The Best Online Colleges in Georgia

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.

According to data from the CollegeBoard, Georgia offered the 13th most affordable rates in the country for public, in-state tuition in 2019-2020.

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.

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.

Yes. Accredited degrees from Georgia’s online schools offer the same coursework taught by the same faculty as their on-campus counterparts.

Yes. On average, Georgia offers greater student diversity and lower tuition costs than most U.S. states.

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.

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.