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30 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in Georgia

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30 Top Hidden Gem Colleges in Georgia


Small colleges in Georgia can offer students many advantages, such as smaller class sizes, more individualized attention from professors, and the ability to create close-knit relationships with classmates. Georgia also offers a variety of unique cultural experiences, from the vibrant Atlanta city scene to the beautiful natural landscapes of the state’s numerous national parks. Additionally, the cost of living in Georgia is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for students looking to save money while pursuing their education.

In the 20th century, Georgia’s public university system expanded significantly and now includes 26 higher education institutions, including two research universities and 14 state colleges and universities. The University System of Georgia (USG) provides educational opportunities to more than 315,000 students and is one of the largest public higher education systems in the United States.

A lesser-known fact is that the state also has over 30 private colleges and universities, including some of the nation’s top historically black institutions. Georgia is home to some of the best private universities in the country, such as Emory University and the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). There are also many excellent private liberal arts colleges. Small to medium size hidden gem colleges in Georgia offer quality education, and the ones on our list also have online programs.


How We Ranked the Hidden Gem Colleges in Georgia

The editors at Online Schools Guide found institutions of higher learning in Georgia. We refined the list to smaller schools in Georgia with excellent academic reputations that also offer online degree programs. Then, we ranked the best small colleges and programs based on reputation, the cost of attendance, and the number of online offerings.


1. Thomas University

Thomas University is an accredited, nonprofit, private university in the Georgia town of Thomasville. Founded in 1950 as a two-year junior college, Thomas University now offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university has a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, and its student body is represented by students from more than 40 states and 25 countries. It offers an affordable education emphasizing personal attention, career preparation, and service to the community. Furthermore, active military members, spouses, and veterans receive a special military tuition rate, including guard and reserve personnel.

The university also offers online and hybrid programs for those who need more flexibility in their education. Currently, students can choose from an associate degree in Law Enforcement, thirteen bachelor’s degrees, and six master’s degrees in various fields.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Thomasville, Georgia

Online Programs: 20

School: learn more about Thomas University and colleges in Georgia.


2. Augusta University

Augusta University

Formerly Georgia Regents University, Augusta University is a public research university. It is one of the four research universities in the University System of Georgia. Founded in 1828 as the Academy of Richmond County, Augusta University is the second-oldest public university in the state and the fourth-oldest in the nation.

Augusta University Online provides students the convenience of learning from the comfort of their own homes while maintaining the quality of education and services expected from a traditional university. A unique curriculum is tailored to fit the individual needs of each student. And, experienced faculty members dedicated to helping students succeed in teaching all the online courses. Online tuition rates range from $295 to $700 per credit, depending on the program.

The school offers popular online master’s degree programs in high-growth fields. Programs include:

  • Master of Education in Instruction
  • MPH – Master of Public Health
  • Master of Science in Information Security Management
  • MBA – Master of Business Administration
  • Master of Science in Kinesiology (non-thesis track)

On campus, the university offers more than one hundred forty degree programs in various disciplines, including the health sciences, business, engineering, and education. In addition, Augusta University is home to several research centers, including the Georgia Cancer Center, the Institute of Public and Preventive Health, the Hull College of Business, and the Center for Cybersecurity Education and Research.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Augusta, GA

Online Programs: 16

School: learn more about Augusta University and colleges in Georgia.


3. Clayton State University

Clayton State University

Clayton State University is a public university in the town of Morrow, just south of Atlanta. It is a member of the University System of Georgia. The school opened in 1969 and offers more than forty degree programs. Clayton State is known for its small class sizes, personal attention, and emphasis on experiential learning. Popular undergraduate and graduate programs include Business Administration, Nursing, Education, and Criminal Justice. Students can also earn both undergraduate and graduate degrees through Clayton State Online, the university’s online learning platform.

Online Undergraduate Degrees:

  • BBA Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business, Accounting, Management, Supply Chain Management, or Marketing
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English, French, History, Liberal Studies, or Spanish
  • Administrative Management, BAS
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Integrative Studies, Political Science & Government Studies, or Psychology & Human Services
  • Dental Hygiene RDH-BSDH Completion Track
  • Nursing RN-BSN Completion Track

Online Graduate Degrees for Graduate Students:

  • Business Administration, MBA
  • Archival Studies, MAS
  • Public Administration, MPA
  • Nursing, MSN
  • Supply Chain Analytics, MS
  • Master of Strategic Leadership Development, MSLD

The online courses meet the same standards as on-campus courses, with the same rigor, quality, and expectations. Academic and technical support are also available to online students, along with career services and library resources. The university also offers online student orientations and provides online tutoring services.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Morrow, Georgia

Online Programs: 21

School: learn more about Clayton State University and colleges in Georgia.


4. Valdosta State University

Valdosta State State University

This public university is in the Georgia town of Valdosta. It is part of the University System of Georgia and is one of the largest universities in the state. Valdosta State University offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, science, engineering, and the arts. In addition, VSU is home to the Georgia Aviation and Technical College and the Center for International Programs. The university also has a campus in Cairo, Georgia.

In addition to traditional programs, the school offers twelve online bachelor’s degree programs, twenty master’s degrees, and two doctoral degrees. Additionally, several certificates, certifications, and endorsements are also available to online students.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Valdosta, Georgia

Online Programs: 34

School: learn more about Valdosta State University and colleges in Georgia.


5. Agnes Scott College

Agness Scott College

Agnes Scott College is a private liberal arts college in Decatur GA. The college was founded in 1889 and is the oldest and only historically women’s college in the state. This private institution has affiliations with the Presbyterian Church (USA) and offers bachelor’s degrees in over 30 different majors and minors in various fields of study. The college also offers several pre-professional programs, such as pre-law, pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, and pre-pharmacy. And the Bradley Observatory (84° 17′ 38.98″ W, 33° 45′ 54.84″ N) astronomical teaching and research facility is at Agnes Scott College!

Additionally, Agnes Scott College offers several interdisciplinary majors, such as gender and women’s, international, and environmental studies. Graduate programs include a Master of Arts in Teaching, a Master of Education, and a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies. Fully online master’s programs include:

  • MS in Data Analysis & Communication
  • Graduate Certificate in Data Visualization (stackable for an MS)
  • Master of Science in Medical Sciences (Online Accelerated)
  • Technology Leadership and Management Graduate Certificate (stackable)
  • Master of Arts in Writing & Digital Communication

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Decatur GA

Online Programs: 7

School: Learn more about Agnes Scott College and colleges in Georgia.


6. Georgia Highlands College

Georgia Highlands College

Georgia Highlands College (GHC) is a public college in Rome. It is part of the University System of Georgia and has satellite campuses in Cartersville, Marietta, and Dallas. The college serves a six-county area in northwest Georgia, including Bartow, Floyd, Gordon, Polk, Paulding, and Haralson counties. Students can choose from over 100 degrees, certificates, and diploma programs in various disciplines, including business, health sciences, liberal arts, science, and mathematics.

GHC also offers online courses and programs as flexible options. Eighteen associate degrees and six bachelor’s degrees are available. Popular bachelor’s programs in health science are Dental Hygiene (RDH to BSDH), Nursing (RN to BSN), and the Bachelor of Science in Health Science (BSHS). Students can also choose a bachelor’s in Business Administration with either a Healthcare Management or Supply Chain Management track. And there is also a Criminal Justice eMajor that stacks on the Criminal Justice AA.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Rome, Georgia

Online Programs: 24

School: Georgia Highlands College


7. Piedmont University

Piedmont University logo

Piedmont University is a private university in the town of Demorest. Founded in 1897, it is one of the oldest universities in the state. The private institution offers over 30 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, education, the sciences, and the humanities. The 300-acre residential campus is amid the Appalachian foothills so students can enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, the school has a satellite campus in the heart of downtown Athens, close to many restaurants and entertainment venues.

In addition to its traditional programs, Piedmont offers three online bachelor’s degrees in Management, Business Administration, and Digital Marketing. Online master’s degrees include MA’s in Special Education, Professional Counseling, Elementary Education, Middle Grades Education, and also Secondary Education.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Demorest, Georgia

Online Programs: 12

School: Piedmont University


8. Point University

Point University

Point University is a Christian liberal arts college in the Georgia town of West Point. The university was founded in 1937 by the Georgia Baptist Convention as Atlanta Christian College to offer a Christian education to students. In 2011, the school was renamed Point University and is now affiliated with the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ, a Protestant denomination. The university is one of the top regional universities in the South.

The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including business, education, ministry, music, and nursing. Point also offers 10 associate degrees online, 13 online bachelor’s degree programs, and two online master’s degrees.

  • Undergraduate Degrees – Accounting, Business Administration, Child Development, Christian Ministries, Criminal Justice, Human Relations, Information Systems Security, Management, Marketing, Network Administration, Psychology, Social Work, and Youth & Family Ministries
  • Graduate Degrees – MBA and Master of Transformative Ministry

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: West Point, Georgia

Online Programs: 25

School: Point University


9. Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) is a public college in Tifton, Georgia. Founded in 1908, it is the oldest college in the University System of Georgia. The college was named after Abraham Baldwin, a signer of the United States Constitution. ABAC offers associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in various fields of study, including agriculture, business, environmental sciences, and nursing. The college also provides a variety of student activities, including intramural sports, student government, and student organizations. ABAC is home to the Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village, a living history museum showcasing the region’s agricultural history.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Georgia

Online Programs: 1

School: Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College


10. Breuau University

Breuau University

Brenau University is a private university in the Georgia town of Gainesville. Founded in 1878, it is a liberal arts school that offers more than 70 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is well known for its quality education and commitment to whole-person development.

BU boasts a robust online program that offers over thirty degrees. Students can earn undergraduate and graduate online degrees in education, business, and also psychology. In addition, they can choose from two associate degrees, fifteen bachelor’s degrees, and fourteen graduate-level degrees and certificates.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Gainesville, GA

Online Programs: 31

School: Brenau University


11. Wesleyan College

Wesleyan College for Women

This college for women offers three online degrees through Wesleyan Online. Students can earn an undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology, Accounting, or Business Administration. Courses are eight weeks in length with five start dates each year for both full-time and part-time students.

Wesleyan College is a private four-year liberal arts college in the Georgia city of Macon. Founded in 1836, Wesleyan is the first college in the world chartered to grant degrees to women. The college offers 30 majors and 40 minors to its approximately 1,400 students. In addition to academics, Wesleyan offers many student activities, including athletics, clubs, honor societies, and Greek life. Students also study abroad in countries such as England, France, and Spain.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Macon, Georgia

Online Programs: 3

School: Wesleyan College for Women


12. Truett McConnell University

Truett McConnell University

Truett McConnell University is a private, Christian liberal arts university in Cleveland. It was founded in 1946 and is affiliated with the Georgia Baptist Convention. The university offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including online offerings below.

  • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration 
  • BA Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies
  • BS in Psychology
  • Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
  • Master of Arts in Counseling
  • MA in Theology
  • MBA
  • MDiv Master of Divinity
  • Master of Arts in Global Studies

It has a student body of over 2,400 students and is home to the Truett McConnell Bears, the school’s athletic team. Additionally, the university is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Cleveland, Georgia

Online Programs: 9

School: Truett McConnell University


13. Toccoa Falls College

Toccoa Falls College

Toccoa Falls College is a private Christian college located in Toccoa, Georgia. It is affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The college offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a variety of fields, including communication, business, education, social sciences, and ministry. The college also provides a variety of extracurricular activities, such as student organizations, intercollegiate athletics, and spiritual life programs. Additionally, the application for undergraduate programs is free.

Online Undergraduate Programs include:

  • B.S. in Counseling Psychology
  • B.S. in Business Administration
  • B.S. in History
  • B.S. in Ministry Leadership
  • B.S. in Organizational Leadership

Online Graduate Programs include:

  • M.A. in Counseling Ministries
  • M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy
  • M.A. in Organizational Leadership
  • Graduate Certificate in Trauma Therapy

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Toccoa, Georgia

Online Programs: 25

School: Toccoa Falls College


14. Dalton State College

Dalton State College

Dalton State College is a public college located in Dalton, Georgia. It is part of the University System of Georgia and offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Founded in 1963, Dalton State has grown rapidly in recent decades. Today its undergraduate enrollment is around 6,000 students.

The college offers over 40 majors in business, education, health sciences, and engineering. In addition to traditional degree programs, the school now offers two online degrees. Students at Dalton State can choose from an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice or a BS in Organizational Leadership.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Dalton, Georgia

Online Programs: 2

School: Dalton State College


15. Albany State University

Albany State University

Albany State University is a public university. It is one of three historically black universities in the state and is a member of the University System of Georgia. Established in 1903 as the Albany Bible and Manual Training Institute, Albany State University offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university also offers an Honors Program for high-achieving students, as well as a variety of research and outreach programs.

Online Bachelor’s Degrees
  • Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
  • Bachelor of Science in Management
  • BS in Management Information Systems and Technology
  • RN to BSN
  • Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Online Master’s Degrees
  • MBA Master of Business Administration
  • Master of Science – Criminal Justice
  • Master of Education – Counselor Education, Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership Tier I, or Special Education
  • MSN Master of Science in Nursing
  • Master of Social Work MSW

In addition to the above bachelor’s and master’s degrees, the school offers 8 online associate degrees and two graduate certificate programs.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Albany, Georgia

Online Programs: 25

School: Albany State University


16. Savannah State University

Savannah State University

Savannah State University is a historically black public university in Savannah, Georgia. It is one of three HBCUs in the state and is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Established in 1890, the university’s mission is to provide students with a comprehensive educational experience, preparing them for personal and professional success. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in various disciplines, including the sciences, business, and the humanities. The university also provides a variety of student activities, including athletics, student organizations, and Greek life.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Savannah, Georgia

Online Programs: 2

School: Savannah State University


17. Georgia Gwinnett College

Georgia Gwinnett College

Georgia Gwinnett College is a public liberal arts college located in Lawrenceville, Georgia, United States. It is part of the University System of Georgia and was established in 2006. It is the first four-year public college created in Georgia in more than 100 years. The college offers over 50 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. It also has several student-run clubs and organizations, and a variety of research opportunities.

  • Bachelor of Integrative Studies
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, software development concentration (only)
  • Bachelor of Science in Education, special education concentration (only)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Online Programs: 3

School: Georgia Gwinnett College


18. LaGrange College

LaGrange College

LaGrange College is a private liberal arts college located in LaGrange, Georgia. Founded in 1831, the college is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and offers more than 45 majors and concentrations. The college is also home to several pre-professional programs, including pre-law, pre-med, pre-theology, and several master’s degree programs. Online degree programs include:

  • RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Education – predominantly synchronous online courses

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: LaGrange, Georgia

Online Programs: 3

School: LaGrange College


19. Emmanuel College 

Emmanuel College

Emmanuel Online offers six flexible programs for students. Each traditional semester has two 8-week sections. So students take shorter, concentrated classes. Additionally, online students each have a Success Mentor to advise them.

  • Undergraduate Programs: General Education Associate in Arts (AA), BS in Business Administration, BS in Criminal Justice with a minor in Homeland Security.
  • Graduate Programs: Master of Elementary Education, Master of Exercise Science

Emmanuel College is a private, co-educational college in Franklin Springs, Georgia. It is an affiliate of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church (IPHC). The college offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in a variety of areas, including business, ministry, education, and social work. Emmanuel College is home to more than 900 students from across the United States and worldwide. The college provides a challenging education in a supportive Christian environment. The campus is in a small, rural town surrounded by lush forests, nature trails, and a nearby lake.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Franklin Springs, GA

Online Programs: 6

School: Emmanuel College Online


20. Shorter University 

Shorter University 

Shorter University is a private, faith-based university located in Rome, Georgia. Founded in 1873 by a group of Baptists, the university provides a traditional liberal arts education and professional programs in business, education, nursing, and Christian ministries. In addition to campus-based programs, Shorter offers a variety of online and hybrid courses.

  • Associate Degrees: Business, Christian Studies, Criminal Justice, General Studies, Human Services, and Sport Management.
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: Business, Criminal Justice, Interdisciplinary Studies, Human Services, Sport Management, and Christian Studies.
  • Master’s Degrees: Accountancy, Management, MBA, and Teaching.

The university has affiliations with the Georgia Baptist Convention.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Rome GA

Online Programs: 19

School: Shorter University


21. Gordon State College

Gordon State College

Gordon State College is a public college located in Barnesville, Georgia. It was founded in 1852 as a private school and is now part of the University System of Georgia. It offers associate degrees in a variety of fields, as well as bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The college also offers a variety of student activities, including music, theatre, intramurals, clubs, and more. Gordon State College is committed to providing quality education and innovative learning opportunities that will prepare students for success in their chosen fields.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Barnesville, Georgia

Online Programs: 6

School: Gordon State College


22. College of Coastal Georgia

Coastal Online is the College of Coastal Georgia’s hub for online degree programs. The school currently offers six undergrad programs online.

  • BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business
  • BAS Bachelor of Applied Science in Workforce Management & Leadership
  • Bachelor of Science in Public Management with a concentration in Non-Profit Management & Leadership
  • RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN for licensed nurses)
  • Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences – Concentration in Health Promotion

The College of Coastal Georgia is a public college in Brunswick. It opened in 1961 as a two-year college and became a four-year college in 2009. Today, it offers over 20 associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs. The College of Coastal Georgia provides various student services, including academic advising, career counseling, personal counseling, and tutoring. The college also offers a variety of student activities, including clubs, intramural sports, and other student organizations.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Brunswick, Georgia

Online Programs: 6

School: College of Coastal Georgia


23. Fort Valley State University

Fort Valley State University

Founded in 1895, Fort Valley State University is a public university in the town of Fort Valley. It is part of the University System of Georgia and is one of three historically black institutions in the system. The university offers over 40 bachelor’s degree programs and several master’s degree programs. It has a student body of nearly 4,000 students and is known for its strong academic programs and its commitment to diversity and inclusiveness.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Fort Valley, Georgia

Online Programs: 5

School: Fort Valley State University


24. Young Harris College

Young Harris College

Young Harris College is a private liberal arts college located in Young Harris, Georgia. The college was founded in 1886 and has an enrollment of about 1,400 students. Young Harris College offers a variety of undergraduate degrees, including Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Music. The college also offers master’s degrees in education, music, and business administration. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Young Harris College is dedicated to providing students with an excellent education in a supportive, Christian environment.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Young Harris, Georgia

Online Programs: 1

School: Young Harris College


25. Morehouse College

Morehouse College

Moorehouse College is a historically Black college located in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 1867, Moorehouse College is one of the oldest and most prestigious Black universities in the United States. Moorehouse College offers more than 30 undergraduate majors and programs, ranging from the arts and sciences to business and public health.

The college also offers a variety of graduate programs, including a Doctorate in Education, a Doctorate in Ministry, and a Master of Public Health. Moorehouse College is dedicated to providing quality education to its students, focusing on creating a learning environment that encourages intellectual growth, leadership development, and service to the community.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Atlanta GA

Online Programs: 1

School: Moorehouse College


26. Andrew College

Andrew College

The online degrees at Andrew include four associate degrees and two bachelor’s degrees. Students attend one or two classes in eight-week terms. And they can attend part-time or full-time and choose from six start dates each year.

  • Associate Degrees: Business Administration, Agribusiness, Communication, and Cancer Registry Management.
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: Organizational Leadership and Business Administration

Andrew College is a private liberal arts college in Cuthbert. Founded in 1854, it is the second-oldest college in the US to confer degrees to women. The school became coeducational in 1956. Andrew College offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in a variety of disciplines, including business, education, healthcare, music, and more. The college also provides a wide range of student activities, such as intramural sports, student government, and clubs.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Cuthbeth, Georgia

Online Programs: 6

School: Andrew College


27. Reinhardt University

Reinhardt University

This university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in more than 30 fields of study. And it now offers three online associate degrees and four bachelor’s degrees.

Reinhardt University is a private, comprehensive liberal arts university located in Waleska, Georgia. It was founded in 1883 by the United Methodist Church and is affiliated with the Georgia Annual Conference of the UMC. It is also home to its School of Nursing and the School of Business. The university is named after Dr. J. W. Reinhardt, a Methodist preacher, and educator who served as president of the university from 1889 to 1904.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Waleska, Georgia

Online Programs: 9

School: Reinhardt University


28. Paine College

Paine College

Paine College is a historically black college located in Augusta, Georgia. Founded in 1882 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, Paine College provides quality education to its students. Its mission is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become responsible citizens, leaders, and professionals.

Paine College offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, humanities, science, and mathematics. The college also hosts various student services and activities, including student organizations, athletic teams, and student government.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Augusta, Georgia

Online Programs: 1

School: Paine College


29. Brewton-Parker College

Brewton-Parker College

Brewton-Parker College is a private, Christian liberal arts college located in Mount Vernon, Georgia. Founded in 1904 by the Georgia Baptist Convention, the college is affiliated with the Georgia Baptist Convention and the Southern Baptist Convention.

The college offers a variety of degrees and certificates in areas such as business, education, nursing, and ministry. In addition, the school now offers three bachelor’s degrees online.

  • BA Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
  • Bachelor of Business Administration
  • BA Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Mount Vernon, Georgia

Online Programs: 3

School: Brewton-Parker College


30. Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University is a private, historically black university in Atlanta. It was founded in 1988 with the consolidation of Clark College (founded in 1869) and Atlanta University (founded in 1865). The university offers over 50 undergraduate degree programs and more than 30 graduate and professional programs. Through CAU Online, students can access online courses and the school’s first online degree program, the EdD in Higher Education Leadership.

The university emphasizes research in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences and is also well known for its programs in business and education. Notable alumni include civil rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Martin Luther King Jr., television host and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey, and entrepreneur and investor Robert F. Smith.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Online Programs: 1

School: Clark Atlanta University


Other Colleges and Universities in Georgia

Maybe you didn’t find your school on our list. Georgia has many other small liberal arts schools with traditional on-campus degree programs for students who do not need an online option. There are also many larger public universities in Georgia to explore.

  • East Georgia State College
  • Savannah College of Art and Design
  • Atlanta Metropolitan State College
  • Berry College in Mount Berry GA
  • Oglethorpe University
  • Georgia State University
  • Spelman College
  • South Georgia Technical College
  • Kennesaw State University
  • University of West Georgia
  • Covenant College in Lookout Mountain GA

What is a Hidden Gem College in Georgia?

The history of higher education in Georgia began in 1785 with the establishment of the University of Georgia in Athens. This was the first state-chartered university in the United States, and it has remained one of the state’s major institutions of higher education ever since.

In the early 19th century, several other institutions of higher education opened, including Emory College (1836), Oglethorpe University (1837), Mercer University (1833) in central Georgia, and Georgia Tech aka Georgia Institute of Technology (1885). In the late 1800s, Georgia also saw the establishment of several historically black colleges and universities, such as Morris Brown College (1881) and Atlanta University (1865).

A Hidden Gem College in Georgia is a college or smaller university with a small student body. Many of these schools are private religious schools. However, small liberal arts colleges and smaller state schools also fit this category.


What are the Benefits of Attending a Small College or University in Georgia?

There are many benefits for students who attend small colleges. Smaller class sizes offer students the opportunity to get more individualized attention and instruction from their professors. This can help students to engage more deeply with the material and better understand the concepts they are learning.

Personalized Student Services

staff available at small colleges in Georgia. They provide academic, career, and personal support. This can help students more easily access the resources they need to succeed.

Faculty-Student Connections

Smaller class sizes and more individualized attention from faculty create stronger connections between students and their professors. This can help foster mentorship opportunities and increase the likelihood of successful academic outcomes.

Affordable Tuition

Smaller colleges and universities typically have lower tuition costs than larger universities. This can make higher education more accessible to students from all economic backgrounds.

Unique Academic Opportunities

Smaller colleges and universities often offer unique academic opportunities, such as study abroad programs, internships, research projects, and more. These opportunities can help students stand out in the job market and hone their skills in specialized areas.


Why Do Students Attend Small Colleges or Hidden Gems in Georgia?

Small hidden gem colleges in Georgia can offer students a more personalized education experience. They have smaller class sizes and more one-on-one time with instructors. This allows students to get more individualized attention and the guidance they need to excel in their studies.

These schools often have more affordable tuition rates than larger universities. This can help students save money on their education, as well as make it more accessible for those who may not have the financial means to attend a more expensive university.

Smaller colleges often offer unique opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. This could include internships, research opportunities, and volunteer work that can help students gain valuable skills and experiences in their chosen field.

A close-knit, supportive community for students is another reason many attend these schools. This can be especially beneficial for those who are new to the area or may be feeling overwhelmed by the transition to college life.


Are Smaller Colleges in Georgia Better?

It depends on what you are looking for in a college. Small colleges in Georgia may offer more personalized education, more intimate class sizes, and a greater sense of community. However, they may not have the same resources, extracurricular activities, or variety of courses as larger universities. Ultimately, the best college for you is the one that best meets your individual needs and goals.

Today, higher education in Georgia is highly regarded and continues to play an important role in the state’s economy and culture. Georgia’s colleges and universities offer a wide range of educational opportunities to students from all backgrounds and provide a strong foundation for the future of Peach State!


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