Best
Value Colleges in Atlanta in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Atlanta, GA offers access to a vibrant business hub and internships across finance, technology, healthcare, and logistics. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, management, business law, finance, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or business consultant. Atlanta colleges offering business administration degrees include Georgia State University, Emory University's Goizueta Business School, and Morehouse College as well.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Atlanta, Georgia offers coursework in developmental psychology, cognition, research methods, statistics, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students may explore clinical, counseling, and community topics through internships and research. Popular choices include Georgia State University, Emory University, Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, and Morehouse College. Graduates often pursue roles as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources specialists, or research assistants. Becoming a licensed psychologist typically requires graduate study and supervised experience.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Atlanta, Georgia, offers access to technology programs and a growing tech community. Students typically study programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Popular local options include Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, web developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, systems analysts, or database administrators. Internships with Atlanta-area companies can help students build experience and professional connections.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Atlanta, GA combines classroom learning with supervised practice. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and research methods. Depending on the degree and licensure path, graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, substance use counselors, or career advisors. Atlanta-area options include Georgia State University, Clark Atlanta University, and Mercer University's Atlanta campus, which offer counseling-related study and training.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Atlanta, GA, combines classroom learning with clinical rotations in the city's hospitals and community clinics. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and maternal-child or mental health nursing. Atlanta-area options include Emory University, Georgia State University, and Atlanta Technical College. Graduates may become registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, or nursing assistants, depending on the credential earned; common workplaces include hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, schools, and public-health agencies.

Best Colleges in Atlanta, GA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 24,324.0, compared with 45,755.8 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure 21,431.8 higher.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 49.38% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 49.38%. Schools receive an average of 21,747.88 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 41,351.7.
• The median number of male applicants is 6,226.5, compared with 15,894.0 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,237.4, and the average ACT score is 26.17.
• The average number of enrolled students is 10,138.5. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 805.14 and 827.25, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 49.0%, compared with 89.7% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 47.0% for men and 52.0% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, 12 offer bachelor's degrees, 11 offer master's degrees, and 7 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 10 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant and enrollment figures, test-score averages, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. The figures vary across these measures, so students should consider which factors best match their priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Atlanta, GA cost?

The average reported cost of studying for a degree in Atlanta, GA, is $25,034.67. This gives you a useful starting point, but your actual bill will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. Atlanta offers options such as Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Emory University, and schools in the Atlanta University Center, so comparing campus-specific estimates can help you find a fit.

Typical reported averages include:

• Tuition and fees: $23,783.08
• Room and board: $14,548.38
• Books and supplies: $1,258.86

The figures are reported averages and do not necessarily add up to the overall cost, so treat them as separate planning references rather than a guaranteed itemized bill. Ask schools about attendance costs, residency, aid, and payment options. A Georgia State commuter may budget differently than a Georgia Tech or Emory resident. Building a budget early can make Atlanta's academic opportunities feel more manageable and exciting.

How long does it take to finish college in Atlanta, GA?

Most students in Atlanta, GA, should plan on about four years of full-time study for a bachelor's degree; an associate degree generally takes two years, while a master's often requires one to two additional years. Your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and whether you attend full time. At Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Emory, or Morehouse, check each program's degree map early so you can plan confidently and enjoy campus life without surprises.

Graduation data show the importance of persistence: the average graduation rate is 49.0%, versus 89.7% among the top 10% of schools. Many students do not finish within the period; use advising and support services early. You may graduate sooner with eligible AP or dual-enrollment credits, approved transfer coursework, summer classes, or an accelerated schedule. Ask Atlanta colleges how credits fit your major; a faster plan works best when requirements align and your workload stays manageable.

Salary

College graduates in Atlanta, GA, earn a median alumni salary of about $44,649. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $64,216. Your own earnings can vary depending on your degree, career, experience, and the school you attend.

Atlanta students can explore options at institutions such as Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Morehouse College. These schools offer different programs and career pathways, so compare your intended major and career goals when estimating what you might earn after graduation. Reaching the higher end of the salary range is an encouraging possibility, especially when you choose a program aligned with the work you want to do.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Atlanta?

There isn't one definitive count because "Atlanta" can mean the city itself or the wider metro area, and some lists include colleges as well as universities. A broad count for the Atlanta area is roughly 20 institutions of higher education. The city and nearby communities offer students a notably varied mix of public, private, and historically Black institutions.

What is the largest university in Atlanta?

Georgia State University is generally considered Atlanta's largest university by student enrollment. Its central Atlanta campus puts students close to public transit, internships, cultural venues, and downtown jobs. Enrollment figures vary by year and by what campuses are included, so it's worth comparing current campus-specific numbers when deciding which school feels like the right fit.

How many universities are there in Atlanta?

For a precise count, first set the boundary: a list limited to Atlanta's city limits will differ from one that includes nearby campuses across the metro area. Counts can also change depending on whether colleges and specialized schools are included. If you're exploring options, compare each school's location and programs rather than relying on a single total.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Atlanta, GA Ranking in 2026-2027

Emory University, based in Druid Hills near Atlanta, offers a research-focused campus within reach of the city's hospitals, cultural venues, and internships. It enrolls 15,500 students, with a 91% graduation rate and an 11% acceptance rate, making admission highly selective. The listed total study cost is $63,400, while median alumni salary is $62,052. For an Atlanta-based student, Emory combines a quieter campus setting with access to metropolitan opportunities, though its comparatively high cost merits careful financial planning and aid research.

Georgia Institute of Technology, known as Georgia Tech, is a major public research university in Midtown Atlanta, with strong engineering, computing, and science programs. Its 56,715 students experience a 94% graduation rate and 14% acceptance rate. The listed total cost is $32,938, and median alumni salary is $83,689, the highest among these five schools. Students already in Atlanta can benefit from transit, industry connections, and city life, while comparing program-specific expenses and campus workload before deciding which major best fits.

Georgia State University sits in downtown Atlanta and offers an urban campus close to government, business, and cultural employers. It enrolls 34,860 students; its graduation rate is 53%, and its acceptance rate is 55%. The listed total study cost is $23,520, with median alumni salary of $44,508. For someone living in Atlanta, the central location can make commuting and accessing internships practical. Compare degree options, class schedules, and aid carefully to find a path that supports timely graduation in Atlanta.

Spelman College is a private historically Black women's liberal arts college in Atlanta and a member of the Atlanta University Center. Its 2,597 students benefit from a close-knit campus community; the graduation rate is 78%, and the acceptance rate is 25%. The listed total cost is $28,207, and median alumni salary is $43,731. For Atlanta residents, studying nearby can connect academics with the city's cultural and professional networks. Explore majors, scholarships, and campus resources to assess fit and affordability overall.

Clark Atlanta University is a private historically Black university in Atlanta, part of the Atlanta University Center. It enrolls 4,191 students, with a 49% graduation rate and a 64% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $25,128, and median alumni salary is $37,309. For a local student, campus life is rooted in Atlanta's historic Black academic community, with city-based cultural and career opportunities nearby. Review program offerings, financial aid, and graduation support to plan a suitable route through college.