Earn a BSN degree for entry-level nursing roles or consider an MSN for advanced practice, leadership, and expertise. The best nursing schools in Georgia offer high-quality nursing programs that can be valuable resources for aspiring nurses in the state.
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Georgia is a state in the United States that is filled with top-tier nursing schools. From Emory University to Georgia State University, Georgia offers a wide range of top nursing schools that offer cutting-edge nursing programs tailored to your aspirations. Whether you choose a BSN or MSN program, nursing schools in Georgia provide a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience that lay a solid foundation for a promising career in the healthcare industry.
Explore Georgia’s finest nursing schools, each dedicated to molding competent nurses for the diverse healthcare landscape. If you’re looking for flexibility, check out nursing programs in Georgia that skip the TEAS test requirement. Start your journey today towards becoming a nurse without unnecessary hurdles!
Why Should You Become a Nurse in Georgia?
If you become a nurse in Georgia, you will have many benefits. Georgia is a great place for a nursing career. In addition to the many career opportunities and competitive compensation, this US state offers some policies that nurses may like and are in their favor. First, Georgia is a right-to-work state, so nurses are not required to join a nurse union to be employed. Georgia also respects the Family Care Act. This enables employees to take paid sick time to care for family rather than just themselves.
Another reason that justifies becoming a nurse in Georgia is that Georgia is a Nurse Licensure Compact state in the US, meaning licensed nurses can work in 30 other signatory states. Nurses who wish to work in Georgia but have licenses from non-compact states (states that are not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact) can obtain a Georgia license through endorsements.
How to Choose a Nursing School in Georgia?
Georgia is home to countless nursing schools, including top-ranked nursing programs in the country. However, when deciding where to apply for nursing training, you need to consider several factors. Know about the three key factors!
1. Program Curriculum
When choosing a nursing school in Georgia, consider the nursing program curriculum and duration offered by the institution. The school should have access to both in-person and online programs, as well as practical details like clinical placement assistance. Tuition cost is another important aspect you should consider when choosing a nursing school.
2. Financial Aid Considerations
Financial aid packages are also important considerations. Nursing students may be eligible for federal student aid. Georgia’s HOPE Programs provide scholarships and grants to qualified students, but students should also consider nursing financial aid options specific to their degree.
3. Accreditation
To obtain a nursing license in Georgia, you must complete a program that has been authorized by the Georgia Board of Nursing. Nursing program accreditation ensures that all nurses follow standardized training and that graduates are appropriately prepared for safe, effective practice. If you choose a program that is not board approved, you will be ineligible for nursing licensure in Georgia.
List of Top 10 Best Nursing Schools in Georgia
1. Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
- Established: 1905
- Institution Type: Private
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 98%
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia, US
Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing stands out as one of the premier nursing institutions in the United States. The school offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral nursing programs, as well as several non-degree options. The school’s graduate program is a 4-year BSN accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The program combines a solid scientific foundation with clinical experiences in multiple contexts.
This best nursing school in Georgia offers three graduate programs, including MSN, DNP, and PhD in nursing. MSN programs are available in several disciplines, including family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nurse educator. Graduates from the school are in high demand and have successful careers in a variety of healthcare settings.
2. Augusta University College of Nursing
- Established: 1943
- Institution Type: Public
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 96%
- Location: Augusta, Georgia, US
This is another best nursing schools in Georgia. Since its founding as the state’s first nationally accredited graduate nursing school, Augusta University College of Nursing has graduated nearly 20,000 nurses. This nursing school offers excellent undergraduate and graduate programs that will impact the future of the nursing workforce. Its prelicensure BSN and MSN programs produce approximately 400 graduates each year.
Additionally, this nursing school’s graduate certificates, most of its doctor of nursing practice programs, and its PhD in nursing are available online to provide further flexibility for working nursing professionals.
This best nursing school in Georgia uses state-of-the-art simulation laboratories to enhance learning experiences, ensure patient safety, and help students develop clinical abilities. Thanks to the generosity of alumni, donors, and sponsors, more than $125,000 in scholarships are awarded to students each year.
3. Georgia College and State University School of Nursing
- Institution Type: Public
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 92%
- Location: Milledgeville, Georgia, US
The School of Nursing at Georgia College and State University offers BSN programs based on a 2-year core curriculum in the liberal arts and sciences. An MSN program is available for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, family nurse practitioners, nurse educators, and women’s health nurse practitioners. This best nursing school in Georgia also offers a DNP program.
4. Georgia Baptist College of Nursing at Mercer University, Atlanta
- Established: 1902
- Institution Type: Private
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 90%
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia, US
The Georgia Baptist College of Nursing, located on the vibrant Mercer University campus, offers BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. The college provides students with the knowledge and skills needed in today’s healthcare settings. The programs of this best nursing school in Georgia combine cutting-edge health care methods with a Christian ethical framework, encouraging students to be compassionate and patient-centric.
Furthermore, the nursing school provides practical training to the students through clinical experiences and modern simulation technologies. Beyond academics, the college fosters a strong sense of community with a focus on service and leadership. Whether you want to become a bedside nurse or specialist physician, Georgia Baptist College of Nursing will help you build a rewarding and impactful career in healthcare.
5. Brenau University School of Nursing
- Institution Type: Private
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 87%
- Location: Gainesville, Georgia, US
Brenau University School of Nursing is accredited by the CCNE which offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, including BSN and MSN programs. The curriculum of this school emphasizes practical clinical practice, cutting-edge technology, and a solid theoretical foundation.
Additionally, their diverse faculty with real-world expertise guides students through regular and accelerated graduate programs.
The nursing school’s modern simulation lab and collaboration with healthcare providers provide practical training, while a supportive environment fosters personal growth. This best nursing school in Georgia prepares graduates well for a variety of nursing professions that enhance excellence in the healthcare field.
6. Columbus State University School of Nursing
- Institution Type: Public
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 96%
- Location: Columbus Georgia, US
Columbus State University School of Nursing offers many programs to help students reach their nursing goals. The school’s BSN program has been listed in the top 100 of best affordable nursing degrees, while its RN-BSN program has been ranked in the top 30 nationally and in the top 3 statewide.
This best nursing school in Georgia offers a variety of practical clinical experiences in which students can apply their knowledge and abilities in real-world situations. The school also has a low student-to-instructor ratio, ensuring that students receive personal attention from their professors.
7. Clayton State University School of Nursing
- Institution Type: Public
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 95%
- Location: Morrow, Georgia, US
This is one of the best nursing schools in Georgia, known for its affordable and high-quality nursing programs. The school offers a variety of nursing programs to help you start or advance your nursing career. From the basic Licensed BSN track for aspiring nurses to the Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs, its programs provide you with the essential knowledge and skills.
Whether you have recently graduated from high school or are an experienced RN looking to specialize, Clayton State University School of Nursing will help you reach your goals in the ever-changing industry of healthcare.
8. Kennesaw State University Wellstar School of Nursing
- Institution Type: Public
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 97%
- Location: Kennesaw, Georgia, US
If you are interested in becoming a registered nurse, you can enroll in Kennesaw State University WellStar School of Nursing’s traditional and accelerated BSN programs. This best nursing school in Georgia allows students to choose the regular or accelerated BSN path, which includes liberal arts and sciences classes as well as rigorous clinical experience. The curriculum of the nursing program includes biology, arts, and social sciences as well as the theoretical and clinical practice background necessary for professional nursing.
9. Berry College School of Nursing
- Institution Type: Private
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 92%
- Location: Rome, Georgia, US
Berry College School of Nursing is an excellent choice for aspiring nurses looking for a liberal arts education combined with practical experience. With a heavy emphasis on “using the gifts of the head, heart and hands,” the curriculum develops compassionate, competent nurses who are ready to make a difference in the health care landscape.
The nursing curriculum of this best nursing school in Georgia goes far beyond typical classroom teaching, including hands-on experience in its state-of-the-art simulation laboratory and more than 650 clinical hours in a variety of settings. Students gain practical experience through rotations in local hospitals, internships in critical care units, and even international healthcare immersion trips.
10. University of West Georgia Tanner Health System School of Nursing
- Institution Type: Public
- Accredited by: CCNE
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: 78%
- Location: Carrollton, Georgia, US
The University of West Georgia Tanner Health System School of Nursing prepares students to become compassionate and skilled healthcare providers. This best school of nursing in Georgia offers both traditional and online options, and the pre-licensure BSN program prepares graduates to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and begin their nursing profession. For experienced registered nurses, the RN to BSN online program offers a flexible path to career advancement.
FAQs
1. What’s the duration required to become a nurse in Georgia?
The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, offered at various community colleges throughout Georgia, usually spans two years or four semesters. Upon completion, graduates can sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Over 20 universities across Georgia provide Associate degree-level nursing programs.
2. Is Georgia good for nurses?
Yes, Georgia is ideal for nurses. However, it all depends on your preferences. Georgia offers high salaries (though not the best in the country) and lots of opportunities, but the work environment is challenging. You should search for specific areas and settings that match your ideal work-life balance.
3. What is an RN’s salary in Georgia?
The average annual income for an RN in Georgia is $75,380. If we compare the average annual salary of a Georgia RN to the national RN salary, we find that registered nurses in Georgia earn 8% less than the national average RN salary of $82,750.
4. What is the fastest way to become a nurse in Georgia?
The ADN degree provides an accelerated path to nursing. ADN programs do not include general education subjects and instead focus only on the nursing curriculum. Nevertheless, there are a few things to consider when choosing an ADN program. An ADN may limit your opportunities for career advancement.
Conclusion
Georgia’s nursing schools have big contributions to the development of the state’s healthcare industry. Depending on your career goals, you can earn a BSN, MSN, or an Associate degree in nursing. Georgia is facing a severe shortage of nurses, so your degree in nursing will provide you with job opportunities in Georgia’s healthcare sector.
You can enroll in any one of the nursing schools mentioned above. By offering cutting-edge nursing programs, these best nursing schools in Georgia prepare future nurses with the skills and knowledge to provide best-in-class performance in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
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