Most
Affordable Colleges in Louisiana in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Louisiana develops skills in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, and business communication. Programs often include entrepreneurship, data analysis, organizational behavior, and strategic planning, with internships or applied projects. Graduates may pursue roles such as operations coordinator, marketing specialist, human resources assistant, accountant, or business analyst. Popular options include Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Tulane University in New Orleans, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and the University of New Orleans.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Louisiana provides coursework in cognitive psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and understanding human behavior. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, human resources assistant, behavioral health technician, or research assistant; licensed counseling and clinical careers typically require advanced study and credentials. Louisiana colleges offering psychology degrees include Louisiana State University, Tulane University, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Louisiana combines foundational theory with practical computing skills. Courses typically include programming, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, operating systems, databases, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students may pursue research, internships, and projects with employers. Popular options include Louisiana State University, Tulane University, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Louisiana Tech University, and University of New Orleans. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or network administrators.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Louisiana typically combines psychology foundations with supervised practice and fieldwork. Courses often include counseling theories, human growth and development, assessment, ethics, group counseling, multicultural practice, and career guidance. Depending on the degree and licensure path, graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, rehabilitation specialists, or substance-use counselors. Louisiana schools with programs include Louisiana State University, the University of Louisiana at Monroe, Southeastern Louisiana University, and Louisiana Tech University.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Louisiana prepares students to provide patient care in settings. Coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternal health, mental health, community health, and clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, care facilities, or health agencies. Popular Louisiana choices include Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Southeastern Louisiana University.

Best Colleges in Louisiana Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $14,400.0, compared with $25,523.2 at schools in the top 10% of the ranking.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 72.88% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 72.88%. Schools receive an average of 8,041.28 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 19,794.4.
• The median number of applicants is 1,523.0 men and 2,534.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,097.94 on the SAT and 22.05 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 6,067.62, including averages of 480.71 enrolled men and 709.56 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 45.83%, compared with 69.8% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 45.0% for men and 49.0% for women.
• There are 19 institutions offering associate's degrees, 31 offering bachelor's degrees, 27 offering master's degrees, and 17 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 29 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid with the degree offerings you need. Also consider admissions figures, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes; the top 10% have higher median costs but also higher average applicant numbers and graduation rates, while the overall average financial-aid percentage is higher.

How much does studying at a college in Louisiana cost?

The reported average total cost of studying in Louisiana is $16,381.27. Treat this as a planning benchmark, not the price of an entire degree: completing a bachelor's program usually takes several years, and your final bill depends on the school, program, housing choices, residency, and financial aid. Comparing options early can make the process feel more manageable and help you find a path that fits your budget, whether you're considering LSU, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, or a local community college. Living at home or starting at a two-year campus may lower expenses, while campus housing and specialized programs can raise them.

• Average tuition and fees: $16,662.52.
• Average room and board: $12,218.88; books and supplies: $1,344.24.
• Since averages can reflect different categories, they may not add up to the stated total; ask campuses for current estimates and explore grants, scholarships, and transfer options to plan your Louisiana degree affordably.

How long does it take to finish college in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes two; master's programs often add one to two years. At LSU in Baton Rouge, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, or another Louisiana campus, your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and whether you attend full time.

You may finish sooner by bringing in AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or carrying a manageable extra course each term. Ask an adviser early whether credits apply to your degree.

Graduation rates show that completing a degree is not guaranteed: the average graduation rate is 45.83%, compared with 69.8% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 41.69% for men and 51.11% for women. These figures underline the value of planning, support, and choosing a sustainable pace, helping you feel confident as you work toward graduation.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Louisiana earn a median alumni salary of about $46,485. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $67,417 - a promising benchmark for students planning their next step after graduation.

Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career field, experience, and location. Whether you study at Louisiana State University, Tulane University, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, or Louisiana Tech University, comparing programs and career paths can help you find a route that fits your goals.

• Median alumni salary: about $46,485.
• Median alumni salary at top 10% schools: about $67,417.

People also ask

What college in Louisiana has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one dependable answer without specifying whether you mean in-state tuition, out-of-state tuition, or total cost including fees - and which academic year. Louisiana Delta Community College is a practical place to compare for affordable local study, but confirm its current rate against other public two-year colleges before deciding. Your residency and program can change the total.

What college in Louisiana has the lowest GPA requirement?

Louisiana Delta Community College is a reasonable option to check: community colleges commonly use open-admission policies rather than requiring one minimum high-school GPA for general admission. That can make starting college feel more accessible. However, individual programs may set their own academic requirements, so check the specific program you hope to enter.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Louisiana Ranking in 2026-2027

Grambling State University enrolls 5,150 students and offers a smaller-campus option for Louisiana students seeking a close-knit university experience. Its 36% graduation rate and 45% acceptance rate provide useful context when comparing admission and completion outcomes. The listed total study cost is $5,140, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $36,085. Located in north Louisiana, Grambling can suit students who value a historically Black university and want to pursue a degree while remaining in Louisiana for college.

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College has 43,396 enrolled students, making it the largest institution in this group. Its 69% graduation rate and 73% acceptance rate offer helpful measures for students weighing access and degree completion. The total cost of studying is $8,038, and median alumni salary is $46,406. In Baton Rouge, LSU gives Louisiana residents access to a large public-university environment, broad campus life, and the chance to study in the state capital for many local students.

University of New Orleans enrolls 6,501 students, offering Louisiana learners a smaller university setting in the state's largest city. Its graduation rate is 38%, while its 74% acceptance rate may interest applicants seeking a comparatively accessible admissions option. The listed study cost is $10,926, and median alumni salary is $42,406. Located in New Orleans, UNO connects degree study with an urban Louisiana setting, giving students opportunities to experience the city's culture and community alongside campus life during their studies.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette enrolls 15,598 students and offers a substantial campus community in south-central Louisiana. Its 53% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate help prospective students assess completion and admission prospects. The listed total cost of studying is $19,135, the highest among these five colleges, while median alumni salary is $47,325. For students who want to remain in Louisiana, Lafayette offers a university experience rooted in Acadiana, with the city's distinctive culture and traditions close at hand.

Louisiana Tech University enrolls 12,072 students and provides a mid-sized public-university choice in Ruston, in north Louisiana. Its 64% graduation rate is the second-highest among these five schools, while its 86% acceptance rate suggests broad access for applicants. The listed total study cost is $13,142, and median alumni salary is $48,856, the highest in this group. Students seeking a Louisiana degree may appreciate its campus setting and the opportunity to study in a smaller city while remaining close to home.