10 Most Popular Online Colleges in Georgia

Key Takeaways

• Georgia online colleges offer strong value with an average in-state tuition of around $7,075, which is 27.4% below the national public average.
• Kennesaw State University leads the state with 14 online bachelor’s and 15 master’s programs, plus consistent semester pricing for online learners.
• The University of West Georgia allows 100% online out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition, a rare benefit among public institutions.
• Georgia’s job market is expanding rapidly in fields such as nursing, data science, public health, and advanced analytics.
• State programs like the HOPE Scholarship and Zell Miller Scholarship, plus the Academic Common Market, help reduce tuition for eligible students.

Georgia has become one of the most affordable and accessible states for online education, giving you the chance to earn a degree without relocating or taking on major living expenses. Students in neighboring states like Florida, Tennessee, and South Carolina may also find comparable options worth exploring.

Online programs let you study from anywhere in the state, whether you live in downtown Atlanta or a smaller community, and most schools offer flexible formats such as self-paced learning, asynchronous classes, and multiple start dates. Many institutions also keep pricing consistent regardless of residency, and some provide additional benefits for fully online students, which further reduces your total cost.

Georgia’s economy continues to strengthen, especially in high-growth fields such as nursing, data science, logistics, cybersecurity, creative media, and public health. This gives you access to career pathways that match the state’s evolving workforce needs. Financial support is also strong, with long-running programs like the HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships helping thousands of residents each year.

Top 10 Online Colleges in Georgia

Below are ten of the best accredited online colleges in Georgia, selected for affordability, program quality, online support services, flexibility, and alignment with the state’s growing workforce needs.

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University is Georgia’s leading online institution, known for flexible formats, generous credit-for-experience policies, and strong support for military learners and working adults.

Main Online Programs

Kennesaw State offers 14 online bachelor’s degrees across fields such as cybersecurity, psychology, marketing, geography, and industrial engineering technology, along with 15 online master’s degrees in areas like public administration, education, engineering management, and business. Most programs include asynchronous and self-paced learning options for maximum flexibility.

Pros

• Consistent semester pricing for online students
• Robust online services, including advising, tutoring, disability support, and tech assistance
• Credit for work experience, professional training, military training, and industry credentials
• Flexible formats that allow students to study fully online on their own schedule
• Strong support ecosystem for military-connected students

Cons

• Some programs require additional course materials or fees
• Limited accelerated pathways compared to private universities
• Certain programs provide less live interaction due to asynchronous formats

Average Annual Tuition

$5,562

University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia stands out for allowing 100% online out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition, making it one of the most affordable digital learning choices in the Southeast.

Main Online Programs

The university offers 18 online undergraduate programs in areas such as sociology, nursing, criminal justice, and business, along with more than 50 online graduate degrees and certificates. Students also have access to prior-learning credit pathways and dual enrollment opportunities.

Pros

• Fully online out-of-state students qualify for in-state tuition
• 24/7 tutoring and technical support
• Broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs
• Flexible scheduling ideal for working professionals
• Opportunities to earn credit for prior learning

Cons

• Proctored exams may require additional fees
• Hybrid students do not receive the in-state tuition benefit
• Fewer accelerated program options than some competitors

Average Annual Tuition

$5,464

Savannah College of Art and Design

Savannah College of Art and Design is Georgia’s premier creative arts institution, offering top-tier online programs in design, animation, media, and digital storytelling.

Main Online Programs

SCAD provides eight online bachelor’s degrees in fields like graphic design, dramatic writing, digital media, and game development, along with 16 online master’s programs in areas such as luxury and brand management, motion media design, and preservation design. Students can choose synchronous or asynchronous formats to fit their schedules.

Pros

• Nationally recognized creative arts programs
• Live and on-demand course choices for maximum flexibility
• Strong digital community of artists and designers
• Extensive scholarship availability
• Award-winning online education model

Cons

• Higher annual tuition than public institutions
• The quarterly academic system can increase the annual cost
• Programs primarily serve creative fields rather than broad majors

Average Annual Tuition

$39,105

Mercer University

Mercer University offers flexible online programs built for working adults, career changers, and military learners, with multiple start dates and a strong student support ecosystem.

Main Online Programs

Mercer provides nearly 30 online undergraduate and graduate degrees across business, education, healthcare, public safety, informatics, and organizational leadership. Many programs run in accelerated eight-week terms, and students can choose from several start dates throughout the year.

Pros

• Multiple start dates that allow you to begin when ready
• Accelerated eight-week courses for faster progress
• Strong support system with advising, counseling, tech help, and military assistance
• Online payment plans available to spread tuition over several months
• Consistent tuition for all online students regardless of residency

Cons

• Higher annual tuition than public universities
• Accelerated formats require intensive weekly commitment
• Limited program options compared to larger state institutions

Average Annual Tuition

$30,017

Columbus State University

Columbus State University continually expands its online offerings, offering a diverse range of degrees and hybrid options, all supported by robust virtual learning resources.

Main Online Programs

The university offers 12 online bachelor’s degrees, 17 online master’s degrees, and several hybrid programs that combine online and on-campus coursework. Programs include business, education, nursing, public safety, and computer science.

Pros

• Growing online catalog with new programs added regularly
• Over $3 million awarded annually in merit, military, and discipline-specific scholarships
• Courses designed for online interaction and instructor engagement
• 24/7 virtual learning platform for collaboration and support
• Interest-free payment plans are available each semester

Cons

• Some online programs may have limited availability outside Georgia
• Certain degrees require state authorization checks for out-of-state applicants
• Hybrid programs may require occasional campus visits

Average Annual Tuition

$4,371

Albany State University

Albany State University is Georgia’s largest historically Black college and university, offering accessible online programs supported by extensive tutoring and academic coaching.

Main Online Programs

Albany State offers five fully online bachelor’s degrees and seven online master’s degrees in fields such as nursing, criminal justice, business, education, and technology. Programs focus on practical skills and strong online student support.

Pros

• Extensive academic support, including writing help, tutoring, and research assistance
• Personal academic success coach assigned to online learners
• Foundation scholarships are available to help lower tuition costs
• Payment plans with low enrollment fees
• Consistent tuition for all students regardless of residency

Cons

• Smaller selection of online bachelor’s degrees
• Some programs are designed primarily for professional or continuing education
• Additional fees may apply for certain online course tools

Average Annual Tuition

$4,064

Clayton State University

Clayton State University offers career-focused online programs with strong academic support, automatic scholarship consideration, and flexible pathways for adult learners.

Main Online Programs

The university offers 20 online bachelor’s degrees and several online master’s degrees across fields such as English, history, legal studies, business, archival studies, and nursing. Programs are built for workforce preparation with practical learning outcomes.

Pros

• Automatic scholarship consideration for eligible students
• One-on-one tutoring and writing support
• Personal librarian who helps with research, book selection, and academic resources
• Payment plans that divide tuition over the semester
• Diverse student community with global engagement opportunities

Cons

• Limited graduation outcomes compared to other institutions
• Some online programs may require additional materials or software
• A higher course load may be needed to finish on time

Average Annual Tuition

$4,064

Middle Georgia State University

Middle Georgia State University is known for very low tuition, broad scholarship availability, and strong support systems for adult learners and working students.

Main Online Programs

The university offers 15 online bachelor’s degrees, 12 online master’s degrees, and two online doctoral programs in areas such as information technology, nursing, management, criminal justice, and education. Many programs include flexible pacing and adult-focused advising.

Pros

• Around 165 private scholarships available annually
• Low tuition that helps minimize student debt
• Automatic scholarship consideration for applicants
• Comprehensive academic and advising support
• Interest-free monthly payment plans for all students

Cons

• Very broad admissions access may impact classroom preparedness
• Some programs require lab components that may have special arrangements
• Smaller program catalog compared to large universities

Average Annual Tuition

$3,144

Georgia Southwestern State University

Georgia Southwestern State University provides accessible online learning with strong scholarship funding and the rare benefit of in-state tuition for fully online out-of-state students.

Main Online Programs

Georgia Southwestern offers 11 online bachelor’s degrees and six online master’s degrees, including several in nursing, business, education, and public administration. Programs are built to serve students studying from anywhere.

Pros

• Fully online out-of-state students receive in-state tuition
• Nearly 800 scholarships are awarded each year
• Academic advising, tutoring, disability support, and veteran services are available online
• Payment plans are available to help manage semester costs
• Global and multicultural student community

Cons

• Smaller catalog of degree options
• Some programs require limited in-person components, depending on the field
• Additional fees may apply for online proctoring

Average Annual Tuition

$5,080

Thomas University

Thomas University is a fully online institution with strong military benefits, generous transfer policies, and flexible pathways designed for adult and working learners.

Main Online Programs

Thomas University offers 14 online bachelor’s degrees and six online master’s programs, including social work, supply chain management, medical laboratory science, homeland security, and RN to BSN. Many programs accept extensive transfer credits through prior learning, professional training, and military experience.

Pros

• Active-duty military members and dependents pay only $250 per credit
• Up to 90 transfer credits accepted for prior learning and professional experience
• Scholarship opportunities of $500 to $1,000 for eligible students
• 100% online institution with programs requiring no campus visits
• Strong pathways for community college transfers

Cons

• Smaller institution with fewer total degree options
• Course materials or proctoring fees may apply
• Some programs require structured weekly participation

Average Annual Tuition

$10,800

Tuition and mandatory fee amounts change regularly and can vary by program, course load, credit amount, and delivery format. The figures listed here reflect the latest numbers available and are intended for comparison only. Always confirm the current annual tuition and required fees on the university’s official website before applying.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Best Online Colleges in Georgia

Enrolling in Georgia’s online colleges involves a few core steps that help you secure in-state tuition where applicable, meet program criteria, and qualify for state-based financial aid. These steps ensure that you submit a complete application, verify eligibility for scholarships, and have the right setup for online learning.

Complete Online Application Process

Most colleges in Georgia use straightforward online application portals. Many institutions offer multiple start dates throughout the year, making it easier to begin at a time that fits your schedule. Programs designed for adult learners often have rolling admissions, while professional programs may have fixed deadlines or additional screening requirements.

Submit Official Transcripts and Test Scores

You will need to provide official high school transcripts, GED documentation, or college transcripts. Some programs accept test-optional applications, while others may require additional documents such as writing samples or professional experience. Transfer-friendly schools allow substantial credit for previous coursework, training, or military education.

Verify Georgia Residency Documentation

Establishing residency allows you to access Georgia’s in-state tuition rates and apply for state scholarships. You may need to provide documents such as a Georgia driver’s license, tax filings, utility bills, or voter registration. Several online programs offer consistent pricing regardless of residency, and some extend in-state rates to fully online students from out of state.

Meet Program-Specific Requirements

Some majors require prerequisite coursework, a minimum GPA, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or a portfolio. Programs in healthcare, education, and design may have additional criteria such as licensing alignment or prior professional experience.

Verify Technology Requirements

Online learning requires a reliable computer, high-speed internet, and access to any software used by your courses. You may need a webcam for proctored exams, a learning management system login, and updated browser settings to access multimedia content and virtual classrooms.

Submit Financial Aid Applications

To reduce your overall costs, complete the FAFSA and explore Georgia-based programs such as the HOPE Scholarship, Zell Miller Scholarship, and discipline-specific scholarships. Many institutions also offer payment plans, private scholarships, military benefits, and opportunities to earn credit for work experience to help shorten the time to graduation.

How Do Georgia Online College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Georgia offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. Public four-year institutions in the state average approximately $7,075 per year, which is significantly lower than the national average of $9,750. Out-of-state tuition also tends to be lower than national norms, and private colleges often charge less than the national average for private institutions.

Online learning provides additional savings by removing housing, transportation, and parking expenses. You can study from anywhere in the state, which helps you avoid the higher living costs found in Georgia’s major metropolitan areas. State programs, such as the HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships, can help reduce tuition further for eligible residents. Additionally, many colleges offer consistent tuition rates regardless of residency for online learners. Some institutions also recognize prior learning or professional experience, which can shorten your pathway to graduation and lower your total cost.

What Are the Tuition Fees for Out-of-State Students at Online Colleges in Georgia?

Out-of-state tuition varies across Georgia institutions, and some colleges provide special benefits for online learners. A few public universities allow fully online out-of-state students to pay the same tuition as Georgia residents, which can significantly reduce overall expenses. Private institutions typically charge the same rate for all online students, which removes residency barriers altogether.

Some students from nearby states may also qualify for reduced tuition through the Academic Common Market, which allows learners in participating states to access in-state rates for approved programs. Online formats help eliminate housing and transportation costs, making Georgia’s out-of-state online options more affordable than many traditional programs. Payment plans, transfer credit policies, and military benefits can further reduce the financial impact for learners studying from outside Georgia.

How Does University Of The People Compare With The Best Online Colleges In Georgia

University of the People is tuition-free and charges a $60 application fee plus a $160 assessment fee per course for undergraduate programs. A typical bachelor’s degree totals about $6,400. That all-in cost can be lower than Georgia’s most affordable public options over four years and far below many private programs, especially for nonresidents.

For Georgia residents who qualify for HOPE or Zell Miller, in-state public options can remain very competitive. If you need maximum flexibility, predictable fees, and fully online study without traditional tuition, UoPeople offers a strong alternative to consider alongside Georgia’s low-cost choices.

Ready To Choose The Best Online College In Georgia?

Start with your goal, budget, and timeline. Shortlist programs that match your major, pacing preference, and start dates. Confirm total cost of attendance, not just tuition, and map out scholarships, state aid, and payment plans. Check transfer and prior learning credits to reduce both time and expense.

Review the learning format fit. If you prefer flexibility, prioritize asynchronous or self-paced options. If you value structure, look for scheduled live sessions or accelerated eight-week terms. If you’re also considering schools outside Georgia, explore online colleges in Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, or Texas to compare programs and pricing.

FAQs

What Is The Average Tuition At Georgia Online Colleges?

About $7,075 per year for in-state students at public four-year institutions.

What Is The Cheapest Online College In Georgia?

Several public options post very low semester rates; compare published averages and available state aid to find the lowest total cost.

What Is The Easiest Online College To Get Into In Georgia?

Open or broad-access admission policies exist at some public institutions; check each program’s current criteria.

Do Georgia Residents Get Free College Tuition?

Not universally. HOPE and Zell Miller can cover significant or full tuition for eligible students, subject to GPA and other requirements.

Do I Need To Be A Georgia Resident To Attend An Online College In Georgia?

No. Nonresidents are welcome. Total cost depends on residency rules, special online pricing, and possible Academic Common Market eligibility.

Can Out-of-State Students Get In-State Tuition At Georgia Online Colleges?

Sometimes. Fully online study or Academic Common Market participation can unlock in-state rates in specific cases. Check program details.