Best Colleges in Georgia – Introduction
If you want to attend college in the South, you might consider one of the best colleges in Georgia. The best colleges in Georgia have a lot to offer, from arts and culture to academic resources. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best colleges in Georgia and the best universities in Georgia.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the best colleges in Georgia in depth. That way, you’ll know everything you need to know about the best universities in Georgia before you receive your college acceptance letter.
Questions we’ll answer in this guide
- What are the best colleges in Georgia?
- Where are the best universities in Georgia located?
- What is the best HBCU in Georgia?
- How can I increase my admissions odds at the best colleges in Georgia?
- What are the best universities in Georgia for particular majors?
We’ll start off our guide with the most pressing question—out of all the colleges in Georgia, which is the best?
What is the best college in Georgia?
According to U.S. News, Emory University is the best college in Georgia.
Emory University is a private research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. With a 13% acceptance rate, Emory is the most competitive out of the colleges in Georgia, similar to some Ivy League colleges. The Emory University ranking is currently #22 in National Universities (and #2 in Nursing) per U.S. News. Given the high national ranking, it’s no wonder that Emory stands out among the best colleges in Georgia!
As one of the best colleges in the US, it can be intimidating to apply to Emory. So, if Emory is your dream school, you should do all you can to prepare. You can check out our guide on How to Get Into Emory here. We also have a guide on the Emory University essay, as well as examples of Emory essays that worked.
Given the high Emory University ranking, getting into Emory can be more difficult compared to other colleges in Georgia. So, make sure to do well in school, study hard for the SAT, and write strong essays that capture your strengths. After all, as one of the best colleges in Georgia, Emory is a popular choice.
Top 10 best colleges in Georgia
What are the best colleges in Georgia? According to U.S. News, the top 10 colleges in Georgia are:
Top Colleges in Georgia
1. Emory University
As we noted above, Emory University is the best college in Georgia. Lauded as one of the best colleges in Georgia, Emory is known for its excellent educational environment. With an undergraduate enrollment of just over 7,000, Emory offers a small college experience and a great college location in Atlanta. So, out of all the colleges in Georgia, it’s no surprise that Emory is #1!
2. Georgia Tech
Coming in at #2 is the Georgia Institute of Technology, a public university primarily focused on STEM majors. Where is Georgia Tech? Georgia Tech is located in Atlanta, Georgia, just north of downtown. With an 18% acceptance rate, Georgia Tech is competitive compared to the other colleges in Georgia. U.S. News has Georgia Tech ranking #15 in Top Public Schools, making Georgia Tech one of the top public universities in Georgia.
3. University of Georgia
Up next is the University of Georgia (UGA), a public university located in Athens, Georgia. With over 30,000 undergraduates, the University of Georgia provides a large college environment with a wide range of majors and minors. Out of all the UGA majors, the most popular choices are biology, finance, and psychology. UGA is also considered one of the “Public Ivies,” which reflects its standing as one of the best colleges in Georgia. This school ranks #49 in National Universities, making it a great option for students considering colleges in Georgia.
4. Mercer University
At #4 is Mercer University, a private college located in Macon, Georgia. As one of the best private colleges in Georgia, Mercer University offers a smaller college environment in a slower-paced city. Compared to other colleges in Georgia, Mercer has a smaller undergraduate population. So, for students looking for a quieter college location, Mercer University is a great option.
5. Georgia State University
As a prestigious public university, Georgia State University is up next at #5. Located in Atlanta, Georgia State University is a public school known for its education programs. With Georgia State University ranking #7 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, Georgia State is one of the best colleges in Georgia for education. The Georgia State acceptance rate is 69%, so it might be a great addition to a balanced college list!
6. Spelman College
Next on our list is Spelman College. Located in Atlanta, Spelman College is a private women’s college and is currently ranked #1 in HBCUs, per U.S News. There are many Spelman College majors for students to choose from. The many Spelman College majors reflect its standing as one of the best colleges in Georgia. Additionally, beyond the best colleges in Georgia, Spelman is one of the best HBCU schools in the nation.
7. Agnes Scott College
Up next on our best colleges in Georgia list, we have Agnes Scott College. Agnes Scott College is a small, private women’s college located in Decatur, Georgia. Best known for their innovative liberal arts education, Agnes Scott College stands out among the other colleges in Georgia. Currently ranked #1 in Most Innovative Schools, Agnes Scott College can be a great choice for students looking at colleges in Georgia.
8. Morehouse College
Up next at #8, we have Morehouse College. Morehouse College is the only all-male HBCU in the United States. Located in Atlanta, Morehouse College is one of the most well-known private colleges in Georgia. Currently ranked #4 in Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Morehouse College is one of the best colleges in Georgia. So, for students interested in attending an HBCU in Georgia, Morehouse is an excellent choice.
9. Covenant College
At #9, we have Covenant College. Located in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, Covenant College is a private, Christian college with an undergraduate enrollment of 872. With views of the Great Smoky Mountains and unique areas of study such as Youth Ministry, Covenant College is one of the more unique colleges in Georgia.
10. Berry College
The last college on our best colleges in Georgia list is Berry College, a private college located in Mount Berry, Georgia. Berry College is currently ranked #3 in Regional Universities South, highlighting its academic excellence among colleges in Georgia. With an undergraduate enrollment of just over 2,100 students, Berry College provides a small campus feel, surrounded by Georgia’s natural beauty.
You’ll find a lot of variation among the best colleges in Georgia. As you can see, the best colleges in Georgia include both public and private schools. Some of the colleges in Georgia also offer unique majors and programs of study. Overall, if you attend one of the best colleges in Georgia, you’ll have access to many research opportunities and unique experiences.
Colleges in Georgia Map
We’ve included a colleges in Georgia map below to help you understand where the best colleges in Georgia are located.
As you can see on the colleges in Georgia map below, the majority of colleges in Georgia are located in Atlanta. Some of the most well-known colleges in Georgia, such as Emory, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State, can be found in or around Atlanta. As such a vibrant cultural hub, it’s no wonder that the majority of colleges in Georgia are found in this city. However, you can also find great colleges in Georgia in more rural areas.
In addition to Atlanta, the colleges in Georgia map highlights several other areas in Georgia to consider. For instance, smaller cities like Macon, August, and Savannah have some of the best colleges in Georgia. So, if you’re looking for a more rural school environment, this colleges in Georgia map features several different options.
As you look at this college in Georgia map, you’ll notice that the best colleges in Georgia are scattered across the state. In fact, no matter what kind of college setting you’re looking for, Georgia likely has a college for you!
How many colleges are in Georgia?
There are 128 colleges in Georgia. Out of the 128 colleges, 53 of them are public colleges and universities, 36 are nonprofit private institutions, and 39 are for-profit private institutions.
As you can see above on the colleges in Georgia map, there are many colleges throughout the state of Georgia. Out of the 128 colleges in Georgia, nine of them are Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In fact, some of the best colleges in Georgia are HBCUs, like Spelman and Morehouse. HBCUs provide a rich educational environment for Black students and make a significant impact to Georgia’s overall economy. Attending an HBCU in Georgia can offer you a strong alumni network. Additionally, some of the best universities in Georgia are HBCUs. If you are interested in HBCUs, then make sure to explore the colleges in Georgia!
The best colleges in Georgia also vary greatly. In fact, you can find the best universities in Georgia scattered throughout the state, from downtown Atlanta to the Great Smoky Mountains.
With so many colleges in Georgia, it can be hard to find which one is best for you. You’ll find that some of the best universities in Georgia are quite competitive; however, not all of the best colleges in Georgia have incredibly low acceptance rates.
While conducting your college search, make sure you balance your list with safety and match schools. The majority of colleges in Georgia are public institutions, which can play a part in how you’ll finance your education. Overall, with the wide range of colleges in Georgia, it’s important to compare schools and consider your needs.
How many colleges are in Atlanta?
According to U.S. News, there are 18 colleges in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Atlanta is home to some of the best universities in Georgia, including Emory and Georgia Tech, as well as some of the most well-known HBCU schools in the country. There are also a number of colleges in Georgia found just outside the Atlanta metro area, such as Georgia Gwinnett College. Given how many colleges in Georgia are located in Atlanta, it’s a great city to consider during your college search.
Atlanta is currently the largest metro area in the Southeast. While the home of some of the best colleges in Georgia, Atlanta is also a large economic hub. Companies such as Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines call Atlanta home. With some of the best colleges in Georgia and many economic opportunities, students have plenty of educational resources in the Atlanta metro area.
With many of the colleges in Georgia found in Atlanta, you may wonder which ones are the best. So, let’s dive into the best colleges in Atlanta.
Atlanta – Best Colleges in Georgia
As we’ve discussed, Atlanta is home to many of the best colleges in Georgia. According to U.S News, the top 5 colleges in Atlanta are:
Top Colleges in Atlanta
1. Emory
As we’ve detailed, Emory University is considered one of the best colleges in Georgia and is the best college in Atlanta. Emory is located in the northeast corner of Atlanta, near the city of Decatur. Emory’s campus size is 631 acres. While it is located in Atlanta, it is one of the more suburban colleges in Georgia. So, for students who want a more traditional college campus with access to a large city, Emory is a great choice.
2. Georgia Tech
The next best college in Atlanta is Georgia Tech. As we’ve noted, Georgia Tech is also one of the best colleges in Georgia as a whole, especially for STEM programs. Where is Georgia Tech? Found just north of Atlanta’s downtown, Georgia Tech has close access to the hustle and bustle of the city. The proximity to downtown Atlanta also makes Georgia Tech one of the more urban colleges in Georgia.
3. University of Georgia
The third best college in Atlanta is the University of Georgia. Technically located in Athens, the University of Georgia is located in the larger Atlanta metro area east of downtown. Considered one of the “Public Ivies,” UGA is also known as one of the best universities in Georgia.
4. Mercer University
Mercer University is the fourth best college in Atlanta and one of the best colleges in Georgia. While the main campus is located in Macon, Mercer University has an Atlanta Campus which serves students in a number of different colleges within Mercer. The Atlanta Campus is located northeast of downtown Atlanta, making Mercer one of the more urban colleges in Georgia.
5. Georgia State University
With an undergraduate enrollment of 28,990, Georgia State University is a large public school located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. For students looking for an urban campus that is deeply ingrained with the city, Georgia State is one of the best colleges in Georgia. With five other campuses, Georgia State is one of the largest colleges in Georgia, giving students plenty of options and resources.
Best private colleges in Georgia
If you’re looking for a private school specially, the private colleges in Georgia are some of the best in the country. However, out of all the colleges in Georgia, only a handful are private. According to U.S News, the top 5 private colleges in Georgia are:
- Emory University
- Mercer University
- Spelman College
- Agnes Scott College
- Morehouse College
Generally, private colleges are more expensive than public colleges. At most of the private colleges in Georgia, many students receive federal and institutional financial aid. So, make sure to explore the financial aid process for each of the colleges in Georgia if you are concerned about costs.
In addition to applying for funding through the financial aid process, you can apply for outside scholarships, such as the HOPE Scholarship. The HOPE Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship for Georgia residents. It applies to most of the colleges in Georgia – you can find more information here.
Top Public Universities in Georgia
The majority of colleges in Georgia are public institutions, providing robust academic opportunities and affordable options for families. Additionally, many of the best colleges in Georgia are public colleges, some of which may be considered “Public Ivies.” This means that their educational resources align with some of the best colleges in the US.
According to U.S News, the top 5 public colleges in Georgia are:
Top Public Universities in Georgia
1. Georgia Tech
It’s no surprise that Georgia Tech comes out on top as the best public college in Georgia. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the Georgia Sun, Georgia Tech is one of the best colleges in Georgia. Compared to other colleges in Georgia, Georgia Tech provides a unique, STEM-focused environment. If you’re interested in attending Georgia Tech, read our How to Get Into Georgia Tech guide here.
2. University of Georgia
Second on our list is the University of Georgia. If you’re interested in a large campus surrounded by a great college town, the University of Georgia is a great choice. Students have many UGA majors to explore and a wide network of educational resources at their disposal. UGA is also one of the best colleges in Georgia for business, according to Niche. Overall, UGA is one of the top public universities in Georgia and is a great option for students from Georgia and beyond.
3. Georgia State University
Georgia State University comes in next at #3. With the high Georgia State University ranking and the relatively high Georgia State acceptance rate, Georgia Tech is a great option for a safety school. Additionally, with in-state tuition and fees at $10,268, Georgia State University is one of the more affordable colleges in Georgia. So, if you’re looking to join a well-rounded and established public institution, Georgia State is for you.
4. Georgia College & State University
Up next is Georgia College & State University. Located in Milledgeville, Georgia College & State University is less than a two-hour drive from Atlanta. With a smaller campus size of 5,586, students can find more of a small-town environment compared to other colleges in Georgia. Currently ranked #7 in Top Public Universities in the South, Georgia College & State University is one of the best public colleges in Georgia.
5. University of North Georgia
The University of North Georgia is the final public college on our list. Located in Dahlonega, GA, The University of North Georgia sits right under the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests and is one of the smaller colleges in Georgia. Included on Georgia Trend as one of the best colleges in Georgia, the University of North Georgia offers a wide range of majors and areas of study for students. Overall, with a more suburban college setting, the University of North Georgia is a great option for many students.
Community Colleges in Georgia
Traditional four-year colleges may not be for every student. So, don’t assume that community colleges are the worst colleges in Georgia. In fact, students can receive an excellent education at any one of the community colleges in Georgia.
Community colleges in Georgia are a great option for students who aren’t sure what they want to study. For some first-generation students, the community colleges in Georgia can provide a great head start. Additionally, you can complete many of your prerequisite courses by attending one of the community colleges in Georgia.
Many community college students transfer to one of the four-year colleges in Georgia—and often save thousands of dollars doing so. So, don’t brush off attending one of the community colleges in Georgia—it can be a smart start to your college career!
If you are interested in the community colleges in Georgia, you can find lists through the American Association of Community Colleges and U.S. News. Rather than thinking these are the worst colleges in Georgia, do some research to see if attending a two-year college is right for you. With so many community colleges in Georgia to consider, we’ve chosen to highlight three great options here:
Community Colleges in Georgia
1. Coastal Pines Technical College
Coastal Pines Technical College is a two-year, public college located in Waycross, GA. Coastal Pines offers degrees and certificates in 18 different programs and satellite campuses across southern Georgia.
2. Atlanta Technical College
Atlanta Technical College is a two-year, public college located in Atlanta, GA. Offering both in-person and online courses, Atlanta Technical College has 16 different programs available.
3. Southern Regional Technical College
Southern Regional Technical College is a two-year, public college located in Thomasville, GA. Southern Regional Technical College offers 18 different programs for students to explore.
Now, let’s learn about some of the best universities in Georgia in a bit more detail. We’ll start by taking a closer look at the HBCU in Georgia.
HBCU in Georgia
HBCU stands for “historically Black colleges and universities.” By definition, HBCUs are institutions of higher education established before 1964 with the primary purpose of educating African American students. There are a total of 10 HBCU in Georgia, 8 of which offer undergraduate degrees.
What are the HBCU in Georgia?
The eight undergraduate HBCU in Georgia are Albany State University, Clark Atlanta University, Fort Valley State University, Savannah State University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, Paine College, and Spelman College. Additionally, several of these are ranked among the best colleges in Georgia.
Let’s explore each of these schools in more detail.
HBCUs in Georgia
Albany State University
Founded in 1903, Albany State University is one of the HBCU in Georgia. With a student body of 5,700, it’s also the largest HBCU in Georgia. The university offers 40 undergraduate degree programs. The most popular majors at Albany State include health and human performance, nursing, and biology.
Clark Atlanta University
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Clark Atlanta University was formed in 1988 after the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College. The university has around 4,000 undergraduate students and is considered one of the best HBCU colleges. It is ranked #23 on the U.S. News list of Top HBCUs.
Fort Valley State University
Established in 1895, Fort Valley State University is a nationally recognized HBCU. According to U.S. News, the school ranks #39 in Top Public Schools and #36 in HBCUs. The university has an enrollment of over 2,700 students. The most popular majors at Fort Valley State University are biology, criminal justice, and psychology.
Savannah State University
As the first public HBCU in Georgia, Savannah State University was established in 1890. With over 3,700 students enrolled, Savannah State offers a wide range of 30 undergraduate majors. Students can choose from over 75 clubs, organizations, sororities, and fraternities.
Morehouse College
With its national acclaim among HBCUs and beyond, Morehouse College is one of the best colleges in Georgia. It’s one of the private colleges in Georgia, located in Atlanta, and the only all-male institution on the top HBCU list. The college has maintained its position in the top 5 HBCU schools for many years and has an acceptance rate of 65%. According to U.S. News, Morehouse College is ranked the #4 HBCU in the country, making it one of the best colleges in the US.
Morris Brown College
Established in 1881, Morris Brown College is one of the other private colleges in Georgia. It is a co-educational, liberal arts college located in Atlanta, Georgia. As the first educational institution in Georgia to be owned and operated entirely by African Americans, Morris Brown College is a significant HBCU in Georgia. The academic program is structured into two divisions: lower and upper. The lower division focuses on the first 2 years of study, while the upper division courses concentrate on the student’s major program of study.
Paine College
Located in Augusta, Georgia, Paine College is a private HBCU in Georgia founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church. Paine College offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees through its 5 departments, with a total of 7 majors to choose from.
Spelman College
Spelman College, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is recognized as the top-ranking HBCU in Georgia and the country. It is a private, all-women’s liberal arts college and has an enrollment of 2,350 students. There are 32 Spelman College majors and 36 minors, providing students with a diverse range of academic programs.
What is the oldest HBCU in Georgia?
The oldest HBCU in Georgia is Clark Atlanta University, which was founded in 1865.
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This private, Methodist institution is located in Atlanta. It was initially established as Atlanta University and was in fact the first HBCU in the Southern United States. In 1988, it merged with Clark College (founded in 1869) to form Clark Atlanta University.
Top HBCU in Georgia
Spelman College is one of the best universities in Georgia and the top HBCU nationwide, according to U.S. News.
This all-women’s institution is located in Atlanta, Georgia. Spelman College is widely regarded as one of the best HBCU schools. It is a private liberal arts college with a student body of 2,350 and an acceptance rate of 51%.
Spelman College has maintained its position as the top HBCU in Georgia for the past 16 years. Spelman boasts an impressive graduation rate of 77%, compared to the national average of 44%. As we mentioned above, there are 32 offered Spelman College majors and 36 minors.
Is college in Georgia free?
Although college in Georgia is not free, students can explore various scholarships and financial aid options to make their education affordable.
Georgia offers a unique option to its residents in the form of the HOPE Scholarship. Established in 1993, this program provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students who can’t afford a college education. Eligibility primarily depends on your high school GPA.
The HOPE Scholarship serves the dual purpose of incentivizing academically minded students to pursue higher education and keeping them within Georgia’s education system. Several of the best universities in Georgia are eligible for the scholarship. For more information about eligibility, deadlines, and award amounts, visit the program’s website.
What is the cheapest university in Georgia?
Middle Georgia State University is the most cost-effective university in Georgia. Although tuition fees may vary from year to year, it is often the most budget-friendly choice for students looking to attend colleges in Georgia.
The school offers a specific period where students can apply for free. Students can take a combination of on-campus, partially online, or fully online classes. Tuition and fees are based on the total number of class hours.
Overall, colleges in the Georgia State University system can be quite affordable, particularly for in-state students. Some schools of the University System of Georgia are Georgia College & State University and Georgia Gwinnett College. For helpful tips on how to make college more financially feasible, take a look at our How to Pay for College guide.
What is the hardest college to get into in Georgia?
The hardest college to get into in Georgia is Emory University. With an acceptance rate of 15%, Emory is a highly selective school and ranks among the best universities in Georgia.
Emory is a highly respected private research institution located in Atlanta, Georgia. It’s also the second-oldest private university in Georgia, with a student population of 8,197 undergraduate students and over 80 majors available. For application tips, check out our Emory University essay guide and essays that worked.
Overall, don’t fixate on acceptance rates alone as you build your college list. Whether it’s the Emory acceptance rate or the Georgia State acceptance rate, no single number will dictate your admissions odds at any school.
Additionally, high acceptance rates do not necessarily indicate the worst colleges in Georgia. In fact, having a few schools with high acceptance rates can be a great way to ensure you balance your college list. So, focus on finding the school that will serve your needs best.
Best Colleges in Georgia – By Major
When exploring the best colleges in Georgia, it’s important to consider what schools offer the majors you’re interested in. By comparing specific programs, you can make an informed decision on the best colleges in Georgia for you.
The Georgia state university rankings are a great way to start your research. However, if you want to find the best colleges in Georgia for you, it can help to be a bit more specific. For many students, this means looking at the best universities in Georgia for particular majors.
Many of the best colleges in Georgia offer a diverse range of majors, including some of the most popular majors such as business, pre-med, and nursing. In this section, we will explore the best colleges in Georgia for each of these fields. These institutions share common traits, such as research and internship opportunities.
As you look at Georgia state university rankings, you should also keep in mind the best colleges in Georgia may have low acceptance rates. To balance your college list, make sure you have schools with higher acceptance rates (like the Georgia State acceptance rate) as well as competitive schools. That way, you’ll increase your chances of attending one of the best colleges in Georgia.
Now, let’s dive into the best colleges in Georgia for business, best colleges in Georgia for pre med, and best colleges in Georgia for nursing.
Best Colleges in Georgia for Business
According to Niche, the best colleges in Georgia for business are the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Emory University, Strayer University- Georgia, and Berry College.
Best Colleges in Georgia for Business
The University of Georgia
The University of Georgia ranking is #1 on Niche’s list of best colleges in Georgia for business. It is considered one of the “Public Ivies.” According to U.S. News, the University of Georgia’s #1 most popular major is finance. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance have the opportunity to manage a real-world stock portfolio.
Additionally, the department has a strong relationship with potential employers, resulting in a high rate of successful internship placements at top companies like Goldman Sachs. More than 80% of finance graduates secure employment within 3 months of graduation.
Georgia Tech
The Georgia Tech ranking on the list of best colleges in Georgia for business is #2. You may be wondering, where is Georgia Tech? It’s located in Atlanta, Georgia, and offers an undergraduate business program that equips students with the necessary tools to excel in the business world. The degree program offers 8 concentrations and 12 certificates in areas like business analytics, strategy and innovation, and sustainability.
The high Georgia Tech ranking speaks to the strengths of its programs. In fact, Georgia Tech provides many opportunities for business students, including various student organizations and research initiatives. Students can also get hands-on leadership experience in business-related extracurricular activities. If you’re interested in getting into this school, check out our guide.
Emory University
Ranked #3 on the best colleges in Georgia for business list, Emory University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree program focusing on 5 areas: accounting, finance, information systems and operation management, marketing, and strategy and management consulting. There are also over 22 business clubs for students to gain practical experience in the field.
Strayer University – Georgia
At #4 on the list of best colleges in Georgia for business is Strayer University – Georgia, which largely serves part-time students. This school offers the Bachelor of Business Administration program online and caters to graduates’ diverse career goals in business, government, and non-profit organizations.
The program emphasizes the development of practical and professional skills in all phases of business. Additionally, Strayer’s business program emphasizes a strong liberal arts component that fosters communication skills and critical analysis.
Berry College
Finally, Berry College is ranked #5 on the list of best colleges in Georgia for business, offering an undergraduate business program that combines a liberal arts education with advanced preparation in business and economics.
The program provides students with necessary skills through academics and hands-on experiences. Additionally, students have many opportunities to gain professional experience through research with faculty, off-campus internships, and on-campus practical learning experiences.
Best Colleges in Georgia for Pre Med
Many pre-med students earn a science-related degree before applying to medical schools. To rank the best colleges in Georgia for pre med, we’ve used Niche’s biology ranking as a reference.
So, our list of the best colleges in Georgia for biology—and best colleges in Georgia for pre med—are as follows: Emory University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Agnes Scott College and Berry College.
Best Colleges in Georgia for Pre Med
Emory University
Ranked #1 on the list of best colleges in Georgia for pre-med is Emory University. This institution offers undergraduate students the opportunity to pursue either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in biology that is essential for further education beyond their undergraduate studies. After completing a degree in biology (or any discipline) at Emory, many students go on to pursue medical school.
Georgia Tech
The Georgia Tech ranking on the list of best colleges in Georgia for pre med is #2 . This school offers students opportunities to pursue a BA or BS in biology. The biology program at Georgia Tech allows students to choose from 21 hours of technical electives that align with their career goals. Additionally, students at Georgia Tech have access to many research opportunities to get hands-on experience in the medical field. Courses at Georgia Tech will also help you fulfill all pre med requirements and study for the MCAT. This makes Georgia Tech one of the best colleges in Georgia for pre med.
The University of Georgia
The University of Georgia ranking is #3 on the best colleges in Georgia for biology list. As one of the “Public Ivies,” this school’s Bachelor of Science in biology program prepares students for professional programs and advanced degrees in the field of biological sciences. Additionally, as a large research university, UGA features plenty of opportunities for students to gain further experience in medicine.
Agnes Scott College
Ranked #4 on the list of best colleges in Georgia for biology list is Agnes Scott College. The college offers a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. The program enables students to study a wide range of biological sciences. This major also allows students to design a customized program of study that aligns with their goals, making it easy to fulfill pre med requirements.
Berry College
Berry College is ranked #5 on the best colleges in Georgia for biology list. This school offers a BS in biology as well as other common pre med majors. Berry’s biology program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to pursue diverse career paths. Berry College prides itself on providing excellent teaching from dedicated mentors and ample opportunities for students to refine their laboratory and field skills.
Colleges in Georgia for Nursing
Next, let’s look at the best colleges in Georgia for nursing.
Since nurses pursue a wide variety of STEM majors before attending nursing school, there is no concrete ranking of the best colleges for nursing at the undergraduate level. Instead, you’ll find rankings of the graduate best colleges for nursing, or best nursing schools. In this guide, we’ve included the best nursing schools in Georgia, many of which are also the best colleges in Georgia for nursing. However, we encourage you to do further research to learn more about undergraduate pathways in the nursing field.
Colleges in Georgia for Nursing
Emory University
Once again, Emory tops our best colleges in Georgia rankings—this time, as the leader of the best colleges in Georgia for nursing. The program provides an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree for students interested in pursuing a career as a registered nurse. The BSN program provides students with top-tier clinical experiences, access to cutting-edge resources, and opportunities to work with leading healthcare partners, enabling them to prepare for a rewarding career in nursing.
Augusta University
Ranked #2 on the list of best colleges in Georgia for nursing, the Augusta University BSN program provides students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to excel in various areas of nursing practice through quality instruction and clinical experiences. The program’s curriculum begins after completion of the core classes and admission to the nursing program. It then comprises four semesters of pre-nursing core curriculum and four semesters of upper-level BSN curriculum.
Mercer University
Next is Mercer University, which ranks #3 on the list of best colleges in Georgia for nursing. The school also offers BSN degrees for undergraduates and prepares them for graduate studies. The BSN pathway at Mercer University is intended to be completed over two years (four semesters) through traditional classroom learning as well as hands-on lab work and clinical practice.
Brenau University
Another top Georgia BSN program, Brenau University ranks 4th on the list of best colleges in Georgia for nursing. The program is designed to prepare students to become qualified health care providers. The BSN program consists of four in-person semesters, and there are three entry options available. Those are the direct entry program for freshman applicants, the traditional entry program for transfer applicants, and the pre-nursing program, which prepares students for entry to the nursing program.
Albany State University
Coming in at #5 on the list of best colleges in Georgia for nursing is Albany State University, which offers an affordable and convenient Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This program is tailored for students who want to pursue a BSN degree and is suitable for high school graduates, transfer students, and those who want to switch majors. The Generic BSN Program operates on a “2+2 program” structure, where students spend the first 2 years completing the core curriculum and the remaining 2 years focusing on nursing courses.
Choosing the best college in Georgia for you
How do you choose which of the best universities in Georgia is for you? Overall, it’s important to keep in mind various factors. These include college location, size, affordability, and majors offered. These factors can help you narrow down your college list and find the best colleges in Georgia for you.
College location and college setting are major factors to consider when choosing a college. Colleges in Georgia vary in terms of location, with some located in urban areas and others in rural college settings. So, to get a better sense of the different environments, you can consult our colleges in Georgia map. This can help you answer questions like, “where is Georgia Tech?” (And remember, Georgia Tech is located in Atlanta!).
Some of the best colleges in Georgia are public colleges offering affordable options for in-state students. These include top-ranked universities like the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech. The University of Georgia is also considered one of the Public Ivies. Additionally, some of the best colleges in Georgia are private colleges such as Emory University and a range of highly ranked HBCUs. There are also community colleges in Georgia, like Atlanta Tech, where students can earn an associate’s degree at an affordable price.
Additionally, for those interested in attending an HBCU in Georgia, there are multiple options available. For instance, Spelman College is one of the best colleges in Georgia and a top HBCU nationwide.
To make an informed decision on the best colleges in Georgia for you, remember to consider your future college major. Comparing specific programs can help you narrow down your choices.
Georgia offers a wide range of educational options, and all the colleges in Georgia provide great choices for both in-state and out-of-state students.
Best Colleges in Georgia – Key Takeaways
We’ve discussed the best colleges in Georgia, including their programs, key features, and national rankings. Many of the best universities in Georgia are public institutions that prioritize college affordability, especially for first-gen students. Overall, Georgia offers a diverse range of colleges that cater to different preferences and goals.
Don’t get fixated on the best or worst colleges in Georgia. It is up to you to decide which are the best colleges in Georgia for you. So, take your time, do your research, and choose a college that aligns with your goals and values.
CollegeAdvisor offers many different resources to help you navigate the college application process. If you want to apply to some of the best colleges in Georgia—and the best colleges in the US—we can help. We’re committed to helping you through the entire process, from raising your SAT scores to receiving your first college acceptance letter.
This guide was written by advisor Jess Klein and Bailey Bennett. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
