications on a rolling basis. First-year applicants do not need to submit standardized test scores through fall 2021. Graduate students must follow admissions requirements for their chosen department, including any standardized test requirements.
VSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Augusta UniversityLocation
Augusta, GA
Graduation Rate31%
Based in Augusta, Augusta Online offers students a variety of degree paths, either fully or mostly online.
Bachelor's options include programs in clinical lab sciences, dental hygiene, nuclear medicine technology, or respiratory therapy. Master's students can choose from programs in educational leadership, kinesiology, or teacher leadership. Nursing students can progress to a doctor of nursing practice. The school also offers several certificate options online, including sports coaching and health information administration.
First-year applicants need a 3.0 GPA to apply without standardized test scores. Students choosing to send test scores must follow the standard admissions process determined by the freshman index. Graduate applicants must follow individual department requirements, including any GPA minimums, standardized tests, or prior work experience requirements.
Augusta is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Shorter UniversityLocation
Rome, GA
Graduation Rate46%
Located in Rome, Shorter Online offers associate degree, bachelor's, and master's programs.
Students can finish a two-year associate degree in fields like business, Christian studies, human services, or management. Bachelor's options include programs in business, criminal justice, and interdisciplinary studies. Master's students can choose programs in accountancy, healthcare management, sports management, and pedagogy. Students may also choose a non-degree option in general studies to further their career goals and training.
First-year applicants must possess a minimum GPA of 2.25 and a minimum ACT score of 19 or SAT score of 450 on each section to apply. Transfer students with 24 credits or more need a minimum GPA of 2.0. Most graduate departments require at least a 2.75 GPA in undergraduate work, but students must verify their chosen department's requirements before applying.
Shorter is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Why Choose Georgia for Online Higher Education?
Many industries in the state are experiencing labor shortages. Graduates of Georgia online colleges often find opportunities in education and health services, professional and business services, information technology, government, and finance. Individuals considering a career in one of these areas often benefit from the professional connections of Georgia professors.
The section below highlights five common majors for online bachelor’s students in Georgia.
Common Online Bachelor’s Programs in Georgia
While Georgia online colleges offer a variety of bachelor’s degrees, some majors lead to increased opportunities for graduates. The following majors correlate with common professions for Georgia graduates. Curricula and requirements vary by program, so learners should contact their prospective institution for details.
Graduates of business programs can open small businesses and pursue leadership positions with large corporations. Business programs cover topics such as finance, marketing, and supply and demand. Many colleges allow students to specialize in a certain area of business.
Computer science refers to the study of algorithmic processes and computing machines. Bachelor’s students in this field learn how to solve practical technological problems and design new technology. Graduates of computer science programs often work as software developers or information technology specialists.
Individuals who are passionate about empowering others and sharing knowledge often succeed in the education field. Education programs prepare students to teach a certain age group or subject. For example, learners can specialize in music education or elementary education. Most states require public school teachers to complete a student-teaching experience and obtain licensure.
Individuals earning a finance degree study economic principles and learn how to manage money for clients and businesses. Finance curricula explore topics such as short-term and long-term investing, financial forecasting, and strategic planning. Graduates often work as financial managers, entrepreneurs, and certified public accountants.
Bachelor’s-level nursing programs require both coursework and hands-on learning through clinical rotations. Students learn about anatomy, the impact of medicine on the human body, and bedside care methods. Many nursing programs are competitive, so aspiring nurses should consider applying to multiple schools.
Cost of Attending an Online College in Georgia
The exact cost of attending college in Georgia varies by school. Fortunately, some of the best colleges in Georgia offer reduced tuition rates for online learners. At some schools, all online students pay in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency. Institutions may also waive campus fees for distance learners.
Additionally, choosing one of Georgia’s online colleges can lead to savings on housing and transportation. The table below compares the average undergraduate tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students in Georgia. Learners should contact their prospective school’s financial aid department before applying. Many colleges and universities offer academic scholarship packages for incoming freshmen.
| Public Four-Year College | Private Four-Year College | Public Two-Year College | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-State | $7,319 | $28,839 | $2,901 |
| Out-of-State | $22,751 | N/A | $8,038 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Career and Salary Outlook for Students in Georgia
When choosing a major, students should consider each profession’s earning potential and job growth. Learners should also choose a field that matches their interests and personal strengths. The list below features common careers for graduates of Georgia online colleges.
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Computer and Information Systems Managers
These professionals oversee their organization’s computer-related tasks. In addition to technological skills, computer and information system managers need leadership and strategic-thinking skills. Most of these managers work 40 hours per week, but they occasionally complete overtime to handle unplanned computer issues.
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Financial Managers
Financial managers oversee a team of financial professionals. These managers contribute to big-picture financial decisions to ensure the health of an organization, and they direct investment activities and create short-term and long-term financial plans. While some employers hire financial managers with a bachelor’s degree, many companies require at least a master’s degree to work in this leadership role.
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Sales Managers
Sales managers delegate tasks and collaborate with associates. These leaders plan discount campaigns, assign sales territories, and motivate employees to meet sales quotas. Most sales managers work as sales associates before securing this leadership position within a company.
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Marketing Managers
Marketing managers often work for advertising agencies and corporations. These individuals work with a team of graphic designers, copywriters, and photographers to create impactful campaigns that motive target audiences to purchase products or services. Marketing managers also negotiate advertising contracts and present ideas to clients.
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Human Resource Managers
Human resources managers work to attract and maintain company talent. These professionals book training sessions for employees, manage benefits packages, and help maintain safe work environments. These managers also handle conflict-resolution efforts and facilitate seminars on topics such as diversity and sexual-harassment prevention.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $146,360 | 10% |
| Financial Managers | $129,890 | 15% |
| Sales Manager | $126,640 | 4% |
| Marketing Managers | $126,640 | 4% |
| Human Resource Managers | $116,720 | 6% |
Source: BLS
Georgia Scholarships and Grants
Although many of Georgia’s online colleges offer affordable tuition rats, learners can further reduce the cost of earning a degree by applying for scholarships. Applicants for scholarships and grants must typically submit essays, recommendation letters, and official transcripts. The list below features a few of the scholarships available to online students attending the best colleges in Georgia.
Bachus & Schanker, LLC, Scholarship
Who Can Apply: High school students with at least a 3.0 GPA can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit an 800-word essay about how the Seventh Amendment affects their life.
Amount: $2,000
Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant
Who Can Apply: This grant supports Georgia students attending private colleges in the state. Applicants must hold U.S. citizenship and status as a Georgia resident. Recipients must attend a qualifying college or university.
Amount: Varies
Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Women attending school in a Southern state, such as Georgia, can apply for this scholarship. Applicants studying education, particularly health education, receive preference. Candidates must demonstrate financial need.
Amount: Varies
“No Essay” College Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This scholarship from Niche requires no essay, minimum GPA, or recommendation letters. Niche chooses scholarship recipients through a random drawing each month. Individuals can apply monthly.
Amount: $2,000
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