Louisiana is a great place to study at the university level, the cost of living is significantly below the national average and allows for an affordable lifestyle which means less financial burdens for students and professionals alike. The best colleges in Louisiana offer hundreds of programs in all the academic fields you can think of. Students also enjoy support services such as counseling, financial aid, and even scholarships.
This article features the top ten best colleges in Louisiana, these universities rank high when it comes to academic excellence, research, and academic offerings. We have discussed their tuition rates, accreditation status, academic offerings, and tuition to help you understand why they are indeed the top colleges in Louisiana. If you have been considering Louisiana for your university education, this article will act as a guide to help you choose better.
Top Ten Colleges in Louisiana
1. Xavier University of Louisiana
Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA) is a private, historically Black, Roman Catholic university in New Orleans, Louisiana. It was established in 1925 by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament.
XULA offers many undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various fields, including the arts and sciences, business, education, and pharmacy. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in the health sciences. The university is also noted for its success in the STEM fields.
The average cost of tuition for undergraduate students is $27,868.
2. Southern University and A&M College
Southern University and A&M College, often referred to as Southern University or SU, is a public historically Black university in Baton Rouge. It was established in 1880 in New Orleans and was moved to Baton Rouge in 1914. The university was founded as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act, aimed at providing educational opportunities for African Americans in the post-Civil War South.
Southern University and A&M College offer many undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various fields, including the arts and sciences, business, engineering, education, nursing, and law. It is very popular for its legal education and is known for producing a significant number of African American lawyers.
As an A&M college, Southern has strong programs in agriculture, mechanical engineering, and related fields. The tuition fees are $9,848 for in-state students and $17,198 for out-of-state students.
All these details are proof that this university is deserving of its spot on our list of the top colleges in Louisana.
3. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NSU) is a public university situated in Natchitoches, Louisiana. It was established in 1884 as the Louisiana State Normal School for the preparation of teachers. It is also one of the oldest universities in the state.
At NSU students can take up a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across different fields, including the arts, sciences, business, education, health and human services, and technology. The university is particularly known for its strong education programs, continuing its legacy as a teacher-training institution.
NSU is also recognized for its online education programs, which offer numerous degrees and courses tailored to the needs of non-traditional students and working professionals.
The tuition costs are $8,864 for in-state students and $19,652 for out-of-state students.
4. University of Louisiana at Monroe
The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) is a public university situated in Monroe, Louisiana. It was established in 1931 as Ouachita Parish Junior College and underwent several name changes before becoming ULM in 1999 over the years, the institution has adapted to meet the educational needs of its community and beyond.
ULM offers a lot of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs spanning fields such as arts, sciences, business, education, health sciences, and pharmacy. Its health sciences programs, including the College of Pharmacy, receive recognition. ULM actively supports various research endeavors through its numerous research centers and institutes, contributing to both scientific progress and community welfare.
The tuition fees are $9,190 for in-state students and $21,290 for out-of-state students.
5. Louisiana State University, Alexandria
Louisiana State University at Alexandria (LSUA) is a public university situated in Alexandria, Louisiana. It was founded in 1959 as a two-year commuter college within the Louisiana State University System and later expanded to grant four-year degrees, officially becoming Louisiana State University at Alexandria in 2001.
In terms of academics, LSUA offers many undergraduate programs covering various fields like arts, sciences, business, education, and nursing. LSUA is dedicated to delivering accessible education and flexible scheduling. The tuition fees amount to $7,050 for in-state students and $14,650 for out-of-state students.
5. Tulane University of Louisiana
Tulane University located in New Orleans is a private research institution that was originally founded in 1834 as the Medical College of Louisiana. It was later amalgamated with the University of Louisiana in 1847, forming the public University of Louisiana in New Orleans. However, in 1884, it transitioned into a private institution under the name Tulane University.
Tulane offers a large selection of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in different fields such as the arts and sciences, business, engineering, law, medicine, public health, and social work. The tuition for Tulane University is $65,538.
6. Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge
Louisiana State University, situated in Baton Rouge is the flagship institution within the Louisiana State University System. It was established in 1853 as the Louisiana State Seminary of Learning & Military Academy.
LSU offers hundreds of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields like the arts and humanities, sciences, engineering, business, education, and agriculture. The university is recognized for its strong programs in areas such as petroleum engineering, coastal studies, and veterinary medicine. The tuition fees are $11,954 for in-state students and $28,631 for out-of-state students.
7. Loyola University New Orleans
Loyola University New Orleans is a private Jesuit university located in New Orleans that was established in 1904. The university offers many undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various fields, including the arts and the sciences.
This university is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, Loyola fosters critical thinking, ethical leadership, and lifelong learning among its students. The tuition cost is $47,240.
8. University of Louisiana at Lafayette
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is a public research university located in Lafayette. It was established in 1898 as the Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute.
At UL Lafayette, students can study undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in various fields, including arts, sciences, engineering, business, education, and health sciences. It is particularly known for its strong programs in computer science, nursing, and environmental and coastal studies.
This university is recognized for its research in renewable energy, robotics, and environmental conservation. The tuition fees are $10,418 for in-state students and $24,146 for out-of-state students.
10. Louisiana Tech University
Louisiana Tech University, located in Ruston is a public research university and a member of the University of Louisiana System. It was established in 1894 as the Industrial Institute and College of Louisiana.
Prospective students who are looking for a university that offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields like arts, sciences, engineering, business, and education can try this university. It is particularly recognized for its programs in engineering, business, and applied sciences.
As a research institution, Louisiana Tech conducts advanced research in fields such as nanotechnology, cybersecurity, biomedical engineering, and environmental science. The tuition fees are $10,125 for in-state students and $16,866 for out-of-state students.
Cost of University Education in Louisiana
Before thinking of enrolling in college, you have to consider how much it will cost you and your family. These costs are not the same for every student. Take for instance tuition fees, these fees depend on whether you are a resident of Louisiana or not. If you are a resident, you will pay way less tuition than an out-of-state student.
The cost of attending a public university in Louisiana is $8,000 to $10,000 per year for in-state students and $20,000 to $30,000 per year for out-of-state students. If you intend to attend a private university you will pay higher tuition, tuition for private universities ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year or more.
Tuition is not where it all ends, it is just the tip of the iceberg. You have to factor in your living costs, textbooks, meals, and utility when calculating the total cost of attending university in Louisiana. When calculating this, you will consider your lifestyle, your preferences, and the program you want to attend.
To offset some of these bills and take the burden off your shoulders a bit, you can take advantage of financial aid, scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges in Louisiana
Which colleges in Louisiana offer Online Learning?
Several colleges in Louisiana offer online learning options to cater to students who may not have the time to visit the college campus for their lessons. Here are some of them:-
- Louisiana State University (LSU)
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL)
- Louisiana Tech University
- Southern University and A&M College
- Southeastern Louisiana University
- Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Louisiana Delta Community College
- Baton Rouge Community College
What College in Louisiana is the Hardest To Get Into?
Based on the acceptance rate, Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana is one of the most selective colleges in the state. Tulane receives a large number of applications and acceptances just a few compared to other colleges and universities in Louisiana. The university’s competitive admissions process makes it challenging for prospective students to gain acceptance.
What Are Top Jobs For University Graduates In Louisiana?
- Petroleum Engineers – Average salary: $125,000 per year.
- Nurse Practitioner – Average salary: $110,000 per year.
- Software Developers – $95,000 per year.
- Financial Managers – Average salary: $90,000 per year.
- Civil Engineers – Average salary: $85,000 per year.