Best Affordable Online Associate Degrees in Georgia 2025

Earning an affordable associate degree online can open doors to four-year universities or new career prospects without breaking the bank. Prospective students searching for affordable higher education can find many cheap online associates degree offering a quality education.

Below, we'll explore where to find a cheap online associate degree in Georgia. Learn about top schools offering low tuition rates, financial aid, and more great opportunities.

How Much Does an Associate Degree Cost in Georgia?

If you're searching for affordable online colleges, there are various factors to consider, like institution type, residency status, and program specifics.

The cheapest online associate degree in Georgia comes from a two-year technical school. Most technical colleges offer tuition rates between $100 and $107 per credit hour for in-state students. For out-of-state students, that rate is typically doubled. Additionally, some programs may have additional fees that add to the total tuition cost.

To find the most affordable associate degree online, students should consider the total financial package. Some schools offer a significant number of scholarships that can lower tuition costs. Students should apply for federal, state, and institutional aid to receive the most amount of money.

Cheapest Online Associate Degree Programs

Georgia has many affordable opportunities for students to earn their associate degrees. Keep reading to learn about 10 of the top Georgia colleges offering quality programs, low tuition rates, and financial aid.

1. Southeastern Technical College

Southeastern Technical College in Vidalia offers several affordable associate degrees remotely, such as business healthcare technology, accounting, and cybersecurity. These convenient online programs may feature asynchronous or synchronous learning formats. While these courses are more flexible than the traditional classes available on campus, they are just as comprehensive and challenging; students must prioritize significant time and effort to complete them.

Average in-state tuition: $100 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $200 per credit hour

Program length: 18 to 24 months

Financial aid: Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which encompasses loan and grant opportunities at the national and state levels. Georgia students may qualify for the Zell Miller Grant or the Hope Grant.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Atlanta Technical College

Atlanta Technical College offers many online learning opportunities. Students can study programs, like business and others, fully online. These programs provide flexibility for students with work, family, or location constraints that prevent them from attending on-campus classes.

Online learners receive the same quality instruction and access to support services as those attending in person, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Average in-state tuition: $100 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $200 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Financial assistance is available to help manage the cost of attendance. Students may qualify for loans, grants, or scholarships.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Georgia State University-Perimeter College

In addition to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, Georgia State University's Perimeter College also offers several online associate degrees. Students can choose from various majors, including criminal justice, special education, and general studies.

Students benefit from a challenging curriculum, expert faculty, and a supportive environment. Reflecting this commitment, the U.S. Department of Education Scorecard reports that Perimeter College has a high retention rate, with 66% of students returning to finish their second year.

Average in-state tuition: $101 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $290 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students should complete FAFSA and the school's general application for scholarships to receive aid.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Columbus Technical College

Columbus Technical College (CTC) offers several fully online associate degree programs in subjects like marketing, paralegal, and accounting. These engaging remote courses may require synchronous learning. Students should be prepared to meet assignment deadlines and interact with peers and instructors.

Graduates can transfer the credits from these programs to a bachelor's degree at a four-year school with relative ease, as Columbus has a few transfer agreements with universities.

Average in-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $214 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students should complete FAFSA and the internal scholarship application for CTC awards for maximum aid.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Georgia Piedmont Technical College

At George Piedmont Technical College, students can choose from numerous 100% online degree programs. Some areas of study include:

• business administration
• human resource management
• interdisciplinary studies
• marketing management management

The school has over 30 transfer agreements with various universities, ensuring graduates are ready to transition into the next chapter of their academic journey. Students also benefit from free tutoring and advising during their programs.

Average in-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $214 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students can apply for institutional foundation scholarships, which vary in requirements and amount. Completing FAFSA and enrolling in payment plans can also help make tuition more affordable.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. Augusta Technical School

Augusta Technical School offers five associate degrees and many certificate programs fully online. Students can pursue degrees in:

• accounting
• business administration
• business healthcare technology
• business technology
• computer programming

Dedicated faculty members and instructors are available to provide support throughout the degree program. Students can utilize all resources available, including counseling, academic advising, career help, and tutoring.

Average in-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students may qualify for loans, grants, or scholarships to help pay for college.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. Central Georgia Technical College

Central Georgia Technical College offers several associate degree programs 100% online in fields such as accounting, business healthcare technology, and cybersecurity. These online courses provide the same valuable educational experience as on-campus programs, preparing students for further studies or entering the workforce.

Average in-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $214 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students should complete FAFSA to qualify for federal and state aid.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. Georgia Northwestern Technical College

Georgia Northwestern Technical College offers numerous online associate degrees, certificate programs, and diplomas, allowing for flexibility and convenience in balancing school with work or family responsibilities. Some associate degrees include business management, healthcare management, and website design/development. The school provides free academic and career support to ensure student success.

Average in-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $214 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: The school offers several scholarships through its foundation. Students can apply for these in addition to outside scholarships and government aid.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. Albany Technical College

At Albany Technical College, students can choose between numerous online Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees. Some options include fire science technology, marketing management, and health information technology.

Online coursework, though flexible, is as rigorous as traditional in-person programs. Students also have access to virtual support services, including tutoring and academic advising, to help them stay on track.

Average in-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $214 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students can apply for scholarships, loans, and grants to help manage tuition costs.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. Southern Crescent Technical College

At Southern Crescent Technical College, students can pursue fully remote associate degrees. These opportunities range in fields from business technology to public safety. The credits from these degrees can seamlessly transfer to a four-year school, thanks to Southern Crescent's numerous transfer agreements. Online students also benefit from student support services such as academic advising, tutoring, and career planning.

Average in-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $107 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students should complete FAFSA and apply for institutional scholarships to receive financial assistance.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

How We Rank Schools

We evaluate schools using a combination of key criteria to ensure students receive a high-quality, valuable education. Some of our ranking factors include:

• Accreditation: All schools on this list are accredited by a recognized agency, ensuring academic credibility and the smooth transfer of credits.
• Affordability: We chose schools that offer low tuition rates and various financial aid opportunities.
• Program reputation and quality: We only chose schools with a reputation for excellence with qualified instructors, comprehensive coursework, and student success services.
• Online format: All schools on this list offer degree programs that can be completed remotely.

FAQs About the Cheapest Associate Degrees in Georgia

Whether you're looking to launch a new career or transfer to a four-year school, Georgia offers a wide range of affordable associate degree options. Below, we'll discuss affordability, timelines, and other important aspects of pursuing an associate degree.

Can I Get an Associate Degree Online in Georgia?

Yes, many schools in Georgia offer associate degrees online. The most common programs include business, computer science, and criminal justice. These programs provide flexibility for working adults or students with busy schedules while maintaining the same academic standards as on-campus courses.

What Is the Cheapest and Fastest Way To Get an Associate Degree in Georgia?

Enrolling in a technical college offering online associate degrees is typically the most affordable and efficient path. Many Georgia colleges offer in-state tuition rates and accelerated courses, allowing you to complete your degree quickly while minimizing costs.

It's also important to utilize all financial aid opportunities, so be sure to consider online colleges that accept financial aid. The state of Georgia offers many grant opportunities to students who meet certain criteria, such as the Hope and Zell Miller Scholarships.

Are There Any 6-Month Associate Degrees in Georgia?

True 6-month online associate degrees are rare since associate degrees generally require students to complete 60 credits. Full-time students usually complete this requirement in two years; however, some factors may speed up this process.

For example, students could transfer credits, allowing them to finish their degrees faster. Additionally, some schools may offer accelerated courses or summer terms to help students get ahead.

If local colleges don't offer accelerated programs, consider attending an online school outside the state. Many online schools offer affordable tuition rates for all learners regardless of residency.

What Are Some of the Fastest Associate Degrees You Can Get Online?

Some programs may be faster than others, depending on the availability of courses and other factors. At Southeastern Technical College, some programs can be completed in only 18 months. If you're looking to graduate quickly, take advantage of summer terms and maintain a full-time course load.

Earn Your Associate Degree Online

If you're ready to start your associate degree, browse the college programs listed here on Learn.org. Contact any schools that interest you to learn more about their programs.