Best Online Education & Teaching Programs in Georgia (GA)

If you’re curious about where the talented educators in Georgia acquire their teaching skills, then you might be on track to discovering a rewarding online education and teaching degree. For the state’s teachers, these programs are a convenient way to fulfill education requirements for a teaching license or advance their teaching careers.

However, there’s a lot to consider before you enroll in an online teaching program in Georgia, from deciding what type of degree is right for you to how much it will cost. This STEPS guide will give you a broad look at online and hybrid teaching programs in Georgia and help you to decide which one is the right fit for you.

Author: Ellery Weil
Editor: Grace Butler
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Inside Online Associate Degrees in Georgia: A Closer Look

For aspiring educators in Georgia, an associate degree is not sufficient to meet the state’s educational requirements for obtaining a teaching license. However, an associate degree can help you complete your general education requirements before you continue to a bachelor’s in education program.

Earning your associate’s degree first can also make your journey to your bachelor’s degree in education easier and more affordable. Below are some examples of associate in education programs available to Georgia students.

Georgia Highlands College

The Associate of Science (AAS) in Early Childhood Education at Georgia Highlands College (GHC) offers students flexibility in earning their educational degrees. This two-year, 64-credit program can be completed in person on their campus in Rome, Georgia or online.

The AAS program is designed to prepare you to begin working as an education paraprofessional in an early childhood setting. However, if you want to earn a teaching license, you may choose to continue to a bachelor’s in education program, having already earned several college credits in education. This degree includes a field experience component, which is also required if you choose to complete your coursework online.

Location: Rome, remote

Mode: In-person, online, hybrid

Cost: $101/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • High school diploma or GED

Brenau College

The fully online Associate of Arts (AA) in Elementary Education at Brenau College is a two-year, 61-credit program that offers multiple start dates per year. This program does not require standardized test scores and is designed to be transfer-friendly. Once you enroll, you will be taking a mix of education and teaching courses and general education classes.

Branau’s AA in Elementary Education is fully online, with no need to travel to campus or field locations. While tuition at Brenau, which is a private university, is higher than many public institutions, financial aid is available for all students.

Location: Remote

Mode: Online

Cost: $689/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • High school diploma or GED

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Georgia’s Bachelor’s Degree Options

A bachelor’s degree, which usually takes four years to complete, will typically fulfill the education requirements for a Georgia teaching license. Many of Georgia’s bachelor’s in education programs also give you the opportunity to specialize in different educational subfields, such as elementary education or science education, allowing you to shape your future career path.

Mercer University

Mercer University, a private university with multiple Georgia campuses, offers a Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd) in Secondary Education on four different campuses, and the program can be completed through a hybrid of on-campus and online learning. The online aspects of your courses will include both synchronous and asynchronous classes, with in-person meetings held only twice for each class. Students will also undergo field experiences at public schools.

There are four areas of specialization offered in this degree: English, history, political science, and mathematics. Each of these can lead to a potential certification and career as a subject-area teacher in that topic.

Location: Atlanta, Douglas County, Henry County, Macon

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $1,750.50/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Official transcripts

Master’s degrees in education or teaching in Georgia tend to serve one of two purposes. These programs can be ideal for career changers who want to go into teaching. They also serve those with existing teaching careers who want to specialize or take on a leadership role at their school. Additionally, there are plenty of flexible online master’s programs in education available for busy students.

Georgia College and State University

Georgia College and State University offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Middle Grades Education at their Milledgeville campus, which can be completed through a hybrid of in-person and online study or fully online. The program includes a concentration in mathematics and science education and is a step towards additional certification from the state in middle grades math and science education.

The program includes a fieldwork component. However, if you are a working teacher, you may complete that fieldwork in your own classroom. Those who are not currently teaching will be assigned a classroom to complete their fieldwork requirements.

Location: Milledgeville, remote

Mode: Hybrid, Online

Cost: $295/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • Passing Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE) scores
  • Accredited bachelor’s degree
  • Grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 or higher

Looking at Georgia’s PhD, Doctoral, and Graduate Certificate Programs

As the most advanced forms of education credentials, PhDs and doctorates are what are known as “terminal degrees.” PhDs require the completion of original research, whereas doctorates require professional experience. Alternatively, graduate certificates are advanced, non-degree programs that allow degree-holding students to acquire further specialization. Graduate certificates typically take less time to complete than PhDs or doctorates.

University of West Georgia

At the University of West Georgia, students can earn a doctorate through their fully online Doctorate of Education (EdD) in School Improvement. This is a program meant for experienced educators who are looking for roles that impact the trajectory of individual schools struggling in one or more areas.

As with all doctoral programs, this degree will include the completion of an original dissertation, and although you will be studying and completing your dissertation remotely, you will still have the opportunity to meet with an advisor through the mandatory intensive Virtual Dissertation Preparation Seminar. The time to complete this program varies, but it is possible to graduate in as little as three years of full-time study.

Location: Remote

Mode: Online

Cost: $405.60/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • Writing sample
  • Admissions essay
  • Applicants are strongly advised to have a leadership background

Mercer University

The PhD in Educational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership at Mercer University is a research doctorate, rather than a professional doctorate. This means that the program has a strong emphasis on research and is designed to prepare students for a career as a researcher or work in academia.

This is a hybrid program designed for working professionals. Online classes are delivered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Students will also attend periodic mandatory in-person classes. In addition to required courses and your doctoral dissertation, you will have the opportunity to choose relevant electives from a series of education classes.

Location: Atlanta

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $842/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Online application
  • Resume
  • Master’s degree from an accredited institution
  • GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • GRE scores
  • Essay

Georgia Education Students FAQs: Your Questions, Answered

How long does it take to earn an online education degree in Georgia?

As you can see in our program spotlights earlier in this guide, the length of time it takes to complete your online education degree in Georgia will depend largely on the type of degree you’re pursuing. Associate degrees typically take two years to complete, while bachelor’s degrees take four, and doctorates and PhDs can take significantly longer, depending on your thesis. If you choose to study part-time as opposed to full-time, this may also impact your time to graduate.

How much do Georgia online education programs cost?

There are a variety of factors that go into determining the cost of an online degree in education. The type of degree and length of the program can be some of the most important factors in determining cost, as can whether you’re studying at a state school (and are eligible for in-state tuition), or a private school, where tuition rates are often significantly higher.

Remember that the “sticker price” of a given program may be mitigated through financial aid, such as scholarships and grants.

How important is it that my Georgia online education program be accredited?

It is essential that your online education program in Georgia be from an accredited school. Institutional accreditation is what gives a school legitimacy in awarding degrees and shows future employers and other institutes of study that your school met quality standards. You may also want to see if your program has programmatic accreditation for your education program, which many future employers take as an additional mark of academic rigor.

How do I judge the quality of an online education program in Georgia?

There are many factors to consider when assessing the quality of an online education program in Georgia. In addition to accreditation, be sure to look for student services and other resources, such as career counseling and financial aid opportunities. You may also want to research graduation rates, and post-graduation employment rates for your program, as these can serve as markers of school and program quality.

Is there financial aid for online education programs in Georgia?

Yes, there is absolutely financial aid for online education students in Georgia at all degree levels. Check with your school’s office of financial aid about how to apply for any specific scholarships administered by the school.

Filling out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will make you eligible for federal student aid, so be sure to complete your FAFSA on time. You can also look into private scholarship foundations, many of which offer funding opportunities specifically for future teachers. Make sure to keep track of all application deadlines and requirements.

What’s Next? Careers and Salaries in Georgia for Education Graduates

Area Occupation 10th Percentile 90th Percentile Median
Georgia Elementary School Teachers $48,250 $98,480 $64,390
Georgia Kindergarten Teachers $49,120 $94,800 $67,240
Georgia Middle School Teachers $48,130 $102,670 $73,210
Georgia Postsecondary Teachers $46,960 $100,400 $62,060
Georgia Secondary School Teachers $47,940 $101,160 $65,350
Georgia Teachers and Instructors $28,880 $96,340 $57,990

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.


Area Occupation Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth %
Georgia Elementary School Teachers 46,350 50,920 4,570 9.90%
Georgia Kindergarten Teachers 3,730 4,100 370 9.90%
Georgia Middle School Teachers 28,010 30,820 2,810 10.00%
Georgia Postsecondary Teachers 9,880 10,680 800 8.10%
Georgia Secondary School Teachers 24,610 27,130 2,520 10.20%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Best-Ranked Online Education & Teaching Programs in Georgia

While the program that’s “best” for any given student is a personal decision, there are some objective criteria that go into the rankings process. These criteria include not only ensuring that all schools on the list are accredited, but also weighing factors such as online program availability, student services, financial aid opportunities, and more.

For more details, see the methodology tab below. If you are ready to find a program that fits your needs, read on to review the best online teaching and education programs in Georgia.

1

Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, Georgia

Public

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2

Columbus State University

Columbus, Georgia

Public

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3

Brenau University

Gainesville, Georgia

Private

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4

University of West Georgia

Carrollton, Georgia

Public

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5

Augusta University

Augusta, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

6

Georgia State University

Atlanta, Georgia

Public

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7

Mercer University

Macon, Georgia

Private

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8

Albany State University

Albany, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

9

Georgia College & State University

Milledgeville, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

10

University of Georgia

Athens, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

11

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

12

University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

Public

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2

Oconee Fall Line Technical College

Sandersville, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

3

Atlanta Technical College

Atlanta, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

4

Public

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5

Central Georgia Technical College

Warner Robins, Georgia

Public

Online ProgramsOnline ProgramsOnline Programs

Resources to Know: Support for Georgia’s Education Students & Professionals

As you prepare to start your online educational program in Georgia, it can be helpful to gather advice and support for current and future educators in the state. Luckily, there are plenty of resources for education majors out there to help you with your program, licensure, scholarships, and more. Below are some key resources to get you started.

  • Classroom Conversations: This award-winning podcast is sponsored by the Georgia Department of Education and Georgia Public Broadcasting. Tune in to learn about innovative approaches to education from top professionals in the state and beyond.
  • Georgia Futures: The home of the Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC), this is the place to learn about expanding access to higher education across Georgia. They offer scholarships for future educators, among other resources.
  • Georgia Association of Educators: The Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) is a professional association for employees of Georgia public schools. They promote the interests of students and educators through legal advocacy, grassroots organizing, and more.
  • Georgia Association of Teacher Educators: As the Georgia state branch of the Association of Teacher Educators (ATE), this professional organization has been active for over a century, serving as a resource for teacher training and continuing education.
  • Georgia Department of Education: This is the official state government agency for education in Georgia. Check out their website for scholarship opportunities, information about earning and maintaining teacher licensure, job opportunities, and more.
  • Georgia Federation of Teachers: This organization serves as a union for teaching professionals in the State of Georgia. The Georgia Federation of Teachers advocates for its members on issues including state funding for schools, employment regulations, and more.
  • Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education: For over thirty years, this nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, which was initially founded by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, has advocated for education policy through actions such as sponsoring fellowships for education professionals.
  • Georgia Science Teachers Association: For science teachers in Georgia, this professional organization seeks to promote science education excellence. Organizational actions include advocacy, partnerships with scientific organizations in the state, and an annual conference.
  • Georgia Teachers Initiative: A statewide program founded by the Georgia Foundation for Public Education (GFPE), the College Football Playoff Foundation (CFPF), and the Atlanta Football Host Committee (AFHC), this organization provides Georgia teachers with resources they need in K-12 classrooms.
  • Professional Association of Georgia Educators: The Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) is a professional organization that supports and advocates for educators in Georgia. They provide coaching for educators, continuing education opportunities, legislative advocacy, and more.
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Ellery Weil AUTHOR

Dr. Ellery Weil holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan -- Ann Arbor, and a master's degree and PhD in History from University College London, and has been writing professionally in the higher education sector for over six years. In addition to her work below, her writing has been published by Pearson, Arizona State University, BestColleges, A-List Education, and more.

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Grace Butler EDITOR

"Grace E. Butler is an accomplished editor and writer with a strong background in literary publishing, content creation, and academic instruction. With a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from The University of South Carolina, she has honed her expertise in editorial leadership, fiction editing, and content development. Grace has extensive experience working with literary journals and digital publications. Her background includes writing and editing for print and digital media, producing feature articles, news pieces, and cultural analysis. Beyond editorial work, she has instructed first-year English and creative writing at the university level, helping students refine their craft through critical feedback and mentorship. Grace has also worked as a writing tutor, supporting undergraduate and graduate students in developing strong, effective written communication."

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