Best Computer Programming Programs in Georgia 2025

Georgia has emerged as a major technology hub in the Southeast, with Atlanta ranking as the 4th fastest-growing tech market in the United States. The state's computer programming degree programs benefit from this growth, with graduates finding abundant opportunities in fintech, healthcare technology, and enterprise software development.

Software developer employment in Georgia is projected to grow 22% through 2032, nearly double the national average of 11%. This growth is driven by major tech employers including Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and homegrown companies like Mailchimp and NCR Corporation. The state added over 15,000 new tech jobs in 2024 alone, with programming roles representing 35% of new positions.

Georgia programming graduates earn competitive salaries, with recent data showing average starting salaries of $72,000 statewide. Atlanta-based graduates typically earn 15-20% more due to the concentrated tech market, while smaller metros like Augusta and Columbus offer lower living costs with solid programming opportunities.

The University System of Georgia has invested heavily in computing programs, with new facilities at Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, and Kennesaw State University. These investments, combined with partnerships with major employers, create exceptional value for in-state students pursuing computer programming degrees.

Georgia offers 13 bachelor's-level computer programming programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Georgia State University, University of Georgia, Emory University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $75,215 in the Georgia market.

A bachelor's in computer programming typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs guide.

For graduate study, Georgia offers 9 master's-level computer programming programs. Leading institutions include Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, Kennesaw State University, Georgia State University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Georgia reaching $139,685 or more.

For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer programming programs in Georgia are at Georgia Southwestern State University ($4,064/year), Clayton State University ($4,064/year), Georgia Southern University ($4,371/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Georgia's competitive tech salaries.

At Georgia Southwestern State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $16,256 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $75,215, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years.

Georgia offers exceptional value for computer programming education, particularly for in-state students. The HOPE Scholarship, funded by the Georgia Lottery, provides significant tuition assistance to students maintaining a 3.0 GPA, making quality programming education highly accessible.

In-state tuition at Georgia public universities ranges from $8,890 at Columbus State University to $12,852 at Georgia Tech. When combined with room, board, and fees, total annual costs typically range from $22,000 to $32,000. The HOPE Scholarship covers approximately 85-90% of tuition at most institutions, dramatically reducing the financial burden.

Return on investment for Georgia programming degrees is strong, with graduates typically recouping their educational investment within 4-6 years. Georgia Tech graduates show the fastest payback period at just 3.2 years due to high starting salaries, while regional university graduates achieve positive ROI within 5-7 years.

• HOPE Scholarship: Covers 85-90% of tuition for students with 3.0+ GPA
• Zell Miller Scholarship: Full tuition coverage for students with 3.7+ GPA and 1200+ SAT
• STEM-specific scholarships: Additional $1,000-$5,000 annually at most institutions
• Work-study opportunities: Programming tutoring and lab assistant positions available
• Industry internships: Paid positions often covering 50-75% of annual expenses

Admission requirements vary significantly across Georgia's computer programming programs, from highly selective institutions like Georgia Tech to more accessible options at regional universities. Understanding these requirements helps students target appropriate programs and prepare competitive applications.

Georgia Tech maintains the most stringent admission standards, with middle 50% SAT scores of 1370-1520 and ACT scores of 31-35. The average admitted GPA is 4.07 weighted, and the acceptance rate for computer science is approximately 12%. Strong performance in calculus, physics, and advanced programming courses significantly improves admission chances.

• Georgia Tech: 3.8+ GPA, 1400+ SAT, strong STEM coursework, programming portfolio recommended
• University of Georgia: 3.6+ GPA, 1300+ SAT, completion of math through calculus preferred
• Georgia State University: 3.2+ GPA, 1200+ SAT, basic programming experience helpful
• Kennesaw State University: 3.0+ GPA, 1100+ SAT, high school computer science coursework recommended
• Georgia Southern University: 2.8+ GPA, 1050+ SAT, demonstration of analytical thinking skills

Many Georgia programs offer direct admission to computer science, while others require students to complete prerequisite courses before declaring the major. Students should research each program's specific requirements and consider applying to multiple institutions to maximize their options.