If you possess a desire to excel in your field, advance into specialized roles, teach at the college level, or conduct advanced research, pursuing a doctoral program in Georgia is a wise decision. The state offers a plethora of distinguished schools and exceptional programs that make obtaining your PhD or professional doctorate as accessible as possible. Keep reading to discover more about Georgia’s top doctoral programs, their prerequisites, and how a doctoral degree can boost your future earning potential and career growth.
2024’s Top PhD and Doctoral Programs in Georgia
Choosing the right doctoral or PhD program from the numerous exceptional options available in Georgia can be a daunting task. To assist you in selecting the most suitable doctoral or PhD program in Georgia, we have identified three top-tier schools that distinguish themselves in terms of academic excellence, program diversity, and affordability. Even if these schools do not entirely align with your needs, they provide an excellent starting point for your search for a doctoral program.
University of North Georgia
The University of North Georgia’s graduate school offers five doctoral programs, all of which are available partially or fully online. The Doctor of Physical Therapy offers a traditional doctorate and a post-professional doctorate for those who are already licensed physical therapists. Most of the curriculum is offered in-person, but some online synchronous coursework is available. The Doctor of Nursing Practice program is designed for advanced practice nurses looking to move into management or teaching. Most DNP classes can be completed asynchronously online. The Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Practice and the PhD in Criminal Justice with a Concentration in Intelligence are fully online and offer asynchronous classwork.
Georgia State University
If you’re looking for options, Georgia State University (GSU) is a school to consider. GSU offers almost 70 doctoral programs, five of which are offered fully online or in hybrid learning formats. Doctoral degree programs are wide ranging, from applied linguistics and computer science to business administration and kinesiology. Most programs are offered in person, at either the Atlanta or Buckhead Center campus. As far as program cost, GSU’s tuition is a very reasonable $11,680 per year for a full-time student who is a Georgia resident. GSU offers many forms of financial aid, including fellowships, graduate assistantships, and scholarships.
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University offers 11 doctoral programs, including analytics and data science, educational leadership, business administration, and interdisciplinary engineering. Three programs can be completed online—the Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology, the Doctor of Education in Teacher Leadership, and the Doctor of Education in Secondary and Middle Grades Education. Depending on a student’s residency status and learning format, they’ll pay between $296 and $1,066 per credit; online students usually pay $383 per credit regardless of their state residency. Kennesaw State University has a variety of financial aid options, including emergency assistance, graduate research assistantships, and scholarships.
Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs Available in Georgia
Similar to the diverse range of fields of study available to doctoral students, there are also numerous ways to obtain your PhD or doctorate. These options range from traditional full-time programs to programs that waive traditional exam requirements. With such a variety of options available, it’s essential to learn more about each approach to determine which one best meets your needs. Keep reading to explore the various options available to you.
Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Georgia
Enrolling in a doctoral program as a full-time student is the quickest approach to obtain your degree. However, pursuing a full-time program typically means you won’t be able to work full-time while studying. Additionally, full-time study implies that you’ll have to pay more tuition at a faster pace than if you were studying part-time. Depending on the program, full-time students usually take three to four courses per term. In some cases, full-time study may be the only option provided by a specific school.
- University of Georgia – Institute of Higher Education PhD
- Georgia State University – PhD in Public Health
Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Georgia
Part-time PhD and doctorate programs in Georgia have a lot of advantages over full-time programs. Taking one to two classes per term makes learning more manageable and may allow a student to continue working. Attending class part-time makes tuition easier, too, by spreading payments over a longer period of time. However, part-time study won’t be an option at all schools or in all programs.
- Georgia Southern University – Doctor of Public Health
- Mercer University – PhD in Nursing
Fully Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs in Georgia
A fully funded PhD or doctoral program is one in which tuition and other education costs are waived or paid for by the school. Depending on the program, your fees, books, transportation costs, and living expenses may also be included. One way schools provide these benefits is by offering students a stipend, grant, or scholarship in addition to waiving tuition and fee requirements.
- University of Georgia – PhD in Art
- Georgia Tech – PhD in Digital Media
No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs in Georgia
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that many graduate schools use to measure an applicant’s academic skills and knowledge. The goal of the GRE is to help predict an applicant’s graduate school success. However, some programs no longer require the GRE. This change is partially due to the coronavirus pandemic, and it’s also the result of schools using other methods besides the GRE to measure potential academic performance.
- Middle Georgia State University – Doctor of Science in Information Technology
- University of West Georgia – EdD in School Improvement
Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs in Georgia
An accelerated doctoral program has a curriculum that allows students to take additional courses each term and/or more terms each year (such as a summer term). The goal is for students to finish their degree sooner. The term “accelerated” doesn’t refer to a specific timeframe in which students can earn their degree. Rather, it’s in reference to the fact that it permits graduation sooner in relation to other programs offering the same degree.
- Clark Atlanta University – EdD in Higher Education
- University of Georgia – PhD in Communication Studies
No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in Georgia
For the majority of students, the most significant obstacle to obtaining a doctorate is completing a dissertation. This involves creating and executing original research, presenting their findings to professors, and defending their conclusions, a process that can take several years. However, some schools have eliminated this requirement for fields that are more practice-oriented than research and theory-based. In these instances, the dissertation is substituted with another requirement, such as hands-on training.
- Georgia College – Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Emory University – Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice
Popular Fields to Earn Your PhD and Doctoral Degree in Georgia
Georgia universities offer doctoral programs in just about every subject, and many are now offered in convenient online formats. Check out some of the most popular options below, along with quality examples of schools that offer each type of program.
PhD in Nursing
For nurses looking to educate future nurses, this is the degree to get. Unlike a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, which focuses the curriculum on advancing clinical skills, the PhD in Nursing focuses more on research and teaching concepts.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
PhD in Business
This degree is ideal for business professionals looking to increase their research skills and develop new business theories—especially students looking for a career in research or teaching. Many schools provide one or more PhD business specializations, such as finance, accounting, management, and administration.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Most states require licensed or certified psychologists to have doctorates. While a PhD would fulfill this requirement, most PhD curriculums focus on research, not clinical skills. In contrast, a PsyD degree directly prepares students for roles as a clinical psychologist working with patients.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
PhD in Computer Science
The PhD in computer science is perfect for professionals who want to teach at the post-secondary level and/or spend most of their time conducting research. Anyone looking to become a computer science professor or a computer research scientist either in academia or at a for-profit company should strongly consider this degree.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
EdD in Leadership
Teaching and education professionals who want to shift their careers into administration should consider a doctor of education degree in leadership. EdD programs in Georgia build decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership skills necessary for leading a school, district, or education-related company.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
What It’s Like to Earn Your Doctorate Online in Georgia
Many traditional PhD programs in Georgia have added online components. One reason for the shift to online doctoral programs in Georgia is because, at this level, most students have full-time jobs and/or a family to juggle with their studies. Even for degrees that include a lot of hands-on instruction and practice, classwork that doesn’t require hands-on learning now may be available online.
A great example of this type of hybrid learning format is the Doctor of Nursing Practice program from Georgia Southern University. Even though the clinicals and practicums must be completed at an approved clinical facility, almost all coursework can be completed online, and much of it can be completed asynchronously. Asynchronous learning is ideal because students can attend class at any time that works for them. Some online programs require synchronous learning, meaning students attend classes live online for maximum interaction with their professors and classmates. Sometimes synchronous online instruction is optional, such as at the University of North Georgia’s DNP online program.
Ready to start your search for a quality, affordable online doctoral program in Georgia that works with your schedule? Check out our college rankings below, which showcases Georgia’s best schools with online PhD and professional doctorate programs.
Best Online Doctoral Programs in Georgia for 2024
Working professionals interested in advancing their careers by earning an education doctorate can choose from among four online EdD options offered by the University of West Georgia in Carrollton. Of particular interest is the Doctor of Education in Nursing Education program that prepares current MSN holders to train future nurses. The program is 100% online in an asynchronous format to allow students to access and complete coursework anytime. Other degree options include EdDs in Higher Education Administration, School Improvement, and Professional Counseling and Supervision. Tuition rates for all these EdD programs are notably affordable with the same rate charged regardless of residence status.
Program Highlights:
EdD in Nursing Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: 3 to 5 years
- Cost: $312/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
EdD in Professional Counseling and Supervision
- Credits: 60
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $312/credit
- Mode: Online plus an on-campus orientation
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
EdD in Higher Education Administration
- Credits: 60
- Length: 3+ years
- Cost: $312/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio19
Education and nursing students wanting to earn their doctorate in the intimacy of a small, private institution should consider the three online degree programs available through Georgia's Brenau University. The Doctor of Education program allows them to choose from among five program tracks: Elementary Education, Higher Education: Leadership, Higher Education: Teaching and Learning, Middle Grades Education, and Special Education. Brenau's nursing doctorate options include Advanced Practice Nurse and Leadership and Management DNPs. Both DNP programs require an MSN degree for admittance. The hybrid DNP programs are available through Brenau's North Atlanta campus, while the fully online EdD program is offered through Brenau's historic campus in Gainesville.
Program Highlights:
DNP Advanced Practice Nurse
- Credits: 40
- Length: 7 semesters
- Cost: $1,310/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
DNP in Leadership & Management
- Credits: 41
- Length: 7 semesters
- Cost: $1,310/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Doctor of Education
- Credits: 54
- Length: 28+ months
- Cost: $1,037/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio9
The University of North Georgia (UNG), a public university with five campuses in North Georgia, is also one of only six schools in the nation designated as a senior military college. UNG offers three affordable online doctorate programs, all of which feature fully online courses with no required campus visits. Online content is delivered in an asynchronous format to allow students to complete their coursework anytime that fits their busy schedules. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is a terminal nursing practice degree program open to RNs with master's degrees and at least two years of RN work experience. Nursing education and executive leadership specialization options are also available. The EdD in Higher Education Leadership and Practice provides current higher education administrators and professionals with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to succeed in top-tier positions in the field. UNG's Phd in Criminal Justice prepares graduates for operational, research, analytic, and investigative intelligence careers in the public, private, and military sectors.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 38
- Length: 5 to 8 years
- Cost: $375/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Practice
- Credits: 60
- Length: Minimum 3 years
- Cost: $303/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
PhD in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 54
- Length: Up to 7 years
- Cost: $303/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio18
Education professionals in western Georgia looking to advance into top-tier positions in educational research, professional learning, and school improvement should consider the online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Leadership program at Columbus State University. The program has three track options: Curriculum and Instruction for instructional and classroom educators in P-12 settings, Educational Leadership for P-12 district personnel and school administrators, and Higher Education Administration for current and prospective leaders in postsecondary institutions. The Higher Education Administration track is available fully online, while the Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership tracks are in hybrid formats that combine both online and face-to-face components. All three programs require a master's or higher degree (or international equivalent), a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA on all previous graduate coursework, and at least four years of professional experience in a school setting or leadership role in the private sector.
Program Highlights:
EdD in Curriculum and Leadership
- Credits: 63
- Length: 3 1/2 to 4 years
- Cost: $393/credit (residents); $1,125/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: Fully online or Hybrid
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio16
Georgia College & State University (GCSU), located in the central Georgia community of Milledgeville, offers two online doctoral degree programs featuring affordable public university tuition. The post-masters Nursing DNP program is an executive-style format that combines online coursework and virtual learning experiences with week-long, in-person immersion experiences each year. Both full-time and part-time study options are available. GCSU's Curriculum and Instruction EdD program prepares educational professionals for leadership roles in P-12 curriculum design, development, and evaluation. Graduates of the EdD program who pass the appropriate GACE assessment are eligible for level seven Georgia Service Certification in Curriculum and Instruction.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 37
- Length: 5 to 8 semesters
- Cost: $373/credit
- Mode: Blended
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
EdD in Curriculum and Instruction
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years plus dissertation
- Cost: $288/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio16
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio22
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio18
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio22
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio27
Paying for Your PhD or Doctoral Degree in Georgia
Doctoral students are a lot like undergraduate students in that they need financial assistance to help pay for school. But they have two potential advantages that most undergrads don’t have.
First, because many doctoral students are working while in school, they may have access to an employment tuition reimbursement benefit. This is where an employer pays for some or all of an employee’s education. One such program is the Tuition Assistance Program open to eligible employees of the University System of Georgia.
Second, doctoral and PhD students in Georgia may have greater access to financial aid that doesn’t need to be paid back. In addition to scholarships/grants and work-study, doctoral students are more likely to obtain graduate research assistantships and fellowships. Many of these are school-specific, although most schools, like Georgia Southern University, have websites that explain the financial aid offerings.
Earnings for Doctorate Holders in Georgia
Getting a PhD or doctorate is one of the best ways to increase your salary and land your dream job. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly earnings for someone with a doctorate is $1,909 per week. Contrast this with someone with a master’s degree, whose median weekly earnings are $1,574. Those with a doctorate also had the lowest unemployment rate, just 1.5%.
As for Georgia professionals with a doctorate, they also can expect higher incomes than those with just a master’s. The Georgia Governor’s Office of Students Achievement – Georgia Higher Learning and Earnings reports that just one year after graduating, the median income of someone with a PhD was $61,695, while the median income of someone with a master’s degree was $53,980. And in case you’re wondering, one year after graduation someone with a bachelor’s degree had a median income of $37,358. To learn more about earnings ranges for doctorate-level careers in Georgia, reference that chart below.
| Job Title | Related Doctoral Degree(s) | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioner | Doctor of Nursing Practice | $101,690 | $141,880 |
| Clinical Psychologist | Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) | $62,460 | $149,070 |
| University Administrator | Doctor of Education (EdD) | $100,050 | $208,000+ |
| Physical Therapist | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | $95,590 | $124,450 |
| Finance Director | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | $129,150 | $208,000+ |
| Physicist | PhD in Physics | $106,770 | $193,280 |
| Computer Research Scientist | PhD in Computer Science | $79,810 | $123,390 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021