26 Best BSN Programs in Georgia in 2025

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Georgia involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is considered one of the best launching points.

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

Best BSN 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. University of North Georgia

At the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega, the BSN program comes with an estimated annual cost of $10,623. Accredited by ACEN and showcasing an excellent NCLEX pass rate of 95%, this program equips students with essential skills for their nursing careers.

2. Gordon State College

Gordon State College in Barnesville offers a BSN program with an estimated annual tuition of $8,925. With ACEN accreditation and an NCLEX pass rate of 88%, this program provides students with a solid foundation for a successful nursing journey at an affordable cost.

3. Georgia Gwinnett College

Consider pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree at Georgia Gwinnett College located in Lawrenceville. The estimated annual cost for this program is $11,400. Accredited by ACEN and achieving an impressive NCLEX pass rate of 93%, it provides a strong foundation for students aspiring to succeed in the nursing field.

4. Middle Georgia State University 

The BSN program at Middle Georgia State University in Macon offers an approximate annual cost of $10,295. This program holds ACEN accreditation and achieves an NCLEX pass rate of 87%, ensuring students receive quality nursing education.

5. Wesleyan College 

Wesleyan College in Macon offers a BSN program with an estimated annual cost of $11,365. Accredited by ACEN and achieving an NCLEX pass rate of 85%, this program provides a good foundation for aspiring nurses to succeed in their nursing careers.

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

What Is a BSN?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an undergraduate program known for its extensive nursing education, offering a deeper academic experience and a broader range of clinical practice opportunities compared to associate nursing degrees.

BSNs equip nurses with a comprehensive skill set, enabling them to pursue diverse career paths beyond conventional clinical roles, such as leadership positions, research roles, educational jobs, and consulting opportunities. In today's healthcare environment, many organizations actively seek BSN-educated nurses to meet elevated standards of care and fulfill accreditation requirements set by entities like the Joint Commission.

BSN Coursework & Curriculum

BSN programs emphasize essential nursing courses, ensuring students are well-prepared to meet the diverse challenges within the nursing profession. The typical courses included in a BSN curriculum are:

• Health Assessment: Techniques and methodologies for evaluating patient health.
• Pharmacology and Nursing Math: Mastery of medication administration and pharmacological principles.
• Nursing Essentials: Introduction to fundamental nursing practices and principles.
• Adult Health Nursing: Comprehensive care for adult patients with various health conditions.
• Pediatric Nursing: Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents.
• Maternal and Neonatal Nursing: Focused care for mothers and newborns.
• Mental Health Nursing: Providing support and care for patients with psychiatric and mental health conditions.
• Community and Public Health Nursing: Nursing practice in community settings and public health.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Introduction to research methods and applying evidence-based practice in nursing.
• Leadership and Management in Nursing: Developing leadership skills and understanding management principles in healthcare settings.
• Nursing Ethics and Legal Aspects: Understanding the ethical and legal aspects of nursing practice.

These core courses provide a comprehensive education, ensuring BSN graduates have the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their nursing careers.

Clinical Training in BSN Programs

Clinical training within BSN programs provides invaluable practical experience essential for developing comprehensive nursing skills. This training includes:

• Foundational Nursing Practices: Hands-on exposure to fundamental patient care techniques and basic nursing principles.
• Specialized Nursing Clinical Rotations: Exposure to diverse specialized nursing areas, such as:
  • Acute Care
  • Pediatric Care
  • Geriatric Care
  • Women's Health
• Leadership and Management Clinical Experiences: Opportunities to shadow nurse leaders, engage in healthcare project management, and gain insights into healthcare administration.
• Community Health Clinical Placements: Hands-on experience in public health settings, focusing on community health promotion and preventive care initiatives.
• Simulation Labs: Practice navigating complex and critical scenarios within a controlled environment to hone clinical decision-making skills and refine hands-on competencies.

These clinical exposures, combined with simulation lab sessions, equip students with the proficiency and expertise necessary to excel in a variety of nursing roles.

Can BSNs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Acquiring nursing skills necessitates hands-on experience and practical application, which cannot be fully achieved through a completely online format for an entry-level nursing degree. As a result, pre-licensure BSN programs require in-person training sessions and direct patient care opportunities in healthcare settings. However, many BSN programs also offer online coursework options, creating a hybrid learning environment that accommodates working students and those who need more flexible schedules.

Where Do BSN-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with a BSN 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

BSN Program Pathways

BSN programs aim to achieve the same objectives but offer various pathways:

1. Traditional BSN: A standard four-year bachelor's degree program.
2. Accelerated BSN: Condenses the same educational content into a shorter period, typically 12-24 months.
3. RN to BSN: Bridge programs designed for those with an associate degree in nursing, allowing them to advance their education without completing a full traditional BSN program.
4. LPN to BSN: A pathway for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to advance their careers by earning a BSN degree, bridging their practical nursing education with a comprehensive BSN curriculum, and expanding their scope of practice and career opportunities.
5. BSN RN Programs for Non-Nursing Graduates: Tailored for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, offering a streamlined curriculum that focuses on essential nursing courses for a swift transition into the nursing profession.

BSN Program Admission Requirements

When evaluating a BSN program, it's crucial to understand the prerequisites and requirements that lay the foundation for a successful nursing career. Generally, most BSN programs favor applicants with a high school GPA of 2.75 or above, or equivalent academic performance from an associate degree program, with even higher GPA expectations for healthcare-related coursework.

Common BSN Admission Requirements:

• Evidence of Previous Education: Verification of a high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisite Courses: Specific coursework requirements vary by program, so consult your chosen program for precise prerequisites.
• Pre-Entrance Examination: Tests such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.).
• CPR Certification: Often not mandatory for admission but required before commencing clinical courses.
• Criminal Background Check: Ensures patient safety and complies with healthcare regulations.
• Drug Screening: Ensures a drug-free environment and adherence to healthcare standards.
• Health Assessment: Validates that students meet the physical requirements essential for performing nursing duties.
• Immunization Requirements: Ensures the safety of students and patients by preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
• Additional Criteria: Some programs may also require volunteer work, submission of resumes, and provision of references to support the application.

Requirements will vary based on your starting point and chosen pathway. For instance, RN to BSN programs will require an associate degree in nursing, an RN license, and sometimes bedside experience as a registered nurse. It is important to verify specific requirements with the schools you plan to attend.

Common BSN Admission Prerequisite Courses:

While prerequisites can differ between programs, most BSN programs require a standard set of courses to be completed prior to enrollment. If these prerequisites are not required at the time of entry, equivalent courses are usually integrated into the program. The following is not a comprehensive list but includes some of the most common prerequisites:

• Biology (including lab and lecture)
• Chemistry (including lab and lecture)
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology (including lab and lecture)
• Nutrition
• Pathophysiology
• Sociology
• Math (some require statistics, others only algebra or higher)
• General Psychology

These foundational courses aim to furnish students with a robust grounding in essential scientific and social sciences. By completing these prerequisites, students are better prepared to tackle the rigorous challenges of a BSN program and flourish in the nursing profession.

2025 BSN Program Costs & Considerations in Georgia

Exploring BSN programs in Georgia requires prospective students to look beyond just tuition fees to understand the overall investment:

• Tuition Costs: Private institutions often have higher tuition fees, and out-of-state residents may find public schools more expensive due to different tuition rates.
• Additional Expenses: Consider technology fees, lab charges, simulation lab access fees, and administrative costs when calculating total expenses.
• Textbooks and Materials: Purchasing required textbooks and supplies can be a significant expense, including specialized software or medical equipment for certain courses.
• Living Costs: Even for predominantly online programs, any on-campus requirements can lead to additional costs for travel, lodging, and meals.
• Technology Needs: Reliable access to computing and internet resources is crucial for online learning; consider potential expenses for necessary technology upgrades.
• Licensing and Examination Fees: After graduation, students will need to pay for licensure or certification exams relevant to BSN graduates.

Financial Considerations:

• Opportunity Costs: Working professionals might need to adjust their work hours, leading to reduced earnings—an important indirect cost to consider.
• Long-term Return on Investment: Evaluate the potential long-term benefits of different programs, which may include enhanced networking opportunities, superior educational quality, or better job placement rates.
• Personal Situations: Factors like childcare responsibilities or maintaining employment during studies can impact program feasibility.
• Accreditation and Reputation: Ensure the program holds proper accreditation and consider its reputation for future job prospects and earning potential.
• Financial Aid and Scholarships: Explore available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs.

Effective financial planning is essential for managing educational expenses. To explore potential cost-saving opportunities, consider examining the Cheapest BSN Programs of 2025.

2025 BSN RN Career Outlook

In 2022, the United States had a nursing workforce of 3,300,100 professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the nursing sector is projected to grow by 6% by 2033, adding 197,200 new roles for nursing professional. Additionally, about 194,500 job openings for registered nurses are expected annually over the next decade.

This anticipated growth presents promising opportunities for aspiring nurses. Contributing factors include a current nurse shortage, declining enrollment in nursing programs, and the expected retirement of a significant portion of the workforce within the next two decades. Despite challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for skilled nursing practitioners remains high, especially due to the aging population requiring more healthcare services.

Nationwide, pursuing a BSN is a strategic career move, however, regional variations exist, with some areas having a higher concentration of nurses, affecting job competition. For instance, job market conditions can vary within Georgia, with certain regions having a greater demand for nurses than others. Each state also has differing healthcare needs. Therefore it's essential to research local healthcare demands when planning your nursing career.

2025 BSN Salary Expectations in Georgia

If you're considering nursing school in Georgia, it's crucial to understand that salaries in this field are influenced by several key factors. Your specialty, experience level, and the employer you choose can all significantly impact your potential earnings. While some employers offer higher salaries to nurses with BSN degrees, many also provide substantial tuition reimbursement programs to support further education. Additionally, your salary can vary widely depending on where you live, the type of healthcare facility where you work, and how much experience you have. Keep these factors in mind as you plan your educational and career journey in nursing.

To assist in your decision-making, we have detailed the variations in RN salaries across the country, specifically in Georgia, and highlighted the differences between salaries for RNs with an ADN versus those with a BSN. According to the BLS, RNs in 2023 earned the following:

Georgia RN Wage

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

Georgia employs 93,730 registered nurses, placing the state in the top 25th percentile for nurse employment nationwide.

National RN Wage

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

Top Paying States for RNs

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

Typically, there is a noticeable income gap between ADN-prepared and BSN-prepared RNs, with BSN RNs generally earning higher salaries. However, the BLS does not differentiate between these educational levels in its salary reports. Using data from ZipRecruiter, we can identify the salary differences between ADN RNs and BSN RNs in Georgia.

Average ADN RN Salary in Georgia:

• Hourly Wage: $37.00
• Annual Wage: $76,486.00

Average BSN RN Salary in Georgia:

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

Georgia Cities with the highest BSN RN salary are: 

• Lumpkin: $91,271.00
• Macon: $90,678.00
• Lumber City: $88,333.00
• Sandy Springs: $88,159.00
• Atlanta: $86,826.00

By understanding these factors and differences in nursing salaries, you can make informed decisions about your nursing education and career to maximize your earning potential.

Is Pursuing a BSN in Georgia Worth It?

While an ADN provides a solid foundation, a bachelor degree opens doors to specialized opportunities. Data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) shows that 28% of employers now require a BSN, and 72% prefer BSN-educated nurses. This highlights the value of a BSN for those seeking to meet the demand for highly skilled nurses, thus enhancing their career prospects.

When it comes to your nursing education, choosing the right path can significantly impact your career trajectory. Understanding the pros and cons of pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is essential. Here's a look at the advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision:

Pros of Pursuing a BSN in Georgia:

1. Thriving Healthcare Sector: Georgia boasts a growing healthcare industry with numerous hospitals and healthcare facilities, especially in the city of Atlanta. This expansion offers ample clinical opportunities for students and job prospects for BSN graduates.
2. Diverse Educational Opportunities: BSN programs in Georgia provide a comprehensive range of nursing education, establishing a strong foundation in both clinical skills and theoretical knowledge.
3. Expanded Job Prospects: Many healthcare institutions, including hospitals, prefer or require BSN-educated nurses, expanding your employment options.
4. Specialization Opportunities: With a BSN, you can pursue specialized fields such as critical care, leadership, management, or research, broadening your career prospects.
5. Higher Salary Potential: BSN-trained nurses often qualify for higher-paying positions and have more leverage in salary negotiations compared to those with an ADN.
6. Improved Patient Care: Research shows that BSN-prepared nurses are linked to better patient outcomes due to their training in critical thinking, leadership, and management.
7. Professional Standards: Leading nursing organizations endorse the BSN as the standard for nursing education, ensuring compliance with industry benchmarks.

Cons of Pursuing a BSN in Georgia:

1. Traffic Congestion: Major cities in Georgia, such as Atlanta, are known for heavy traffic, which can impact commute times and daily schedules.
2. Rural Healthcare Challenges: While there are numerous job opportunities in urban areas, rural parts of Georgia may have fewer healthcare facilities, potentially limiting clinical opportunities and job prospects in those regions.
3. Higher Education Costs: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant financial investment of both time and money, including potential student loans and a longer period without full-time income.
4. Intensive Curriculum: BSN programs cover a broad and challenging curriculum, including clinical skills, research, leadership, and public health, which can be academically demanding.
5. Local Culture Adjustments: You might encounter unique regional customs and lifestyle differences, such as the local passion for college football and regional cuisine.
6. Competitive Job Market: In areas with a high concentration of BSN graduates, job competition can be fierce, similar to the challenges faced by those with an ADN.
7. Extended Education Period: Completing a BSN takes longer than an ADN, potentially delaying your entry into the workforce, which could be a significant consideration for those eager to start their careers quickly.

By evaluating these factors in relation to your career goals and personal circumstances, you can make a well-informed decision about your nursing education path in Georgia.

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.

Importance of BSN Program Accreditation in Georgia

In addition to previously mentioned factors, the accreditation of your nursing program is a crucial consideration. Choosing an accredited nursing school is especially important when pursuing a BSN for several compelling reasons:

• Educational Excellence: Accreditation ensures that the program meets established standards of nursing education, providing a high-quality learning experience vital for developing essential nursing skills and knowledge.
• RN Licensure Eligibility: Most regulatory bodies require graduation from an accredited program for RN licensure. While state board-approved programs without accreditation may allow practice within the state, they might restrict relocation and practice in other states.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Employers often prefer candidates from accredited programs because it assures them of comprehensive education and training.
• Further Educational Pathways: Accredited BSN degrees typically serve as prerequisites for admission into advanced nursing programs, such as Master's or Doctorate levels.
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Enrollment in an accredited program is often a requirement for federal financial aid, as well as many scholarships and grants, which are essential for covering educational expenses.
• Professional Credibility: Graduating from an accredited program enhances professional credibility, indicating to employers, colleagues, and patients a solid educational foundation.
• Public Confidence: Accreditation standards ensure nursing programs prepare students in a manner that promotes patient safety and well-being, which is vital for maintaining public trust in the healthcare system.
• Comprehensive Preparation: Accredited programs undergo regular reviews to ensure their curriculum is current and comprehensive, equipping students to meet the demands of the healthcare field.
• Networking Opportunities: Accredited programs often have connections with a wide array of healthcare facilities, providing students with valuable clinical placements and post-graduation employment prospects.

Entities such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), or the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) recognize accredited BSN programs. These programs adhere to stringent national standards, ensuring that nursing students receive comprehensive training and are well-prepared to enter the nursing workforce upon graduation, with the flexibility to practice across state borders.

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 to achieve the prestige of Magnet status.

Edited Oct 20 by Erin Lee
3-4 sentences on top 5 programs