
906 East 1st Street, Thibodaux, LA 70301, USA


Nicholls State University fields a variety of athletic programs competing at the NCAA Division I level as a member of the Southland Conference. The university supports both men's and women's sports, providing opportunities for student-athletes to engage in competitive collegiate athletics across different disciplines. The institution's teams are known as the Colonels, reflecting a unique identity that fosters school spirit and community involvement.
The athletic department includes several sports, such as football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, and volleyball. These programs emphasize not only athletic performance but also academic achievement and personal growth, offering student-athletes resources to succeed both on the field and in the classroom.
Facilities at Nicholls State are designed to meet the needs of its athletes and fans, featuring arenas and fields that host home competitions and promote a vibrant campus atmosphere. Participation in these sports provides students with chances to develop teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills, while also enjoying the social and cultural aspects of collegiate sports life.
Nicholls State University offers a range of student organizations designed to enhance campus life and foster student involvement. Key associations include the Student Government Association, which represents the student body; the Student Programming Association, responsible for organizing campus events; the Residence Hall Association, which advocates for the interests of students living on campus; and the Food Advisory Association, focused on dining services and student nutrition.
The student body at Nicholls State University is predominantly composed of in-state residents, who represent 93% of the population-a figure that ranks in the top 20% nationally. Out-of-state students form a small minority, accounting for only 4%, placing Nicholls State University in the bottom 20% for this category. The proportion of students from other U. S. states stands at 97%, which is an average level and falls within the top 35%. Meanwhile, international students contribute 3% to the student body, a figure that is roughly average but in the lower half compared to other institutions.
The university enrolls a moderate number of new students each year, with 1,169 freshmen admitted, placing Nicholls State University solidly within the top 50% of institutions in terms of freshman intake size. Transfer students number 208 annually, a figure slightly below average and ranked in the bottom 45%. Overall, the total incoming class size, combining freshmen and transfers, is 1,377 students, which again is typical among comparable colleges.
The age distribution of students is diverse, especially within the undergraduate population. Most undergraduates are between 18 and 21 years old, with 1,868 aged 18-19 and 1,519 aged 20-21, yet there is a notable presence of older undergraduate students spanning age groups from 22 to over 65. Graduate students are generally older, mainly aged 22 and above, with only a minimal number under 20. This varied age range suggests Nicholls State University accommodates a wide spectrum of life stages, including traditional college-age students as well as non-traditional, older learners.
Regarding ethnic composition, the student population shows considerable variation. The largest group is White students, totaling 3,081, which places Nicholls State University in the top 45% nationally for this demographic. African American students number 881 and rank in the top 40%, while Hispanic students total 299, situated in the bottom 40%. Native American students, at 108, represent a relatively high proportion compared to many institutions, being in the top 20%. Asian students are fewer, with 83 enrolled, placing the university in the lower 40% for this group. Other ethnicities including Pacific Islanders, students identifying with two or more races, and those unknown or unreported make up smaller segments, generally reflecting average levels.
Nicholls State University offers a range of student life opportunities that cater to diverse interests. The campus supports various artistic endeavors with active drama productions, a campus band, chorus, television, and radio outlets, providing students ample ways to engage in the creative arts.
Additionally, students benefit from several support services designed to promote wellbeing and safety, including legal services, a health clinic, and psychological counseling. These resources contribute to a supportive campus environment that addresses both academic and personal needs.
With a campus size of 287 units, students have space to explore and participate in extracurricular activities. The presence of a campus newspaper also offers a platform for student expression and involvement in journalism or communications.
The student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1 indicates relatively small class sizes, which may foster closer interactions between students and instructors and contribute to a more personalized educational experience.
Nicholls State University provides students access to a total of four libraries, placing it in the top 20% for the number of library facilities among comparable institutions. The main library on campus is the Allen J. Ellender Memorial Library, supported by three additional library facilities. Students benefit from both physical and digital resources, with established hours, well-trained staff, and access to shared library collections to support their academic needs.
Total enrollment
6180Full Time Degree Seeking Freshmen
1164Member of Athletic Associations
Data not availableTotal staff
613 full time, 47 part timeVeterans affair office
NoMain library name
Allen J. Ellender Memorial LibraryNumber of libraries on campus
4Reservable study rooms in library
No24h access
NoPhysical facilities
YesAccess to digital/electronic resources
YesStaff trained to provide and interpret library materials
YesEstablished library hours
YesAccess to library collections that are shared with other institutions
Yes