Affordable Online PhD & Doctoral Degrees in Georgia 2025

If you're looking for affordable online doctoral programs in Georgia, there are several options that offer high-quality education at an affordable price. These programs, available in fully online or hybrid formats, are structured with busy adult learners in mind. We've compiled a list of the most budget-friendly options to further your education.

Cheapest Online PhD & Doctoral Programs in Georgia

This list highlights the cheapest online PhD programs and doctoral degrees, offering flexibility and budget-friendly tuition for graduate students in Georgia.

1. Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University (GSU) offers a range of fully online doctoral programs, including the EdD in educational leadership, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Doctor of Public Health. Courses are delivered through GSU's innovative GoVIEW learning management system, providing a flexible and accessible learning experience.

Online learners have access to the same expert faculty, comprehensive support services, and resources as on-campus students, offering a high-quality education without the need to commute.

• Average cost per credit hour: $284 to $399
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, federal student loans, and FWS programs are available to help cover the cost of each student's education.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

2. Georgia College & State University

Georgia College & State University offers flexible advanced degree programs, including a fully online Doctor of Nursing Practice and a hybrid EdD in curriculum and instruction. Each program features distinct curricular pathways tailored to students' academic backgrounds and prerequisites. Part-time options are available, and there are GPA requirements of 3.5 or above in all master's degree coursework.

The EdD program includes on-campus meetings each semester, alongside online coursework. In contrast, the nursing program is entirely through online courses.

• Average cost per credit hour: $295 to $382
• Financial aid: Funding options include grants, scholarships, federal student loans, and FWS.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University's eDegree program offers an all-inclusive cost per credit hour, covering tuition rates and all course materials, with no additional fees. The Doctor of Education programs, in particular, have been recognized for their low cost.

Students can choose from online and hybrid learning formats, with doctoral programs available in the following specializations: adult learning and development, curriculum and instruction with a P-12 disciplinary concentration, leadership, and public administration.

• Average cost per credit hour: $299
• Financial aid: Federal loans, scholarships, and grants are all available to VSU students.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Columbus State University

Columbus State University (CSU) offers a fully online Doctor of Education in curriculum and leadership, with three available tracks: curriculum, educational leadership, and higher education administration. Each track combines synchronous and asynchronous online instruction, providing flexibility for busy adult learners.

The program requires a total of 63 credit hours, including content-specific courses, electives, research coursework, and dissertation hours. This structure allows students to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise while pursuing their doctoral studies online.

• Average cost per credit hour: $309
• Financial aid: CSU students can take advantage of federal and state grants, scholarships, student loans, and federal work-study programs to fund their education degree.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University (KSU) is recognized as a Carnegie R2 doctoral research institution, placing it among the top 7% of U.S. colleges for high research activity. The university offers a variety of Doctor of Education programs in areas such as educational leadership, instructional technology, teacher leadership, and secondary and middle grades education.

In addition to online options, KSU also has EdD degrees available in face-to-face formats with specializations in computer science, business administration, and more.

• Average cost per credit hour: $393
• Financial aid: KSU offers a range of financial aid options, including federal and state grants, scholarships, student loans, and FWS.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia (UWG), part of the University System of Georgia, offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in higher education administration, nursing education, professional counseling and supervision, or school improvement. Online orientation is required for some degree enrollment.

Most coursework is delivered in an online asynchronous format. While students can opt for an in-person elective or core course, each degree can be earned entirely off-campus. In addition, the faculty at UWG are nationally recognized and skilled in addressing the needs of adult learners.

• Average cost per credit hour: $405.60
• Financial aid: Financial aid options include state aid programs, Pell Grants, scholarships, Federal Work-Study (FWS), federal student loans, and private student loans.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

7. Georgia State University

Georgia State University (GSU) offers a fully online PhD in nursing, with both full-time and part-time options. The program primarily features online coursework, with two required on-campus sessions per year and a mix of synchronous and asynchronous classes.

GSU's Doctor of Nursing Practice program is hybrid, combining online courses with a few on-campus sessions at the Atlanta campus each semester. Most DNP students work full-time while preparing for careers in healthcare administration, professional nursing organizations, and higher education.

• Average cost per credit hour: $408 to $414
• Financial aid: Financial aid options at GSU include grants, scholarships, student loans, and FWS programs.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. University of North Georgia

The University of North Georgia (UNG) offers more than 140 associate, bachelor's, and graduate programs. Online doctoral degrees include a PhD in criminal justice with a concentration in intelligence, an EdD in higher education leadership and practice, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Earning an EdD, one of the highest paying doctoral degrees, can pave the way for success in various career paths after graduation.

For those interested in on-campus options, UNG has locations across the state in Blue Ridge, Cumming, Dahlonega, Gainesville, and Oconee.

• Average cost per credit hour: $477 to $550
• Financial aid: In addition to federal student loans, students can use state aid programs, grants, and scholarships to find their education programs.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. Emory University

Emory University, a top-ranked private research institution in Atlanta, is known for academic excellence, innovative research, and community engagement. It offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through nine academic divisions, including its renowned schools of business, nursing, and medicine.

Emory provides two flexible online doctoral programs: the Doctor of Nursing Practice and the Doctor of Ministry, for working professionals seeking advanced leadership roles.

• Average cost per year: $1,083.33
• Financial aid: Financial aid options include need-based aid, merit-based scholarships, grants, federal student loans, and work-study opportunities.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. Brenau University

Brenau University offers a Doctor of Education program through the Daniel College of Education, with six specialization options: elementary education, healthcare education specialist, leadership, teaching and learning, middle grades education, and special education.

The three-year program is delivered entirely online, with two weekend residencies, allowing you to continue working while advancing your education. The program is designed to help you develop the skills to lead in today's educational environments.

• Average cost per credit hour: $1,090
• Financial aid: Scholarships, federal student loans, and work-study programs are available to help students fund their online learning.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How We Rank Schools

We selected the online schools on this list based on a variety of ranking factors. Our criteria include:

• Accreditation: We only included schools accredited by recognized organizations, ensuring academic standards are met.
• Affordability: We consider the average cost per credit hour and the availability of financial aid in finding the cheapest online PhD programs.
• Program reputation: We select programs with strong reputations, expert faculty, and a commitment to academic excellence.
• Online student resources: We evaluate the availability of essential online support services like advising, tech help, and career services.

How Much Does an Online Doctoral Degree Cost in Georgia?

The price of an online doctoral degree in Georgia depends on the university and program. Generally, tuition falls between $247 and $1,000+ per credit hour. Specialized programs in fields like business, education, or healthcare typically cost more, while others may be more budget-friendly. Be sure to verify the exact tuition rates with the specific school and program for the most accurate details.

Financial Aid for Online Doctoral Programs in Georgia

Online doctoral students in Georgia can take advantage of multiple financial aid opportunities, including federal aid via FAFSA, state grants, and scholarships offered by the institutions. Many universities also offer graduate assistantships, which help lower tuition costs in return for research or teaching duties.

Additionally, some schools offer payment plans or deferred tuition options for students seeking financial flexibility. It's important to research these options and reach out to each school's financial aid office for specific advice and assistance.

Discover Online Doctoral Degrees

Are you ready to advance your academic journey? Browse a variety of online doctoral programs on Learn.org and discover the one that aligns with your goals.