In order to provide prospective students with the best chance at having a great education, we have compiled this list of the top universities and colleges in Georgia. Some schools may excel at online programs while others may focus exclusively on the traditional, on-campus aspect of higher education. Regardless of the delivery format, these schools excel at providing a quality education for their students.
Georgia is one of a few southern states making a huge push to develop online and distance learning opportunities from the best schools in the south. With over 330 online programs to choose from, students in Georgia can easily enroll in a college that best matches their career goals. The best colleges in Georgia offer a variety of educational opportunities, both online and on-campus.
With some of the most affordable tuition rates and strongest academic offerings in the country, many students flock to Georgia’s online programs which are quickly expanding. Distance learning is becoming much more common across the globe, resulting in universities adding and strengthening programs for its online students.
The schools below are recognized for both their online and traditional academic programs within the state of Georgia. These schools are excellent options for both in state and out of state individuals looking to pursue a higher education degree and advance in their career. These schools are highly valued and have a lot to offer to students who may be working or have other commitments to maintain, yet seek to further their education.
Here are the Best Colleges in Georgia of 2020
1. Dalton State College
Dalton State College provides online courses that students can work towards earning a degree from the University System of Georgia. Students can receive credit for previous learning, professional work experience, and military training. Dalton State has provided multiple start times throughout the year to make online learning as accessible to students as it can be. Students can obtain degrees in criminal justice organizational leadership, financial technology, and business administration.
- Annual Tuition: $3,355.00
- # Online Programs: 3
- Graduation Rate: 16%
2. Middle Georgia State University
Middle Georgia State University has online programs for adult and nontraditional students. Programs include IT, aviation, healthcare, and more. Students will use Brightspace online learning management system and attend an online orientation to learn how to better succeed as an online student. Students can also use prior learning, military, volunteer, or other related experiences as credit toward their program to accelerate earning a degree.
- Annual Tuition: $3,474
- # Online Programs: 3
- Graduation Rate: 14%
3. Atlanta Metropolitan State College
Founded in 1974, Atlanta Metropolitan State College is a recently emerging college within Georgia which became a four-year institution in 2012. Currently, it offers two fully online programs; an associate’s in general education and an organizational leadership degree. Approximately 65% of its students are first-generation college students. An abundance of resources are available to students to guide them through the college experience and help them achieve earning a notable degree.
- Annual Tuition: $4,004
- # Online Programs: 2 associate degree pathways, 1 bachelor’s degree; 70% of freshman and sophomore classes are available online
- Graduation Rate: 22% for associate degrees (which consists of a majority of their programs)
4. Valdosta State University
Valdosta State University’s online programs are both dynamic and interactive. Valdosta has reduced tuition for students who are fully online. The academics at Valdosta State are both rigorous and rewarding. The school tailors its online programs to fit the needs of working adults. Online courses include video lessons, discussion boards, and live chats with professors.
- Annual Tuition: $4,078.00
- # Online Programs: 43
- Graduation Rate: 39.6%
5. College of Coastal Georgia
The College of Coastal Georgia offers online programs with the focus of entrepreneurship goals in mind. The online programs include education planning tools that are career centered to maintain the goals that students have made for themselves. Online learners can stay connected to on-campus news and events through the online student newspaper. All bachelor’s degrees include a service learning aspect to have the opportunity to engage with their community.
- Annual Tuition: $4,360.00
- # Online Programs: 3
- Graduation Rate: 15%
6. Albany State University
Albany State University provides customized online programs for transfer, military, and working students. Classes are offered in 8 or 16-week formats depending on the student’s’ preference. Dedicated online support professionals are available for each program. Student and teacher engagement is developed through blogs, videos, discussion boards, and more. The school is known for its expertise and programs in nursing, forensic science, and fire services administration.
- Annual Tuition: $5,192.00
- # Online Programs: 6
- Graduation Rate: 40%
7. Albany Technical College
Albany Technical College‘s heritage can be traced back to 1961. ATC is a public, two-year intituition that is dedicated to help students meet the ever-changing workforce needs. The college awards certificates of credit, diplomas, and degrees to those who complete the programs. Although there is scarce information on it’s specific online programs, ATC does provide online courses to meet the more demanding neds of its students.
- Annual Tuition: $3,184
- #of Online programs: unknown
- Graduation Rate: 96%
8. Clayton State University
Clayton State University offers health, math, information sciences, business, arts, and health graduate and undergraduate programs. Clayton’s online programs are designed for the non-traditional adult student, offering flexible courses to accommodate student’s schedules. Online tutoring is available to all students, as well as reduced tuition for online learners. Clayton has made a significant impact in the online learning portal and continues to grow and provide services to help its online learners succeed.
- Annual Tuition: $5,246.00
- # Online Programs: 6
- Graduation Rate: 33%
9. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University is one of Georgia’s largest institutions. Known for its diverse population, GSU provides affordable tuition and high-quality education to all students. The University is one of the top leading research colleges including the development of many research centers and laboratories. There are many educational benefits including counseling, work-study programs, and more provided by Georgia Southern University. Recently, Armstrong State University became a part of Georgia Southern University, creating the opportunity for more students to attend this wonderful university.
- Annual Tuition: $6,170.00
- # Online Programs: 9
- Graduation Rate: 51%
10. Columbus State University
Columbus State University offers an online assessment tool to determine whether online learning is the right fit for you. Students typically take four years to complete a program, however, hybrid options are available. Columbus State integrates its core values of engagement, activity, leadership, and sustainability into its curriculum and learning experience. Programs both broad and discipline-specific options are offered to cover any interest an individual may have.
- Annual Tuition: $5,613.00
- # Online Programs: 16
- Graduation Rate: 32%
11. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University offers a variety of online programs. Students have access to academic and support services including mental health counselors and academic advisors. Those who complete an online program, are awarded the same degree as on-campus students. For students seeking to complete their degree at a faster pace, hybrid options are available to do so. Kennesaw offers over 400 courses including both full and part-time options.
- Annual Tuition: $5,914.00
- # Online Programs: 15
- Graduation Rate: 43%
12. University of West Georgia
The University of West Georgia online degrees gives students access to a diverse curriculum and an interactive learning environment. Online students are charged the same tuition rates as in-state students. With its elite faculty and professional development, University of West Georgia has gained its status as one of the best online colleges in the state of Georgia. Certificate programs and specialist degrees are also offered to students who do not want to complete a bachelor’s or master’s program.
- Annual Tuition: $5,938.00
- # Online Programs: 3
- Graduation Rate: 41%
13. Savannah State University
Savannah State University offers online learning that takes students to the next step. Online courses include interaction among peers and professors through email, video conferencing, peer reviews, and small group work. Online academic resources include library services, writing lab, as well as other services. SSU understands that online degrees best aid those with busy work schedules who want to advance in their career without taking time off. Savannah State’s programs allow individuals to succeed at their own pace with the right tools.
- Annual Tuition: $6,624.00
- # Online Programs: 12
- Graduation Rate: 32%
14. Southeastern Technical College
Southeastern Technical College was established in 1963 with only four programs available. Now, STC is a thriving college dedicated to helping students grow and learn in preparation for their careers. STC offers a variety of degrees, diplomas, and certificates online so self-motivated students can get their education in a flexible, high-quality manner.
- Annual Tuition: $3,204
- # of Online programs: 30
- Graduation Rate: 29.7%
15. University of North Georgia
The University of North Georgia is designated as a State Leadership Institution and The Military College of Georgia. UNG gives students a wide variety of options from certificates, associate degrees, bachelor degrees, and even graduate degrees. As one of only six military colleges in the United States, this school is quite popular for vets.
- Annual Tuition: $6,480
- # of Online Programs: 19
- Graduation Rate: 26.5%
16. Georgia College
Founded in 1889, Georgia College is the state’s only designated public, liberal arts university. Georgia College seeks to help students in their pursuit of knowledge and truth for the public good. GC offers twenty-one online graduate programs that teach students to think independently and lead creatively.
- Annual Tuition: $9,346
- # of Online Programs: 21
- Graduation Rate: 61.2%
17. Augusta University
Augusta University provides a wide selection of programs to choose from including but not limited to finance, business, and criminal justice. Augusta’s mission statement for its online learners is to provide high-quality lifelong learning opportunities to individuals in the community, state, region, and nation. Its programs are designed to train and enhance skills of students as well as build an understanding and contribute to a diverse society.
- Annual Tuition: $7,540.00
- # Online Programs: 15
- Graduation Rate: 30%
18. University of Georgia
University of Georgia’s online students partially learn through virtual classroom sessions and live portal events. UG is known for its financial aid assistance and has many programs and scholarships put in place which helps out the majority of its students. Digital textbooks are available to students as money-saving alternatives as well as many other library resources that are easily accessible. There are many degrees and certificates that UG offers, and as one of the top online universities, UG would be a promising learning experience.
- Annual Tuition: $8,590.00
- # Online Programs: 28
- Graduation Rate: 85%
19. Beulah Heights University
Beulah Heights University is a Christian institution offering online degrees in Business, Leadership and Religious Studies. Students can earn degrees ranging from an associate to a Ph.D. BHU celebrated its 100 year anniversary in July 2018. Students attend BHU programs from many diverse countries around the world. Courses follow a 15 week fall and spring schedule, while summer semesters are 8 weeks. In addition, the MBA and Ph.D. in Leadership follow 8-week terms. BHU adheres to the ARC principles: Academic Excellence, Resource Center, and Change Agent. Through their core values, BHU challenges students to make a relevant and meaningful difference in the world.
- Annual Tuition: $9,390.00
- # Online Programs: 6
- Graduation Rate: 21%
20. Thomas University
Thomas University values providing individual attention to each student. With its online programs, Thomas University provides major-specific scholarships that can help with tuition costs for students. Its small intimate atmosphere of 10 students per class, allows students and teachers to be able to communicate and receive extra help and assistance in the course. TU offers a wide range of degree programs from rehabilitation studies to business administration.
- Annual Tuition: $15,750.00
- # Online Programs: 21
- Graduation Rate: 19%
21. Point University
Point University promotes professional development for students which can be established through its online programs. PU offers remarkable student support services that are available to both online and on-campus students. Encouraging a Christian worldview, programs teach students to become critical thinkers and effective communicators. Hybrid programs are available to accelerate a degree, which encourages adding a minor for gaining additional expertise.
- Annual Tuition: $16,700.00
- # Online Programs: 19
- Graduation Rate: 37%
22. Truett McConnell University
Truett McConnell University Online offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees taught from a Christian worldview. Each course examines and emphasizes its content through the lens of Scripture. The quality of your online education is enhanced when it is based upon God’s Word. Completing a TMU Online degree equips you for your chosen career with the confidence of a fully accredited education and the certitude of strong biblical convictions. The surety of God’s word and the quality of your academic preparation can enable you to be a success in both your temporal and spiritual endeavors. Wherever you are in life, TMU Online provides flexibility in your educational goals with a foundation in a Christian worldview.
- Annual Tuition: $10,650
- # Online Programs: 11 (8 undergrad, 3 graduate)
- Graduation Rate: 22%
23. Mercer University
Mercer University is a faith-based institution, that prides itself on its experienced faculty. Online students receive a faculty advisor to help them get the most out of their time with Mercer University. Its programs are career-focused providing many tools to complete the program and advance in the work field.
- Annual Tuition: $18,000.00
- # Online Programs: 15
- Graduation Rate: 63%
24. Reinhardt University
Reinhardt University provides online programs with 24-hour access to communicate with college representatives to understand policies and information about specific programs. All course materials are digital, with online resources to use as well. Students must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average to continue their education within the program. Reinhardt is passionate about helping students gain the necessary skills to advance within their career and reach their full potential.
- Annual Tuition: $19,196.00
- # Online Programs: 6
- Graduation Rate: 38%
25. Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls College, a Christian college with an uplifting culture offers 12 online programs to choose from. Throughout the online program, online students are required to complete four semesters of Service and Outreach as an opportunity to engage with local organizations. Online students have access to the online library, IT support, academic advising, and counseling services. TFC helps many of its students with financial services to best help them receive the education that they deserve.
- Annual Tuition: $9,990
- # Online Programs: 12
- Graduation Rate: 52%
26. Shorter University
Shorter University’s online goals for its students are first, to enroll those who have a desire to further their education and second, to grow spiritually through the Christian faith that Shorter University was founded on. Students are attracted to the flexible programs that help them complete a degree while maintaining other commitments. There are many organizations to participate in and make connections with that can help boost experience.
- Annual Tuition: $20,250.00
- # Online Programs: 14
- Graduation Rate: 45%
27. Brenau University
Brenau University’s online portal is currently 29% of its student body. The online courses are structured in a 7-week format. Online classes have a cap of 20 students per class to ensure professors and students can optimize relationships and receive the help and services they may need. At the end of courses, students evaluate the course and professor for suggestions for improvement. Brenau is constantly looking to improve their online program, and want to hear from students how that can be done.
- Annual Tuition: $24,780.00
- # Online Programs: 21
- Graduation Rate: 47%
28. LaGrange College
LaGrange College provides affordable online learning to working adults. Career development resources are available to students throughout their learning experience at LaGrange. Student to teacher ratio is approximately 12:1 ensuring that each individual student can receive the most help and support from professors as needed. In addition to earning degrees, certificates in Aging Studies and Business Essentials are available online as well.
- Annual Tuition: $26,290.00
- # Online Programs: 7
- Graduation Rate: 48%
29. Oglethorpe University
Oglethorpe University was founded in 1835 and has over 60 programs of study. This school has over 300 internship partners and 22 study abroad centers that will give students unique hands-on experience in their learning journey. Their most popular degrees are biology, business, and psychology.
- Annual Tuition: $18,910
- # of Online Programs: unknown
- Graduation Rate: 55.8%
The ranking process was determined by annual tuition cost, graduation rates, and other factors. The list begins with the lowest price and continues to increase as the list progresses.
We know that finding the best school to fit your unique needs is a huge challenge. For that reason, we work hard to develop lists of the best schools based on the characteristics most important for you. Whether that be the cost of attendance, student success, resources available, flexibility of schedule, or any other number of important factors, we’ve got you covered. For more information about our ranking process and to find lists of schools based on specific characteristics, check out our methodology page.
If you know of a school not featured on this list, but that deserves consideration, please reach out to us today!
