Finding a flexible, high-quality education in Louisiana is easier than ever thanks to the growing number of online colleges and programs across the state. Whether you’re a working professional, a parent, or someone looking to advance your career without relocating, online programs provide the opportunity to earn a degree from anywhere. These programs cover a wide range of fields, including business, healthcare, education, social sciences, and technology, giving learners the skills needed to succeed in today’s job market.
Louisiana’s online colleges combine accredited programs, experienced faculty, and student support services, ensuring you receive the same education and recognition as on-campus students. With so many options available, choosing the right program can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate, we’ve reviewed some of the best online colleges in Louisiana, highlighting what makes each unique, their program offerings, and why they might be the perfect fit for your educational goals.
Best Online Colleges in Louisiana
1. Louisiana State University Online (LSU Online)
Louisiana State University offers a wide range of online degree programs through LSU Online, bringing the same high‑quality education found on campus to students worldwide. LSU Online lets you earn certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees in fields like business, engineering, education, and more.
The programs are designed with flexibility in mind, so students can work at their own pace while balancing life commitments. Online learners receive the same diploma as on‑campus students and are taught by the same expert faculty, so your degree holds the same value and reputation.
LSU Online also offers personalized support, including enrollment coaches and student success advisors, to guide students from application through graduation.
2. University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette Online)
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette provides a strong set of 100% online degree programs that help students complete their education or begin a new career path remotely. UL Lafayette’s online offerings include bachelor’s degrees in fields like sociology, criminal justice, management, marketing, health services administration, and RN to BSN nursing.
These programs aim to combine academic quality with flexibility so students can study from anywhere. Tuition is offered at a flat rate per credit to make costs more predictable, and online learners have access to many of the same services available to on‑campus students, including online tutoring, technical support, and library resources.
The university’s online programs are also consistently ranked among the top in Louisiana by U.S. News & World Report, showing its commitment to quality and student success.
3. Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA Online)
Louisiana State University of Alexandria offers a practical and accessible set of online degree options for students who need flexibility. LSUA Online provides fully online programs that include associate and bachelor’s degrees in subjects such as communication studies, English, history, religious studies, and accounting.
Courses are delivered by the same instructors who teach on campus, and online students receive consistent academic support through advising, tutoring, and career services. The online programs use accelerated seven‑week terms, allowing students to complete their coursework more efficiently and often balance study with work or family commitments.
LSUA’s online programs are known for being affordable and transfer‑friendly, with policies that help students include prior college credits so they finish faster. LSUA was also ranked by Newsweek among the top online learning schools, pointing to its quality and growing reputation.
4. Northwestern State University of Louisiana (eNSU)
Northwestern State University’s eNSU is Louisiana’s first electronic campus, offering a wide range of online programs from associate to doctoral levels. Through eNSU, students can study in flexible online formats that fit around work, family, and other responsibilities without ever needing to visit campus.
The university’s online offerings include fields such as business, nursing, psychology, social work, and more, giving learners a variety of paths to advance their education or career. Programs are designed to be fully online, and the institution is a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC‑SARA), which helps students in participating states take online courses without extra barriers.
6. Louisiana State University Shreveport Online (LSUS Online)
Louisiana State University–Shreveport offers flexible online and hybrid programs tailored to students seeking flexible learning options. While specific degree lists are not fully detailed on the main site, LSUS provides online courses and certificate options in areas like nonprofit administration at the graduate level, and it offers short online training courses such as clinical medical assistant, medical billing and coding, and pharmacy technician programs.
These programs are designed to help students gain skills for immediate application in the workforce, especially in healthcare and administrative fields. The university supports online learners with practical coursework that aligns with local and regional job opportunities.
FAQs: Online Colleges in Louisiana
Are online degrees from Louisiana colleges respected by employers?
Yes. Degrees from accredited online programs at Louisiana colleges hold the same value as on-campus degrees. Accreditation ensures the program meets quality standards recognized by employers, other colleges, and professional boards.
Can I transfer credits from one online college to another in Louisiana?
Most accredited colleges accept transfer credits, but policies vary by school and program. Always check with the admissions or registrar’s office to confirm which credits will transfer.
How flexible are online programs in Louisiana?
Online programs in Louisiana are designed for flexibility. Many allow self-paced learning, multiple start dates, and the ability to balance studies with work or personal commitments. Some use accelerated terms to finish courses faster.
What support services are available for online students?
Online learners typically have access to advising, tutoring, library resources, tech support, and career guidance. Most colleges also provide online student communities to connect with peers and instructors.
How long does it take to complete an online degree?
Completion time depends on your program and schedule. Many associate degrees take around two years full-time, while bachelor’s programs usually take four years. Part-time students or those taking accelerated courses may finish sooner or later.
Are Louisiana online programs affordable compared to on-campus programs?
Yes. Many online colleges in Louisiana offer competitive tuition rates that are often lower than those of on-campus programs. Online students can also save on commuting, housing, and campus fees, making higher education more accessible. Some schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or flat-rate tuition for online learners to further reduce costs.