Best Undergraduate Nursing Schools in Georgia for 2026
As the demand for compassionate, skilled nurses continues to rise, Georgia’s colleges and universities are stepping up to prepare students for successful healthcare careers. From large research institutions to smaller faith-based campuses, each school below offers a nursing program that blends academic rigor with hands-on clinical training.
All institutions on this list have earned the College of Distinction badge for Nursing—an added recognition of their commitment to engaged teaching, student success, and practical experience. Programs are built to not only meet accreditation standards but also to support students holistically through dedicated faculty, career preparation, and community involvement.
Whether you’re aiming to work in hospitals, community health, or beyond, these top undergraduate nursing schools in Georgia offer the tools, mentorship, and support to help you thrive in one of the most in-demand professions.
Emory University
Atlanta, GA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
Emory University is a renowned private institution located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia. With over 80 undergraduate majors spanning nine schools and colleges, Emory offers students the freedom to explore their interests through a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from intimate learning environments led by dedicated, world-class faculty who prioritize mentorship and active learning. Beyond academics, Emory fosters a vibrant, service-oriented community that values social responsibility, diversity, and global citizenship.
Research, internships, and leadership opportunities are woven into the undergraduate experience, preparing students to make meaningful contributions both during and after college. Whether studying public health, business, the humanities, or the sciences, Emory students are equipped with the skills, values, and real-world experience to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
Acceptance rate 11% • Net price $27,986 • SAT Range 1460-1550
Total Undergrad Population 7,359 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 92% • Retention rate 96% • Student-to-faculty ratio 9:1
Georgia College
Milledgeville, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
With over 46 undergraduate programs, 150+ student organizations, and 34 graduate programs to choose from, students are encouraged to participate in intellectual and culturally vibrant activities. As a historic teaching and nursing college, Georgia College & State University consistently ranks among the best programs for both teaching and nursing undergraduate and graduate programs. Combined with affordable tuition, Georgia College is a top pick for students looking for dedicated faculty and staff, diverse academic programs, and a supportive student environment.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDY
Programs for students at Georgia College include online degree programs, dual enrollment, double majoring, student exchange programs, an honors program, internships, study abroad, a professional studies program, and summer classes. Georgia College can award certificates as well as bachelor’s, some master’s, and two doctorate degrees.
FACULTY RESEARCH
Faculty participate in an active community of research at Georgia College. Research labs include the Social Emotional Development Laboratory, Behavioral Neuroscience, Behavioral Pharmacology, Memory Lab, and more.
Acceptance rate 88% • Net price $19,769 • SAT Range 1060-1240
Total Undergrad Population 5,681 • Setting Town • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 62% • Retention rate 84% • Student-to-faculty ratio 16:1
Read more about Georgia College’s nursing program
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Georgia Southern University is large enough to provide endless opportunities, but personal enough to feel like home, plus employers say our grads are ready from day one. With almost 27,000 students, approximately 141 different degree programs, three campuses built on a single vision of growing others, Georgia Southern University is moving ahead and ready for more. With historic brick streets or moss-dripping oak trees, our picturesque campuses may seem pristine, but there’s a lot of roll-up-your-sleeves work going on here. Research is focused on community impact. Teaching is focused on students. And students are focused on their future.
Since 1906, the University’s hallmark has been a culture of engagement that bridges theory with practice, extends the learning environment beyond the classroom and promotes student growth and life success. 10 years in a row named “Military Friendly”, 11-time top eco-friendly campus, top 10 best hidden gem public universities and with inclusive excellence a core value, Georgia Southern is ready to help students shine.
Acceptance rate 90% • Net price $16,957 • SAT Range 980-1160
Total Undergrad Population 22,295 • Setting Town • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 53% • Retention rate 77% • Student-to-faculty ratio 24:1
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Kennesaw State University believes in empowering you to become the best version of yourself. Through a blend of rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and diverse opportunities, you’ll discover your passions and unlock your potential. Engage with access to over 300 student organizations. Find camaraderie in on-campus residence halls. Savor award-winning dining options. Experience the thrill of competition in club sports and NCAA Division I teams. Become a proud Owl and a part of a supportive community that values your unique voice and ambitions.
When you choose KSU, there are no limits to who YOU will become.
Acceptance rate 69% • Net price $17,566 • SAT Range 1020-1220
Total Undergrad Population 40,509 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 48% • Retention rate 79% • Student-to-faculty ratio 23:1
Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls, GA ‧ Christian ‧ 4-year
Toccoa Falls is the perfect academic community for students who are looking for an institution that will positively impact both their academic and spiritual lives. Founded in 1907 in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Toccoa Falls’ first president, Dr. Richard Forest, was convinced of the importance for all students to receive a quality Christian education. Over one hundred years later, TFC is still following his motto: Where Character is Developed with Intellect.
Toccoa Falls College is serious about providing solid academics that build skills for a lifetime, and equally serious about promoting a solid Christian worldview that provides a stable foundation for a meaningful life.
TFC deliberately integrates scripture, truth, wisdom, and service into all that it does. Whether they are sitting in class, taking online courses, hiking beautiful trails, relaxing by the falls, swimming in the pond, studying in the library, or just spending time with friends, students are bound to experience the power of Toccoa Falls College’s mission.
Acceptance rate 64% • Net price $20,657 • SAT Range 1060-1250
Total Undergrad Population 2,489 • Setting Town • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 45% • Retention rate 57% • Student-to-faculty ratio 16:1
Read more about Toccoa Falls College’s nursing program
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, GA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Founded in 1873, UNG has led generations of leaders across professions. The university’s strong culture of military personnel and inquiring academic minds is apparent across all five campuses. Offering both on-campus and online educational pathways, UNG has a bachelor’s, associate’s, graduate, or doctoral degree for anyone ready to become outstanding leaders for a diverse and global society.
Acceptance rate 72% • Net price $11,687 • SAT Range 1020-1215
Total Undergrad Population 17,242 • Setting Town • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 52% • Retention rate 73% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
Nursing in Georgia: Your Questions Answered
Top nursing programs in Georgia include Emory University, Georgia College, Georgia Southern University, and University of North Georgia. Each of these schools combines rigorous academics with excellent clinical experiences.
Yes. The top nursing programs in Georgia are accredited by nationally recognized organizations like the CCNE and ACEN. Schools such as Kennesaw State University and Toccoa Falls College have long-standing, accredited programs that prepare students for the NCLEX and real-world nursing practice.
Colleges of Distinction nursing schools emphasize high-impact practices like simulation labs, clinical rotations, community health outreach, and research. These programs prepare students for the realities of healthcare through extensive real-world training.
Nursing schools featured here are not only accredited but also meet the four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Communities, and Successful Outcomes. Learn more about our evaluation process.
Last updated: August 2025. Data sourced from the U.S. Department of Education’s IPEDS database and College Scorecard.
About Our Methodology: Colleges of Distinction identifies nursing programs that are student-focused, accredited, and committed to long-term career success. Our evaluation includes both qualitative and quantitative data on faculty excellence, practical training, and student outcomes. See full methodology here.
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