Online Nursing Programs in GA: Your Guide to the Best Schools
Explore online and hybrid nursing programs that can train you to become an in-demand nurse in GA, plus get key RN licensing and salary info.
Whether you’re a working RN interested in getting your bachelor’s degree, or looking to break into the growing nursing profession for the first time, earning your degree online from a Georgia nursing school offers a convenient and often more affordable academic option. Accredited online nursing programs in Georgia are ideal for working adults and others that have life commitments that make on-campus learning a less-desirable option. And now’s a great time to start. Nursing jobs are expanding in Georgia at a fast pace, with nearly double the expected job growth rate of the national average.
The following guide provides a detailed introduction to online nursing programs in Georgia. Keep reading for a list of top accredited programs and to get answers to your most pressing questions. You’ll also get an inside look at Georgia’s nursing job market and the requirements for nursing licensure in the state.
Popular Types of Online Nursing Programs in Georgia
From bridge programs to doctoral degrees, Georgia offers online and hybrid nursing programs that can meet the needs of students at all levels of their nursing career and education. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most common online nursing programs in Georgia that are currently available.
Online RN Bridge Programs
RN to BSN
Developed for working RNs, this online bridge program expands career options while providing an accelerated academic path. RN-to-BSN tracks allow learners to transfer prerequisite coursework and can be completed in as few as 12 months. Online and hybrid options accommodate the around-the-clock schedule of nurses, offering flexibility so workers can balance professional, academic, and personal obligations. Our EduMed page provides more information about RN to BSN programs in Georgia.
Examples of Online RN-BSN Programs in Georgia
RN to MSN
An academic path for working RNs, RN-to-MSN programs provide a quicker track for nurses to get a master’s degree. These academic tracks exist online via institutions throughout Georgia and typically require applicants to hold an active Georgia RN license. In addition to completing undergraduate courses such as pharmacology and nursing leadership, MSN coursework offers specialized topics in areas such as nurse midwifery and nursing administration.
Examples of Online RN-MSN Programs in Georgia
Nurse Practitioner Programs
MSN (Master of Nursing Science)
Online MSN programs with a nurse practitioner concentration provide a flexible and affordable academic option to bolster career opportunities. These programs rigorously develop the analytical and clinical skills necessary for competent patient care. Often taking only 18 months to complete, coursework covers topics such as advanced physiology, applied pharmacology, and the principles and application of nursing theory. Graduates work in areas spanning from private practice to administration and management.
Examples of Online MSN Programs in Georgia
DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)
DNP programs offer the highest academic level of nursing practice, opening career opportunities in areas such as teaching, research, and administration. Graduates obtain the specialized academic and clinical skills needed to work as leaders within the nursing field. These online programs often take approximately six semesters. DNP graduates specialize in areas such as emergency nursing, pediatric primary care, and family nurse practitioner.
Examples of Online DNP Programs in Georgia
Post-Master’s NP Certificate
Post-master’s certificates allow nursing graduates to pursue additional specializations within the field. In a growing discipline, additional education can improve the competitiveness of your resume. Certificates also provide a quick and relatively inexpensive way to jumpstart professional growth and earning potential. Often completed part-time in three semesters, learners choose from concentrations such as adult-gerontology, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Examples of Online Post Master’s NP Certificates in Georgia
RN Licensing Information and Requirements in Georgia
Understanding Georgia RN licensing can help determine if an academic program is right for you. The board of nursing outlines the rules and regulations of state-specific license requirements. We’ve laid out the steps you’ll need to take to become an RN in Georgia below.
1
Earn your degree
Prospective RNs must complete a professional nursing program from an accredited institution. Choosing an accredited school is essential when working towards a career in nursing. The most common accrediting bodies are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. An out-of-state nursing education will only be approved if it meets the standards set by the Georgia Board of Nursing.
2
Complete background and fingerprint check
Graduates preparing to apply for RN licensure must submit to a fingerprint background check. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation provides a service allowing for electronic submission of fingerprints and additional applicant information. Fingerprinting sites are available throughout the state. Upon completion of the background check, you can complete your application and sign up to take the licensure exam.
3
Prepare for the NCLEX-RN Exam
Preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam traditionally requires a reasonable amount of preparation. While academic coursework can play a significant role in test prep, taking the time to know the information inside and out will help ease any pre-test nerves. Free online study materials, classes, and guides exist and can be useful. Taking the NCLEX-RN exam in Georgia costs over $200—having to retake the test can get expensive quickly. If you fail the exam, reexaminations can take place in 45 days.
4
Apply for Licensure
It’s critical to make sure you fully complete your notarized application. You’ll need to provide academic transcripts showing that you graduated from an accredited nursing program and successfully passed the NCLEX-RN exam. Applications will be rejected if not fully completed. In addition to application information, you must include a check or money order of $75 made payable to the Georgia Board of Nursing.
5
Keep your license up-to-date
Georgia nursing licenses expire every two years on January 31st. The Georgia Board of Nursing approves several continuing education options, including the completion of 30 hours of approved continuing education courses, completion of an accredited academic program, and employer certification of at least 500 hours of practice. Other options include undertaking a board reentry program or nursing education program.
Salary and Job Outlook for Registered Nurses in Georgia
For those considering a nursing career in Georgia, this data provides a clear picture of both earning potential and job growth in the state. Georgia currently employs around 81,800 Registered Nurses (RNs), with a projected increase to 94,310 jobs by the next reporting period—adding 12,510 new positions, a 15.3% growth rate, which is significantly higher than the national average of 5.6%. This rapid growth will create approximately 5,990 job openings annually, highlighting the strong demand for nurses across the state.
Salaries for RNs in Georgia vary by region, with a median annual wage of $83,620 statewide. For example, Atlanta offers competitive pay, with a median salary of $92,240 and top earners making around $127,400. Meanwhile, areas like Athens and Warner Robins have medians closer to the state average. This robust growth and competitive pay make Georgia an attractive state for those looking to enter the nursing profession.
| 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.
| 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.
Best Online Nursing Programs in Georgia
Online nursing programs in Georgia with asynchronous learning allow you to complete coursework at the time that’s best for you. Many schools feature a hybrid learning model, requiring some in-person attendance for clinicals and class meetups, but with the core classwork available 100% online. Full-time online coursework mirrors on-campus programs, but bridge programs such as RN-to-BSN programs allow working nurses to complete programs more quickly. While online nursing programs offer substantial flexibility, they also require a considerable amount of self-motivation, discipline and focus.
The following online nursing programs represent the best in Georgia for 2025. They have the best combinations of academic quality, affordability, and student resources and support. To learn more about how EduMed identified these top schools, please read our detailed methodology in “About the Ranking”. See which online and hybrid nursing schools in Georgia earned top honors.
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
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
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 College & State University
Milledgeville, Georgia
Why We Selected Georgia College & State University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,508
- Average Institutional Aid$2,962
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course22%
- % of Students Receiving an Award63%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Augusta University
Augusta, Georgia
Why We Selected Augusta University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$6,892
- Average Institutional Aid$8,961
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
- % of Students Receiving an Award39%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Brenau University
Gainesville, Georgia
Why We Selected Brenau University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$31,000
- Average Institutional Aid$16,253
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
- % of Students Receiving an Award45%
- Student/Faculty Ratio9/1
Georgia State University
Atlanta, Georgia
Why We Selected Georgia State University:
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,158
- Average Institutional Aid$5,621
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
- % of Students Receiving an Award54%
- Student/Faculty Ratio27/1
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
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
Online Georgia Nursing Resources
- Georgia Board of Nursing Offering resources to practitioners and students alike, the Georgia Board of Nursing provides licensure, training, and continuing education resources. The board sets standards applicable to all nursing working in the state of Georgia.
- Georgia Nurses Association Promoting values such as leadership, diversity, and service, the Georgia Nurses Association is the largest professional association for registered nurses in the state. The GNA empowers nurses to improve access to healthcare while advancing the practice and profession of nursing.
- Georgia Association of Nursing Students GANS has a stated purpose of having students assume responsibility for the evolution of nursing education and practice. This student association offers networking opportunities with professionals in the field and holds an annual conference.
- South Georgia Association of Nurse Practitioners Dedicated to advancing nursing practice through legislation, education, and community outreach, SGANP promotes the visibility of nurse practitioners while advocating for professional growth. SGANP offers monthly educational meetings and a number of academic scholarships.
- Scholarships and Resources for RN Students This EduMed guide lays out scholarship and online resources for RN students. An insightful resource, the page offers an exhaustive list of national scholarships and provides practical advice for effective applications.
