Savannah is one of Georgia's fastest-growing cities. A booming retirement population, expanding port economy, and growing healthcare sector are driving consistent nursing demand. For students considering a nursing career in coastal Georgia, Savannah offers strong programs and a stable employment landscape.
Types of Nursing Programs in Savannah
- LPN programs: About 12 months at Savannah Technical College. Affordable entry into patient care.
- ADN: 2 years at Savannah Technical College. Qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-RN.
- BSN: 4 years at Georgia Southern University Armstrong Campus. One of the most affordable BSN options in coastal Georgia.
- RN-to-BSN: Online completion programs through Georgia Southern and multiple national providers.
- MSN: Graduate-level programs at South University in Savannah for nursing leadership and NP tracks.
What to Look for in a Savannah Nursing School
- Accreditation: ACEN or CCNE. Georgia Southern Armstrong is ACEN-accredited for nursing programs.
- NCLEX pass rates: Ask programs for their most recent first-time NCLEX pass data before enrolling.
- Clinical placements: Programs tied to Memorial Health or St. Joseph's Candler provide hands-on experience at Savannah's primary hospital employers.
- Funding eligibility: Georgia's HOPE Career Grant is available at Savannah Technical College and can cover a significant portion of costs.
How to Pay for Nursing School in Savannah
- Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 per year for eligible students.
- Georgia HOPE Career Grant: Covers tuition at eligible Georgia technical colleges including Savannah Tech for in-demand programs like nursing. One of the most valuable state funding programs in the country.
- Coastal Workforce Services: Administers WIOA grants for eligible Savannah-area students pursuing healthcare careers.
- Employer reimbursement: Memorial Health and St. Joseph's Candler both offer tuition assistance to qualifying employees.
Nursing Salaries in Savannah
- Entry-level RN: Approximately $50,000 per year
- Mid-career RN: Approximately $60,000 per year
- Experienced RN: $74,000 and above
- Nurse Practitioner: Average $105,000 per year in Georgia
Frequently Asked Questions
What nursing schools are in Savannah?
Georgia Southern University Armstrong Campus, Savannah Technical College, and South University all offer nursing programs in Savannah. Georgia Southern Armstrong is the primary option for BSN education, while Savannah Tech offers the most affordable LPN and ADN pathways.
How much do nurses make in Savannah GA?
The average RN in Savannah earns approximately $60,000 per year at mid-career. Experienced nurses and NPs earn considerably more, and Savannah's moderate cost of living helps salaries stretch further.
Is there a nursing shortage in Savannah?
Yes. Coastal Georgia is considered an underserved area for healthcare workers. Savannah's hospital systems actively recruit nurses and often offer hiring incentives for qualified graduates from local programs.
Does Georgia's HOPE Grant cover nursing school?
Yes, for eligible students enrolled in qualifying programs at Georgia technical colleges like Savannah Technical College. The HOPE Career Grant covers tuition for in-demand career programs including LPN and some ADN tracks. Income eligibility requirements apply.
Is Savannah a good place to start a nursing career?
Yes, particularly if you prefer a mid-sized coastal city with a lower cost of living than Atlanta. Savannah has two major hospital systems, a growing healthcare market, and consistent demand for new nurses entering the workforce.
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