Enrolling for a college degree is quite expensive, there is a need for readjustment. Considering a cheap college or university is not a bad idea. Sometimes we misinterpret the concept ”Cheapest”. This doesn’t connote the inability to deliver standard and quality education to students.
If you reside in or outside Louisiana and you have been searching for a cheap college or university without spending too much then this article will provide the best option for you.
Louisiana State is known for its strong and vast research facilities. One of the largest universities in the state, Louisiana State University and Agriculture & Mechanical College have a strong collaboration with the International Student Association mainly to assist foreign students adjust to campus life more easily.
In addition to providing extra information to help students select an economical approach to meet their academic goals, this article lists the Top 10 Cheapest Colleges in Louisiana.
Top 10 Cheapest Colleges in Louisiana
The most affordable institutions in Louisiana are mentioned below for those looking for low-cost choices to complete an online undergraduate degree.
1. The University of Northwestern State
For working individuals looking to get a worthwhile education via online learning, Northwestern State University in Natchitoches is a cost-effective choice.
Among the bachelor’s degrees they provide are the following:
- Computer Information Systems
- Child and Family Studies
- General Studies
- Psychology
- Accounting
- Social Work
- Liberal Arts
$375 per credit hour, up to 12 hours, is the undergraduate tuition for its online global campus. It is $100 for each credit after that. Out-of-state fees do not apply.
2. The University of Louisiana State, Shreveport
Louisiana State University in Shreveport is a great option because of its affordable tuition and approved degrees. For qualified students, there are a variety of financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, on-campus employment, and more.
It offers the following bachelor’s degrees online:
- Management and Administration
- General Studies
- Business Administration
- Finance
- Marketing
With total tuition and fees for online undergraduate programs that do not need residence, coming in at $301 per hour makes it one of the least expensive institutions in Louisiana.
3. Louisiana State University, Alexandria
Online bachelor’s degree programs at Louisiana State University in Alexandria are affordable and offer a variety of possibilities to students.
Several online bachelor’s degree programs are available, such as:
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- Religious Studies
It costs about $325 per credit with required fees for online students, regardless of residency. Coursework is delivered in an accelerated seven-week format.
4. Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge
Louisiana State University offers many ways to get a quality education at an affordable price through its main campus in Baton Rouge.
Their online majors include the following:
- Leadership and Human Services Development
- General Business
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Sport Administration
- Business Analytics
- Marketing
- Psychology
There are no out-of-state costs; the tuition is $399 per credit. For those who qualify, there are several scholarships and other forms of financial assistance available.
5. The University of Nicholls
For adult students, Nicholls State University in Thibodaux is a well-liked option. It provides easy alternatives and the flexibility required to obtain a degree by offering numerous bachelor’s programs that may be finished remotely.
It provides online undergraduate programs, including the following:
- RN to BSN
- Political Science
- Business Administration
- History
- English
- Psychology
- Sociology
The tuition charges plus applicable fees are $302.13 per credit hour, making it one of the cheapest colleges in Louisiana for distance education.
6. Louisiana Christian University
Louisiana Christian University in Pineville is a private Baptist institution known for providing faith-based instruction at an affordable cost.
Examples of available bachelor’s degrees are:
- Applied Science
- Business
- Criminal Justice
Its expert faculty offers real-world experience and integrates a Christian perspective throughout each program. The tuition for these 100% online degrees is $350 per credit hour plus student fees.
7. University of Louisiana, Lafayette
At the University of Louisiana in Lafayette, students gain valuable skills and knowledge without breaking the bank through the numerous degrees accessible through distance education.
The following online bachelor’s programs are available:
- RN to BSN
- Business Administration
- Health Services Administration
- Criminal Justice
- General Studies
- Kinesiology
Online students are charged a flat rate of $380 per credit hour, and financial aid is available. Additional charges may apply for proctoring, course materials, or other fees.
8. University of Louisiana, Monroe
The University of Louisiana in Monroe offers inexpensive opportunities for obtaining bachelor’s degrees with the convenience of online learning.
Students can major in the following through distance education:
- Business Administration
- General Studies
- Elementary Education
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Health Studies
Each student enrolled in these reasonably priced undergraduate programs pays only $400 per credit hour, with a graduation requirement of 120–125 credits. Fees such as course or program fees may have applicable costs.
9. University of Southeast Louisiana
Students at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond can sign up for online courses from a variety of majors.
It provides the following bachelor’s degrees:
- RN to BSN
- General Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Human Sciences
- Health Systems Management
For up to 12 credits, tuition is charged at a fixed rate of $375 per credit; after that, fees are $100. Students might investigate their options for financial aid, including work-study programs, grants, and loans from the government and private sectors.
10. University of Southern California
With many campuses around the state, Southern University, located in Baton Rouge, is the biggest historically black college or university (HBCU) in Louisiana. It provides an affordable, all-inclusive education that is focused on the needs of the student.
The following are among their bachelor’s degree offerings that are accessible online:
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- RN to BSN
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
One semester credit hour costs $395, and additional fees apply for changes like distance learning and technology.
Tips on College Budgeting
Saving money on college can make a big difference in your financial future. Here are some tips to help you cut costs:
1. Apply for Scholarships and Grants: Seek out scholarships and grants aggressively. There are many scholarships available for various criteria such as academic achievement, sports, community service, and more. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and your college’s financial aid office are good places to start.
2. Consider Community College: Start your college journey at a community college. They often offer the same general education courses at a fraction of the cost. After completing your general education requirements, you can transfer to a four-year university to finish your degree.
3. Take Advantage of Tax Benefits: The government offers tax credits and deductions for college expenses. Look into the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit to see if you qualify.
4. Work Part-Time: If you can manage it without affecting your studies, work part-time during college. Even a few hours a week can help cover expenses and reduce the need for student loans.
5. Choose an In-State School: In-state tuition rates are generally much lower than out-of-state or private school rates. Consider attending a public university in your state to save on tuition costs.
6. Take CLEP Exams: College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams allow you to earn college credits by passing exams in subjects you’re already knowledgeable in. This can save you both time and money by reducing the number of courses you need to take.
7. Apply for Work-Study Programs: If you qualify, consider applying for work-study programs offered by your college. These programs provide part-time jobs for students with financial needs, helping them earn money while studying.
8. Graduate Early: Try to graduate in less than four years if possible. Taking summer classes or a heavier course load during the regular semesters can help you finish your degree sooner and save on tuition and living expenses.
Remember, every little bit counts when it comes to saving money on college. By being proactive and making smart choices, you can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education.
Cost of living in Louisiana
Louisiana has a 9% cheaper cost of living than the US average. Utilities are 16% lower and housing is 18% below the national average. In terms of essentials like food and clothes, the cost of groceries is around 4% less than it is nationwide, and the cost of apparel is about 4% less.
Students in Louisiana, like elsewhere, can employ various strategies to economize and reduce expenses. Here are some specific tips for students in Louisiana to cut down on costs:
1. Live Off-Campus: While on-campus housing can be convenient, it’s often more expensive. Consider living off-campus in a shared apartment or house with roommates. Splitting rent and utilities can significantly lower living expenses.
2. Find Affordable Housing: If you decide to live off-campus, look for affordable housing options in safe neighborhoods. Consider areas close to campus where rent tends to be cheaper.
3. Cook at Home: Eating out frequently can drain your budget. Instead, cook meals at home. Plan your meals, buy groceries in bulk, and cook in batches to save time and money. Louisiana has a rich culinary tradition, so try your hand at cooking some local dishes!
4. Apply for Scholarships and Grants: Apply for scholarships and grants regularly. There are many opportunities available for students in Louisiana, including state-specific scholarships. Check with your college’s financial aid office and search online scholarship databases.
5. Consider a Meal Plan: If you’re living on campus, compare the cost of a meal plan to cooking your meals. Sometimes meal plans can save money, especially if they include options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
By implementing these strategies, Louisiana students can effectively manage their expenses and make their college experience more affordable.