Higher education is essential to many. It is the stepping stone for getting better job opportunities and a brighter future. That is why it is imperative that students choose the best university or college that equips them with the skills and knowledge to achieve their dreams.
In Georgia, most colleges and universities are found in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. It is home to more than 250,000 students annually. There are also educational institutions in Athens, Augusta, and Savannah. The state has a mix of large research universities, small liberal arts colleges, as well as mid-size universities.
METHODOLOGY
For students who wish to earn their degree online, many colleges and universities offer distance learning. Acquiring their degree online provides a whole new level of flexibility and convenience. To help you find the best online school that addresses your academic goals, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com has put together the 5 Top Online Schools in Georgia. On this list are the online academic institutions in the state that are a cut above the rest in the online programs they offer and the quality of instruction that students receive.
Our list includes the online schools in Georgia that share these features that demonstrate their superiority in the online education landscape:
- A highly accessible online learning platform that also provides technical support to students to ensure ease of access at any time,
- Online professors who excel in and contribute to their fields of study,
- Extensive program curricula that promotes a rigorous coursework that is on par with on-campus program counterparts,
- Full accreditation, denoting high online education standards.
Find out more about our ranking process by visiting our Methodology Page.
Columbus State University
Located in Columbus, Georgia, Columbus State University is committed to helping students prepare for career and life success. They are known for offering nationally distinctive programs in various fields, such as arts, education, business, nursing, and so much more. The school does not only serve the Southeast but also attracts a significant number from around the world. They also uphold inclusive education for all, regardless of race, gender, handicap, and national and ethnic origin.
While they have exemplary offerings for tertiary education at any level, including undergraduate and graduate studies, Columbus State University also extends their doors to adult learners and students who wish to benefit from long-distance learning. CSU online has a myriad of choices for online courses, even for those who live outside of Georgia. Just like their traditional degree programs, their online offerings are just as rigorous and valuable in terms of education, skills training, and experience.
Some of the school’s online programs include Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Computer Science, and Master of Science in Nursing, among many others. They also offer certificates and endorsements.
Receiving an online degree from Columbus State University is advantageous for students who want to get the most out of their education. The university also offers financial aid to students in the form of scholarships and grants.
Learn more about the online programs at Columbus State University.
Location: Columbus, Georgia
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form with a $40 non-refundable application fee.
- Official high school transcripts with a minimum GPA score of 2.5.
- Official SAT/ACT Scores (SAT requires a score of 24 for reading test and 22.5 for math test while ACT requires 17 for both English and Math)
- Immunization record (in PDF format) and a form of lawful presence
Accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
- AACSB International-The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Albany State University
A world-class comprehensive university from Albany, Georgia, Albany State University is recognized for its innovative and creative delivery of excellent educational programs, broad-based community engagement and public service, in addition to original scholarship and applied research. It is also a member institution of the University System of Georgia.
The university offers an array of graduate, baccalaureate, associate, and certificate programs across broad disciplines. Aside from its main campus in Albany, it also accommodates students from its strategically-placed branch sites and even online. Students are not only prepared to succeed in their future career but also encouraged to be productive contributors to a globally diverse society.
Its commitment towards excellence in teaching and learning makes it a first-choice institution for many students from southwest Georgia, garnering the recognition as a premier southern regional university. Beyond its promotion of student success from varying levels of academic preparation, while keeping costs low, it also provides opportunities for students who cannot attend on-campus classes to continue their education and attain the degree they have always wanted.
The online degree programs at Albany State University is a convenient option for many students, especially for those who are busy juggling their career and family responsibilities. Some require students to live in Georgia because of the programs’ hybrid nature, where they need to attend a few classroom lectures, but others can be taken entirely online. The programs are extensive and cover different disciplines, from arts and sciences to business and technology. Just like the on-campus programs, the online degree offerings benefit from excellent faculty who are committed to teaching and learning.
Learn more about the online programs at Albany State University.
Location: Albany, Georgia
Admission requirements:
- Completed online application for admission through the GA Futures portal
- Official transcripts and SAT/ACT Test Scores
- Verification of lawful presence before claiming eligibility for in-state tuition
- Immunization requirements
Accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Brenau University
With several campuses in Georgia, including Augusta and Gainesville, Brenau University encourages students to lead extraordinary lives of personal and professional fulfillment. They offer undergraduate and graduate programs at its various campuses as well as online. They aim to prepare each student for a lifetime of intellectual accomplishments and appreciation of artistic expression. With curriculum enriched by the liberal arts, scientific inquiry, and global awareness, Brenau University is an ideal choice for students who live in Georgia as well as for those who wish to take part in distance learning.
For their online programs, the university ensures that its faculty are equipped with excellent skills for the online teaching platform through interactive training and assessment. They encourage a culture of online learning that is of the highest quality and is valued by the entire Brenau community. The online programs are flexible enough to fit each student’s unique schedule and lifestyle, making it a sound choice for adult learners, especially for those who continue their career while pursuing their degree.
Online students will receive the same experienced faculty as their traditional counterparts. The low student-to-faculty ratio allows them to obtain more personalized instruction. The university has an easy-to-use Canvas learning management system that lets them attend classes and complete their assignments at the most convenient time and place. The courses are offered in condensed, accelerated sessions that span seven weeks.
Brenau University is also known for its competitive tuition rates. Since online students are considered full-time, they are also entitled to apply for federal and state financial aid, as well as access to a personal Financial Aid Counselor throughout their program. And just because it is done online does not mean that students will lose classroom interaction. They will be able to interact with their teachers and peers when doing group assignments virtually.
Some of the notable degree programs students can achieve online include Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Master of Science in Applied Gerontology, and Master of Science in Organizational Leadership.
Learn more about the online programs at Brenau University.
Location: Gainesville, Brenau
Admission requirements:
- Completed online application at the school’s website
- Official high school transcript
- Submit SAT/ACT Scores (not a requirement, but may be considered for scholarship application)
Accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
- Collegiate Commission for Nursing Education
- Council for Interior Design Accreditation
- Georgia Professional Standards Commission for Teacher Education Programs
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council
Kennesaw State University
Situated in Kennesaw, Georgia, Kennesaw State University is one of the 50 largest institutions in the country. It is known as a leader in innovative teaching and learning.
Offering more than 150 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to more than 35,000 students, the university has 13 colleges on two metro Atlanta campuses. It is also a member of the University System of Georgia and the third-largest university in the state. A Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution, the university is an excellent choice for students who want academic excellence and prestige.
Beyond traditional learning, the university has also innovated to and embraced distance education through its online degree program offerings. Most degree programs can be taken entirely online, while others have hybrid formats. A large selection of courses in online and mixed-model versions are also available. Students who do not want to be burdened with attending classes on campus but would instead like to maintain a flexible schedule, typically can complete their degree entirely online.
Kennesaw University offers 12 online bachelor’s degree programs and over 400 online courses. They are all held to the same learning standards, rigors, and expectations, as well as quality that is displayed at on-campus courses and programs. Online students will also benefit from the university’s highly regarded faculty, along with, virtual innovative technology and services needed to help them succeed.
It must be noted, however, that some degrees and certificate programs may not be available in all states. Convenient online programs include Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Sociology as well as Master’s degrees in Early Childhood, Educational Leadership, Instructional Technology, and International Policy Management.
Location: Kennesaw, Georgia
Admission requirements:
- Official high school transcript (2.5 GPA)
- SAT Scores (Critical Reading score of 450 and SAT Math score of 450 for the old version; Reading Test Score of 25 and Math Section score of 490 for the new version)
- Completed application form and application fee
- Provide proof of Immunizations
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Savannah College of Art and Design
The Savannah College of Art and Design has campuses in Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia as well as Hong Kong. It also has an extensive online learning program that allows students out of state and country to avail their degrees via distance education. Students who want to pursue professional creative careers can acquire their desired training and learning from the university as it specializes in art and design.
At SCAD, talented students are prepared for creative professions through engaged teaching and learning in a positively oriented university environment. A private, non-profit institution, this university allows students to get the most out of their education through affordable cost. It also offers a wealth of opportunities to students who are not keen on attending classes on campus, saving more money from the cost of board and transportation.
Online learning at SCAD offers a collaborative environment that allows students to connect to faculty and programs without needing to disconnect from their professional and personal lives. The online courses begin and end on a 10-week schedule to coincide with the university’s academic calendar.
The online programs do not require specific meeting times and are accessible to students 24/7. Students are allowed to complete their assignments by designated due dates. They are also encouraged to participate in online class sessions where they assess and critique work and expand upon discussion board postings.
Some of the degree programs available online are Bachelor of Arts in Advertising, Master of Arts in Animation, Bachelor and Master of Arts in Graphic Design, and Master of Arts in Interior Design, among many others.
Learn more about the online programs at Savannah College of Art and Design.
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Admission requirements:
- Official high school diploma
- Official report of SAT or ACT Scores
- Evidence of English proficiency
- Supplementary materials including recommendations, statement of purpose, portfolio, audition or writing submission, as well as a resume and list of achievements and awards
Accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- National Architectural Accrediting Board
- Council for Interior Design Accreditation
The cost of a college education makes earning a degree a distant dream to many. Affordability is a problem that many students face. In the State of Georgia, the cost of attendance has reached $19,500 for residents, and $26,268 for non-residents. These amounts cover tuition, other fees, supplies, room and board for on-campus students, and living expenses.
Thankfully, in the advent of distance learning, students in Georgia seeking to pursue a degree to realize their dream careers can do so without having to leave their job. Online learning also saves valuable money, as it rids students of the many expenses associated with attending college.
METHODOLOGY
In Georgia, many universities and colleges offer online college programs with low tuition rates. Not only that, the state is home to online schools with financial aid programs to ease the financial burden of qualified students. This list features the 5 Best Value Online Schools in Georgia, highlighting the online academic institutions that strive to provide excellent quality of learning for students at an affordable rate.
Georgia Southern University
Headquartered in Statesboro, Georgia, Georgia Southern University is the state’s largest and most comprehensive center of higher education south of Atlanta. It has campuses in Savannah and Hinesville. It offers more than 140 degree programs ranging from bachelor’s and master’s to doctoral levels.
Their nationally accredited academic programs prepare students for leadership and service as world citizens. The university is known for its efforts to bridge theory and practice, extending their learning environment beyond the classroom while promoting student growth and life success at the same time. This innovative practice covers distance education, giving students the chance to lead flexible schedules without giving up on their career or personal responsibilities.
The online programs vary, from business and education to healthcare. Most programs are entirely online while some can take on the form of a hybrid format, combining online and classroom work. Online students will be able to learn their degrees from anywhere in the world, at their own pace. Some of their most notable degree programs include Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Master of Accounting, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Sports Development, and Master of Science in Applied Economics.
Aside from the convenience of online learning, the university is also one of the institutions in the state of Georgia that offers affordable tuition rates. Their tuition and fees are approved by the University System of Georgia annually. Students are also entitled to various financial aid options to help them attain their dream degree, including a variety of scholarships and grants.
Learn more about the online programs at Georgia Southern University.
Location: Statesboro, Georgia
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application form
- $30 admission application fee
- Official High School Transcript
- Official copies of SAT/ACT Scores
Accreditations:
- Commission on Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- National Association for the Education of Young Children
- National Association of Schools of Arts and Design
- American Psychology Association
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
University of West Georgia
Located in Carrollton, Georgia, the University of West Georgia strives to provide a high-quality education that transforms lives and change perceptions. The university was founded in 1906 and grew from a district agricultural and mechanical school to the university it is today. Students can expect to carve a path to new possibilities that will let them acquire scholarly achievement, creative expression, and service to humanity.
The University of West Georgia is the state’s sixth largest public university. It has a total of 6 colleges, covering Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Education, Science and Mathematics, Business, and Nursing. Their degree programs are also offered at all levels, from bachelor’s and master’s to specialist and doctoral programs.
For students who want to benefit from distance education, the university’s comprehensive online degree programs are good choices. Aside from the quality and flexibility they afford, their online offerings are also affordable compared to other schools. It is also ideal for students who live out of state because regardless of residency, they do not pay non-resident tuition for online course credit hours.
Online students can complete their degrees anywhere and anytime that is convenient for them. As a public and accredited university, the University of West Georgia ensures that students achieve academic excellence.
Learn more about the online programs at the University of West Georgia.
Location: Carrollton, Georgia
Admission Requirements:
- Accomplished admission application form
- $40 non-refundable application fee
- Official high school transcript
- SAT/ACT Scores
- Lawful Presence Verification
Accreditations:
- Commission on Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- American Chemical Society
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Council of Accreditation of Counselling and Related Education Programs
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
- National Association of Schools of Arts and Design
- National Association of Schools of Music
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration
Clayton State University
Found in Morrow, Georgia, Clayton State University emphasizes academic learning through practical classes, internships, and real-life experiences. The school is known for providing personalized attention, small class sizes, affordable career preparation, outstanding faculty, and vibrant campus life.
The online programs at Clayton State University are part of a full curriculum that meets all requirements for the attainment of a tertiary degree. Since financial affordability is a huge consideration for many students, getting their degrees online can give them a more affordable tuition rate, which is exclusive for online-only students. Online tuition is less expensive because it excludes fees for parking, athletics, and campus health.
Learn more about the online programs at Clayton State University.
Location: Morrow, Georgia
Admission Requirements:
- Completed application for admission
- $40 application fee (non-refundable)
- Certificate of Immunization
- High school transcript or GED scores
- Official SAT/ACT Scores (480 – Evidence-based Writing, 440 – Math)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Truett-McConnell College
A private Christian liberal arts and sciences university, Truett-McConnell College is in Cleveland, Georgia. It offers baccalaureate and master’s degrees, operating under the auspices of the Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. The school equips students to fulfill their highest potential through a Biblically-centered education in a family-friendly environment.
A top-ranking college in Georgia, Truett-McConnell College extends its doors to students who might not be able to attend on-campus classes through their available online degree programs. Online education at this university equips them with skills and knowledge that will enhance opportunities for their chosen careers.
Tuition rates in this school are also more affordable compared to other colleges with full-time students offering a flat fee of $10,056 for tuition and fee. The university also helps students get the financial aid they need for their college education.
Learn more about the online programs at Truett-McConnell College.
Location: Cleveland, Georgia
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application form
- Official high school transcript (GPA: 2.0 or higher)
- SAT (800 or higher), ACT (15 or higher), CLT Scores (52 or higher)
Accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- National Association of Schools of Music
- Georgia Professional Standards Commission
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Shorter University
Rome, Georgia is home to Shorter University, which was founded in 1873 and was named Cherokee Baptist Female College. This four-year liberal arts university is committed to excellence in education. They offer a variety of degrees in 40 areas of study, including undergraduate, associate, and master’s programs.
Students are also given a new way to learn through the university’s online degree program offerings. They can get a head start on a promising career with bachelor’s degrees and advance towards higher learning and better job opportunities with master’s degrees. Their online programs cover different fields of study, including business, criminal justice, human services, sport management, and accountancy.
Another good thing about this university is the affordable and competitive tuition rates. With adequate financial assistance programs offered to students regardless of their financial standing, students can get a quality education with a manageable price tag.
Learn more about the online programs at Shorter University.
Location: Rome, Georgia
Admission Requirements:
- Accomplish admission application form online
- Official high school transcript
- SAT/ACT Scores (SAT score: 90 and ACT score: 19)
- High school GPA of 2.5
Accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
- National Association of Schools of Music
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
