Online Nursing Programs in Georgia
Georgia's online nursing programs prepare aspiring nurses to serve in healthcare settings across the state. The Georgia Department of Labor identifies nurse practitioners and RNs among the state's fastest-growing occupations. Students can view our comprehensive list of online nursing schools with NCLEX pass rates to find an option that fits their budgets and career goals. Certificate, associate, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree programs are designed to prepare nursing students at various levels for licensure to provide skilled patient care.
Continue reading to learn more about CNA, LPN, RN, and APRN licensure and some answers to frequently asked questions about nursing careers in the Peach State.
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Online Nursing Degrees You May Be Interested In
South University Online
Annual Tuition: $13,594 - $17,014
11 Programs (view all)
Comprehensive List of Online Nursing Schools in Georgia
| School | Annual Tuition | NCLEX Pass Rate | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albany State University | $16,656 | 91.67% | Albany |
| Augusta University | $24,210 | 90.24% | Augusta |
| Chamberlain College of Nursing | $19,638 | 88.32% | Multiple Locations |
| Clayton State University | $16,260 | 82.76% | Morrow |
| Columbus State University | $17,295 | 77.06% | Columbus |
| Dalton State College | $10,589 | 94.23% | Dalton |
| Emory University | $53,804 | 98.87% | Atlanta |
| Georgia College & State University | $28,710 | 96.15% | Milledgeville |
| Georgia Highlands College | $9,696 | 86.57% | Rome |
| Georgia Military College | $6,130 | Not Reported | Milledgeville |
| Georgia Southern University | $17,518 | 87.59% | Statesboro |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | $16,222 | 86.84% | Americus |
| Georgia State University | $24,517 | 86.84% | Atlanta |
| Herzing University | $14,200 | 94.83% | Multiple Locations |
| Kennesaw State University | $12,888 | 96.31% | Kennesaw |
| LaGrange College | $31,540 | 81.82% | Lagrange |
| Mercer University | $37,808 | 92.98% | Macon |
| Middle Georgia State University | $11,389 | 83.83% | Macon |
| Reinhardt University | $24,300 | 96.97% | Waleska |
| South University Online | $15,304 | 69.12% | Multiple Locations |
| Thomas University | $16,940 | Not Reported | Thomasville |
| University of North Georgia | $13,776 | 97.62% | Dahlonega |
| University of Phoenix | $9,552 | 90.0% | Nationwide |
| University of West Georgia | $17,450 | 83.61% | Carrollton |
| Valdosta State University | $17,638 | 90.0% | Valdosta |
Becoming a Nurse in Georgia
Accredited online nursing programs in Georgia offer the chance for fast-track options and advanced degrees in various levels of nursing.
In Georgia, there are program options and licensure opportunities for certified nursing assistants (CNAs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to serve communities throughout the state, easing the burden of the nursing shortage. Students graduating from these online nursing programs can choose from multiple licensing options through the Georgia Board of Nursing. Georgia is also part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses in one NLC state to practice in another without having to obtain additional licensure.
To learn about online nursing programs and requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:
Nursing Degrees by State
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How To Become a CNA in Georgia
To become a CNA in Georgia, applicants must first complete a state-approved CNA training program. Students can finish this coursework in a few months, and it contains classroom and clinical training that helps prepare future nurse aides to work in various healthcare settings. After completing the education requirement, aspiring CNAs have one year to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program examination through Credentia. Credentia allows up to three attempts to pass the written and practical portions. Applicants can add their name to the Georgia Nurse Aide/Medication Aide Registry and request a certification card once they pass.
After completing the education requirement, aspiring CNAs have one year to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program examination through Credentia.
CNAs often work in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities in order to help patients complete everyday tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. The job can be physically demanding as CNAs may also have to lift and move patients. CNAs in Georgia earn an average yearly salary of $28,560, as compared to the national average of $30,310.
CNA Certification Renewals
Renewal for CNA certification in Georgia takes place every two years. CNAs must work a minimum of eight hours within the 24-month renewal period, otherwise they'll need to retest to remain on the Nurse Aide Registry. CNAs must complete and submit the renewal form. There are no fees involved.
How To Become an LPN in Georgia
To get a Georgia LPN license, applicants must complete a state-approved nursing education program. Aspiring LPNs should register for and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for LPNs (NCLEX-PN), and then apply for their Georgia nursing license. The application fee is $40, and applicants must also undergo a background check to disclose any potential criminal history. Georgia nursing education programs submit applicants' school histories directly to the Board of Nursing. However, those who studied in another state will need their official transcripts sent to the board.
Aspiring LPNs should register for and pass the NCLEX-PN, then apply for their Georgia nursing license.
Nursing and residential care facilities often hire LPNs to provide basic medical care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. In addition, LPNs may assist in patient care by monitoring and recording their health. Patients often turn to these professionals for comfort when discussing their health concerns.
LPNs in Georgia earn an average annual salary of $46,910, as compared to the national average of $48,070 for LPNs. Jobs in this field are projected to grow by 6% nationwide through 2031. While salary figures are lower, the cost of living in Georgia is 94.5, which is below the national average of 100.
LPN Certification Renewals
A Georgia LPN license renewal is required every two years. During that time, LPNs must complete 20 hours of continuing education. This can be achieved in one of two ways. The first option is for LPNs to complete 20 hours of continuing education nursing courses by a provider approved by the Board of Nursing; the second option is to complete an accredited academic program within the professional nursing field.
How To Become an RN in Georgia
Students interested in pursuing an RN license in Georgia must first graduate from a school approved by the Board of Nursing. They are then eligible to register for the NCLEX-RN, which must be done before applying for licensure. After passing the exam, prospective RNs can apply for Georgia nursing licensure through the board. Those who attend online RN programs in Georgia don't need a transcript sent to the board because the school will automatically send education information electronically. However, those who studied out of state must arrange to have their transcript sent. Licensing applicants will also need to pay a $40 application fee and complete a criminal background check.
Licensed RNs in Georgia collaborate within medical teams by assessing medical conditions, administering treatment, observing and recording health information, and operating medical equipment. They may also teach patients and families how to treat illnesses and injuries and often work in hospitals, schools, and care facilities. In Georgia, RNs earn an annual average salary of $75,040. Nationally, the average yearly salary for RNs is $77,600 and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 6% job growth rate for this specialty.
RN License Renewals
RNs must renew their licenses every other year. Licensees may choose from one of five requirements:
- 30 hours of continuing education
- Certification by a national certifying body
- Two credit hours from an accredited nursing program of study
- Verification of competency from a healthcare facility and 500 hours of clinical experience
- Completion of a re-entry program or graduation from a nursing education program
How To Become an APRN in Georgia
Before applying for a Georgia APRN license, applicants must first hold an active Georgia RN license. Aspiring APRNs must also have either a master's of nursing or doctoral degree from a board-approved program. Additional requirements include having accumulated 500 hours of APRN practice within the previous four years and holding an active national certification in their specialty. Once they meet all requirements, APRN program graduates may apply for their license with official college transcripts and a $75 fee. To gain prescriptive authority, APRNs must obtain a nurse protocol agreement approved by the Georgia Composite Medical Board.
Those with a Georgia APRN license may practice as nurse anesthetists, registered nurse midwives, or nurse practitioners. These professionals help coordinate specialty and primary care for patients in physician's offices or hospitals. Although salaries vary among the specialties, APRNs are generally the highest paid of nurses. Specifically, Georgia's nurse anesthetists earn an average annual salary of $195,380 — the most of all nurses and APRNs. Nurse practitioners earn an average annual salary of $101,690 in Georgia, while nurse midwives earn a median annual salary of $99,340. These salary figures are slightly below the U.S. median annual salary for these occupations but the BLS predicts an exceptionally high job growth rate of 40% nationally. For comparison, the average job growth rate is 4% across all occupations.
APRN Certification Renewals
To renew an APRN license in the state of Georgia, licensees must provide verification of their national certification. APRNS must complete renewal online by January 31st of the year it expires. Licenses must be renewed every 2 years, and there is a $65 fee.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Georgia
Can You Get a Nursing Degree Completely Online?
Yes, you can earn a nursing degree online in Georgia through traditional, bridge, and accelerated programs that are accredited. Traditional online bachelor of nursing (BSN) degree programs can take full-time students up to four years to complete, while RN-BSN or RN-MSN bridge programs may take three years. Students may also complete accelerated online BSN programs in as little as a year. Part-time students will likely take longer to complete any program.
How Many Nursing Schools Are in Georgia?
There are 54 schools in Georgia that provide accredited nursing programs. However, some only provide an Associate of Nursing (ASN) or Master of Nursing (MSN), so make sure to check the specific offerings at the schools that interest you.
How Long Is a Nursing Program in Georgia?
An online nursing program in Georgia can take between two and four years or even more if you pursue a master’s degree in nursing. An associate degree in nursing takes about two years to complete, while bachelor's in nursing degrees usually take four years at a full-time pace.
How Much Does it Cost to Take the NCLEX in Georgia?
It costs $200 to take the NCLEX in every state, including Georgia.