Most
Affordable Colleges in Atlanta in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Atlanta, GA offers access to local employers and internships. Programs typically cover accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business analytics, and entrepreneurship. Popular options include Georgia State University, Emory University's Goizueta Business School, Georgia Tech's Scheller College of Business, Morehouse College, and Clark Atlanta University. Graduates may pursue careers as financial analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales representatives, management trainees, or business consultants. Atlanta's employers span technology, logistics, healthcare, and finance.

Psychology

Studying a psychology program in Atlanta, GA offers coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills through labs, internships, and community placements. Atlanta colleges with psychology programs include Georgia State University, Emory University, and Clark Atlanta University. Graduates may pursue roles as case managers, behavioral health technicians, research assistants, human resources specialists, or youth counselors, while advanced clinical and counseling positions often require additional graduate study.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Atlanta, Georgia, combines programming, mathematics, and hands-on technology projects. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through labs, internships, and collaborations with local companies. Popular Atlanta colleges offering computer science degrees include Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Emory University. Graduates commonly pursue diverse careers as software developers, data analysts, systems administrators, cybersecurity specialists, or machine-learning engineers.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Atlanta, GA, typically combines counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical experience. Georgia State University, Clark Atlanta University, and Mercer University offer counseling-related graduate study in the area. Programs prepare students for roles such as licensed professional counselor, school counselor, substance-use counselor, career counselor, or community mental health counselor, depending on degree level, state licensure requirements, and specialization. Fieldwork and examinations may be required for licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Atlanta, GA offers pathways from associate and bachelor's degrees to advanced practice. Popular choices include Emory University, Georgia State University, and Atlanta Technical College. Courses typically cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical care across adult, maternal, and pediatric settings. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, or community health agencies; further study can prepare nurses for roles such as nurse practitioner or educator.

Best Colleges in Atlanta, GA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 24,324.0, compared with 45,755.8 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 21,431.8.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students across the schools, compared with 49.38% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 49.38%. Schools receive an average of 21,747.88 applicants, compared with 41,351.7 at top 10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 6,226.5, while the median number of female applicants is 15,894.0.
• Average test scores are 1,237.4 on the SAT and 26.17 on the ACT. The average number of enrolled students is 10,138.5; average enrollment is 805.14 men and 827.25 women.
• The average graduation rate is 49.0%, compared with 89.7% at top 10% schools. 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, eight offer master's degrees, and five offer doctor's degrees. There are 10 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant and enrollment figures, test scores, degree offerings, and graduation rates. In particular, consider how the overall averages differ from the figures for top 10% schools, and compare graduation outcomes for men and women when weighing your options.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Atlanta, GA, is $25,034.67. For a local student, that figure offers a useful starting point when comparing degree options at Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Emory University, or Clark Atlanta University; actual bills depend on school, program, and housing choices.

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

Treat these as reported averages, not a guaranteed quote or amounts to add together. Your final price may be lower with family housing, scholarships, grants, or a less expensive program; campus housing and specialized courses may raise costs. Ask each admissions or financial-aid office for a current cost-of-attendance estimate, then compare tuition, housing, books, and aid side by side. That way, you can build a realistic budget and feel more confident about pursuing a degree close to home in Atlanta. Check whether aid covers books or living expenses.

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

In Atlanta, GA, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes two. Master's programs often require one to two additional years, depending on the field and course load. At schools such as Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Spelman College, your timeline depends on credits, major requirements, and whether you study full time.

Graduation rates matter: the average graduation rate is 49.0%, meaning roughly half of students graduate. The average reaches 89.7% among the top 10% of schools. Reported averages are 46.55% for men and 45.0% for women; rates vary by institution, so compare outcomes alongside program fit and support.

You may finish sooner by:

• Transferring earned credits or applying AP/IB and military credits.
• Taking summer classes, heavier course loads, or a structured accelerated track.
• Choosing a degree-completion option that recognizes prior learning or work experience.

Salary

After graduating from college in Atlanta, GA, you can use a median alumni salary of about $44,649 as a general benchmark. At schools in the top 10%, the median alumni salary is about $64,216. These figures are useful for planning, but your own earnings may vary with your field, experience, and employer.

Atlanta offers a range of colleges and universities to consider, including Georgia Tech, Emory University, Georgia State University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College. Comparing programs and career opportunities can help you find a path that fits your goals - and feel more confident about the investment you're making in your future.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Atlanta?

For a Georgia resident, tuition and required fees can range from roughly $3,000-$6,000 a year at public two-year or technical colleges to around $10,000-$13,000 at public four-year colleges. Private colleges can cost substantially more. These figures exclude housing, food, books, and transportation; grants and scholarships may lower your actual bill.

What college in Atlanta has the lowest tuition?

Atlanta Metropolitan State College is one of the strongest low-cost options in the city for Georgia residents, particularly if you're seeking a public two-year college. The exact lowest cost can depend on your program, credit load, fees, and residency status, so compare current estimates from Atlanta Metropolitan and local technical colleges before enrolling.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Atlanta, GA Ranking in 2026-2027

Georgia Institute of Technology is Atlanta's best-known technology-focused university and a strong option for students seeking engineering, computing, science, or business degrees. Its enrollment is 56,715, with a 94% graduation rate and a selective 14% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $32,938, while median alumni salary is $83,689. Studying in Atlanta offers access to internships, research, and a major urban job market, though students should compare personal expenses and program costs before choosing this prominent public research institution.

Georgia State University offers a large urban campus experience in downtown Atlanta, with programs spanning many academic fields and convenient access to the city's transit, cultural venues, and employers. It enrolls 34,860 students; its graduation rate is 53%, acceptance rate is 55%, listed total cost is $23,520, and median alumni salary is $44,508. For an Atlanta-based student, studying close to home may simplify commuting and help build local connections. Consider your preferred major, housing, and individual expenses when comparing options.

Atlanta Metropolitan State College is a smaller public college in Atlanta, potentially appealing to students who value a close-knit setting and access to city resources. Its enrollment is 1,549, graduation rate 17%, and listed total cost $9,720. Acceptance rate and median alumni salary are not available in the supplied data, so applicants should ask the college for current information. For Atlanta residents, nearby study can reduce travel burdens, while local employers and community organizations may offer useful opportunities alongside coursework.

Morris Brown College is a historically Black college in Atlanta with a legacy and intimate campus scale. Its 437 students may find a smaller community than at the city's largest universities. The listed total study cost is $8,500, and the graduation rate is 25%. Acceptance rate and median alumni salary are unavailable in the supplied data; contact the college for current figures and program details. For Atlanta students, local access can make campus life and community engagement easier to explore.

Spelman College is a historically Black women's liberal arts college in Atlanta, known for a focused academic community and strong campus identity. It enrolls 2,597 students, reports a 78% graduation rate and 25% acceptance rate, and lists total study cost at $28,207. Median alumni salary is $43,731. Students based in Atlanta can explore internships, cultural organizations, and professional networks nearby while benefiting from a residential college environment. Compare financial aid and program fit with your goals and long-term career aspirations.