Rankings / By State

Best Education Colleges in Georgia

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 38 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$45,515

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

39%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,405

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right education college in Georgia can shape your future. With 38 institutions on this list, you have options that prioritize student outcomes and program concentration. Education programs here are designed to equip future teachers and educators with the skills they need to succeed in the classroom.

What sets the standout schools apart from the others? It's all about the numbers that matter: earnings after graduation, graduation rates, student debt, and overall program effectiveness. The schools listed below reflect varying levels of success in these areas, helping you understand the potential return on investment for your education.

Take Georgia Southern University and Dalton State College, for example. Georgia Southern boasts average earnings of $53,236 and a graduation rate of 53%, while Dalton State shows lower earnings of $40,251 and a graduation rate of just 28%. This contrast highlights the importance of evaluating not just the institution's reputation, but the outcomes that will affect your career and financial future.

Key Findings

Georgia Southwestern State University graduates earn an average of $48,757.

Piedmont University has a graduation rate of 44% with a net price of $20,599.

Georgia Southern University has the highest average earnings at $53,236.

Dalton State College has the lowest graduation rate at 28%, despite a low net price of $5,012.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 38

Avg. earnings at 10yr $45,515

Avg. graduation rate 39%

Avg. net price $16,405

Avg. median debt $21,313

How We Ranked

Education programs in Georgia ranked by outcomes and program concentration

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Piedmont University

Demorest, GA

Graduation44%

Earnings$49,130

Net Price$20,599

View full profile →

Georgia Southwestern State University

Americus, GA

Graduation36%

Earnings$48,757

Net Price$12,019

View full profile →

Brenau University

Gainesville, GA

Graduation34%

Earnings$54,003

Net Price$18,924

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Piedmont University

Demorest, GA · 1,117 students · Private nonprofit

Piedmont University in Demorest offers a close-knit campus experience with a student population of just 1,117, which can be ideal for those who thrive in smaller settings. The school has a graduation rate of 44%, showing that many students successfully complete their degrees, and the median earnings of $49,130 after ten years reflects a promising career outlook for graduates.

93% accepted 44% graduate $49,130 earnings

Piedmont's full profile

Georgia Southwestern State University

Americus, GA · 2,424 students · Public

With a median earning of $48,757 after ten years, Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus can be an appealing choice for students looking for a solid return on their investment. The university has a diverse student body, with 43% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating its commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds.

75% accepted 36% graduate $48,757 earnings

Georgia's full profile

Brenau University

Gainesville, GA · 1,029 students · Private nonprofit

Brenau University, a private nonprofit institution in Gainesville, caters to around 1,029 students, creating an intimate learning atmosphere. The school’s commitment to diversity is evident, with 46% of its students receiving Pell Grants, suggesting a focus on supporting underrepresented groups.

88% accepted 34% graduate $54,003 earnings

Brenau's full profile

Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, GA · 21,790 students · Public

Georgia Southern University in Statesboro serves a substantial student body of 21,790, making it a dynamic choice for those looking for a lively college experience. With a graduation rate of 53%, it shows that just over half of its students successfully earn their degrees, which is encouraging. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $53,236 after ten years, reflecting a solid return on their investment.

88% accepted 53% graduate $53,236 earnings

Georgia's full profile

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, GA · 41,254 students · Public

Kennesaw State University, with a significant student population of 41,254, is an excellent choice for those looking for a dynamic campus life. The school boasts a balanced graduation rate of 50% and an acceptance rate of 69%, making it both competitive and accessible for prospective students.

69% accepted 50% graduate $57,552 earnings

Kennesaw's full profile

University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, GA · 16,146 students · Public

The University of North Georgia, with its large enrollment of 16,146 students, offers a vibrant and diverse atmosphere. Graduates see median earnings of $50,135 a decade after attending, which suggests a positive return for those who make it through their studies. However, the graduation rate is slightly lower at 37%, pointing to potential challenges for some students.

68% accepted 37% graduate $50,135 earnings

University's full profile

Mercer University

Macon, GA · 4,500 students · Private nonprofit

With a solid graduation rate of 72%, Mercer University in Macon, GA, is committed to student success. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $58,354 a decade after enrollment, which reflects the university's focus on academic quality and career readiness.

69% accepted 72% graduate $58,354 earnings

Mercer's full profile

Valdosta State University

Valdosta, GA · 6,622 students · Public

Valdosta State University is located in Valdosta, GA, and serves a sizable student body of 6,622. Although the graduation rate is 42%, students here can find numerous resources and support systems designed to help them succeed, with a median income of $49,361 after ten years in the workforce.

72% accepted 42% graduate $49,361 earnings

Valdosta's full profile

University of West Georgia

Carrollton, GA · 7,520 students · Public

With a student body of about 7,520, the University of West Georgia in Carrollton is known for its supportive environment. A significant 40% of students here receive Pell Grants, indicating that this school is committed to making education accessible for those from low-income backgrounds.

52% accepted 43% graduate $49,587 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Shorter University

Rome, GA · 1,028 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 96%, Shorter University is an appealing option for students looking for an inclusive environment. The campus located in Rome, Georgia, serves a small community of around 1,028 students, fostering close relationships with faculty and peers alike, which can be vital for personal and academic growth.

96% accepted 37% graduate $44,604 earnings

Shorter's full profile

#11

Georgia College & State University

Milledgeville, GA · 5,947 students · Public

Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, GA, emphasizes a liberal arts education with a graduation rate of 63%. Students thrive in a supportive environment, where they can expect to earn a median salary of $58,140 ten years after graduation, reflecting the university's commitment to developing well-rounded graduates ready for the workforce.

78% accepted 63% graduate $58,140 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#12

Dalton State College

Dalton, GA · 4,553 students · Public

With a student body of 4,553, Dalton State College in Georgia is dedicated to creating a supportive environment for its students. The college is also notable for having 50% of its students receiving Pell Grants, which highlights its commitment to accessibility and support for low-income students.

28% graduate $40,251 earnings

Dalton's full profile

#13

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

Tifton, GA · 3,208 students · Public

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, GA, welcomes a diverse student body with a high acceptance rate of 76%. Although its graduation rate is lower at 33%, the college offers a unique opportunity for students interested in agricultural sciences and related fields, fostering hands-on learning and community engagement.

76% accepted 33% graduate $34,996 earnings

Abraham's full profile

#14

Berry College

Mount Berry, GA · 2,245 students · Private nonprofit

In scenic Mount Berry, Berry College stands out with a graduation rate of 72%, indicating that students often find the support they need to succeed. This private nonprofit institution blends a strong academic foundation with a beautiful campus, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy a vibrant college life surrounded by nature.

64% accepted 72% graduate $53,800 earnings

Gordon State College

Barnesville, GA · 2,544 students · Public

Gordon State College, with a student population of 2,544 in Barnesville, offers an accessible and welcoming environment for those pursuing higher education. The college has an 86% acceptance rate, making it an option for many students, and its 19% graduation rate calls for a closer look at the support systems in place for student success.

86% accepted 19% graduate $37,871 earnings

Gordon's full profile

#16

Georgia State University

Atlanta, GA · 26,623 students · Public

Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia State University enrolls about 26,623 students, creating a vibrant campus life. The school boasts a graduation rate of 53%, which is on the higher side for large public universities, reflecting a commitment to student success and support services.

55% accepted 53% graduate $47,384 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#17

Covenant College

Lookout Mountain, GA · 939 students · Private nonprofit

Covenant College, nestled on Lookout Mountain, has a picturesque setting that complements its strong academic programs, evident in its graduation rate of 72%. With a welcoming acceptance rate of 87%, it invites students who seek both rigorous scholarship and a supportive community where they can grow personally and academically.

87% accepted 72% graduate $50,412 earnings

Covenant's full profile

#18

Columbus State University

Columbus, GA · 5,625 students · Public

Columbus State University, located in Columbus, Georgia, is a public university that serves over 5,600 students, offering diverse academic programs and a dynamic campus experience. A graduation rate of 42% indicates that many students do find their path here, supported by a tight-knit community and dedicated faculty committed to student success.

99% accepted 42% graduate $44,544 earnings

Columbus's full profile

#19

Truett McConnell University

Cleveland, GA · 744 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $46,700 ten years after graduation, Truett McConnell University in Cleveland, GA, shows promise for students looking to balance their education with career outcomes. The school's 39% graduation rate suggests that while some students may struggle to complete their degrees, many others find success in their academic paths and go on to earn competitive salaries.

78% accepted 39% graduate $46,700 earnings

Truett's full profile

#20

East Georgia State College

Swainsboro, GA · 1,413 students · Public

With a student body of just 1,413 in Swainsboro, East Georgia State College fosters a close-knit community that can feel like family. The institution has a solid commitment to accessibility, with 49% of its students receiving Pell Grants, making it an appealing choice for those seeking an affordable college experience.

15% graduate $37,174 earnings

College of Coastal Georgia

Brunswick, GA · 2,979 students · Public

The College of Coastal Georgia in Brunswick is a public institution with a commitment to accessibility, featuring a staggering 98% acceptance rate. With nearly 3,000 students, it offers a vibrant campus life and opportunities for community engagement, making it a good choice for students who want to connect with peers and faculty in a collaborative setting.

98% accepted 26% graduate $39,318 earnings

College's full profile

#22

South Georgia State College

Douglas, GA · 1,466 students · Public

South Georgia State College, situated in Douglas, is a public college with a smaller student body of about 1,466. Known for its intimate learning environment, this college can be a great fit for students who appreciate close interactions with faculty and a more personalized educational experience.

18% graduate $35,697 earnings

LaGrange College

Lagrange, GA · 636 students · Private nonprofit

LaGrange College in Georgia has a tight-knit community with around 636 students, providing an intimate learning environment. With a 62% acceptance rate, it welcomes a diverse range of students, including 43% who are Pell Grant recipients, indicating strong support for those from lower-income backgrounds.

62% accepted 44% graduate $51,745 earnings

LaGrange's full profile

#24

Albany State University

Albany, GA · 5,956 students · Public

Albany State University serves a large and diverse student body of nearly 6,000 individuals, promoting an inclusive atmosphere. It has a higher acceptance rate of 69%, making it accessible for many, especially beneficial for the 69% of students who are Pell Grant recipients, reflecting its commitment to affordability and support for low-income students.

27% graduate $40,674 earnings

Albany's full profile

#25

Reinhardt University

Waleska, GA · 1,066 students · Private nonprofit

Reinhardt University, located in Waleska, has a welcoming community of around 1,066 students and a 62% acceptance rate, making it an inviting choice for many. With 40% of its students receiving Pell Grants, Reinhardt demonstrates a commitment to helping those from diverse economic backgrounds achieve their educational goals.

62% accepted 39% graduate $46,541 earnings

Reinhardt's full profile

#26

Middle Georgia State University

Macon, GA · 6,574 students · Public

Middle Georgia State University in Macon is a public institution that welcomes a diverse population of 6,574 students. Despite a graduation rate of only 25%, graduates earn a median income of $40,863 ten years after leaving, indicating that there are opportunities for those who persist and engage fully with their academic experience.

100% accepted 25% graduate $40,863 earnings

Middle's full profile

#27

Wesleyan College

Macon, GA · 400 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Macon, Georgia, Wesleyan College offers a unique educational experience for its 400 students, particularly for those seeking a private, nonprofit institution. The college has a graduation rate of 50% and maintains a 59% acceptance rate, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students from diverse backgrounds.

59% accepted 50% graduate $44,317 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#28

Young Harris College

Young Harris, GA · 755 students · Private nonprofit

Young Harris College, nestled in the scenic mountains of Young Harris, GA, cultivates a tight-knit community atmosphere with about 755 students. Here, the focus on individualized attention can be a real draw for those who thrive in smaller settings. The college emphasizes liberal arts education, preparing students for various career paths in a supportive environment.

63% accepted 44% graduate $47,195 earnings

Georgia Military College

Milledgeville, GA · 3,992 students · Public

Georgia Military College is unique, blending military discipline with academic rigor for about 3,992 students. This public institution has an acceptance rate of 34%, attracting those who are looking for a structured environment that emphasizes leadership and service.

35% graduate $39,257 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#30

Georgia Gwinnett College

Lawrenceville, GA · 11,344 students · Public

Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville is a unique option with an expansive enrollment of about 11,344 students. Despite a graduation rate of just 21%, the college focuses on accessibility, maintaining a staggering acceptance rate of 96% and welcoming a diverse student body, including 52% Pell Grant recipients.

96% accepted 21% graduate $47,730 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#31

Savannah State University

Savannah, GA · 2,833 students · Public

Savannah State University, located in the vibrant city of Savannah, Georgia, is a public institution that serves a diverse student body of 2,833. With 68% of its students receiving Pell Grants, it stands as a beacon of opportunity for many low-income individuals. While the graduation rate sits at 27%, the university emphasizes community and engagement, providing a nurturing space for students to grow academically and socially.

27% graduate $37,981 earnings

Savannah's full profile

#32

Augusta University

Augusta, GA · 5,613 students · Public

Augusta University, home to 5,613 students, plays a crucial role in Georgia's higher education landscape. The school has an acceptance rate of 86%, making it an accessible option for many students, while also providing a pathway to a quality education and promising career opportunities.

86% accepted 49% graduate $48,472 earnings

Augusta's full profile

#33

Andrew College

Cuthbert, GA · 473 students · Private nonprofit

Andrew College, located in Cuthbert, GA, is home to a tight-knit community of just 473 students. With a graduation rate of 30%, it might not be for everyone, but those who do finish find themselves with median earnings of $38,475 ten years post-graduation, indicating a pathway to solid career outcomes for committed individuals.

46% accepted 30% graduate $38,475 earnings

Andrew's full profile

#34

Emmanuel University

Franklin Springs, GA · 775 students · Private nonprofit

Emmanuel University in Franklin Springs, GA, serves a small student body of 775, nurturing a community-oriented atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 38%, the university equips graduates with a median earning of $38,208 after ten years, reflecting a commitment to student success and career readiness, even if it takes time for some to complete their degrees.

74% accepted 38% graduate $38,208 earnings

Emmanuel's full profile

#35

Thomas University

Thomasville, GA · 998 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Thomasville, GA, Thomas University offers a unique educational experience for its 998 students, emphasizing accessibility and community involvement. The college aims to support diverse student backgrounds, making it an inviting choice for those looking to expand their horizons while pursuing higher education. With its focus on practical learning, this school prepares students for real-world challenges.

38% accepted 28% graduate $49,716 earnings

Thomas's full profile

#36

Point University

West Point, GA · 1,996 students · Private nonprofit

Point University in West Point, GA has a welcoming community for students seeking a private nonprofit education. With nearly 2,000 students, it offers a cozy campus atmosphere that encourages personal connections and support among peers. The school's commitment to fostering a nurturing environment can help students thrive both academically and socially.

44% accepted 38% graduate $38,740 earnings

Brewton-Parker College

Mount Vernon, GA · 774 students · Private nonprofit

Brewton-Parker College in Mount Vernon, Georgia, attracts students with its welcoming atmosphere and a high acceptance rate of 96%. Despite a low graduation rate of 22%, the college is committed to supporting its 774 students, many of whom are Pell Grant recipients, which indicates a strong focus on making education accessible to those from lower-income backgrounds.

96% accepted 22% graduate $42,009 earnings

Brewton-Parker's full profile

#38

Toccoa Falls College

Toccoa Falls, GA · 875 students · Private nonprofit

Toccoa Falls College, located in the picturesque setting of Toccoa Falls, GA, is home to around 875 students and embraces its Christian mission in education. The college encourages students to grow both academically and spiritually, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a faith-based college experience. The welcoming environment promotes collaboration and support among students and faculty alike.

66% accepted 45% graduate $36,630 earnings

Toccoa's full profile

When we compare Georgia Southern University and Dalton State College, the differences become clear. Georgia Southern's higher earnings of $53,236 and graduation rate of 53% indicate a stronger return on investment than Dalton State's $40,251 earnings and 28% graduation rate. This suggests that not only are more students graduating from Georgia Southern, but they are also entering the workforce with higher salaries.

After reviewing the data across 38 schools, it's essential to align this information with your personal priorities. Consider what factors matter most to you: Are you looking for a school with a strong graduation rate, or is minimizing debt your main concern? Each school offers a unique blend of financial implications and educational experiences, so think about how they match your goals and lifestyle.

Ultimately, this data reflects a crucial decision point for families. A solid education can lead to financial stability and career opportunities down the road. Choosing a school with a strong track record, like Georgia Southern, could mean a smoother transition from college to a rewarding job, impacting a family's well-being for years to come.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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