Online ADN Programs in Georgia: Top School Comparison

Profiling Georgia’s Top ADN Programs

Georgia is one of the top states for RN employment, and Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN) offers a fast, affordable path to becoming a registered nurse. Most programs take two years to complete, although accelerated ADN programs can be finished in as few as 14 months.

Fully online ADN programs don’t exist, but hybrid formats are becoming more common, blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences for added flexibility.

When comparing programs, make sure to look for:

• State approval from the Georgia Board of Nursing
• Accreditation from ACEN or CCNE
• Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates (usually posted on each school’s program webpage)
• Accessible clinical placements aligned with your schedule and career goals

With the essentials covered, let’s explore some of Georgia’s leading ADN programs.

Answering Georgia Online ADN Program FAQs

If you’re considering an ADN program, chances are you have more questions — like how much it will cost, what the admissions process looks like, and whether online options are a good fit. You’re not alone! Below, we’ve answered the most common questions people ask when starting this journey so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

What nursing knowledge and skills do you learn in ADN programs?

A typical course of study, like at Dalton State College, blends academic, theory-based coursework with hands-on learning that reflects nurses’ daily conditions and real-world problems.

Like other healthcare professionals, nurses need an adequate background in the sciences, and most Georgia ADN programs begin by developing foundations in microbiology, physiology and anatomy, and psychology. You can also expect to gain skills in health assessment, mental health, surgical procedures, and medication administration.

How much do ADN programs cost in Georgia?

Most two-year nursing programs in Georgia charge similar tuition rates. Tuition ranges from $95/credit for in-state tuition (Georgia Highlands College) to $395/credit for out-of-state tuition at College of Coastal Georgia.

However, the total cost varies depending on program specifics, school, and individual circumstances (additional fees, course load per term, potential travel, etc.).

Can I get financial aid to help pay for my ADN program in Georgia?

Yes, as long as your program is regionally accredited. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid help reduce the overall cost of your education.

ADN nursing programs in Georgia are already relatively inexpensive, but taking advantage of opportunities helps avoid paying extra or going into debt.

Most schools offer financial aid to new and returning students; some may even set aside special scholarships for aspiring nurses.

Government entities like the Georgia Student Finance Commission also offer scholarships and other aid programs open to students attending two-year nursing programs in Georgia.

What are the advantages of graduating from an ADN program?

ADNs are the fastest and most affordable way to become an RN in Georgia. A traditional BSN takes almost twice as long (and incurs twice as many expenses).

At the same time, programs like Chattahoochee Tech and College of Coastal Georgia, typically last just two years and offer everything you need to get licensed and enter the workforce as an RN.

You’ll also earn significantly higher pay with an ADN than other entry-level nursing careers. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs are paid significantly higher wages than CNAs or LPNs. For example, RNs earned $93,600 in 2024 — more than double the yearly income of most CNAs ($39,430) and nearly 44% more than LPNs ($62,340).

Is earning an ADN or ASN a good way to begin my nursing career?

Yes. ADN nursing programs in Georgia offer a fast track to RN licensure and pathways for further education and career advancement.

Many schools in Georgia offer accelerated BSN or MSN options for students who have completed ADN nursing programs. Some even have special bridge programs — such as online RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs — that require less time and paperwork. For example, Georgia State University and South Georgia State College offer this option to students seeking an ADN.

ADN Career Outlook for Georgia’s Registered Nurses

ADN nurses in Georgia enjoy strong job prospects and solid earnings, making this an appealing pathway for aspiring RNs. While ADN graduates typically earn slightly less than BSN-prepared nurses, salaries remain competitive — averaging $86,210 to $92,140 statewide, with metro areas like Atlanta often paying at the higher end.

Common roles for ADN-prepared nurses include staff positions in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and outpatient centers, focusing on direct patient care and medication management. BSN-prepared nurses may qualify for leadership or specialty roles, which generally come with higher pay.

Key points for ADN nurses in Georgia:

• Competitive salaries: $86,210–$92,140 on average

• Strong job demand across hospitals, clinics, and long-term care

• Higher-earning opportunities in metro areas (e.g., Atlanta)

• BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for advanced or leadership roles

• RN-to-BSN and accelerated BSN programs (many online) offer a path to increased earnings and expanded career options

Despite growing employer preference for BSN-prepared nurses, ADN programs remain an affordable, efficient entry point into the nursing profession.

Ranking the Top Online ADN Programs in Georgia