The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Updated March 28, 2024
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Georgia Universities and Colleges Online
Georgia is home to 85 accredited colleges and universities, some of which deliver programs in online or hybrid formats. Attending online colleges in Georgia allows students the flexibility to pursue the degrees that best suit their goals while still working full time, caring for a family, or managing other obligations.
The University of Georgia System (USG) is a major provider of online degrees in Georgia thanks to its flexible eCore and eMajor offerings. Through the partnership and collaboration among the 26 USG institutions, students can complete general education requirements completely online. Additional eMajor coursework prepares graduates for in-demand careers in fields like nursing, criminal justice, and information technology.
Our ranked list of the best online colleges in Georgia provides a comprehensive look at distance learning options in the Peach State. Read on to learn about degree availability, admission requirements, student support services, and common learning formats in Georgia's online colleges.
Featured Online Schools
Best Online Colleges in GA
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Middle Georgia State University
Macon, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online degree-seekers should consider Middle Georgia State University. Remote degrees at the graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this public school. The institution has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Online enrollees can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Macon campus. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefit many students. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
Middle Georgia State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,774
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 37%
Admission Rate: 94%
#2 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Those looking for an online college program should consider Georgia Southern University. The public institution's 37 online degree options include offerings at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
From its Statesboro campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in their field. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 10,767
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 19
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 18%
Admission Rate: 54%
#3 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Kennesaw State University. Those who enroll at the public institution remotely have 56 online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.
The school's main campus in Kennesaw, Georgia, hosts academic and career services offices available to online learners. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. The internship program that the school offers helps many students prepare for their future careers. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Kennesaw State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 18,360
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 20
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 31%
Admission Rate: 75%
#4 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of West Georgia is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. The public institution's 24 online degree options include offerings at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.
The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Carrollton campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefit many students. The academic programs award graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.
University of West Georgia at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 8,295
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 29%
Admission Rate: 59%
#5 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Clayton State University
Morrow, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Clayton State University's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Remote enrollees at this public college can choose from 13 online programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
Career and academic service associates located at the Morrow, Georgia, campus also assist online learners. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs and other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. The internship program that the school offers helps many students prepare for their future careers. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completion of their program.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Clayton State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,964
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Master's Programs: 3
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 25%
Admission Rate: 51%
#6 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Savannah College of Art and Design
Savannah, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Savannah College of Art and Design is a fantastic choice for online learners. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 19 options through this private institution. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
From its Savannah, Georgia, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Those interested in applying to online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
Savannah College of Art and Design at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,904
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 13
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 30%
Admission Rate: 96%
#7 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Valdosta State University
Valdosta, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Valdosta State University is a leader in online education. The school, a public institution, hosts 29 programs for remote learners at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Georgia campus are available to help online students. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs and other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship programs. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
Valdosta State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,426
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Master's Programs: 11
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 32%
Admission Rate: 57%
#8 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Columbus State University
Columbus, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Columbus State University. A total of 18 remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in Columbus, Georgia. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in their field. The programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
Columbus State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,779
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 17%
Admission Rate: 79%
#9 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Shorter University
Rome, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Shorter University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar programs. A total of 43 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.
The physical campus in Rome, Georgia, employs academic and career service professionals that are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Shorter University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 565
Online Bachelor's Programs: 40
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 98%
Admission Rate: 60%
#10 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Toccoa Falls College ranks among the best online colleges. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from 15 online programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Georgia campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Hands-on learning through internship programs helps many students prepare for work in their field. The academic programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
More information about which programs are available online and how to apply is available by contacting the school.
Toccoa Falls College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,189
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 42%
Admission Rate: 60%
#11 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Mercer University
Macon, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mercer University ranks among the best online colleges. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution, which hosts a total of 18 online degree programs. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.
From its Macon, Georgia, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long term success. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship programs. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.
More information about which programs are available online and how to apply is available by contacting the school.
Mercer University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,233
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 14%
Admission Rate: 74%
#12 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Thomas University
Thomasville, GA - 4 years
- Online
A quality online college education is available at Thomas University. A total of 34 online undergraduate and graduate programs are offered through this private institution. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
The physical campus in Thomasville, Georgia, employs academic and career service professionals who are available to assist online learners. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. The internship programs that the school offers help many students prepare for their future careers. The academic programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.
Thomas University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,528
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%
Admission Rate: 38%
#13 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Andrew College
Cuthbert, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Andrew College has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. A total of three online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Cuthbert, Georgia, campus are available to help online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship programs. The academic programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.
Andrew College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 185
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 10%
Admission Rate: 41%
#14 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Point University
West Point, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Those looking for an online college program should consider Point University. A total of 37 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Online learners not located near the West Point, Georgia, campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs and other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs is available by contacting the school.
Point University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 799
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 64%
Admission Rate: 29%
#15 The Best Online Colleges in Georgia
Brenau University
Gainesville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Those looking for an online college program should consider Brenau University. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have 55 online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
The physical campus in Gainesville, Georgia, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events such as virtual job fairs by connecting with academic advisors. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs is available by contacting the school.
Brenau University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,685
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Online Master's Programs: 21
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 53%
Admission Rate: 58%
Online Colleges in Georgia Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools in Georgia based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Questions About Georgia Schools
Is Online College Cheaper in Georgia?
According to data from the CollegeBoard, Georgia offered the 13th most affordable rates in the country for public, in-state tuition in 2019-2020.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Degree in Georgia?
Students attending online school in GA can choose between part- and full-time enrollment, allowing for bachelor's completion in approximately 2-3 years. Some schools also offer accelerated programs.
What Is the Most Popular Degree in Georgia?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, more than 20% of all bachelor's degrees awarded in Georgia in 2016-2017 were in business.
Does an Online Degree Have the Same Value as an On-Campus Degree?
Yes. Accredited degrees from Georgia's online schools offer the same coursework taught by the same faculty as their on-campus counterparts.
Is Georgia a Good State For Higher Education?
Yes. On average, Georgia offers greater student diversity and lower tuition costs than most U.S. states.
Employment in Georgia
An affordable cost of living, excellent entertainment options, and a temperate climate make Georgia one of the most attractive destinations in the South. The pro-business state also offers a low corporate tax rate and the nation's highest-performing workforce training program.
Understanding local and statewide job markets can help prospective college students select an online bachelor's degree with excellent job prospects. College graduates can use the same information to make important career decisions, like seeking employment in a growing industry rather than one in decline.
Evaluating employment data is especially important in uncertain times. According to data from the Georgia LaborMarket Explorer, the state's major industries when measured by employment include healthcare and social assistance; manufacturing; education; government; and professional, scientific, and technical services. Measuring by economic impact, Georgia's major industries include agribusiness, aerospace, arts, and tourism.
In the tables below, you can find additional employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) detailing Georgia's highest-paying careers and occupations with the highest projected growth between 2016 and 2026.
| Career | Salary | Projected Job Growth (2016-2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Obstetricians and Gynecologists | $233,390 | 15.2% |
| Physicians and Surgeons | $236,530 | 11.4% |
| Psychiatrists | $246,500 | 11.3% |
| Anesthesiologists | $221,380 | 15.5% |
| Chief Executives | $218,590 | -3.9% |
| Career | Salary | Projected Job Growth (2016-2026) |
|---|---|---|
| CPhysician Assistants | $101,460 | 37.4% |
| Rotary Drill Operators | $47,620 | 24.6% |
| Film and Video Editors | $65,060 | 17% |
| Costume Attendants | $43,090 | 10.6% |
| Bus Drivers | $27,350 | 9% |
Associate and Graduate Degrees
The best online schools in Georgia offer more than just bachelor's degrees. Distance learners looking for the quickest path to entry-level employment can pursue online associate degrees through Georgia's top institutions. Professionals looking to advance their career prospects even further may choose to earn an online master's degree.
Common associate majors offered online include business, criminal justice, and general studies. These programs prepare students to start their own small businesses, pursue entry-level careers, or transfer to bachelor's programs.
The most common online master's degrees pursued by graduate students in Georgia are education, nursing, and business administration degrees. These programs provide the training required for advanced licensure and employment opportunities.
Online associate and graduate degrees provide the same rigorous education as their on-campus counterparts, using web-based courses designed by the same professors who teach students on site. Some online programs may require limited in-person attendance or an in-person internship.
Like online bachelor's degrees, online associate and graduate programs offer schedule flexibility, making them ideal for working students. Many programs also use asynchronous delivery, which allows students to log in and complete weekly coursework requirements at their convenience. Students interact with peers and professors through discussion boards, email, telephone, or video conferencing.
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