Best Registered Nursing Programs in Savannah Georgia

Key Takeaways

• Savannah offers multiple accredited RN pathways, including ADN, traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, and LPN-to-RN options.
• Top programs include Georgia Southern University, Savannah Technical College, South University, and Herzing University.
• NCLEX pass rates, accreditation status, tuition costs, and clinical partnerships with local hospitals are the most important comparison factors.
• Registered nurses in Savannah earn competitive salaries, with strong projected job growth across Georgia.
• Choosing the right program depends on your career goals, schedule flexibility, and long-term advancement plans.

Why Savannah Is a Strong Choice for Nursing Students

Savannah, Georgia is home to a growing healthcare sector that includes Memorial Health University Medical Center, St. Joseph’s/Candler, and multiple specialty clinics and long-term care facilities. This creates consistent demand for registered nurses and abundant clinical placement opportunities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses earn a median annual salary above $80,000 nationally. In Georgia, RNs earn a competitive average salary, with strong employment growth projected through 2032. Savannah’s lower cost of living compared to larger cities makes it particularly attractive for new graduates.

If you are searching for the best registered nursing programs in Savannah Georgia, the most important criteria include:

• Accreditation approval
• NCLEX-RN pass rates
• Clinical training partnerships
• Tuition and financial aid
• Program flexibility and pathways

Top RN Programs in Savannah, Georgia (Ranked & Compared)

SchoolProgram TypeAccreditationApprox. TuitionNotable StrengthGeorgia Southern UniversityBSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSNCCNEPublic university ratesStrong NCLEX performance and regional reputationSavannah Technical CollegeADN, LPN-to-ADN BridgeACENLower-cost public tuitionAffordable entry into nursingSouth University – SavannahBSNCCNEPrivate tuition ratesEstablished private nursing educationHerzing UniversityBSN, Accelerated BSNCCNEPrivate tuition ratesFlexible and accelerated options

Detailed Breakdown of Each RN Program

Georgia Southern University – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Georgia Southern offers one of the most respected BSN programs serving the Savannah region. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership development, and hands-on simulation training.

Students complete extensive clinical rotations across Savannah’s major healthcare systems. The university also offers an accelerated BSN option for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, as well as an online RN-to-BSN completion pathway.

Best for: Students seeking a traditional four-year university experience or long-term career advancement into leadership or graduate nursing.

Savannah Technical College – Associate Degree in Nursing

Savannah Technical College provides an ACEN-accredited Associate Degree in Nursing program designed to prepare graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN. This is one of the most affordable routes to becoming a registered nurse in the Savannah area.

The program includes classroom instruction, lab simulation, and clinical rotations in local hospitals and healthcare facilities. LPNs can pursue a bridge option to earn RN credentials more quickly.

Best for: Career changers or students seeking a cost-effective path to RN licensure.

South University – Savannah Campus

South University offers a CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with modern simulation labs and strong clinical placement support. The institution is known for structured academic advising and student support services.

As a private university, tuition rates are higher than public institutions, but program start dates and support services may appeal to students needing additional flexibility.

Best for: Students who prefer smaller class environments and structured support.

Herzing University – BSN Pathways

Herzing University provides flexible nursing pathways including traditional and accelerated BSN programs. With CCNE accreditation and a focus on career-oriented education, Herzing emphasizes streamlined degree completion.

The accelerated option allows students with previous college credits to earn their BSN faster than traditional timelines.

Best for: Students who want an expedited path to becoming a BSN-prepared RN.

Accreditation and NCLEX Pass Rates: What Matters Most

Before enrolling, confirm a program is approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. Additionally, national nursing accreditation from either:

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Accreditation ensures educational quality and eligibility for federal financial aid and graduate study. NCLEX pass rates are another important quality indicator. Programs with consistently high first-time pass rates typically demonstrate strong academic preparation.

Admissions Requirements for RN Programs in Savannah

While specific admissions criteria vary, most RN programs require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry
• Minimum GPA requirements
• TEAS entrance exam scores
• Background check and drug screening

BSN programs often have more competitive admissions standards compared to ADN pathways.

Tuition and Financial Aid Options

Public institutions like Savannah Technical College and Georgia Southern offer lower in-state tuition rates. Private universities charge higher tuition but may offer institutional scholarships.

Students should complete the FAFSA application to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many hospitals in Savannah also provide tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing nursing degrees.

RN Salary and Job Outlook in Savannah

Registered nurses in Georgia earn competitive wages, with salary varying by experience and specialty. Savannah’s major healthcare employers actively recruit newly licensed nurses, particularly in critical care, surgical services, and emergency departments.

The Georgia nursing workforce continues to expand due to population growth and increased healthcare needs. BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for leadership and specialty certifications, which can increase earning potential.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Program

When evaluating the best registered nursing programs in Savannah Georgia, ask yourself:

• Do I want the fastest path to licensure or a long-term BSN advantage?
• Can I commit to full-time study or do I need flexibility?
• What is the total cost of attendance, not just tuition?
• Does the school have strong hospital partnerships for clinical placements?
• Are NCLEX pass rates consistently high?

Students focused on leadership, advanced practice, or graduate nursing should consider starting with a BSN. Those seeking affordability and quicker entry into the workforce may prefer an ADN program, then later enrolling in an RN-to-BSN bridge.

Frequently Asked Questions about RN Programs in Savannah

What RN program options can you choose from in Savannah?

In Savannah, you can choose from Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, and LPN-to-RN bridge programs. Schools like Georgia Southern University, Savannah Technical College, South University, and Herzing University offer different pathways so you can match your program to your timeline and career goals.

How much do registered nurses earn in Savannah and across Georgia?

Registered nurses in Georgia earn competitive pay, with exact salaries depending on experience, specialty, and employer. Nationally, the median RN salary is above $80,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can compare current state and metro-level wage data on the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics page for RNs.

Why does accreditation matter for RN programs in Savannah?

Accreditation shows that a nursing program meets national quality standards and helps you qualify for federal financial aid and future graduate study. In Savannah, you should look for approval from the Georgia Board of Nursing plus national accreditation from CCNE or ACEN.

How can you compare RN programs in Savannah effectively?

To compare RN programs, review NCLEX-RN pass rates, accreditation status, total tuition and fees, clinical sites, and schedule options. You can also check state approval and exam outcomes through the Georgia Board of Nursing and use the BLS RN career outlook to align program choice with your long-term plans.

What are the basic admission requirements for RN programs in Savannah?

Most Savannah RN programs require a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite college courses, a minimum GPA, and a TEAS or similar entrance exam. You should also expect a background check, drug screen, and health clearances before starting clinical rotations, in line with Georgia Board of Nursing guidelines.