Online BSN Programs in GA: Searching for Top Schools
BSN programs available throughout Georgia provide you with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a nurse. Whether you’re applying to college, changing careers, or building on existing knowledge, this guide will help you find the best BSN program for you.
It may sound a bit corny, but it’s true: Nursing is more than a career, it’s a calling — or as one study puts it, “a deep desire to devote oneself to serving people according to the high values of the task or profession.” We’ve compiled this guide for anyone interested in pursuing this calling by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. That’s whether:
- You’re just about to graduate high school and seeking the degree you need to start your career.
- You’re someone with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree ready to change careers.
- You’re a licensed practical nurse making the move up the career ladder to become an RN.
- You’re a current RN without a BSN looking to boost your career opportunities or prepare for graduate nursing studies.
Below, you’ll be introduced to the many high-quality, accredited BSN programs in Georgia today. You’ll also discover the full range of BSN program types available to find the right one for you and explore the high-paying, highly in-demand jobs waiting upon graduation.
It’s time to pursue your call to nursing by earning your BSN through one of the top programs in Georgia — keep reading to take the next step toward your future.
Main Benefits of BSN Programs in Georgia
There are other ways to qualify for RN licensure besides a BSN degree (like earning an associate degree in nursing). But BSN programs in Georgia offer access to a number of valuable benefits only available to students. Here are four of the most valuable.
Access to Strong Professional Network
Never underestimate the value of networking. Your connections with professional leaders and peers in the nursing community can play a key role in landing a high-quality job upon graduation, as well as in advancing in your career as it progresses. Students in BSN programs, including online BSN programs in Georgia, have access to a wide range of networking opportunities with instructors, alumni, academic and career mentors, major employers, and more.
Broad Range of Clinical Opportunities
Clinical rotation experiences are substantial and play a critical part in the development of practical nursing skills for all pre-licensure BSN students. A major benefit of earning your BSN degree in Georgia is that the state is home to an exceptional number of highly respected hospitals, medical centers and clinics, and other healthcare facilities at which BSN students can complete clinical requirements.
Wide Array of Prestigious Nursing Schools
Georgia is also home to a number of well-established, highly respected nursing schools and departments, most often housed on major public and private college and university campuses. BSN programs offered by these schools bring with them valuable academic benefits (such as better facilities and resources, highly respected faculties, and access to research opportunities), as well as enhanced academic and career options upon graduation.
Program Checklist: Features to Look for in an Georgia BSN Program
As you research on-ground and online BSN programs in Georgia, you’ll notice plenty of similarities and a few distinctions in such things as admissions and academic requirements, curriculum content and structure, course delivery methods, completion times, and more. Regardless, all BSN programs you consider should include a number of foundational features. Below are three of the most important:
Accreditation
Accreditation is the formal process through which schools and programs are vetted for academic quality. It’s your way of knowing that the BSN program you choose is legitimately worth your time, effort, and money, and it’s an important way that employers know you have received a quality nursing education. Before enrolling in any Georgia BSN program, research institutional accreditation and programmatic accreditation — typically through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Format That Fits Your Needs
You’ve likely noticed by now that BSN programs in Georgia are offered in a variety of course formats (on-campus, hybrid, fully online), delivery methods (in-person classes, online synchronous, and asynchronous), and study pace options (full-time, part-time, self-paced). It’s key that you gain a clear understanding of your unique program structure needs and study preferences to determine which combination of formats and delivery methods will best support your academic success.
Student Support Resources
Often overlooked in BSN program searches is the availability of quality student support services. These may include academic and career counseling, physical and emotional well-being support, tutor services, faculty mentors, and job search services. Most top BSN programs in Georgia offer many of these services, and sometimes more. One example is Columbus State University’s RN to BSN program, which provides students with free online tutoring, embedded success coaches, and a dedicated RN student faculty advisor.
Types of BSN Programs in Georgia
Through your research, you’ll find a surprising number of BSN program types out there, each tailored to meet the specific academic and career needs and preferences of different students. To help you sort through the confusion, we’ve described below the most common types of BSN programs available, including specific examples of Georgia BSN programs — both online and traditional.
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN (AKA second degree BSN) pre-licensure programs are designed to provide students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree the ability to earn their BSNs in less time than in traditional BSN programs — as few as three semesters, in some cases. That’s because ABSN programs allow students to apply general education coursework earned with their previous degree to their BSN program. ABSN coursework may be offered partially online, but most students will be required to complete hands-on labs on campus; additionally, all ABSN students must complete in-person clinical practice hours needed for RN licensure.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
Direct Entry BSN Programs
Direct entry BSN programs offer incoming freshman who meet certain criteria to be admitted directly into the BSN program and start completing nursing coursework in their freshman years. Like traditional BSN programs, direct entry BSN programs are pre-licensure. They differ, however, in that traditional programs typically require students to complete all or most of their bachelor’s degree general education requirements prior to beginning nursing coursework in their junior years.
LPN to BSN Programs
Current licensed practical nurses in Georgia can save time and money in earning their BSN degrees through an LPN to BSN program. This curriculum provides students with general education and advanced nursing coursework needed to meet BSN degree requirements and qualify academically to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain RN licensure. Some coursework may be available online, but LPN to BSN students will still be required to complete clinical practice hours in person at program-affiliated healthcare facilities. Program lengths vary by study pace, but most students complete their degree in two to four years.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
- Georgia Southern University
- Georgia State University
Online BSN Programs
Study convenience and flexibility are the main benefits of the online BSN programs in Georgia. If you’re a current RN looking to earn your BSN degree online, you’re in luck — the vast majority of RN to BSN programs are offered either entirely or mostly online. The situation is different, however, for pre-licensure nursing students, with virtually all pre-licensure programs primarily campus-based. However, these programs often deliver much of their required general education coursework — and even some of their nursing courses — in an online or hybrid format.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs are designed to give RNs a convenient pathway to earn their BSN, which can advance their career and prepare them for graduate nursing studies. Because students already possess RN licenses, completion of the substantial clinical practice hours that are part of all pre-licensure BSN programs is not required. Almost all RN to BSN programs in Georgia are offered 100% online. Program lengths vary due primarily to the student’s choice of full-time or part-time study, with most students completing all degree requirements in one to two years.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
Traditional BSN Programs
Incoming freshmen with little or no previous college coursework and no nursing experience will be looking for a traditional BSN program — typically four-year, full-time programs that include general education and nursing components. As a pre-licensure option, traditional BSN programs are campus-based, although students may be able to complete some general education or nursing coursework online. As a traditional BSN student, you’ll be required to complete the substantial in-person clinical practice hours needed for NCLEX exam and RN license eligibility.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
FAQs About BSN Programs in Georgia
With the context above, you now have a pretty good idea of what BSN programs in Georgia are all about. Nevertheless, there are bound to be a few questions that remain unanswered. Below are answers to four of the most frequently asked questions prospective students have about on-ground and online BSN programs in Georgia.
Are there online or part-time options available for BSN programs in Georgia?
Yes, but it depends on the specific program and program type. For example, virtually all pre-licensure BSN programs (traditional BSN, ABSN, LPN to BSN) are campus-based but may include some coursework that can be completed online. Conversely, practically all Georgia RN to BSN programs are online, with many featuring asynchronous classes. Georgia RN to BSN programs also typically offer part-time options (examples include those at Columbus State University and Clayton State University). However, Georgia pre-licensure students will likely not be able to find a part-time option.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Again, this depends on your particular school and program. It’s rare that a pre-licensure program will accept previously earned nursing course credits, because each BSN program has its own unique curriculum. On the other hand, BSN programs in Georgia are much more likely to accept transfer credits that satisfy general education or prerequisite courses. The BSN Transfer Option at Emory University offers a good example of a typical transfer policy for Georgia BSN programs. Check the specific policies for each of the programs you’re considering.
Do online BSN programs in Georgia require clinical experience?
This answer depends on your specific type of online BSN program in Georgia. Pre-licensure BSN programs (that is, programs leading to RN licensure) include completion of a substantial number of clinical practice hours as part of their requirements. The specific number of clinical hours varies somewhat from program to program. However, the Georgia Board of Nursing requires applicants to have completed between 480 and 640 hours of preceptorship (clinical experience) hours to be eligible for state RN licensure.
What are my career prospects after finishing my BSN in Georgia?
In general terms, earning your BSN degree prepares you for two fundamental career paths. First, it prepares graduates to work as registered nurses in a variety of nursing settings like hospitals, clinics, outpatient centers, schools, assisted living facilities, or physician’s offices. It’s also important to mention here the continuing trend among nursing clinicians and employers toward preference for nurses with a BSN degree. Secondly, your BSN provides you with the academic foundation needed to pursue a graduate nursing degree (MSN, or even a PhD or DNP) and advance into top-tier clinical and leadership positions in the profession.
Job and Salary Outlook for Georgia BSN Nurses
Chances are, one of the factors you're considering as you research nursing schools is how much money you'll be able to earn after you graduate. In Georgia, the average salary for registered nurses is $83,620. The 90th percentile of professionals makes $124,330, while the 10th percentile earns $63,450. However, salaries vary in specific areas. RNs in Dalton earn between $60,470 and $124,400, with the average salary being $76,800. In Brunswick, the 90th percentile of workers makes $82,840, while the 10th percentile earns $64,980 annually. The average salary for these professionals is $81,210. Additionally, you're probably considering job availability. The good news is that projections indicate significant growth. In Georgia, there will be 5,990 jobs added to the profession annually, which is a 15.30% increase. Nationwide, there will be a 5.60% increase, equating to 193,100 new positions created yearly. Take a look at the tables below for more information.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $63,450 | $83,620 | $124,330 |
| Albany, GA | $63,340 | $80,340 | $107,560 |
| Athens-Clarke County, GA | $66,290 | $85,670 | $105,740 |
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | $66,470 | $92,240 | $127,400 |
| Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC | $61,890 | $80,470 | $100,380 |
| Brunswick, GA | $64,980 | $81,210 | $82,840 |
| Columbus, GA-AL | $56,470 | $74,550 | $90,920 |
| Dalton, GA | $60,470 | $76,800 | $124,400 |
| Hinesville, GA | $65,400 | $78,620 | $89,810 |
| Macon, GA | $62,430 | $78,980 | $101,970 |
| Rome, GA | $64,370 | $81,150 | $93,260 |
| Savannah, GA | $61,300 | $80,600 | $102,490 |
| Valdosta, GA | $61,510 | $74,310 | $99,200 |
| Warner Robins, GA | $63,510 | $82,410 | $104,530 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Georgia | 81,800 | 94,310 | 12,510 | 15.30% | 5,990 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking of the Top Online GA BSN Programs
We’ve surveyed the entire field of online BSN programs to find the best of the best for you. These are programs that offer a combination of important student-focused features, including affordability, proper accreditation, academic quality, useful student support services, and more. Take a look at who’s leading the way in online & hybrid BSN programs in Georgia today.
Clayton State University
Morrow, Georgia
Why We Selected Clayton State University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,064
- Average Institutional Aid$4,573
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course86%
- % of Students Receiving an Award31%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, Georgia
Why We Selected University of West Georgia:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,371
- Average Institutional Aid$5,619
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
- % of Students Receiving an Award45%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, Georgia
Why We Selected Georgia Southern University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,371
- Average Institutional Aid$3,392
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
- % of Students Receiving an Award49%
- Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
Columbus State University
Columbus, Georgia
Why We Selected Columbus State University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,371
- Average Institutional Aid$6,516
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course68%
- % of Students Receiving an Award36%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Gordon State College
Barnesville, Georgia
Why We Selected Gordon State College:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,563
- Average Institutional Aid$3,912
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course75%
- % of Students Receiving an Award22%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
LaGrange College
Lagrange, Georgia
Why We Selected LaGrange College:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$32,000
- Average Institutional Aid$18,697
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
- % of Students Receiving an Award41%
- Student/Faculty Ratio9/1
Middle Georgia State University
Macon, Georgia
Why We Selected Middle Georgia State University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,728
- Average Institutional Aid$3,902
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
- % of Students Receiving an Award25%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Mercer University
Macon, Georgia
Why We Selected Mercer University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$29,024
- Average Institutional Aid$25,404
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course30%
- % of Students Receiving an Award65%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
College of Coastal Georgia
Brunswick, Georgia
Why We Selected College of Coastal Georgia:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,563
- Average Institutional Aid$2,998
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course59%
- % of Students Receiving an Award31%
- Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
Dalton State College
Dalton, Georgia
Why We Selected Dalton State College:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,563
- Average Institutional Aid$3,491
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course42%
- % of Students Receiving an Award31%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
