15 Best ADN Programs in Georgia in 2024

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Georgia involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them, the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of the fastest and most popular options.

Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know to apply for an ADN in Georgia, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best ADN Programs in Georgia

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Chattahoochee Technical College

Chattahoochee Technical College, situated in Marietta, offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program at an estimated annual cost of $3,068. Boasting a remarkable 99% NCLEX pass rate and ACEN accreditation, this program equips students for successful nursing careers.

2. West Georgia Technical College 

West Georgia Technical College in Waco provides an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at an estimated annual cost of $2,127. With an 88% NCLEX pass rate and ACEN accreditation, this program offers valuable training for aspiring nurses.

3. Oconee Fall Line Technical College 

Oconee Fall Line Technical College, located in Sandersville, presents an Associate of Nursing Degree (AND) program at an estimated annual cost of $3,407. Achieving a commendable 91% NCLEX pass rate and holding ACEN accreditation, this program prepares students for a fulfilling career in nursing.

_{*Costs as reported by Department of Education unless otherwise noted. Actual costs will vary based on scholarship, coursework, etc.}

What Is an ADN?

An ADN is an entry-level degree that provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become RNs. Upon completion of an ADN program, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed.

ADN Coursework

The robust curriculum, including a blend of classwork and hands-on coursework, means students will be well prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin in a clinical nurse role upon graduation. Since ADN students work towards an associate of applied science, coursework in general education and nursing is required. Standard classes include:

• Fundamentals of Nursing
• Nursing care of adults
• Community Health Nursing
• Behavioral Health
• Microbiology
• Humanities
• Psychology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Chemistry

Can ADNs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Acquiring nursing skills requires hands-on learning and real-life practice, which can't be fully replicated in an entirely online environment for an initial nursing degree. Because of this, ADN programs aren't entirely online, as in-person skills training and direct patient care experiences in healthcare facilities are needed. However, plenty of ADN programs offer online coursework options, providing a hybrid environment for working students or those who require more flexible schedules.

Where Do ADN-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with an ADN have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Home Care Agencies
• Physician Office
• Educational Services
• Government Agencies
• Schools
• Community Centers
• Hospices
• Dialysis Centers
• Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings

ADN Prerequisites and Requirements

Acceptance to an ADN program comes with several prerequisites and requirements, including:

• Proof of Prior Education: Verification of high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisite studies: Research your program for the exact courses needed.
• Pre-Entrance Exam: Tests like the TEAS or HESI.
• CPR Certification: Varying depending on the program.
• Criminal Background Check: To ensure patient safety.

ADN Program Costs in Georgia

The expenses associated with pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in Georgia can vary widely based on several factors. Here's what you need to consider when budgeting for your nursing education:

• Tuition: Tuition costs can vary dramatically between public and private institutions, as well as between in-state and out-of-state students. Typically, attending private colleges or enrolling as an out-of-state student results in higher tuition fees.
• Supplies: Expenses in this category include textbooks, medical supplies, and other essential educational materials, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Technology Fees: Students enrolled in hybrid or online ADN programs may face additional charges for the use of technology, software, or other online learning resources.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Certain courses may require fees for the use of specific materials or equipment essential for practical learning experiences.
• Miscellaneous Fees: These can include application fees, graduation fees, and other administrative costs that are often not considered when planning a budget for nursing school.
• Living Expenses: Costs for daily living, such as food, accommodation, utilities, and personal expenses, are particularly significant for students who intend to study full-time without working or for those who may need to relocate to pursue their studies.

Understanding the total cost of the ADN program in Georgia is crucial, enabling you to manage your finances effectively and focus on your education without undue financial pressure. To further reduce overall costs, consider exploring the Most Affordable ADN Programs 2024. 

ADN Salary Expectations in Georgia 

In the dynamic landscape of nursing salaries, the distinction between ADN and BSN prepared registered nurses is pivotal. BSN RNs are likely to earn more, yet the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not differentiate between the two.

RNs nationally earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

According to the BLS, Georgia's RN Salaries are a bit lower than the national estimates for 2023, and the state boasts 93,730 employed RNs, positioning it in the 75-100% bracket nationally for RN employment.

 RNs in Georgia earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $43.27
• Mean Annual Wage: $90,000.00

The highest paying states for RN's are:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

While the BLS does not provide data to compare ADN RN to BSN RN salary, ZipRecrutier's reports identify a difference in salary. 

BSN RNs in Georgia earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $40.00
• Annual Wage: $83,407.00

ADN RNs in Georgia earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $34.00
• Annual Wage: $71,134.00

Cities with the highest ADN RN salary in Georgia are: 

• Marietta: $91,326
• Savannah: $90,015
• Alpharetta: $88,449
• LaGrange: $87,646
• Lithonia: $87,048

Is Pursuing an ADN in Georgia Worth It?

Absolutely! An ADN provides a swift and economical pathway into the nursing profession, aligning well with the ongoing high demand for healthcare workers. The choice between an ADN and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) should be based on your career aspirations, as some specialized positions may require or prefer a BSN. 

Pros of ADN Programs in Georgia

1. Quick Entry to the Workforce: An ADN program typically spans two years, enabling graduates to enter the nursing field faster than those pursuing a four-year BSN.
2. Cost-Effective: ADN programs are often more affordable than BSN programs, particularly those offered at community colleges which benefit from lower tuition rates.
3. Widely Available: These programs are broadly accessible at community colleges and technical schools, catering to a diverse student population across various regions.
4. NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: ADN programs prepare students for the NCLEX-RN, a requisite exam for RN licensure.
5. Flexible Scheduling: Many ADN programs offer adaptable scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes, making it easier for students to juggle their studies alongside work or family responsibilities.

Cons of ADN Programs in Georgia

1. Career Advancement Barriers: Some employers, especially those in specialized or higher-level roles, may require or favor a BSN, potentially limiting career progression for ADN graduates until they obtain further qualifications.
2. Continued Education Requirements: Although an ADN qualifies you to work as an RN, advancing into specialized or administrative positions typically requires further education, such as a BSN or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
3. Market Competitiveness: In a job market where many nurses hold BSN degrees, those with an ADN may be at a competitive disadvantage, particularly in regions or hospitals with higher educational standards.
4. Future Educational Needs: The nursing field is trending towards requiring a BSN for RNs, necessitating that ADN graduates may need to pursue additional bridge programs to a BSN in the future to remain competitive and meet evolving employer expectations, as highlighted by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
5. Limited Access in Some Sectors: Certain nursing roles, especially those in research, public health, or management, are less accessible to those with only an ADN compared to those who have a BSN or higher degrees.

Choosing an ADN in Georgia offers significant benefits and provides a solid foundation for a nursing career, though it's important to consider long-term career goals and potential educational requirements.

How to Choose a Nursing School

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them, and it is advised to ensure the program chosen is accredited. 

Why ADN RN Program Accreditation Matters 

The importance of accreditation for Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs in Georgia cannot be overstated for those planning their future career trajectories and educational growth. Here are the key reasons why accreditation matters:

• Educational Quality: Accredited programs adhere to rigorous standards in curriculum development, faculty qualifications, resource availability, and clinical training. This ensures a high-quality education that meets national benchmarks.
• NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Being enrolled in an accredited program significantly improves your preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam, enhancing your chances of passing on your first attempt.
• Licensing Flexibility: While a state-approved program might enable you to practice within Georgia, the absence of accreditation could restrict your ability to obtain licensure in other states without completing additional accredited education.
• Employment Prospects: Graduates from accredited programs are often preferred by employers because their education aligns with established national standards, facilitating job opportunities and easing the process of interstate career transitions where accreditation is necessary.
• Credit Transferability: Credits from an accredited program are more likely to be accepted by other educational institutions, crucial for those looking to further their education in areas such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
• Professional Reputation: Earning a degree from an accredited program bolsters your professional standing, aligning your education with recognized standards and promoting the advancement of nursing practices.
• Access to Financial Aid: Accreditation is also a requirement for eligibility for federal financial aid, which is vital for many students.

Prospective nurses in Georgia should ensure they choose programs accredited by esteemed bodies like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the National League for Nursing's Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). While the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is highly regarded, it does not provide accreditation for ADN or diploma nursing programs.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Georgia?

Georgia is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without additional steps. You do not have to transfer your license if moving from an NLC state.

Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Georgia?

Many schools in Georgia offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Q: Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?

While obtaining an RN license after completing an ADN is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an ADN primarily focuses on clinical skills.

Additionally, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and achieve Magnet status's prestige.

Edited May 11 by Erin Lee