10 Cheapest Online Master's Degrees in Georgia 2025

Whatever your field of study, a master's degree is sure to open up many new and exciting career opportunities, including leadership positions. For many, a master's is a necessary step to moving up in the professional world. But when life gets busy, it can be hard to schedule time to travel to campus for classes. Fortunately, there are many cheap online master's degree programs for working adults in Georgia.

Affordable online master's programs are available in many different fields of study, with many that cost less than $500 per credit hour. Whether you want to further your education in nursing, business, or another field, take a look at the list below to find the school that best fits your educational and financial needs.

10 Most Affordable Online Master's Programs in Georgia

If you are a Georgia resident interested in cheap online master's degrees, then you have several options. These colleges and universities are fully accredited, fully digital, and don't come with a hefty price tag.

1. Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology, located in downtown Atlanta, offers 14 fully online master's programs, including aerospace engineering, medical physics, and manufacturing leadership. The cheapest programs are analytics, computer science, and cybersecurity.

All three can be completed 100% online and include at least three specialized tracks. A student working part-time can complete an online Master of Science (MS) in cybersecurity in two to three years. The MS in analytics can be finished in as little as 24 months and there are no GRE or GMAT requirements.

• Average cost per credit hour: $195 to $335
• Financial aid: Grad students can apply for federal work-study programs to offset costs and gain work experience. They can also be nominated by their department head for a fellowship. Direct graduate PLUS loans can also help pay for tuition.
• Accreditation: The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Augusta University

At Augusta University, students can take online courses in:

• education in instruction
• public health
• information security management
• intelligence and security studies
• public administration

In addition to affordable online classes, Augusta also prioritizes small class sizes so that students can more easily communicate with faculty and professors. As a public research university, Augusta students will have the opportunity to research the topics that interest them most.

Some programs include specializations. For example, students pursuing a Master of Education (MEd) can focus on elementary education, special education, and others. The Master of Public Health degree costs $441 per credit hour, about $200 more than all other programs.

• Average cost per credit hour: $236
• Financial aid: Augusta offers some of the lowest tuition rates among Georgia's online programs. However, additional aid is available through federal loans, scholarships, and grants.
• Accreditation: Augusta University is accredited by SACSCOC, and the Master of Public Administration degree is further accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA).

3. Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW)

At Georgia Southwestern State, online students can complete high-quality, flexible programs at any time of the day or night. Choose from six fully online programs:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Family Nurse Practitioner
• MSN - Nurse Educator
• MSN - Nursing Leadership
• MSN - Informatics

Business students can complete their MBA in about 18 months, and students with a GPA above 3.0 do not need to provide GRE/GMAT scores. The nursing degrees offer multiple enrollment dates and both part-time and full-time options. However, while classes will be online, clinical work needs to be completed in person. MSN students must already have a bachelor's degree in nursing.

• Average cost per credit hour: $263
• Financial aid: GSW offers 139 different scholarships to its students. Federal student loans and the Georgia HOPE scholarship are also available to eligible students.
• Accreditation: Georgia Southwestern State University is accredited by SACSCOC, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

4. Valdosta State

Valdosta State offers 17 different online master's programs, including criminal justice administration and education degrees in educational leadership, public administration, and library science. Thirteen of the available programs are geared towards teaching, with students pursuing either a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree or an MEd. Online learning can allow working teachers to improve their job prospects or move on to higher-level positions.

But Valdosta State isn't only for teachers; interested students can also complete an online MBA in just 30 credit hours or a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree in 36 credit hours. This will prepare you for a job as a policy analyst, human resources manager, city planner, and many other exciting careers.

• Average cost per credit hour: $299
• Financial aid: Financial aid is available through federal loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. VSU students can also pay using an interest-free monthly payment plan. Additional assistance and benefits are available for veterans and dependents.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. University of North Georgia (UNG)

UNG has 12 different master's programs available for online learners. These range from teaching to spatial information and data science, nursing education (MSN) to human services delivery and administration. The MS in kinesiology was ranked as the best online kinesiology program in Georgia in 2025.

UNG's online MBA program is 32 credit hours, with both synchronous and asynchronous classes. As part of the MBA program, students can specialize in cybersecurity, entrepreneurship and innovation, technology leadership, or compliance and ethics. All programs are taught by expert faculty and many have rolling admissions.

• Average cost per credit hour: $311
• Financial aid: UNG offers financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as well as financial well-being events and consultations. The UNG food pantry can help support students facing food insecurity, and some master's programs also offer assistantships.
• Accreditation: The University of North Georgia is accredited by SACSCOC. The MBA program is further accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

6. University of West Georgia (UWG)

If you aren't sure what you want to study, check out the University of West Georgia. It offers 40 different online master's degrees, in subjects from humanities to healthcare. Some of the programs offered include an MBA and MAT, as well as digital and social media communication, higher education administration, and sociology.

To help lower costs, UWG charges out-of-state students the same rate for fully online courses as in-state students. Taking all your classes online not only lowers costs, it allows you to complete your degree on your schedule, but with the same quality education that on-campus students are receiving.

• Average cost per credit hour: $405.60
• Financial aid: UWG offers financial aid through federal and private loans, scholarships, grants, and federal work-study programs. Students receiving aid must maintain satisfactory academic progress.
• Accreditation: The University of West Georgia is accredited by SACSCOC. The MBA program is further accredited by the AACSB. The MSN is accredited by the CCNE. The Master of Public Administration degree is accredited by the NASPAA.

7. Clayton State University

Complete your master's degree in archival studies, cyber technology, data science, business, nursing, or teaching from Clayton State. With 12 different master's programs, there are plenty of options for furthering your education and career options. Taking online classes here gives you the flexibility to continue working or caring for a family while finishing your degree, and Clayton gives distance learners plenty of opportunities to connect with faculty and peers.

Clayton's communications and technology services can help you set up your computer and workspace so you are ready for class. They can also help you download Microsoft 365 for free.

• Average cost per credit hour: $452
• Financial aid: In addition to federal loans, Clayton offers state grants and scholarships like the Zell Miller scholarship, HOPE scholarship, Georgia HERO scholarship, and others.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. Middle Georgia State University

Middle Georgia offers distance education programs for those seeking an associate degree, bachelor's, master's, or doctorate. They offer eight online master's degrees, including public relations, information technology, teacher education, and nursing. Students pursuing an MSN must be licensed before beginning the program.

Middle Georgia is one of the most affordable public universities in the state, and it could be the best fit for you to complete your graduate degree.

• Average cost per credit hour: $500
• Financial aid: Students in need of financial aid should fill out the FAFSA and speak with the financial aid office to see what other scholarships or grants they may be eligible for.
• Accreditation: Middle Georgia State University is accredited by SACSCOC. The MSN degree is further accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The MS in occupational therapy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).

9. Georgia State University

This public university offers dozens of online master's degree programs. Popular topics like education and business are available, or you can earn your graduate degree in economics, epidemiology, political science, or respiratory therapy. Many programs are available in both formats: online or on-campus.

GSU faculty and staff are committed to connecting with students and helping them succeed, even if they are remote. All student services, including online tutoring, are available to distance learners.

• Average cost per credit hour: $518
• Financial aid: The scholarship resource center can help you find scholarships you may be eligible for. This helps you take out less money in student loans and have less debt to pay back after graduation.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. Georgia Southern University

There are dozens of online and hybrid master's programs available at Georgia Southern University. These include MBA, MAT, and MSN degrees, but distance learners can also choose programs like logistics and supply chain management, Spanish, public health, or sport management.

Navigators will help support you in your online education journey, and if you have a particularly busy schedule, eight-week ''minimesters'' with multiple start times help you plan school around your schedule. Accelerated programs can also help you graduate and get to work fast.

• Average cost per credit hour: $284 to $540
• Financial aid: Scholarships and grants are available specifically for online students who are returning to school. Additionally, Georgia residents who are 62 or older can take available classes for free.
• Accreditation: Georgia Southern University is accredited by SACSCOC. Several master's degree programs have further specialized accreditation.

How We Rank Schools

Within the University System of Georgia, there are many options for graduate students. To help you narrow things down, we ranked schools using a few key criteria.

• Accreditation: All of the schools in our list are fully accredited by SACSCOC, so even as a distance learner, you can be confident in getting a high-quality education. Several of our schools also have program-specific accreditation.
• Affordability: While online colleges tend to be cheaper, not every school in Georgia offers low tuition rates. However, all of the schools in our list are affordable and many classes cost less than $500 per credit hour. Additionally, most of our schools include significant financial aid.
• Program reputation: Along with being fully accredited, the schools that we listed were recognized by organizations like U.S. News and World Report, and are recognized across the state for offering a top-notch education. You can feel good about putting these schools on your resume.

FAQs About Cheap Online Master's Programs in Georgia

There are many master's degrees that pay well, and completing your master's opens up a whole new world of career possibilities; however, it can still be intimidating for some. Take a look at our FAQs below to learn more about costs and timelines.

How Much Does an Online Master's Degree Cost in Georgia?

The cost of your master's degree varies based on which school you choose, whether you study full-time or part-time, and what program you choose. However, the average cost for an online master's degree, based on the schools we listed above, is $366 per credit hour. Bear in mind that scholarships and grants can help lower costs.

Is There Financial Aid for Online Master's Programs in Georgia?

Yes, there are financial aid options for students pursuing a master's degree in Georgia. The HOPE and Zell Miller scholarships are available to Georgia residents who demonstrate academic excellence. Many schools in our list also offer scholarships specifically for graduate students or those returning to school to complete their education.

Are Online Master's Degrees Cheaper Than In-Person Programs?

Typically, you can expect to pay less for an online degree than a traditional, in-person degree. On-campus students have many additional fees for things like room and board, the gym, the student center, or parking. Many schools waive these fees for online-only students, lowering their overall cost.

How Long Does an Online Master's Program Take?

This again will depend on which program you take. Some accelerated online master's programs can be finished in under two years, but others take significantly longer. Take a close look at your chosen program's timeline and see if an accelerated program or transfer credits can help you finish more quickly.

Find an Online Master's Degree

An online master's degree can be an excellent opportunity for Georgia students looking to take the next step in their educational journey. When you are ready for the next step, then take a look at the many accredited schools featured on Learn.org and reach out to them to discuss your plans.