The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

by TBS Staff

Updated October 7, 2022

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Online colleges in Louisiana prepare graduates to join the workforce and advance their careers.

Louisiana is home to public universities like Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge and the nine institutions within the University of Louisiana System, plus renowned private schools like Tulane University. Students in Louisiana can also attend a community or technical college.

Online colleges in Louisiana offer convenient, affordable pathways to earning a bachelor's degree. Many public universities in the state participate in LouisianaOnline, partnering up to offer online and hybrid degrees and courses.

Louisiana locals can earn an online degree to increase professional opportunities, change career paths, or fulfill a personal goal. Students outside of Louisiana may find unique degree options — especially those related to Louisiana's major industries. Our ranked list of online schools in Louisiana can help students make informed decisions when choosing an online college.

The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

#1 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

McNeese State University

  • Lake Charles, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

McNeese State University is a fantastic choice for online learners. A total of 26 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this public institution. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Lake Charles, Louisiana, campus, which online learners can also access. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience during internships. Graduates are awarded a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.

Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.

McNeese State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 4,070

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 39%

Admission Rate: 81%

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,147
Out-of-state
$13,185
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
7,295
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

  • Lafayette, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Students who enroll at the public institution can choose from 14 online offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.

Online learners not located near the campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in their field. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 6,584

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 6

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 12%

Admission Rate: 68%

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,407
Out-of-state
$19,135
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
16,933
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.

Academic and career service professionals based out of the school's campus are available to help online learners. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing their program.

Those interested in applying to the institution's online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.

University of Louisiana at Monroe at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,756

Online Bachelor's Programs: 14

Online Master's Programs: 16

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 38%

Admission Rate: 80%

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,673
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Nicholls State University

  • Thibodaux, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Online degree-seekers should consider Nicholls State University. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this public institution, which hosts a total of 16 online degree programs. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.

The physical campus in Thibodaux, Louisiana, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. Upon completing the program, the college gives graduates an accredited degree.

Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.

Nicholls State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,388

Online Bachelor's Programs: 9

Online Master's Programs: 4

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 29%

Admission Rate: 88%

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,922
Out-of-state
$6,015
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
6,491
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Louisiana State University in Shreveport

  • Shreveport, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Louisiana State University in Shreveport has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. Students who enroll at the public institution can choose from 12 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.

The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its campus. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. Graduates are awarded a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.

Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.

Louisiana State University in Shreveport at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 7,405

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 6

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 27%

Admission Rate: 84%

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,656
Out-of-state
$5,656
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
8,579
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

University of New Orleans

  • New Orleans, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of New Orleans is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Those who choose to enroll at this public college can choose from five programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.

From its Louisiana campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers also have the option to connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping set them up for scholastic and professional success. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. Completing the program grants graduates an accredited degree.

Representatives at the school can provide additional information about application and program specifics.

University of New Orleans at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,750

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 2

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 5%

Admission Rate: 56%

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,090
Out-of-state
$10,926
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
8,231
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

  • Natchitoches, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Students who wish to study remotely at this public school can choose from 53 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.

Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Natchitoches campus. Online offerings from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship programs. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 8,906

Online Bachelor's Programs: 16

Online Master's Programs: 17

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 60%

Admission Rate: 82%

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,180
Out-of-state
$15,968
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
10,900
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

LSU of Alexandria

  • Alexandria, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

LSU of Alexandria is a fantastic choice for online learners. The public institution's 17 online degree options include offerings at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.

The school's main campus in Louisiana hosts academic and career services available to online learners. Advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience during internships. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

LSU of Alexandria at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,206

Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 57%

Admission Rate: 56%

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,984
Out-of-state
$4,984
Retention Rate
58%
Admission Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
3,381
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Southern University and A&M College

  • Baton Rouge, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Online degree-seekers should consider Southern University and A&M College. The school, a public institution, hosts seven programs for remote learners at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.

Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Baton Rouge, Louisiana, campus. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. Graduates of the school's programs obtain a bachelor's degree with full accreditation.

Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.

Southern University and A&M College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,944

Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Online Master's Programs: 4

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 8%

Admission Rate: 35%

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,972
Out-of-state
$4,972
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
35%
Students Enrolled
7,140
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 The Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Loyola University New Orleans

  • New Orleans, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Loyola University New Orleans is a leader in online education. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from 26 online programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.

Online learners benefit from support from academic and career services offices at the school's Louisiana campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship program. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

Loyola University New Orleans at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,593

Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Online Master's Programs: 9

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 27%

Admission Rate: 75%

Average Tuition
In-state
$38,926
Out-of-state
$38,926
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
4,367
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Best Online Colleges

Online Louisiana Colleges Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

We thank you for your readership and trust.

Featured Online Louisiana Colleges

Online Associate and Graduate Degrees

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges and universities in Louisiana are incorporating more online components, creating opportunities for online learners who want to return to school but still work full time or have other time limitations. Some online courses and programs are asynchronous, providing more flexibility than traditional college study.

Online colleges in Louisiana offer nearly 170 associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas. Many online associate degrees prepare students to transfer to a bachelor's program, but two-year degrees can also lead directly to the workforce in some fields. For example, Baton Rouge Community College offers an online associate of science in criminal justice, and Sowela Technical Community College provides associate of applied science programs in business administration and culinary arts.

Online graduate program options in Louisiana include a master of business administration (MBA) from LSU and a master's degree in criminal justice from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. LSU's online MBA includes 36 credits of coursework, with options to specialize in data analytics, emerging technology, or healthcare management. The criminal justice graduate program at ULM requires 33 credits of coursework for individuals completing a thesis, while non-thesis students earn a 36-credit degree.

Employment in Louisiana

In December 2020, the unemployment rate in Louisiana was 7.2%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — down from 9.1% in July.

Key industries in Louisiana include agribusiness, energy, and manufacturing. The geography of Louisiana allows for a strong emphasis on coastal-oriented industries such as shipbuilding, dredging, and fishing and seafood capture. Easy access to the Gulf of Mexico means lots of engineering, managerial, and research jobs for residents of Louisiana as well.

Petroleum engineers in Louisiana are some of the top-paid workers in the state, and the BLS projects they will see 3% job growth between 2009-2029. Architectural and engineering managers, who earned annual mean salaries over $152,000 in 2029, are projected to experience similar gains.

The cost of living in Louisiana falls below the national average. With a cost of living index just under 87%, Louisiana offers residents more affordable housing, utilities, and health expenses than many states. The median price for a home in Louisiana is nearly $90,000 lower than the United States' average.

Below are some of the highest paying roles employing more than 1,000 individuals in Louisiana that do not require a first-professional degree, like a doctor of medicine or juris doctor. Salary information applies specifically to Louisiana, while job growth data pertains to the United States as a whole.

Highest Paying Careers in Louisiana
Career Annual Mean Salary (2019) Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) Education Required
Architectural and Engineering Managers $152,070 3% Bachelor's
Petroleum Engineers $132,000 3% Bachelor's
Industrial Production Managers $122,890 1% Bachelor's
General and Operations Managers $117,220 4% Bachelor's
Chemical Engineers $115,430 4% Bachelor's
Computer and Information Systems Managers $111,250 10% Bachelor's
Architectural and Engineering Managers $152,070 3% Bachelor's

Source: BLS

The following data reflects some of the highest paying roles employing more than 5,000 professionals in Louisiana. Salary figures apply specifically to Louisiana, while job growth data refers to the United States as a whole.

Common Careers in Louisiana
Career Annual Mean Salary (2019) Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) Education Required
General and Operations Managers $117,220 4% Bachelor's
Financial Managers $108,890 15% Bachelor's
Postsecondary Teachers $76,980 9% Master's or Doctoral
Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers $73,320 0% High School Diploma
First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers $69,000 3% High School Diploma

Source: BLS

Frequently Asked Questions

Does LSU Offer Online Degrees?

LSU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees online. Students can explore degree options by career pathway, pursing fields like education, business, or healthcare. LSU also offers online continuing education programs.

How Do You Find Accredited Online Colleges in Louisiana?

Institution of higher education in Louisiana must provide information about accreditation status. Students can check the Council for Higher Education Accreditation website for lists of accredited institutions and programs.

What Is the Best College in Louisiana?

The best college in Louisiana is the school that best meets a student's academic, professional, and personal needs. Learners should individually assess what each school in Louisiana offers in terms of education, support, and post-graduation opportunities when choosing the best college or university for them.

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