Top 20 Nursing Schools in Augusta Georgia (2025)

Augusta, Georgia, is home to several reputable nursing schools offering a range of programs, from associate degrees to doctoral studies. These institutions provide rigorous training in nursing theory, clinical practice, and leadership, preparing students for careers in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, and community health settings. Programs often include classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and hands-on clinical rotations. Many schools also offer accelerated and online pathways to accommodate working students or those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees.

Top 20 Nursing Schools in Augusta Georgia

1. Augusta University – College of Nursing (BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD)

Augusta University’s College of Nursing offers a wide range of programs, from bachelor’s degrees to doctoral levels. Known for high NCLEX pass rates, the school provides students with access to modern facilities, simulation labs, and experienced faculty. The college emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration. Students can choose from traditional, accelerated, and online options to fit different career paths. With strong community partnerships, graduates are well-prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, research, and leadership positions in healthcare.

2. Augusta University – BSN Program

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Augusta University provides students with a strong foundation in nursing theory, clinical practice, and patient care. Students engage in classroom learning, simulation training, and real-world clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings. The program emphasizes critical thinking, patient safety, and cultural competence. With full-time faculty support and access to advanced simulation labs, graduates are prepared to pass the NCLEX exam and pursue careers in hospitals, community health, or advanced nursing practice.

3. Augusta University – MSN-CNL Program

The Master of Science in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader program is designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. This accelerated program prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare systems, focusing on improving patient outcomes and implementing quality care initiatives. Students gain advanced clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and experience in care coordination. The curriculum blends classroom instruction, simulation, and hands-on clinical practice. Graduates are eligible for the CNL certification and can work in hospitals, long-term care, and other healthcare settings.

4. Medical College of Georgia (Augusta University)

While the Medical College of Georgia primarily focuses on medical education, it works closely with Augusta University’s College of Nursing to promote interprofessional training and collaborative healthcare. Nursing students benefit from shared research opportunities, integrated learning experiences, and access to AU’s extensive medical facilities. This collaborative environment prepares future healthcare professionals to work effectively in team-based settings. Although the Medical College does not offer nursing degrees, it supports nursing education through shared resources, simulation opportunities, and joint community health projects that enhance learning experiences.

5. Augusta Technical College – ADN

Augusta Technical College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. The program equips students with essential nursing skills through classroom instruction, laboratory work, and supervised clinical experiences. Emphasis is placed on patient-centered care, safety, and professional ethics. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and work as registered nurses in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. Flexible scheduling options make the program accessible to working students.

6. University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken)

Located just across the state line, USC Aiken offers a highly respected Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Students receive a combination of classroom learning, simulation training, and extensive clinical rotations. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and patient-centered care. Faculty members bring a wealth of experience and mentorship to the program, guiding students toward success. Graduates consistently perform well on the NCLEX exam and find employment in hospitals, outpatient centers, and public health agencies in both South Carolina and Georgia.

7. Lander University

Lander University, located within driving distance of Augusta, offers nursing programs designed to prepare students for diverse healthcare careers. Its Bachelor of Science in Nursing curriculum focuses on clinical competence, critical thinking, and compassionate care. Students benefit from small class sizes, simulation labs, and strong community healthcare partnerships. The program includes hands-on clinical experiences in various settings, from hospitals to community clinics. Graduates are equipped to pass the NCLEX exam and begin careers as registered nurses or pursue advanced nursing degrees.

8. Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University offers multiple pathways to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, including traditional, accelerated, and RN-to-BSN options. Students are trained in advanced simulation labs and complete clinical rotations in varied healthcare environments. The program emphasizes cultural competence, leadership, and evidence-based nursing practice. Experienced faculty members provide strong mentorship, guiding students to success on the NCLEX exam. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations, or to continue into master’s and doctoral-level nursing programs.

9. Aiken Technical College

Aiken Technical College, located near Augusta, offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce as registered nurses. The program combines classroom learning, laboratory training, and clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities. Students learn essential skills such as patient assessment, medication administration, and care planning. Faculty members emphasize professionalism, ethics, and evidence-based practice. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers in hospitals, long-term care, and home health.

10. Oconee Fall Line Technical College

Oconee Fall Line Technical College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing program for students seeking a practical, career-focused education. The program blends academic instruction with clinical training in healthcare facilities, allowing students to develop essential nursing skills. Emphasis is placed on patient safety, teamwork, and communication. Small class sizes ensure personalized instruction and mentorship from faculty. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin careers in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community health organizations.

11. Piedmont Technical College

Piedmont Technical College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program aimed at preparing students for immediate entry into healthcare careers. The curriculum emphasizes clinical competence, patient safety, and ethical practice. Students complete classroom instruction, laboratory exercises, and supervised clinical rotations in local hospitals and healthcare facilities. Faculty provide mentorship and guidance throughout the program. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and can work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health settings.

12. East Georgia State College

East Georgia State College provides nursing coursework as part of its health sciences program. Students gain foundational knowledge in nursing theory, patient care, and clinical practices through classroom learning and laboratory sessions. Clinical rotations allow students to apply skills in real-world healthcare environments. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, communication, and patient-centered care. Graduates are prepared for further nursing education or entry-level healthcare positions. Although smaller in size, the program offers personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty members.

13. Midlands Technical College

Midlands Technical College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program designed for students seeking practical and career-oriented nursing education. The curriculum focuses on core nursing skills, patient safety, and evidence-based practice. Students participate in lab simulations and clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, gaining hands-on experience. Faculty members provide guidance and mentorship to ensure readiness for the NCLEX-RN exam. Graduates are equipped to work as registered nurses in hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics across the region.

14. Georgia Military College

Georgia Military College offers nursing programs tailored to military-affiliated students and civilians alike. The program emphasizes discipline, leadership, and ethical nursing practice. Students complete courses in anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care alongside supervised clinical experiences. Faculty provide guidance on both practical and theoretical aspects of nursing. Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and work in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. The program also offers flexible schedules for active-duty personnel and working adults seeking a nursing career.

15. South University Augusta

South University in Augusta provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities. Students develop critical thinking, leadership, and patient care skills, preparing them to provide high-quality healthcare in diverse environments. Faculty members offer mentorship and support throughout the program. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, public health, and advanced nursing studies.

16. Albany State University (Augusta campus access)

Albany State University offers access to nursing education programs for students near Augusta through partnerships and online pathways. The programs focus on building foundational nursing skills, patient care knowledge, and clinical experience. Students engage in classroom learning, lab simulations, and clinical rotations. Faculty provide mentorship to guide students through NCLEX-RN preparation and professional development. Graduates are prepared for careers in hospitals, long-term care, and community health facilities. The programs also offer opportunities to advance to bachelor’s and master’s-level nursing degrees.

17. Clayton State University (accessible to Augusta residents)

Clayton State University offers nursing programs, including RN-to-BSN and accelerated pathways, for students in the Augusta region. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and patient-centered care. Students complete laboratory simulations and clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience. Faculty provide mentorship, academic support, and guidance for NCLEX-RN exam preparation. Graduates are well-prepared to enter hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community health organizations as registered nurses. The programs also provide options for advanced education in nursing leadership or specialized clinical roles.

18. South Georgia State College (nearby options)

South Georgia State College offers nursing programs designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles and advanced study. Coursework includes anatomy, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals, paired with clinical experiences in local healthcare settings. Faculty focus on providing mentorship and practical guidance to ensure students are prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and public health organizations. The program also supports progression to bachelor’s or master’s-level nursing degrees for career advancement.

19. Augusta University Online Nursing Programs

Augusta University offers online nursing programs, including RN-to-BSN and graduate-level options, for students who need flexible schedules. These programs combine online coursework with required clinical experiences, allowing students to gain practical skills while studying remotely. Students develop leadership, critical thinking, and patient care competencies applicable to modern healthcare environments. Faculty provide mentorship, support, and guidance for NCLEX-RN preparation or advanced nursing practice. Graduates are equipped for careers in hospitals, outpatient centers, long-term care, and other healthcare settings nationwide.

20. Piedmont College (accessible via online pathways)

Piedmont College offers nursing programs through flexible and online pathways suitable for Augusta residents. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Students complete online coursework paired with supervised clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities. Faculty provide guidance, mentorship, and preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam. Graduates are ready to work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. The programs also allow students to pursue further education, including master’s degrees, for advanced practice and specialized nursing roles.

Requirements for top nursing schools in Augusta, Georgia

Admission requirements vary slightly by institution, but common requirements include:

• High school diploma or equivalent for entry-level programs.
• Minimum GPA, typically around 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and sometimes microbiology or nutrition.
• Standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT for some schools.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or healthcare professionals.
• Personal statement or essay explaining motivation for pursuing nursing.
• Background check and immunizations for clinical placements.

Cost of top nursing schools in Augusta, Georgia

Tuition and fees vary depending on the program and residency status:

• Augusta University undergraduate programs typically range from \$9,000 to \$12,000 per year for in-state students and \$25,000–\$28,000 for out-of-state students.
• Augusta Technical College ADN programs cost approximately \$4,000–\$6,000 per year for in-state students.
• Private institutions such as South University can range from \$15,000 to \$20,000 per year.
• Additional expenses include textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, and clinical supplies, which can total \$1,000–\$2,000 per year.
• Online or accelerated programs may have slightly higher tuition but offer flexibility for working students.

Application process for top nursing schools in Augusta, Georgia

The application process typically involves:

• Submitting an online or paper application through the school or centralized application system.
• Providing official high school or college transcripts.
• Completing prerequisite courses with a minimum required grade.
• Submitting standardized test scores if required.
• Providing letters of recommendation and a personal essay.
• Participating in an interview or orientation session at some institutions.
• Completing background checks, immunization records, and health screenings for clinical eligibility.
• Meeting application deadlines, which vary by school and program type, often several months before the semester start.

Conclusion

Augusta, Georgia, offers a variety of nursing schools that prepare students for rewarding careers in healthcare. From associate degrees to doctoral programs, students can choose traditional, accelerated, or online paths to suit their schedules and goals. While requirements, costs, and application processes vary, all programs focus on building clinical competence, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Prospective students should carefully research each school to determine which program aligns with their career ambitions, financial considerations, and educational needs.