Best Colleges in Louisiana (2023 Rankings)

Discover the best of the best in Louisiana's higher education scene. This list showcases the pinnacle of academic excellence, reflecting institutions that excel in quality education, student support, and diverse opportunities. 

In no particular order, join us in celebrating the institutions that shape Louisiana's education and inspire students to reach new heights of knowledge and achievement.

Tulane University of Louisiana

Welcome to Tulane University of Louisiana, where exceptional education meets the spirit of New Orleans. According to the university, Tulane strives to stand "on the front lines of life-changing technologies." This private institution also boasts an 11% acceptance rate, so gaining admission is a testament to your dedication. 

Offering over 75 majors and minors, Tulane's commitment to interdisciplinary education is evident through TIDES (Tulane Interdisciplinary Experience Seminar). As a research university with "very high research activity," Tulane produces leaders and innovators through academic exploration and public service.

The Stats

• National ranking: 71
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 8,500 undergraduate students
• Location: Southeast Louisiana in New Orleans, a large residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 11%
• 4-year graduation rate: 77%

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Discover the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, a dynamic public research institution with low in-state tuition fees for Louisiana residents. UL Lafayette is among the prestigious National Academy of Inventors. 

The expansive campus boasts over 240 majors, including standout programs in nursing, applied computer science, engineering, humanities, and environmental sciences. With scenic Cypress Lake and top-notch education supported by accessible financial aid, UL Lafayette is your home for quality learning and impactful research.

The Stats

• National ranking: >600
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 14,000 undergraduate students
• Location: South Louisiana in Lafayette, a midsize city area
• Acceptance rate: 67%
• 4-year graduation rate: 22%

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Embrace the spirit of Louisiana at Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College. With a rich array of undergraduate programs, the College of Agriculture offers eight undergraduate degree programs and over 40 concentrations, all providing immersive experiences both on campus and beyond the classroom. 

With a remarkable $324 million in recent research funds, LSU is a public institution whose economic and societal impact reaches across the state.

The Stats

• National ranking: 279
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 27,800 undergraduate students
• Location: Eastern central Louisiana in Baton Rouge, a midsize city area
• Acceptance rate: 73%
• 4-year graduation rate: 39%

Xavier University of Louisiana

Explore Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically Black, Catholic institution renowned for its liberal arts foundation. With over 50 majors spanning bachelor's degrees, doctoral degrees, and more, Xavier offers a robust range of programs. 

Notably, it ranks first in the nation for African-American graduates in biological and life sciences and physical sciences.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 2,500 undergraduate students
• Location: Southeast Louisiana in New Orleans, a large residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 81%
• 4-year graduation rate: 36%

University of New Orleans

Welcome to the University of New Orleans, an affordable and vibrant public institution that is a cornerstone of Louisiana's educational landscape. With a robust enrollment rate of 83%, as well as affordable in-state and out-of-state tuition fees, UNO is one of the top colleges for accessibility. 

The College of Business Administration shines with renowned programs in hotel, restaurant, and tourism administration, both at the bachelor's and master's degree levels. The College of Sciences is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Research by the NSA and DHS.

The Stats

• National ranking: >600
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 6,800 undergraduate students
• Location: Southeast Louisiana in New Orleans, a large residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 83%
• 4-year graduation rate: 26%

Louisiana Tech University

Step into the innovation hub of Louisiana at Louisiana Tech University. Renowned for its top-tier online programs, Tech Online ensures your educational journey is flexible and tailored to your aspirations. Whether it's an MBA, engineering, or associate degree in general studies, Tech Online is one of the top online colleges to equip you with the tools to reach your goals. 

With a stellar student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1, you're never just a number but part of a close-knit community. Located in the city of Ruston, Louisiana, Tech combines academic excellence with a dynamic atmosphere.

The Stats

• National ranking: >600
• Size: Four-year, large-sized university with approximately 10,000 undergraduate students
• Location: Northern Louisiana in Ruston, a large residential town
• Acceptance rate: 64%
• 4-year graduation rate: 42%

Southern University at New Orleans

Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) has a history rooted in excellence. Explore standout programs like the School of Nursing and the School of Social Work, nurturing future leaders in these vital fields. Established in 1956, SUNO's legacy is built on dedication to education for African-American students in the Gulf Coast region. 

The historic 17-acre campus in the Gentilly area, particularly in Pontchartrain Park, reflects a commitment to community engagement. SUNO is known for being one of the top historically black colleges and universities, underscoring the school's continued pursuit of academic distinction and empowerment.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, small-sized university with approximately 1,900 undergraduate students
• Location: Southeast Louisiana in New Orleans, a large residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 72%
• 4-year graduation rate: 4%

Loyola University New Orleans

At Loyola University New Orleans, education is more than just a degree - it's a journey that nurtures the whole person through undergraduate to graduate programs and beyond. Through a Jesuit education, you'll harness your talents to shape a better world. The community thrives on excellence, with students from diverse high school backgrounds earning prestigious accolades like Rhodes, Fulbright, and Mitchell scholarships. 

With a remarkable student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, personalized attention fuels your growth. As one of Louisiana's top colleges, Loyola empowers you to thrive in business administration, public health, and more.

The Stats

• National ranking: 401-500
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 3,200 undergraduate students
• Location: Southeast Louisiana in New Orleans, a large residential city area
• Acceptance rate: 72%
• 4-year graduation rate: 50%

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers a high acceptance rate of 95%, placing it among the most accessible liberal arts colleges to join. From nursing and business to liberal arts and humanities, these popular majors support diverse passions. 

Notably, Northwestern State is home to eNSU, Louisiana's pioneering electronic campus. Tailored online class schedules, personalized guidance, and military benefits make this college a haven for online learners.

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 10,300 undergraduate students
• Location: Western Louisiana in Natchitoches, a remote town
• Acceptance rate: 95%
• 4-year graduation rate: 31%

McNeese State University

Value meets excellence in education at McNeese State University. Recognized for its impressive return on investment and graduates' high starting salaries, McNeese offers a top-notch education that sets you up for success. 

 

With a diverse collection of 34 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs, a thriving campus life, numerous student organizations, and strong athletic tradition, this larger university offers a range of benefits. At McNeese, you'll experience personalized education and a fun community.

 

The Stats

• National ranking: No ranking
• Size: Four-year, medium-sized university with approximately 6,600 undergraduate students
• Location: Southwest Louisiana in Lake Charles, a small city area
• Acceptance rate: 63%
• 4-year graduation rate: 23%

Honorable mentions

• Dillard University. Attend this private liberal arts Christian college for a well-rounded education.
• Nicholls State University. This military-friendly school offers unique programs in culinary arts, marine science and more.
• Southeastern Louisiana University. SLU is one of the best schools for social mobility.
• University of Holy Cross. As a Catholic liberal arts college, this institution offers an incredible student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1.
• Centenary College of Louisiana. Centenary is a private, historic college that emphasizes liberal arts education.
• University of Louisiana at Monroe. ULM is a research institution known for producing the most professional graduates in the region.
• Grambling State University. This school is well-known for its historic success as an NCAA Division I powerhouse.
• Louisiana State University-Shreveport. LSU Shreveport is a fast-growing institution where 94% of first-time students receive financial aid. 

College Rover can help pave your pathway to Louisiana's premier higher education landscape

Embrace your journey to excellence in Louisiana with College Rover. 

Whether you're eyeing research universities or liberal arts colleges, we're your compass to navigate Louisiana's top-tier education options. 

Explore schools, programs, and more with ease, guiding your steps toward a brighter future.

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.