Most
Popular Colleges in Louisiana in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Louisiana combines core coursework with regional industry perspectives. Typical classes include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Students may pursue bachelor's degrees at Louisiana State University, Tulane University, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Loyola University New Orleans, or Southern University. Graduates commonly work as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales managers, operations supervisors, or financial associates. Internships and local connections can help launch careers statewide.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Louisiana offers pathways to understand behavior and mental processes through coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognition, and social psychology. Students may gain experience through labs, internships, and community placements. Popular options include Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Tulane University in New Orleans, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Loyola University New Orleans. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral technician, human resources assistant, or research assistant.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Louisiana combines programming foundations with opportunities in the state's technology and energy sectors. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, operating systems, and artificial intelligence. Students can pursue degrees at Louisiana State University, Tulane University, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Louisiana Tech University. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or IT support professionals in business, government, healthcare, and research.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Louisiana prepares students to support people through academic, emotional, and behavioral challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Popular Louisiana options include Louisiana State University, the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and Xavier University of Louisiana. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or community agency counselors, subject to relevant licensure requirements.

Nursing

Nursing programs in Louisiana combine classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Students study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, adult and pediatric nursing, mental health, and public health. Clinical rotations build patient care, communication, and decision-making skills. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care, or home health. Louisiana options include LSU Health New Orleans, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Southeastern Louisiana University, among others.

Best Colleges in Louisiana Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 14,400.0, compared with 35,051.6 at schools in the top 10%, indicating a substantially higher median cost among those top-ranked schools.
• On average, 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% average 19,794.4 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,523.0 men and 2,534.0 women, so the median is higher for women.
• Average test scores are 1,097.94 on the SAT and 22.05 on the ACT.
• Schools average 7,255.76 enrolled students. The averages for enrolled men and women are 480.71 and 709.56, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 47.25%, compared with 67.5% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 44.0% for men and 50.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 14 offer associate's degrees, 24 offer bachelor's degrees, 22 offer master's degrees, and 13 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 24 coeducational schools, with 0 schools for men and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare costs and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, enrollment, available degree levels, and graduation rates. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median costs and graduation rates, but a lower average share of students receiving aid; consider how these factors fit your educational goals and finances.

How much does studying at a college in Louisiana cost?

On average, studying in Louisiana costs about $17,690.60, based on the supplied statewide total-cost figure. Use this as a benchmark: your actual degree expenses vary by institution, program, residency status, and housing choice.

The listed cost averages are:

• Tuition and fees: $18,195.96
• Room and board: $12,089.43
• Books and supplies: $1,344.24

These component averages do not add up to the stated total, so compare a college's current cost-of-attendance estimate before making decisions. At Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Southern University, or Tulane University, check whether quoted charges are annual and include housing, meal plans, and course materials.

If you're staying close to home, commuting may reduce housing expenses; grants, scholarships, and Louisiana-based aid can make your degree more attainable. Build a term-by-term budget and ask each school's financial-aid office for a personalized estimate, so you can focus on choosing a program and moving confidently toward graduation.

How long does it take to finish college in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree often takes two. At Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, or a local community college, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, transfer credits, and whether you study full time. These benchmarks give you a helpful starting point, not a rigid deadline. Many bachelor's programs require roughly 120 credits, so taking a full course load each term matters; part-time attendance, changing majors, or repeating courses can extend the schedule. If you need flexibility, ask whether online or evening sections are available and fit work or family commitments more comfortably.

You may finish sooner by bringing in Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program. Ask an academic adviser to map required courses before enrolling; a practical plan can prevent delays and make faster progress feel manageable. Louisiana's average graduation rate is 47.25%, so completion is not automatic. The average reaches 67.5% among the top 10% of schools. Reported averages are 42.17% for men and 51.33% for women. These figures offer context, not a prediction of your individual outcome: steady advising, financial planning, and support services can help you stay on track and reach graduation.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Louisiana can expect a median alumni salary of about $46,485. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $60,757 - a promising benchmark if you're considering where to study and what your degree could help you earn.

Louisiana students can explore universities such as Louisiana State University, Tulane University, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Louisiana Tech University. Your own earnings may vary depending on your field, experience, location, and the opportunities available after graduation.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Louisiana?

By student enrollment, Louisiana State University's (LSU) main campus in Baton Rouge is generally the state's largest university. Its size means students can choose from a wide range of programs, campus activities, and student organizations. Enrollment changes each year, so check LSU's latest figures if you need a precise current count.

What is the most popular school in Louisiana?

There is no single official measure of "most popular," but LSU is often a leading choice for students in Louisiana. Its broad academic offerings and active campus life appeal to many in-state students. Think about what matters most to you - such as a particular major, campus setting, or class size - when comparing schools.

What is the most famous university in Louisiana?

LSU is probably the state's best-known university nationally, especially for its strong public profile and spirited college community. For Louisiana students, attending a familiar in-state institution can also make it easier to feel connected to local traditions. Other universities, including Tulane, are well known for different academic strengths and settings.

What is the hardest university to get into in Louisiana?

Tulane University in New Orleans is generally considered Louisiana's most selective university, based on its low acceptance rate compared with other colleges in the state. Admissions standards and rates change from year to year, and selectivity is only one part of fit. Review current requirements and build a balanced college list before applying.

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

Tulane University of Louisiana enrolls 12,030 students and stands out in this group for its 86% graduation rate, the highest listed, alongside a 14% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $64,372, substantially above the other Louisiana options here, while median alumni salary is $50,537, the highest in the comparison. For a Louisiana student seeking a private university experience in New Orleans, Tulane may suit those prioritizing completion outcomes and alumni earnings who can plan for the higher expense carefully.

Southern University and A & M College has 8,279 enrolled students, a 27% graduation rate, and a 35% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost of $12,323 is far below Tulane's, while its $48,548 median alumni salary is second-highest among these five schools. Located in Louisiana, Southern offers an in-state option for students weighing affordability and access. Prospective students should compare its graduation outcome with their academic goals and investigate programs and campus resources directly before deciding whether this institution fits.

Dillard University enrolls 1,078 students, making it the smallest institution in this five-school comparison. Its acceptance rate is 42%, graduation rate is 43%, and total listed study cost is $19,384. Median alumni salary reaches $34,738, lower than the figures reported for the other four schools. For Louisiana students considering a smaller university environment, Dillard is one option to explore. Compare its programs, support services, and net price with your goals, since cost and outcomes vary across students and individual circumstances.

Grambling State University has 5,150 students, a 36% graduation rate, and a 45% acceptance rate. Its reported total study cost, $5,140, is the lowest among these five Louisiana schools. Median alumni salary is $36,085, offering another point for comparison alongside affordability. Grambling may appeal to students seeking a public university option within the state. Before enrolling, review the degree offerings and financial aid details, then consider how the graduation figure and expected expenses align with your academic plans and budget.

Louisiana State University-Shreveport enrolls 10,749 students, with a 38% graduation rate and 51% acceptance rate. Its total listed study cost is $5,656, the second-lowest in this group, and median alumni salary is $43,955. For Louisiana residents, LSUS provides another in-state university to consider when balancing cost, admission prospects, and post-college earnings. Its figures sit between the highest and lowest results on several measures, so compare specific programs, aid, and student support to find the right fit for your own educational priorities.