Georgia has strong nursing programs anchored by Emory University, Georgia State University, and the University of Georgia, along with a network of quality community and technical colleges that offer affordable ADN programs. The state's TCSG system makes nursing education accessible statewide through diploma and ADN programs. Georgia nurses benefit from the state's large and growing healthcare sector and competitive wages.
Best BSN Nursing Programs in Georgia
- Emory University: Atlanta. One of the top nursing programs in the Southeast. Strong research orientation and direct Emory Healthcare clinical affiliations.
- Georgia State University: Atlanta. Large urban nursing program with strong clinical connections to Grady Memorial Hospital and other Atlanta systems.
- University of Georgia (UGA): Athens. Strong BSN program with clinical placements throughout Northeast Georgia.
- Augusta University: Augusta. Part of the Georgia Regents health system. Strong clinical integration.
- Kennesaw State University: Marietta. Growing nursing program serving North Metro Atlanta.
- Valdosta State University: Valdosta. Nursing programs for South Georgia.
Best TCSG Nursing Programs in Georgia
- Athens Technical College: Practical nursing and ADN programs for Northeast Georgia.
- Atlanta Technical College: LPN and ADN programs for Metro Atlanta.
- Gwinnett Technical College: Strong nursing programs with HOPE Career Grant eligibility.
- Central Georgia Technical College (Macon): LPN and ADN for Middle Georgia.
- Savannah Technical College: Nursing programs for Coastal Georgia.
Georgia Nurse Salary
- LPN (Georgia): $44,000-$56,000/yr
- RN with ADN (Georgia): $58,000-$80,000/yr
- RN with BSN (Atlanta): $65,000-$92,000/yr
- Family Nurse Practitioner (Georgia): $100,000-$135,000/yr
- CRNA (Georgia): $160,000-$210,000/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best nursing school in Georgia?
Emory University is the most highly ranked nursing program in Georgia. Georgia State University serves the large Atlanta market with strong clinical access. Kennesaw State is growing rapidly and serves the North Atlanta suburbs well. For most Georgia students the best program balances cost, location, and clinical access.
Is nursing school free in Georgia?
TCSG practical nursing programs at colleges like Gwinnett Technical can be covered by the Georgia HOPE Career Grant for qualifying residents. Combined with Pell Grants, LPN and some ADN programs can be completed with minimal cost for eligible students. BSN programs at University System of Georgia schools are not covered by HOPE Career Grant but are affordable by state university standards.
How much do nurses make in Atlanta?
RNs in Atlanta earn $65,000-$92,000/yr. ICU and specialty RNs at Emory, Piedmont, and Wellstar earn $72,000-$100,000/yr. Family Nurse Practitioners in Atlanta earn $100,000-$135,000/yr. Georgia wages are below California and New York but the cost of living comparison is favorable.
Is there a nursing shortage in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia faces nursing shortages particularly in rural areas and behavioral health. The Georgia Hospital Association and Georgia Nurses Association have both documented the shortage extensively. BSN and MSN-educated nurses have strong employment opportunities across the state.
What is the HOPE Career Grant for nursing in Georgia?
The Georgia HOPE Career Grant covers tuition for eligible Georgia residents in TCSG nursing programs. Practical nursing programs at TCSG colleges are commonly covered. Income eligibility requirements apply. Combined with Pell Grants, many Georgia students complete LPN programs with zero tuition cost.
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