If you are considering becoming a nurse this list of nursing schools in Georgia will offer you quality options from locations across the entire peach state. Some schools have great programs for out of state students so even if you are not from Georgia, this list can help you choose your path to your BSN.
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Who Can Attend Nursing Schools In Georgia?
Georgia residents who have their high school diploma, can pass a background test, and meet other requirements can attend nursing schools in Georgia. Out of state students can also attend, but tuition may be higher. The main thing if you are searching for a nursing school is to consider where you are and how far you plan ongoing. Some schools have fast track programs for those who are already Licensed Nurse Practitioners, others offer programs for Registered Nurses to become practitioners. Each college has its own perks and drawbacks, the key is finding the one you fit most.
What Is The Job Outlook For Nurses in The State Of Georgia?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nursing profession will grow by at least 15% over the next five years. This statistic was determined pre-pandemic. The demand is likely higher across the state and nation now.
Rank | School | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Georgia Southwestern State University | Americus, Georgia |
2 | Mercer University | Macon, Georgia |
3 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, Georgia |
4 | Georgia College & State University | Milledgeville, Georgia |
5 | Valdosta State University | Valdosta, Georgia |
Top 15 Nursing Schools In Georgia
Here are the top 15 nursing schools in Georgia rated according to tuition and the enrollment rates and quality reviews from graduates and other resources.
Georgia Southwestern State University
The Registered Nursing program at Georgia Southwestern State stands out because the low tuition does not reflect the NCLEX scores of 90.28% or the quality of education nursing students receive. The grounds of the college are beautiful and it sits conveniently central in the state. One of the perks for students is the 6 states 1 rate program that charges out of state students from the surrounding states instate prices. They also offer graduate programs for students looking to go further in their nursing careers.
School Overview
Mercer University
Mercer stands out because it has several locations across the state of Georgia. They hold the title of the Longest Standing Nursing Program in Georgia. And they offer several programs from BSN all the way to Ph.D. in nursing for the career-minded individual. Their upper education programs are rated well nationally, not just on a state level.
School Overview
Kennesaw State University
This school is so large it may be intimidating at first. But with NCLEX scores averaging at 95.5% and tuition being mid-point to low the school is definitely something an eager nursing student can feel proud about attending. The school offers both accelerated and traditional paths to your BSN. For the driven student who may already have some nursing education and experience, this can save a year of education and costs.
School Overview
Georgia College & State University
They call themselves Georgia’s Public Liberal Arts University, yet their nursing program is impressive and they even offer midwifery specialization. They have both in-person and online programs and are relatively flexible for a liberal arts school that offers health degrees. Many graduates go on to pursue further education in healthcare and satisfying careers.
School Overview
Valdosta State University
VSU is in South Georgia about a half-hour from the Florida border. Many people attend this beautiful campus to study nursing from North Florida and South Georgia. They have an instate tuition agreement with the counties in on the Florida-Georgia line and they offer 2 plus 2 programs with local community colleges in and out of state to make attendance as easy as possible to those ready to pursue their degree in nursing. They have a hands-on motto when it comes to health education.
School Overview
Georgia State University
GSU is located right in Atlanta. If you crave city life in one of the hottest southern cities then consider getting your nursing degree at Georgia State. They have fast-tracked programs to get your degree in 18 months and they have programs to get your doctor of nursing practice if you want to take your career to the next level. The in-state tuition is highly competitive and they offer everything you would want to get to work in an exciting career fast.
School Overview
Emory University
This private school is also located in Atlanta. The price point is higher than the local state school, but the reviews and reports say that the price is justified when it comes to the quality of education and hands-on nursing experience while in attendance. The acceptance rate is low and the teacher to student ratio allows for a more one on one education.
School Overview
Georgia Perimeter College
This two-year college is considered a gateway college to many state schools in Georgia. Their nursing program allows for students to get to work or to continue on to further education easily. There are several Atlanta locations for the convenience of students and they have an online program.
School Overview
South University, Savannah
If you have always wanted to live in a town just spilling over with southern gothic charm then consider South University. They offer online and in-person options and a variety of degree tracks to help you get into the nursing field based on your goals and prior experience and education. If you are looking for a laid-back southern location and atmosphere with a challenging curriculum check out the nursing program at South University, Savannah.
University of North Georgia
If mountain views and cold winters are appealing then this southern college offers perks you may not expect if you are not a Georgia local. Near the Great Smokey National Forest and nestled in a scenic area between the mountains and the water this college is beautiful. But their nursing degree program is just as impressive with hands-on classes and programs for LPN to BSN and programs for people fresh out of high school.
School Overview
Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech Offers bridge programs for nurses in the Atlanta area. They also have a biological science and research nurse degree program. If you are interested in upgrading your LPN or if you want to study nursing from the science side then look into the programs at Georgia Tech next semester.
School Overview
Georgia Gwinnett College
GGC is known for its friendly campus environment and quality nursing programs. Their nursing program started in 2014 and they have been improving and innovating every year since. Students and health care centers know that the graduates from GGC are going to be highly skilled and capable, they would be higher on the list but are a relatively new nursing school.
School Overview
Brenau University
If you want to go far in a healthcare career Brenau University offers a Master’s in health care and applied gerontology. You can also get your Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration there. The school prides itself on the quality nursing program. The small school offers a cozy learning environment and quality teacher to student ratios.
School Overview
Augusta University
Forbes called Augusta Ga the south’s best-kept secret. But students at Augusta University know that there is no secret. The city is scenic and the University has a renowned nursing program for those planning to advance into leadership positions in healthcare, and for those entering into the field. If you are looking for a lovely town with a quality education then consider Augusta University. They also have satellite campuses around the nation and globe.
School Overview
Columbus State University
Columbus State is located in Georgia, near the Alabama border. It serves as a hub for nursing hopefuls to find quality training and degrees to help them find employment at local hospitals, doctors’ offices, research facilities, and more. The area is a lovely mix of rural and urban with a strong arts scene. Students attending Columbus enjoy the area’s offerings and the strong job demand for nurses and health care professionals in Georgia and Alabama.
School Overview
If you are considering attending nursing school in the coming year choose a school that suits your specific career goal and schedule. Today’s colleges typically understand that not all students will have the exact same schedule and situation. This is why there are so many bridge programs for nurses with experience to improve their education for higher pay and better job opportunities.
This list was compiled using tuition and enrollment data from the individual university webpages and online reviews and ratings of the college. If you are a representative of the college and feel that your school is not portrayed accurately contact us so we can correct it so protective students know what you offer.
Any student planning on attending nursing school should discover the NCLEX of recent graduates for the most accurate screening of the education received. Many schools post these numbers on site.