Founded in 1732, Georgia is the youngest of the original 13 colonies states. The state was originally substantially larger because it contained what are now the states of Alabama and Mississippi. Moreover, Georgia possesses a greater variety of soil types than any other US state. For instance, it stretches northward to the Appalachian Mountains from the marshes of the Atlantic coast.

But these are not the only stand-out features of Georgia.

Georgie’s economy is one of the most resilient in the United States. After the coronavirus pandemic, Georgia’s economy rebounded strongly. Furthermore, the state showed its resilience to the shock of the conflict in Ukraine, which devastated that country and its people and had far-reaching effects beyond the borders. Its reputation as a resilient state is the result of its concentration on competitiveness, human capital, institutions and infrastructure, connectivity and regional integration, and innovation and digital transformation.

According to IBIS World, Georgia’s $600.3 billion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is ranked 8th in the United States. This GDP showcases just how thriving industries are in Georgia—especially its Real Estate and Rental and Leasing, Information, and Manufacturing industries. Furthermore, there are 1,014,051 businesses in Georgia, 19 of which are part of the Fortune 500, including The Coca-Cola Company, Home Depot, and UPS.

In addition to its resilient and thriving economy, Georgia is one of the most educated states. According to Statista, 20.7 percent of people in Georgia have bachelor’s degrees, and 14% have obtained graduate and professional degrees. This goes to show how competitive the population is in the state.

Additionally, Georgia boasts several prestigious universities, including the University of Georgia. Emory University, Georgia Tech renowned for their exceptional contributions to research and academic excellence. These institutions are pivotal in shaping the state’s educational landscape and contribute significantly to advancements in various fields.

Business students worldwide are flocking to Georgia to obtain a comprehensive business education from its vast and varied business schools. The state offers ample career paths and options to help both international and domestic students enjoy their studies.

Among the best majors to pursue in Georgia is Business Administration, given the state’s thriving economy, diverse business landscape, and prestigious universities. There are several colleges and universities to choose from, which makes choosing the best MBA program hard to narrow down.

We’ve ranked Georgia’s 15 top MBA programs to help you search for a high-quality Master of Business Administration degree. These schools offer various specializations, diverse learning environments, and strong connections to the business community. Whether you’re aiming for a general MBA or seeking a specialized focus, Georgia provides a range of options to cater to different career aspirations.

Top 15 MBA Programs in Georgia

Goizueta Business School – Emory University

Emory University is a private research university established in 1836 as Emory College and evolved into a prestigious institution after it merged with Wesleyan College, another Methodist institution. Since then, Emory University has maintained its commitment to academic excellence and research. The university has consistently ranked among the top institutions nationally and globally. Notable developments include the construction of new facilities, continued advancements in medical research, and collaborations with neighboring institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The Goizueta Business School is one of the nine undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools in Emory University. It’s also one of the oldest AACSB-accredited business schools worldwide, created in 1919. The school has adopted various learning methods and constantly updates its business education program curricula to ensure students are equipped with modern skills and knowledge for the ever-competitive job market. The business school is renowned for its emphasis on offering real-world business experience and its intimate student body.

The Goizueta MBA programs have gained recognition for their outstanding job placement rates in recent years. According to the school’s report, 98% of the 2022 full-time MBA cohort secured employment offers within three months.

There are four MBA options students can pursue at the Goizueta Business School:

The Goizueta MBAs are very competitive programs and are hard to get into, with only 110-150 students accepted to maintain its low student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1. The strict acceptance rate aims to provide students individualized attention to help with their professional development path.

To obtain higher chances of admission, applicants must submit high GRE/GMAT scores, well-written essays, glowing recommendation letters, and an accredited bachelor’s degree in business with an undergraduate GPA of 3.23. Students who demonstrate advanced capabilities, such as full-time professional work experience in business and high GPAs, can submit a waiver for the test requirement.

Scheller College of Business – Georgia Institute of Technology

The Georgia Institute of Technology, also popularly called Georgia Tech, was founded in 1885. This public research university holds a reputation for its STEM or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics disciplines. Moreover, the institute has established itself as a global powerhouse in various fields of education, research, and innovation.

Georgia Tech houses 29 colleges and schools, each contributing to the institute’s comprehensive academic offerings. One of its sought-after colleges is the Scheller College of Business, a top-ranked business school in the nation known for integrating technology into business education. The primary goal of this business school is to help students understand how technological advancements significantly improve and expand business operations.

The AACSB accredits the Scheller College of Business to grant bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business education. Students seeking an MBA can choose from the following programs offered by Georgia Tech:

The wide-ranging MBA programs open a lot of opportunities for students to pursue their studies, giving them maximum control over their scheduling needs and interests.

Located in the vibrant Tech Square at the heart of Midtown Atlanta, Georgia Tech students can participate in various professional development opportunities in Fortune 500 companies, corporate centers, and start-up businesses. MBA students will undergo personalized, one-on-one guidance and hands-on learning opportunities as part of the school’s mission to produce world-class business experts.

Although bachelor’s degrees in non-business fields are accepted, the admission process at Georgia Tech’s Scheller College of Business is also very competitive. The business school had an average 20% acceptance rate in the past years. Today, the acceptance rate for the MBA programs declined to 17%. Applicants with at least two to three years of post-graduate, full-time work experience have more success getting a seat for the MBA program.

Terry College of Business – University of Georgia

The University of Georgia is the first state-chartered university in the nation. As a major research institution, UGA is at the forefront of groundbreaking research across various disciplines. The university houses several research centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing modern societal challenges.

UGA’s AACSB-accredited Terry College of Business is a notable business school nationwide, with advanced facilities, exceptional academics, and a global network of 75,000 alums. UGA Terry offers numerous majors leading to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorates. It also has a 95% employment rate within three months of graduation, making it an impressive school for business students.

There are four pathways to an MBA degree at UGA:

Each MBA program has its own unique features. For instance, the online MBA is designed for students who seek flexibility in their studies and want to pursue their MBA remotely. On the other hand, the full-time MBA program offers an immersive and accelerated experience.

Although each MBA program has a different approach to learning, they all have the same goal: to prepare students for leadership roles. Students enrolled in any program can expect to learn from esteemed faculty members and seasoned business professionals in small class sizes, emphasizing personalized learning experiences.

Terry College also offers a 2+2 Early Admission program designed for motivated students and professionals. This program allows early admissions and deferred enrollment to Full-Time MBA after two years of full-time work experience.

With an acceptance rate of 40%, Terry College of Business is not so selective with its applicants. While the school does not require students to submit GRE/GMAT scores and has no minimum GPA requirement, those with high standardized test scores and 3.2 or higher GPAs have higher chances of acceptance.

School of Business Administration – Clark Atlanta University

School of Business - Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University is one of the most prominent historically black universities in the United States, with a rich history of providing quality education to African American students. CAU is a member of the Atlanta University Center Consortium, collaborating with other historically black institutions in Atlanta. Moreover, it is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, business, social sciences, and the arts.

CAU comprises four schools offering 40 major areas of study, including the School of Business, accredited by the AACSB to grant business education degrees. The School of Business has been selected as the 2023 National Black MBA Association Collegiate Partner of the Year.

The School of Business at CAU updates programs to incorporate industry trends, provides hands-on experiential learning opportunities and emphasizes networking for students to excel in the dynamic business environment.

There are currently two pathways for earning an MBA degree at CAU:

These MBA programs are vastly known for their affordability, making them a popular option for students seeking professional careers in accounting, finance, information systems, and marketing. The program prepares students for leadership roles and attracts Fortune 500 companies for recruitment.

While admission for either MBA is not highly competitive, the School encourages applicants to have at least two years of substantial work experience. The admissions committee will also evaluate maturity, motivation, leadership performance, internships, special programs, and recommendations without requiring evaluation interviews.

James M. Hull College of Business – Augusta University

James M. Hull College of Business at Augusta University

Augusta University is a comprehensive public research university founded in 1828 as the Medical Academy of Georgia. Over the years, August has undergone several transformations and expansions to become the institution it is today. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, emphasizing a student-centered approach and hands-on learning experiences.

The James M. Hull College of Business stands out as a center of excellence in business education and is accredited by the AACSB. Augusta University’s business programs equip students with skills for competitive business environments, with experienced faculty and industry trends to ensure a dynamic learning environment.

The Hull College of Business offers one of Georgia’s most comprehensive MBA programs that can be completed in-person and online.

Both MBA programs follow the same curriculum, requirements, and admissions process. These MBA programs offer advanced business education, preparing students for management and professional positions in private and public organizations. Augusta and Hull College foster strong relationships with the local business community, promoting economic development and student engagement through projects and internships.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college and at least two years of post-graduation professional business experience. Applicants should have at least a 3.0 GPA for unconditional admission. While the school has a test-optional policy, MBA applicants who submit high standardized test scores often get prioritized in the admissions process.

Campbell School of Business – Berry College

Berry College is a top private liberal arts college vastly known for its relatively low student-faculty ratio and student-work programs where full-time students are required to participate in community enrichment programs. These programs are designed to help students understand their communities and double as networking opportunities. Moreover, the school’s landscape is admired for its combination of scale and natural resources, which are rarely seen in other colleges and universities.

The Campbell School of Business, one of Georgia’s top AACSB International-accredited business schools, is housed at Berry College. Campbell offers several business degree programs that combine traditional academics with real-life experiences for comprehensive career preparation. Students can expect a lot from this business school, from student support services to rigorous majors and elective offerings.

The Campbell School of Business offers two types of MBA degree programs:

These MBA programs serve two different purposes. The first MBA track is the best option for students maintaining work and other obligations, while the second track is for those who want a full-time and accelerated MBA version. While their delivery format is different, each track provides students with courses that equip them with a wide range of business knowledge. MBA graduates will have the training required to stand out in the job market.

Both MBA programs follow a strict, small class structure to make way for individualized learning. This means that, although the admissions process is less selective, applicants must be able to showcase their academic abilities to have a spot in the selection process.

Successful applicants have a 3.0 minimum GPA on their undergraduate studies and high standardized test scores. While the required professional work experience is only two years, most accepted students have five or more years of experience.

But before applying to this program, you should know that Berry College, unlike other schools, does not offer formal job placement services. This MBA is geared towards mid-career professionals, meaning that students are expected to have a position in the job market already and are only looking for an MBA to enhance their career advancement skills.

College of Business – Clayton State University

Clayton State University was established in 1969 and offered only associate degrees. To remain relevant and competitive in the educational landscape of the Atlanta metropolitan area, CSU has evolved into a large, comprehensive institution. Since 1996, CSU has played an important role in Georgia’s higher education system by providing affordable and top-quality education to a diverse student population.

CSU has four colleges and schools, including the world-renowned College of Business. Accredited by the AACSB, this business school offers several competitive academic programs from undergraduate to graduate levels. The school offers MBA programs that can be completed on-campus and online.

CSU MBA programs prepare graduates for global business environments. While delivery formats differ, the curriculum aims to enhance communication, cultural appreciation, decision-making, and problem-solving skills while also emphasizing ethical business behavior and corporate social responsibility.

Students who want to pursue a concentration can pursue Accounting, Digital Marketing, Human Resource Leadership, International Business, or Supply Chain Management. Those who want to gain a broad business operations perspective can pursue the General Business track. A Data Analysis concentration will soon be available to on-campus PMBA students.

The GRE/GMAT scores are required for students who do not meet the required 2.75 undergraduate GPA.

D. Abbott Turner College of Business – Columbus State University

Embracing technology and modern teaching methods, Columbus State University is known for its vibrant student life. The university enhances the learning experience. Blended and online learning opportunities are integrated into many programs, providing flexibility for students to pursue their education while accommodating diverse schedules.

Columbus State offers over 90 majors leading to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, including the Master of Business Administration. The Turner College of Business & Technology offers MBA programs at Columbus State. This AACSB-accredited business school strongly emphasizes the intersection of business and technology, teaching students how technological innovations shape the modern business landscape.

Students can pursue an MBA in two formats:

These program options allow students to align their goals with their current situations. The online MBA format gives way to working students, while the full-time MBA offers an accelerated format.

The admissions committee often prefers students with prior business knowledge. Transfer credits are allowed only if the bachelor’s degree was earned from an AACSB-accredited program. The accepted GPA is 2.75 and higher.

J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology – Georgia College & State University

Students looking for an affordable liberal arts school can enroll at Georgia College & State University, a public liberal arts university established in 1889. While GSCU is known to prioritize undergraduate research, it also offers various graduate programs grounded in liberal arts with several opportunities for professional development.

One of its stand-out schools is the Bunting College of Business and Technology. This college offers various comprehensive, affordable, and accessible business education programs accredited by the AACSB. Each program fosters a culture of intellectual curiosity and innovation to prepare students for scholarly and creative activities.

Students with full-time jobs or familial obligations can pursue the MBA program the Bunting College of Business offers.

WebMBA

This flexible online MBA has a sticker price of $23,000, which falls well below the national average of graduate schools. Students can graduate in 20 months, accelerating their professional development without compromising the quality of their education. The curriculum covers essential business concepts and practices, producing graduates who are well-equipped for the complexities of the modern business environment. Faculty expertise and a commitment to academic excellence contribute to the program’s overall quality.

As a cohort, team-based program, there’s no year-round enrollment. Applicants can begin the program in January and August only.

Parker College of Business – Georgia Southern University

Parker College of Business Departments - Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University has a rich history from its founding in 1906. The university was originally established to provide agricultural and mechanical arts education. It later expanded its educational reach when it merged with Armstrong State University in 2018.

Today, Georgia Southern has ten colleges, including the Parker College of Business, where academically talented students can pursue an MBA. Graduates can expect to have rigorous coursework that aligns with industry standards, proven by its accreditation from the AACSB. Interested MBA applicants have two options to complete an MBA degree:

These MBAs are designed for ambitious professionals seeking to learn in a dynamic environment. Both programs offer personal academic advisors and access to resources like libraries and financial aid counseling. Graduates prepare for leadership roles, with MBA holders typically having better job prospects and higher salaries. These programs are also military-friendly, having been named a “Military-Friendly” school for six years in a row.

College of Business and Computing – Georgia Southwestern State University

Georgia Southwestern State University transitioned into a four-year institution in 1964 and has since been at the forefront of providing comprehensive education to undergraduate and graduate students. GSW fosters community through purposeful engagement, empowering students to unlock understanding, develop skills, and cultivate confidence. It serves as a springboard for students from all backgrounds and walks of life.

The College of Business and Computing is a leader in online business education, providing ABET- and AACSB-accredited bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs. All programs offered by the college are affordable, flexible, and customizable.

One of the graduate programs offered by the GSW College of Business is the Online Master of Business Administration program. With a flexible course scheduling and affordable tuition of $257/credit hour, this is one of the most sought-after programs for working professionals. It combines functional knowledge, faculty expertise, and student experience to promote career development and help students achieve personal and leadership goals.

Applicants with a 3.25 GPA or higher are no longer required to submit a statement of purpose, resume, and GMAT/GRE scores. While applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a business field are commonly preferred, those with degrees from other fields can apply and complete prerequisite classes at GSW and obtain a minimum 3.0 GPA on all courses.

J. Mack Robinson College of Business – Georgia State University

Georgia State University, a top urban research university, is globally recognized for its innovative technology, student success programs, and initiatives. GSU is among the most innovative schools and has one of the fastest-growing research profiles in the country. It is a diverse institution that caters to all students, from high school students to doctoral candidates, aiming to advance knowledge and educate them in various fields.

GSU offers over 250 programs spread through 12 colleges and schools, popular for allowing students to customize programs for an interdisciplinary approach to education and dual degrees. The Robinson College of Business at GSU is a top-ranking business school that offers various business degree programs, from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees.

The Robinson College of Business offers two AACSB-accredited MBA pathways:

Students enrolled in the Flexible MBA can pursue a dual degree program. They can partner their MBA degrees with Juris Doctor, Data Science and Analytics, or Health Administration. These dual degree programs are a prime example of GSU’s dedication to providing students with an all-encompassing, multidisciplinary education that will equip them to meet the complex demands of today’s corporate environment.

Coles College of Business – Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University is one of the largest institutions in the state and is known for its award-winning degrees and programs. While the school is more popular in teacher and nursing education, it has also demonstrated its capabilities in business education.

The Coles College of Business at KSU stands as a hub for business innovation and education, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for the dynamic world of business. It is accredited by the AACSB, offering various professional development and hands-on learning opportunities for both its online and traditional students.

KSU Coles offers two delivery formats for its MBA degree:

Coles College offers relevant curricula and coaching sessions for career exploration, job searches, resume development, and interview preparation, catering to the needs of the marketplace and employers.

The Evening MBA is the only pathway that offers various concentration areas. Students who enroll in this MBA can pursue a concentration in Accounting (CPA Track), Finance, Financial Technology (FinTech), or General Management.

Mercer University

Mercer University is a private research university founded in 1833 and gained university status in 1837. This country’s oldest private institution for higher education has gained popularity as one of America’s most distinctive institutions.

Mercer has 12 schools and colleges with world-class resources and various opportunities for students to develop their knowledge and practical skills. One of its most prominent schools is the School of Business, where students study rigorous academics in an intimate learning environment. Accredited by the AACSB, graduates will have a competitive edge in applying for entry-level, mid-, and high-level positions in various industries.

The School of Business is one of the most comprehensive providers of MBA programs in Georgia.

Students can apply to the MBA program where their goals, interests, and schedules best align with. They can further customize their MBAs by pursuing a concentration in Accounting, Finance, Global Business, Integrative Business, Managing People and Change, or Marketing. Certificates, such as Business and Data Analytics and Women in Leadership, are embedded into the MBAs.

MBA students can also pursue dual degree programs:

College of Business Administration – Savannah State University

Savannah State University is Georgia’s oldest HBCU institution, established in 1890. It is committed to advancing African American education and fostering a diverse, inclusive campus community that welcomes students from all backgrounds.

SSU has four colleges, including a College of Business Administration, offering various AACSB-accredited degree programs. SSU COBA provides various learning opportunities dedicated to offering students a high-quality education and easy access to student learning services and professional development opportunities. Business students will learn from experienced faculty members who know how modern businesses operate.

One of COBA’s offerings is the Master of Business Administration program, which is dedicated to enhancing students’ academic performance and personal growth. The MBA program gives students a thorough understanding of business processes, global contexts, and analytical techniques, preparing them for management and leadership roles in the public and private sectors.

Students can pursue the program in a 100% online or hybrid learning format. With the help of an academic advisor, students can tailor their course schedules so as not to get in the way of their current jobs without compromising quality.

MBA Program admission is competitive, with decisions made on a rolling basis, requiring candidates to submit applications promptly. Applicants with a 2.50 GPA or higher are not required to take the GRE/GMAT. However, students below the minimum GPA requirement must take standardized exams and aim for high scores to be considered for the SSU MBA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the average salary of MBA professionals in Georgia?

According to Zip Recruiter, the average annual pay for MBA jobs in Georgia is $136,845, with top earners earning $187,030 annually. The actual salary for an MBA graduate will depend on various factors, including the state they’re working in, their position, and their professional backgrounds.

How important is programmatic accreditation?

Georgia has several colleges and universities offering online and on-campus MBAs. Programs that have earned programmatic accreditation, such as the AACSB accreditation, underwent various tests to prove their commitment to high-quality business education. Top-notch faculty members teach in these MBA programs.

Is Georgia a nice place to relocate?

Yes. Georgia is one of the best places to build a career. Georgia’s diverse economy, moderate climate, and rich cultural scene make it a popular destination for relocation. The state’s emerging technology sector, affordable housing, and diverse geography make it a desirable place to live.

Is an MBA in Georgia worth it?

The answer depends on your personal interests. But in general, obtaining an MBA degree in Georgia is worth it, especially if you’re looking into a competitive job market. MBA programs in Georgia offer benefits such as recession-proof employability, networking opportunities, and transferable skills.

Who are Georgia’s top MBA employers?

Georgia’s economy has shown resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, with job growth and $2.1 billion in new investments. The state’s thriving agricultural industry and dense concentration of major employers make it an attractive MBA specialization. Some of the top employers in Georgia are found in Fortune 500 and 100 companies.

Coca-Cola: With excellent staff retention and tenure statistics demonstrating high job satisfaction, Coca-Cola offers MBA grads steady, profitable possibilities to work for the well-known company.
UPS: This Atlanta-based company is a major courier and delivery company with a consolidated revenue between $91.3 billion and $92.3 billion. Being a large multinational corporation, UPS frequently employs recent MBA graduates to oversee and manage its intricate global operations.
Delta Air Lines: As a major airline headquartered in Atlanta, Delta Air Lines has been known to hire MBA graduates for positions in finance, strategy, and operations.

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