Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Discover the top ranked online colleges in Georgia and find the perfect school that aligns with your academic and career goals.
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Updated September 20, 2023

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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Thinking about going to college in Georgia? If you want to attend college in the Peach State, here's the good news: You'll probably pay less than you would in most other states. The average tuition at a public four-year college in Georgia costs nearly $2,000 less than the national average tuition rate.

Top-ranked colleges have campuses in Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, and throughout the state. Discover why you should choose online colleges in Georgia, learn what they cost, and what careers are available to graduates.

Why Consider Online Colleges in Georgia?

  • In Georgia, there are many high-quality colleges and universities that offer online programs.
  • An online program can give you the flexibility to balance work and other obligations.
  • Online college is often more affordable than an on-campus program.
  • Tuition and fees in Georgia run an average of $7,525 — well below the national average of $9,375.
  • Compared to the national average, Georgia has a low unemployment rate.
  • The University of Georgia System offers a huge catalog of online degrees.

Did You Know?



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Top 10 Online Colleges in Georgia

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#1 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Kennesaw State University

  • Kennesaw, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $185

Out of State | $185

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, master's, doctoral

KSU, which began as a junior college in 1963, features 27 graduate degrees, 17 undergraduate degrees, and more than 80 virtual programs. You can also complete minors, certificates, and endorsements completely online.

Online learners can earn a doctor of education in teacher leadership, a master's in civil engineering, or a bachelor's in computer game design and development. KSU provides ample support for online students through orientation, financial aid, and academic advising.

During the first week of online studies, you can get career planning help from advisors who help with internships and job hunting.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,328
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
41,181
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

University of West Georgia

  • Carrollton, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $159

Out of State | $159

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, master's, doctoral

UWG Online allows you to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees online, with the option to graduate faster by applying prior-learning credits for work experience or by testing out by exam.

Programs such as business, computer science, criminology, education, nursing, and sociology are available entirely or partially online. Based in Carrollton, UWG lets "transient students'' from other colleges take online courses.

Courses last 8-16 weeks, depending on whether you enroll part time or full time. Expect to complete individual and group activities and projects. Course schedules are flexible as long as you meet assignment and quiz deadlines. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,426
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,338
Out-of-state
$16,830
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
13,419
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Columbus State University

  • Columbus, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $182

Out of State | $642

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, master's, doctoral

Columbus State is home to 39 online degrees and programs that offer personal collaboration with students, instructors, and potential employers through internships.

Online subject areas include applied computer science, business, criminal justice, nursing, and teacher leadership. Online courses also offer pathways to earn endorsements and certificates in fields such as business foundations and online teaching.

Online learners can expect to follow the campus schedule, beginning and ending at the same time as in-person courses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,300
Out-of-state
$11,394
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,372
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Clayton State University

  • Morrow, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $159

Out of State | $159

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, master's

At CSU, you can opt for self-paced study, choosing from among 22 online bachelor's and master's degrees in subjects like accounting, business administration, English, marketing, nursing, and supply chain management.

Accelerated courses take eight weeks, while other classes require a 16-week commitment. Studying online offers the same support services as on the university's Morrow campus, with access to tutors at the Center for Academic Success and writing help at the Writer's Studio. The Center for Advising and Retention also provides personal advisors for each student.

Online learning requires an up-to-date computer and software that meets technological standards. CSU offers a free Microsoft Office suite download to all students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,760
Out-of-state
$12,411
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
7,052
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Savannah College of Art and Design

  • Savannah, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $869

Out of State | $869

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, master's

SCADnow Online offers over 20 online art and design undergraduate and graduate degrees. You can major in subjects like advertising, animation, creative business leadership, design management, dramatic writing, fashion, painting, photography, and writing.

Online learning begins with a virtual orientation, through which you can explore the degree format and learn more about resources like the library, peer tutoring, and the Writers' Studio.

Online learners must meet all technological requirements. You can begin new courses every quarter. Courses generally have set times with asynchronous elements, such as discussions and recorded lectures.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,575
Out-of-state
$37,575
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,475
Out-of-state
$38,475
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
14,265
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Mercer University

  • Macon, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $1,314

Out of State | $1,314

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, master's, doctoral

Mercer offers fully online bachelor's and master's degrees through the College of Professional Advancement, School of Business, and College of Education. You can also enroll in weekend and evening courses.

Online majors include accounting, elementary education, general business, health informatics, marketing, and software application development and human-computer interaction. Additionally, you can earn undergraduate and graduate certificates completely online.

The length of the program will vary depending on the major. For instance, a bachelor's in education features eight-week courses that blend synchronous and asynchronous coursework.

Interested online learners can attend a virtual open house. Prospective students must submit an online application and pay an application fee.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,695
Out-of-state
$28,695
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,964
Out-of-state
$14,964
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
9,006
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Thomas University

  • Thomasville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $450

Out of State | $450

Degrees Offered: Associate, bachelor's, master's

At TU, busy students can pursue online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees without having to visit the campus in Thomasville.

You can earn a degree in business administration, computer systems management, homeland security, law enforcement, marketing, psychology, and nursing.

TU's transfer agreements with local two-year colleges and prior-credit learning policies allow students to graduate more quickly. You can earn up to 90 credits for military service, work experience, or credit by exam.

You need at least a 2.0 GPA to get admitted to an online degree program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,940
Out-of-state
$15,940
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,790
Out-of-state
$11,790
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
35%
Students Enrolled
1,303
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Georgia Southwestern State University

  • Americus, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $169

Out of State | $169

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's, master's

At GSW, you can study online to earn bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and certificates. You can also complete an eCore course without transferring to GWS under an agreement with other SACSCOC-accredited institutions.

Fully online degrees include business administration, criminal justice, nursing, and nursing leadership. Courses may offer asynchronous learning or have some in-person requirements. For example, the 22-month master's in nursing degree requires 765 clinical hours.

Admission requirements vary. Certain programs, such as the bachelor of business administration with a concentration in marketing, may require you to live within 50 miles of campus and hold at least an associate degree to get admitted.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,492
Out-of-state
$13,806
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
3,162
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Albany State University

  • Albany, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $95-$300

Out of State | $359-$769

Degrees Offered: Associate, bachelor's, master's

The Albany-based ASU features more than 60 online programs, including associate, bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs.

You can pursue an online associate degree in subjects like computer science or psychology, or enroll in an online bachelor's program in criminal justice or nursing. Online master's programs focus on business administration, early childhood education, nursing, and social work, among other popular fields.

Studying online offers the chance to connect with advisors and support specialists — much like on-campus learning. You can also get help with academic writing through the Online Writing Center or virtually meet with a tutor.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,438
Out-of-state
$13,716
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
6,509
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2023

Brenau University

  • Gainesville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $1,033-$1,248

Out of State | $1,033-$1,248

Degrees Offered: Associate, bachelor's, master's, doctoral

Brenau, which has offered distance learning since 1998, has expanded its online catalog to more than 30 undergraduate and graduate programs, all of which you can complete without physically going to the campus in Gainesville.

Undergraduate majors include business administration, elementary education, liberal studies, and psychology. Graduate students can pursue a degree in accounting, education, and nursing. Most online courses last seven weeks, but exact formats vary by major.

Brenau uses a rolling admissions policy. Admission requirements differ depending on the degree and your level of education. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA to get in.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,000
Out-of-state
$30,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,356
Out-of-state
$13,356
Retention Rate
53%
Admission Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
2,813
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How Does Accreditation Work for Online Schools in Georgia?

Accreditation helps to set reputable online schools in Georgia apart from the rest. When it comes to accreditation, there is institutional and programmatic accreditation, and both are voluntary processes.

Nationally accredited schools have been evaluated by independent accrediting associations, which measure education outcomes and curriculum quality. This process gives you confidence in the value of your education. Employers and other postsecondary institutions also recognize accreditation as important.

In Georgia, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is the regional accreditor that certifies institutions to award degrees.

How Much Do Online Universities in Georgia Cost?

Georgia offers cheaper college tuition than the national average. In the 2020-2021 school year, students at public four-year colleges paid an average of $7,525 for tuition and fees and $11,186 for room and board. For private institutions, students paid $30,380 in tuition and fees.

Your residency status can affect how much tuition you'll pay. Out-of-state residents at public institutions paid an average of $23,430 in the 2020-2021 school year for tuition and fees —$15,905 more than in-state students.

Some online colleges in Georgia waive residency requirements if you study online. Studying online saves money on campus fees, parking, and gas.

You can help pay for your education by submitting the FAFSA. The information you submit determines how much you qualify for federal loans and grants.

6 Popular Cities for Accredited Online Colleges in Georgia

You can narrow your search for a college by city. Perhaps you want a college in the heart of Atlanta or a quieter campus in Marietta. Georgia's cities offer benefits for each student, even if you plan to study online.

Depending on your major, you may need to commute to campus for labs, occasional classes, or social events.

  1. 1

    Athens

    This city is home to the Georgia Bulldogs from the University of Georgia, which was founded in 1785. Other major employers are headquartered in Athens, including Athens Regional Health System and Caterpillar Inc.
  2. 2

    Atlanta

    The capital of Georgia hosts top universities and colleges that draw students from across the country and internationally, like Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Spelman College. Atlanta has more than 30 public and private four- and two-year colleges.
  3. 3

    Columbus

    From Fort Benning to the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, Columbus offers much in the way of sightseeing. Students come to Columbus to major in nursing, criminal justice and safety studies, and business.
  4. 4

    Marietta

    With a workforce of 36,140, Marietta's top industries include Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems, the Cobb County government, and WellStar Health System. Marietta also boasts one of Georgia's most famous museums: the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art.
  5. 5

    Savannah

    Savannah's history dates back to 1789, making it the oldest city in Georgia. Major industries in Savannah include retail and wholesale, business services, manufacturing, education and health services, and leisure and hospitality.
  6. 6

    Valdosta

    This town, established in 1825, is home to Valdosta State University. Valdosta also features six historic districts. Students come to Valdosta to study arts, business, education, health professions, humanities, science and technology, and trades and personal services.

On-Campus Programs in Georgia

Online colleges in Georgia offer convenience and flexibility — a major advantage if you have family or career obligations. That said, in-person programs offer benefits as well.

Going to college as a traditional on-campus student gives you a more personal education, social opportunities, and direct access to campus events and resources. The campus experience is especially important if you learn best through personal interaction in a physical classroom.

Institutions like Georgia Southern University and Kennesaw State University have countless clubs, fraternities, and sororities to connect you with other students. The University of Georgia also offers a vibrant community of 40,118 students and a beautiful 767-acre campus within walking distance of downtown Athens.

What Are the Fastest-Growing Jobs in Georgia?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average job growth rate in the United States is 7.7%, with employers projected to add about 11.9 million positions from 2020-2031.

In Georgia, employment for nurse practitioners and flight attendants will soar past the national average. Other fast-growing occupations include occupational therapy assistants, physical therapist assistants, and sound engineering technicians.

10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Georgia
Job Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) Median Annual Salary (May 2021)
Nurse Practitioners 79% $123,780
Flight Attendants 72% $61,640
Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers 65% $26,390
Occupational Therapy Assistants 64% $85,570
Restaurant Cooks 61% $27,770
Physical Therapist Assistants 58% $59,510
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers 49% $205,610
Entertainers and Performers, Sports Professionals 46% $51,710
Sound Engineering Technicians 46% $81,370
Massage Therapists 45% $40,080

Sources: Projections Central, BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Georgia

How long do you have to live in Georgia to get in-state tuition?

Georgia public colleges define a resident as someone who has lived in the state for 12 consecutive months. Exemptions apply for some dependent students and members of other groups, like active-duty military and employees of Georgia colleges.

How many colleges and universities are in Georgia?

Georgia features over 150 colleges and universities. The University System of Georgia has 30 schools alone. The majority of Georgia's schools also offer certificate programs and trade education.

Do Georgia residents go to college for free?

Georgia offers free tuition to students preparing for jobs in in-demand fields through a program called HOPE. The list of eligible programs is nearly 17 pages long and includes disciplines like automotive technology, computer programming, nursing, plumbing, education, and health science. Interested students must complete the FAFSA and apply for a HOPE Career Grant.

What is the cheapest online college in Georgia?

The average cost of tuition and fees at a public college in Georgia was $7,525 for the 2020-2021 academic year. Tuition and fees in the state are 11.8% less in Georgia than at other colleges in the country. Gainesville State College provides the cheapest college education, costing just $3,248 in tuition and fees for Georgia residents.


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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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